Penn State
Pennsylvania State University · University Park, Pennsylvania · Public
Penn State admitted 55% of 106,547 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1280–1410 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 86% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at Penn State
Enter a score to see whether Penn State is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (55%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.
Early decision and early action
Penn State offers early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.
2,109 students were offered a spot on the waitlist, 1,153 took it, and 46 were admitted from it.
What admissions weighs
How Penn State rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- GPA
Important
- Course rigor
Considered
- Test scores
- Talent or ability
- Where you live
- State residency
Not considered
- Class rank
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Interview
- Activities
- Character
- First generation
- Legacy
- Religion
- Volunteering
- Work experience
- Showing interest
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.67 GPA. 37% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $39,892 in-state and $59,846 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $27,450 on average (in-state).
Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:
Not sure which colleges fit?
A Clarity Prep mentor builds a balanced list with your student and checks in every week until it’s done.
Writing your essay? Try the free college essay grader.