P
#2 Best Public Universities in Pennsylvania

Penn State Main Campus

University Park, Pennsylvania

 11 Reviews

Overview

Enrollment

50,028
Penn State Main Campus overview
Location University Park, Pennsylvania
Online psu.edu
School Type Public 4 Year
Setting Small City
Penn State Main Campus overview
Size Large
Status Non-profit
On Campus Housing Yes
Level of Study Undergrad/Graduate
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Penn State-Main Campus, formally known as The Pennsylvania State University, occupies the University Park locale situated in the central region of Pennsylvania, approximately 190 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Established in 1855, the institution has since evolved into a large public research university, enshrined in a sprawling campus renowned for its Beaux-Arts architectural landmarks such as the iconic Old Main. The academic profile of Penn State is diverse, offering more than 160 majors, with particularly strong programs in engineering, business, and the sciences. The University adheres to a moderately selective admissions process. The campus facilitates on-campus living with a variety of housing options available to students, encompassing residence halls and special living communities. Additionally, Penn State boasts a notable athletic presence, known as the Nittany Lions, prominently competing in the Big Ten Conference and recognized for their success in football and wrestling.

In the most recent statistical year 85,784 prospective students applied, and 47,360 were granted admission.  Of those admitted 9,216 enrolled in the school.  48,270 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 1,758 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $18,368 plus fees of $530. Penn State is ranked 167 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.

Ratings

8/10

Overall

9/10

Academics

7/10

Resources

8/10

Outcomes

5/10

Value

Penn State is rated within the top 27% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 8 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated

Rankings

Rankings for Penn State Main Campus within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.

View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.

Getting In

Admission Standards

Very High
Penn State Main Campus overview
SAT 1210/1390
ACT 26/31

Applications Accepted

55.2% 
Penn State Main Campus overview
Applications Due -
Applicant Competition Average
Application Fee $65

Explore admissions requirements

Annual Cost to Attend

Pennsylvania Resident Tuition

$18,368
In State Costs for Penn State Main Campus
Fee Cost
Books and Supplies$1,840
Other Fees$530
Room and Board $12,744
Budget for Other Expenses$4,788
Total One Year Cost$38,270

Out of State Resident Tuition

$35,946
Out of State Costs for Penn State Main Campus
Fee Cost
Books and Supplies$1,840
Other Fees$530
Room and Board $12,744
Budget for Other Expenses$4,788
Total One Year Cost$55,848

Tuition and financial aid details

Outcomes

Average Salary After 10 Years

$55,300 per year

Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate

87% within 6 years

Explore Post Graduation Outcomes

Popular Areas of Study

Popular subjects studied by Penn State Main Campus students
Subject Percent of Class
Business 16%
Engineering 12%
Communication 9%
Computer and Information Sciences 7%
Social Sciences 7%

View All 139 Majors

Other Colleges to Consider 

Students considering Penn State are frequently interested in these similar colleges.

Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=214777 IPEDS survey data for Penn State Main Campus.

Current students may use the Penn State Main Campus GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.

Last updated February 24, 2024