Pennsylvania State University, Fees, Courses, Acceptance Rate, Admission deadline, Rankings
State College, Pennsylvania, USA
Overview
Introduction
Pennsylvania State University, lovingly known as Penn State or PSU, has been a cornerstone of education and research in Pennsylvania since its inception in 1855 as the Farmers' High School of Pennsylvania. Recognized as the state's inaugural land-grant university in 1863, Penn State has grown into a sprawling network of campuses and facilities across the state.
At the heart of Penn State is its main campus, University Park, nestled in the vibrant communities of State College and College Township. Here, students from all walks of life come together to pursue their academic passions and contribute to groundbreaking research initiatives.
The university's commitment to excellence is evident in its diverse academic offerings and specialized schools, including Penn State Law on the University Park campus and Penn State Dickinson Law in Carlisle, as well as the College of Medicine in Hershey. Through these institutions, Penn State prepares the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Overview
Pennsylvania State University- University Park, affectionately known as Penn State, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1855. It all began with a generous donation of 200 acres of land by James Irvin, a U.S. Congressman, to establish the Farmers High School of Pennsylvania. Back then, it was hard to imagine the impact this humble beginning would have on the world of education and beyond.
In 1862, the school was granted degree-granting status by the Pennsylvania General Assembly, marking a significant milestone in its evolution. Initially known as the Agricultural College of Pennsylvania, it eventually became the state's sole land-grant college under the Morrill Land-Grant Acts of 1863.
Over the years, Penn State underwent several name changes and expansions, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education. Under the leadership of visionaries like George W. Atherton and Ralph Dorn Hetzel, the university flourished, expanding its curriculum beyond agriculture to encompass engineering, medicine, and more.
In the 20th century, Penn State experienced remarkable growth, becoming the largest grantor of baccalaureate degrees in Pennsylvania. The establishment of the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in 1967 further solidified its reputation as a leader in healthcare and research.
Throughout its history, Penn State has remained dedicated to inclusivity and progress. In 1975, the university revised its alma mater song to be gender-neutral, reflecting its commitment to equality and diversity.
Today, Penn State stands as the largest university in Pennsylvania, with a profound impact on the state's economy and beyond. Through philanthropy and innovation, it continues to shape the future and inspire generations of students, faculty, and alumni making it one of the best universities in USA.
Admission
Pennsylvania State University Campus Overview
Pennsylvania State University World Campus has a huge influence that resonates far beyond its flagship campus. As a sea-grant, space-grant, and one of only a handful of sun-grant universities, it's at the forefront of driving progress and innovation in various fields. With its distinguished status as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution and esteemed membership in the Association of American Universities (AAU), Penn State continues to break new ground in research and academic excellence.
Across the state of Pennsylvania, Penn State maintains a network of 19 commonwealth campuses and five special mission campuses, each contributing to the university's mission of education and outreach. These campuses serve as hubs of learning and discovery, providing accessible education to students across diverse communities.
On the main campus, Penn State offers a vibrant living and learning environment with seven on-campus housing complexes capable of accommodating 35% of its student population. Meanwhile, the University Park campus stands as the largest and most dynamic campus, serving as the epicenter of Penn State's academic and extracurricular activities.
But Penn State's reach extends even further through its innovative online platform, the Penn State World Campus. With over 60 online programs, degrees, and certificates, the World Campus provides flexible and accessible learning opportunities to students around the globe. Whether on-campus or online, Penn State remains committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where students can thrive and pursue their academic passions.
Courses & Fees
Pennsylvania State University Degrees- Courses, Fees, and Deadlines
At Penn State, students have a vast array of academic options to explore. With over 160 undergraduate majors, 200 minors, and 100 undergraduate certificate programs, there's something for everyone to pursue their passions and interests. International students are also welcomed with open arms, with access to 190 graduate majors, numerous minors, and over 100 certificate programs at the graduate level.
Across its 18 schools and colleges, Penn State offers a rich tapestry of educational opportunities, including 11,000 undergraduate courses, postgraduate programs, and doctoral courses. Whether you're delving into the arts, sciences, engineering, or beyond, Penn State provides the resources and support needed to embark on a rewarding academic journey.
| Programs | Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
| BBA | 17 Courses | INR 32 L - 34 L | Duration: 2-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| MS | 53 Courses | INR 20 L - 39 L | Duration: 1 year-3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 - 100, GRE |
| MBA/PGDM | 17 Courses | INR 33 L - 40 L | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 80 & Above, GRE, GMAT |
| B.E. / B.Tech | 27 Courses | INR 29 L - 34 L | Duration: 2-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, SAT: 570 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above |
| B.Sc. | 32 Courses | INR 32 L - 34 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| MIM | 16 Courses | INR 33 L - 39 L | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 80 & Above, GRE, GMAT |
| B.A. | 40 Courses | INR 32 L - 34 L | Duration: 2-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| M.A. | 23 Courses | INR 26 L - 37 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, GRE, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| M.Agri. | 6 Courses | INR 33 L - 39 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above |
| MEM | 1 Courses | INR 36 L | Duration: 12-18 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| B.J.M.C. | 6 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| M.Arch | 7 Courses | INR 33 L - 39 L | Duration: 18 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above |
| Others PG | 13 Courses | INR 33 L - 34 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above |
| MEng | 7 Courses | INR 33 L - 39 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above |
| MPH | 1 Courses | INR 19 L | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| BSN | 1 Courses | INR 34 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| BFA | 3 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| B.Ed | 7 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 2-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| B.Agri | 3 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| B.Arch | 5 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 42 months-5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| B.Des | 2 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| Others UG | 4 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| MD | 1 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 7 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| MFA | 3 Courses | INR 33 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above |
| BHM | 1 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| MSN | 1 Courses | INR 33 L | Duration: 18-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above |
| B.Pharma | 1 Courses | INR 32 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
| Executive MBA/PGDM | 1 Courses | INR 60 L | Duration: 17 months Exam Accepted: GMAT, GRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
University Ranking
Pennsylvania State University Ranking
Here's a closer look at how Pennsylvania State University has fared in rankings over the past few years:
| Ranking Body | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| QS Rankings | #93 | #101 | #96 | #93 | #83 |
| THE Rankings | #78 | #114 | #119 | #151 | #122 |
| U.S. News and World Report Best Global Universities | #72 | #75 | #80 | #84 | – |
| CWUR; | #57 | #54 | #54 | #53 | – |
| ARWU (Shanghai Rankings) | – | #101-150 | #101-150 | #101-150 | – |
These rankings provide a snapshot of Penn State's standing among other institutions globally, offering valuable insights into its academic reputation, research output, and overall impact. While rankings are just one aspect of assessing a university's excellence, they serve as a useful benchmark for prospective students, faculty, and stakeholders alike.
