Important Undergraduate Application Instructions

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To begin the online application, you will need a MyPennState profile.

Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the application for admission. Refer to the Registrar's website for details about returning to Penn State.

Online Application

The application consists of five sections:

  1. Profile Information
  2. Academics: Academic History 
  3. Program of Study: Campuses and Majors
  4. Additional Information
  5. Review and Submit

You will be asked to enter your biographical information and academic history in the first two sections. You will also need to self-report your high school course work directly in section two under Academic History or you will be directed to fill out the SRAR (Self-Reported Academic Record). It is helpful to have a high school transcript available when completing this section. In the third section, you'll select your program of study and campus.

Program of Study: Campuses and Majors

  • You will choose the degree type and then the semester. When you reach the "Build Your Program of Study" section, click on "Campus/Location."
  • In the "Ending Campus" field, choose WORLD CAMPUS and click "Next."
  • After selecting your "Ending Campus," the "Intended Major" field will appear. Choose your major from the drop‐down and click "Next."
  • Once you select a major, you must select WORLD CAMPUS again as the "Starting Campus."
  • You will review and save your selections in the next window.

Educational Gap

An Educational Gap Statement is required for many applicants and can be completed in the Additional Information section of your application. You will be asked to explain any time that has elapsed between your high school graduation and your anticipated enrollment at Penn State. Please provide a summary of why that gap occurred. Some examples that would explain a gap in your education may include work, family, attending another college or university, etc.

Transcripts

Official high school transcripts or GED transcript, along with records from high school, are required, regardless of the length of time that has passed. College/University transcripts (required), military transcripts and Proof of English Language proficiency (if applicable). SAT/ACT scores are not required if you are identified as an adult learner or transfer student.

All official documents should be sent to:

Undergraduate Admissions Office
The Pennsylvania State University
201 Shields Building
University Park PA 16802

You can also have your transcripts sent electronically through Parchment, eScript-Safe, or the National Clearinghouse directly to Penn State from the college/university where course work was attempted.

When you reach the fifth and final section to review your application, you'll be asked to pay an application fee of $65 domestic or $75 international.

Acceptance

After receiving your application, application fee, and all required materials, your application will be evaluated for admissions. You can check your application status online. This information will provide the most up‐to‐date information about the status of your application and is updated once daily, before 8:00 a.m. (ET). Once a decision has been made regarding your application, it will be available to you through the MyPennState portal.

For information on when you can expect an admissions decision, visit the "Dates and Deadlines" page of the Undergraduate Admissions website. Make sure you hit the "+" sign to see these dates for World Campus Applicants (First-Year and Transfer).

Need help?

Contact our admissions team and we can assist you.