If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering whether or not your child has a shot at getting into The Pennsylvania State University. While there’s no copy-and-paste format for a successful application to Penn State (or to any school, for that matter), we’re going to dive into some of the features that unite the students who gain admission to Penn State. But first, let’s look at what sets The Pennsylvania State University apart from other schools. 

About Penn State

Penn State is a public university in University Park, Pennsylvania. With over 40,000 undergraduates, Penn State is a big school, perfect for those who want a research institution’s vast resources and a lively campus feel. It ranks number 26 on US News & World Report’s list of top public universities. Academically, Penn State’s strengths tend to lie in engineering, business, and nursing. And, since it’s a Big Ten school, students are never wanting for lively sports seasons brimming with campus pride. 

Penn State’s acceptance rate hovers around 60%, meaning it’s not what we at Ivy Coach consider a competitive school. Still, it’s a great pick for students looking for an education that will give them a strong alumni network, research experience, and a tight-knit student body. 

Penn State Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to Penn State and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for Penn State admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into Penn State?

The most recent data we have available for Penn State is from its Class of 2028. The following table is a breakdown of the GPA of students enrolled in the Fall of 2024: 

GPA	Percentage of Penn State Class of 2028 (All Enrolled Students)
Percent who had GPA of 4.0	50.02%
Percent who had GPA between 3.75 and 3.99	24.99%
Percent who had GPA between 3.50 and 3.74	14.58%
Percent who had GPA between 3.25 and 3.49	7.35%
Percent who had GPA between 3.00 and 3.24	1.97%
Percent who had GPA between 2.50 and 2.99	0.83%
Percent who had GPA between 2.0 and 2.49	0.26%
Percent who had GPA between 1.0 and 1.99	0.00%
Percent who had GPA below 1.0	0.00%

Looking at these numbers, we at Ivy Coach feel confident in saying that students should certainly not apply to Penn State University with anything lower than a 3.25 GPA, and even then, about 3% of the Class of 2028 who submitted their GPA landed below the 3.24 range. Even though there were some students who possessed GPAs lower than 2.50 who ultimately enrolled at Penn State, do you really want to be the lowest end of the statistic?

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed To Get Into Penn State?  

The average SAT score for the Penn State Class of 2028 was a 1330, and the average ACT score was a 30. Though Penn State is test-optional, we at Ivy Coach believe that not submitting test scores can only ever hurt an applicant’s chances, even to supposedly test-optional schools. 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into Pennsylvania State University? 

Penn State lists that, to be considered for admission, applicants should have completed 4 years of English, 3 years of Math, 3 years of Social Studies, 3 years of Science, and 2 years of World Language. 

Of course, we at Ivy Coach would not recommend merely three years in any core subject. Selective colleges like Penn State want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does Penn State Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means Penn State is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. Penn State would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

Penn State Application Requirements

Penn State accepts the Common App. They do not accept letters of recommendation. They ask the following optional supplemental question, but we at Ivy Coach would strongly encourage serious applicants to use this space to narrow in on their singular hook: 

This is your opportunity to share something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. Tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State. While the Personal Statement is not required, it is highly encouraged. (650 words)

Does Penn State Require an Interview? 

Penn State does not require an interview, and, in fact, they don’t even offer one!

What Are Penn State’s Application Deadlines? 

Early Applications to Penn State are due November 1. Regular Decision applications to Penn State are rolling, but it’s suggested to apply by November 30. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into Penn State

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into Penn State, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into Penn State, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.