Applying to the Pennsylvania State University, University Park

An Instructional Manual

Michael Rossi

I. Introduction

Founded as a land grant institution by President Lincoln in 1855, Penn State has solidified itself as a popular northeastern university. It boasts a strong family feel, an expansive alumni base, and a dynamic campus situated in rural Pennsylvania. The school’s current enrollment sits at 45,000 students. Campus life is a primary draw for many applicants as Penn State presents many options for student Greek life, community involvement, off campus housing, and athletics. The thriving social scene and above average academic core has made Penn State one of the most applied to schools in the country.

Penn State has also committed to presenting low-cost and global options for students. Their network of satellite and online education mediums offer students two-year transfer opportunities and online programs.

II. Prerequisites

- Penn State’s average high school GPA for first year freshman is 3.60.- Median SAT Scores for first year freshman:

o Reading: 530-630o Math: 560-670o Writing: 540-640.

- Median ACT Composite Rankings for first year freshman: 25-29.- Other Prerequisite Factors:

o Over 35 % of Penn State freshman held a 3.75 grade point average or higher at their time of application. While academic record and SAT scores do weigh heavy on student decisions, extracurricular activities are also considered upon admission.

o Student FAFSA must be completed before application to Penn State.

III. Applying

Applications for this institution must be completed online. Penn State University is not a Common Application school. In order to apply, students must visit admission s.psu.edu for details. In addition to the prerequisites detailed above, students will also be ask to submit three statements regarding their extracurricular activities, a discussion of your personality, and educational gap information. Direct quotes from the prompts of these statements are listed below:

- PERSONAL INFORMATION/ACTIVITIES Please use this space to discuss your activities (other than academic work) during the last several years (for example: school organizations, jobs, athletics, the arts, community service, religious groups, or other individual interests). We suggest a limit of 500 words or fewer.

- PERSONAL STATEMENT (OPTIONAL) Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State. This is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. We suggest a limit of 500 words or fewer.

- EDUCATIONAL GAP STATEMENT If applicable, please explain any time that has elapsed between high school graduation and college enrollment. Please provide a summary of why that gap occurred and whether you took courses at another institution during that time.

While applying online, students will be prompted to select an area of study for their undergraduate. Undecided my select the Division of Undergraduate Studies in order to defer their selection of a major until a later date.

Finally, the cost of application to Penn State is $50 for domestic students and $65 for international students. Fees may be paid using a Visa or Mastercard.

IV. Deadlines

For first year applicants, the deadlines for submitting applications and admission notifications are as follows:

- Fall semester and Summer Session:o Application available – September 1st

o Application submission deadline – November 30th o Admission notification by January 31st

- Spring semester:o Application available – June 1st

o Application submission deadline – November 1st

o Admission notification by December 20th