Penn State University (PSU): Requirements, Results, and GPA for 2022
This is the reference guide for accessing Penn State University (PSU). We encourage you to read to the end... Not only will we lay out the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to Pennsylvania State University (PSU), but we also offer creative ways to to help your application succeed out of the box. We break down Penn State University (PSU) stats better than any other article and show you how they've changed over time. Be sure to stop by tooPenn State University (PSU) on CampusReel to see what it's really like around hereYou can also use the calculator below to find your probability of getting into Penn State University (PSU).
What GPA do you need to get admitted to Penn State University (PSU)?
The average GPA for Penn State University (PSU) is 3.15. Penn State University (PSU) requires a GPA.Penn State University (PSU) is currently selective. Keep in mind, however, that schools in this GPA range often increase their selectivity in hopes of boosting the "brand". We can't read the minds of Penn State University (PSU) application readers, but they may want to raise their GPA from 3.15 to 3.31 this year; To be on the safe side, we recommend aiming for a grade point average of 3.31.
*BEFORE PROCEEDING, PLEASE NOTE: GPA and reputation do NOT mean the college is right for you. Pennsylvania State University (PSU) might look great on paper, but you might hate it... That's why 700,000 students change colleges every year: they end up going to the wrong school. Be sure to check out the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can introduce yourself on the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) campus. These Penn State University (PSU) admissions statistics don't tell you enough about what a college or university is like.
What is the Penn State University (PSU) Acceptance Rate?
Last year, the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) acceptance rate was 51.32. However, look at how the adoption rate has changed over time.
As you can see, getting into Penn State University (PSU) is a little easier than it was last year.
The acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood of getting accepted into Pennsylvania State University (PSU) - it is a very high understanding of real competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide to select a list of 10-15 schools that are in different areas of competitiveness. Then use the data below to get a deeper understanding of how your app will perform compared to the rest of the crowd.
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| acceptance level | N / A | N / A | 51,32 % |
Will you be accepted into Pennsylvania State University (PSU)?
Calculate your odds
Does Penn State University (PSU) require test scores?
Penn State University (PSU) requires you to complete either the SAT or the ACT. Check out the chart below to see how admitted students at Penn State University (PSU) performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test results you need to submit. In general, don't panic about taking the test too often. The industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.
Penn State University (PSU) SAT requirements.
Penn State University's (PSU) average SAT score is 1195 — this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the chart below for a deeper look at student performance. It is also very interesting to look at the average test result over time. The trend over time helps give an idea of whether Penn State University (PSU) is becoming more or less competitive.
| 25th percentile | 75th percentile | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| mathematics | 560 | 670 | 615 |
| reading | 530 | 630 | 580 |
| Total 2019 | 1090 | 1300 | 1195 |
| Total 2018 | - | - | - |
| Total 2017 | - | - | - |
The average Penn State University (PSU) SAT score is 1195. To be a competitive Penn State University (PSU) candidate, your SAT score must be close to the average. If you are closer to 1090, you will probably have a harder time being accepted. To consider Penn State University (PSU) a "goal" school (one you're likely to end up at), aim for a score of 1300.
Will you be accepted into Pennsylvania State University (PSU)?
Calculate your odds
Pennsylvania State University (PSU) ACT requirements.
The average Penn State University (PSU) ACT score is 66. To be a competitive candidate for Penn State University (PSU), your ACT score should be close to the average. As you get closer to 74, you will likely find it harder to be accepted. To consider Penn State University (PSU) a "target" school (a school where you have a good chance of getting accepted), you should aim for a score of 59.
| 25th percentile | 75th percentile | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| mathematics | 25 | - | 25 |
| reading | 24 | 30 | 27 |
| Write | 25 | 29 | 27 |
| Total 2019 | 74 | 59 | 66 |
| Total 2018 | - | - | - |
| Total 2017 | - | - | - |
Will you be accepted into Pennsylvania State University (PSU)?
Calculate your odds
Pennsylvania State University (PSU) requirements.
Now you know where you need to be to get into Penn State University (PSU) in terms of grading and test scores. Let's briefly outline what else you need to provide in order to get your app reviewed, and then move on to the most important part: differentiating your app.
| recommendations | Condition |
|---|---|
| school rank | recommended |
| grade point average | Necessary |
| school certificate | Necessary |
How to get into Pennsylvania State University (PSU)
Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting admitted to Penn State University (PSU). Everything you read above will help you prepare for what you need to achieve to have a chance at Pennsylvania State University (PSU), but these steps will take you even further to apply that knowledge and differentiate your application.
Core academic achievement that meets Penn State University (PSU) admissions standards.
- Get at least a 1195 on the SAT or a 66 on the ACT.
- Maintain a GPA of at least 3.15.
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Participate in extracurricular activities consistent with Penn State University (PSU) values.
- Join your school band, sports team or other group activities. For example, if Penn State University (PSU) values music, try getting involved with an organization dedicated to the topic.
- Volunteer in your hometown. University Park offers many opportunities to get involved beyond college. Penn State University (PSU) wants applicants who are also good ambassadors for the school: they want students who want to give back to the local community and the entire campus park area as a whole.
- Spend the summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership skills, and other less quantifiable qualities. Penn State University (PSU) needs to look beyond their test scores and grades; They need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test results - your experiences should prove it.
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Prepare your application
- Write an outstanding essay that shows Penn State University (PSU) something they can't figure out from the other parts of your application. A detailed guide to writing the best college essay is here.
- Get teacher recommendations that speak to your character. If you know what you're majoring in and include that in your Pennsylvania State University (PSU) application, try to have at least 1 teacher recommendation in that department.
- Apply before the deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to apply, and in that precious time, many things can go wrong. Because many students apply on the last day, the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) system itself can fail. Don't risk any additional stress and submit your application a few days earlier.
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