Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | University Park, Pennsylvania |
| Online | psu.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Small City |
| Size | Large |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
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
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
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.
#167 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#37 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#16 in Best Colleges in Pennsylvania
#2 in Best Public Colleges in Pennsylvania
#520 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#46 in Best Value Colleges in Pennsylvania
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1210/1390 |
| ACT | 26/31 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Average |
| Application Fee | $65 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Pennsylvania Resident Tuition
| 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
| 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 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 16% |
| Engineering | 12% |
| Communication | 9% |
| Computer and Information Sciences | 7% |
| Social Sciences | 7% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering Penn State are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about Penn State Main Campus.
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