Acceptance & Criteria
Pennsylvania State University Acceptance Rate
Pennsylvania State University takes pride in maintaining a moderately selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 54%. This Penn state acceptance rate means that while the university carefully evaluates each application, it also strives to provide opportunities to a diverse range of students who demonstrate the potential to thrive in their academic pursuits. Whether you're a prospective student or someone supporting a student through the application journey, understanding the acceptance rate offers insight into the competitive nature of admission to Penn State.
Deadline & Required Documents
Pennsylvania State University Admission deadlines
At Penn State, the graduate school has yet to set deadlines for applications. Instead, prospective students are encouraged to reach out directly to their intended program or check the program page for specific deadlines. For international applicants, it's recommended to submit their complete applications at least four months before the program start date to ensure everything is processed smoothly.
| Semester | Application Submission Deadline |
| Fall semester | December 1 |
| Summer semester | December 1 |
| Spring semester | December 1 |
Pennsylvania State University UG Requirements:
International applicants must utilize MyPennState to submit their online application for undergraduate courses. The application fee is $75 USD or approximately 5,912 INR, and it's non-refundable.
Here are the admission requirements:
1. School records detailing each subject studied along with marks or grades earned each year.
2. A key explaining the marking system, including the minimum required passing score.
3. Examination results from the secondary school leaving exam.
4. Copies of diplomas or certificates.
5. Standardized test scores.
6. Minimum required scores demonstrating English language proficiency.
7. Course descriptions from all post-secondary institutes attended.
In addition to these requirements, applicants may need to provide:
1. Academic transcripts.
2. An audition for fine arts or music courses.
3. Portfolio review.
4. Information about geographic and cultural background.
5. A personal statement.
Pennsylvania State University PG Requirements:
Pennsylvania State University offers a diverse range of over 200 graduate programs tailored for international students. Here's a breakdown of the detailed application process for the 2023 admission:
Application Portal: Interested applicants can easily apply through MyPennState, where they can submit their application online for the courses they wish to pursue.
Application Fee: There is a non-refundable application fee of 75 USD, which amounts to approximately 5,912 INR.
Application Requirements:
1. Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
2. Academic Performance: An overall scholastic average of B, equivalent to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, is required.
3. Official Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions must be provided.
4. Standardized Test Scores: GMAT or GRE scores are required for most programs.
5. English Proficiency: International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL iBT (minimum score of 80) or IELTS (minimum score of 6.5).
6. Special Program Requirements: Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Resume/CV, or essays.
Final Approval: The Graduate School has the authority to grant final approval for admission to all programs. International applicants need to submit all required official documents within the specified deadline. Failure to do so or providing false information may result in the revocation of the admission offer.
Pennsylvania State University's Graduate School welcomes international students and strives to provide a seamless application process to facilitate their academic journey.
Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. We have an approachable admissions department that will assist you in navigating through the procedure. Feel free to talk to us on call number +91 75750 20920 and get in touch with our advisors that will answer all your questions, walk you through the application procedure; and finally, prepare you for a wonderful journey abroad.
Reviews & Ratings
See reviews and ratings of this school from students, alumni, staff and others. These reviews are not written by U.S. News and have no impact on any of the Best Colleges rankings. Read an explanation of user ratings.
2 reviews
Reviewed by 2 users
Karan: Penn State was a transformative experience for me. The world-class education and extensive resources enabled me to explore my interests and pursue my passions. State College's dynamic job market offered ample opportunities for internships and co-op programs, allowing me to gain real-world experience and build valuable connections within my industry.
Penn State offered me a wealth of opportunities to grow academically and professionally. The supportive faculty and diverse student community fostered a stimulating learning environment where I could thrive. State College's thriving job scene provided me with hands-on experience in my field of interest, preparing me for a successful career ahead.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Penn State decision come out?
If you've applied for Early Action, you'll hear back from Pennsylvania State University – University Park about your admission decision by the end of December. If you're accepted, you can let them know you're ready to join through your personalized MyPennState portal for accepted students.
How much scholarship does Penn State give to international students?
Penn State University offers two scholarship funds to support international students with their tuition: the Special International Grant-in-Aid (SIGIA) and the Penn State Tuition Assistance Grant (PSTAG). These funds, ranging from $100 to $2,000, are managed by the Directorate of International Student and Scholar Advising (DISSA) for global programs.
To apply for these grants, you can get the application form from iStart. SIGIA is open to both international undergraduate and graduate students, while PSTAG is specifically for international undergraduates.
Grants are awarded based on the quality of your academic performance, the extent of your financial need, and the endorsement of your academic advisor. Please note that first-year students at Penn State University or those with a GPA below the minimum requirement (3.0 for graduate students and 2.0 for undergraduate students) are not eligible for consideration.
