Placement Metric
Highest Package
N/A
Represents the top salary package reported in the available placement information.
Pennsylvania State University
7.4(19)
VerifiedPublicEstd. 1855
Founded
1855
Type
Public
University Guide
About Pennsylvania State University
Explore overview, courses, fees, admissions, campus life, scholarships and student accommodation guidance in one premium Admistay guide.
Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is a top-tier public research university, ranked 89th in the World University Rankings 2025 and 96th in the U.S. News Best Global Universities Rankings 2025. It offers admissions to international students into Fall and Spring intake. With an acceptance rate of 55%, the university is home to students from 150+ Countries. Tuition fees range of studying at the university is $44,996 - $46,899 (₹39,14,652 - ₹40,80,213).
Below are some of the most popular programs at Penn State University, along with their duration and tuition fees (in USD and INR), to help international students plan:
| Course Name | Duration | Tuition Fees (USD) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science [M.S] Computer Science | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Psychology | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master Data Analytics | 2 years | $46,899 | ₹40,80,213 |
| Master of Arts [M.A] Engineering Management | 2 years | $44,996 | ₹39,14,652 |
| Master of Project Management | 1 year | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Health Policy and Administration | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Management [M.I.M] Management and Organizational Leadership | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master’s in Business Analytics | 1 year | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Finance [M.Fin] | 1 year | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Computer Science and Engineering | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
Also Check: Cost of Studying in USA
Table of Contents
- Highlights of Penn State University
- Admissions at Penn State University
2.1 Pennsylvania State University Graduate Admission
2.2 Pennsylvania State University MBA Admissions
2.3 Pennsylvania State University Undergraduate Admission
- Penn State University Rankings
- Comparison with Similar University
- Penn State University Scholarships
- FAQs
Highlights of Penn State University
Tabulated below are some key information related to the Penn State University:
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pennsylvania, USA |
| Establishment | 1855 |
| Type of University | Public Research University |
| Rankings | #89 in QS World University Ranking#96 in US News Best University Ranking#76 in QS Global MBA Ranking |
| Intakes | Fall, Spring |
| Acceptance Rate | 55% |
| Tuition Fees Range | $44,996 - $46,899 (₹39,14,652 - ₹40,80,213) |
| Number of Campuses | 24 campuses across Pennsylvania |
| Student Clubs and Organizations | 1000+ |
| Athletics | 29 varsity programs, NCAA Division I (Big Ten Conference) |
| Student Diversity | Students from 50 states and 150+ countries, 9,000+ international students |
| Degrees Offered | 275+ bachelor's degree options across campuses, online World Campus, Education Abroad opportunities |
Admissions at Penn State University
Pennsylvania State University, with an acceptance rate of 55%, takes a holistic approach to evaluating applications. While academic performance, including high school grades, GPA, and test scores is important, the university also considers other key factors. These include leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, community service, and a strong passion for the applicant's chosen field of study. Personal statements, activity lists, and geographic and cultural backgrounds are also taken into account to understand the applicant’s overall potential and contribution to campus life.
For international students looking to pursue an MBA, Penn State's Smeal College of Business is a popular choice. Ranked #76 in the QS Global MBA Rankings, the MBA program offers excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth. Listed below are the application deadlines for international students to study at the Penn State University:
| Admission Term | Admission Type | Application Available | Complete Application Deadline | Admission Notification | Deadline for Accepting Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall / Summer | Early Action | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025 | By December 24, 2025 | May 1, 2025 |
| Fall / Summer | Priority Admission | August 1, 2025 | February 1, 2025 | By April 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 |
| Spring | Regular Admission | June 1, 2025 | October 1, 2025 | Rolling (by November 1) | November 15, 2025 |
Pennsylvania State University Graduate Admission
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | MyPennState |
| Application Fee | 75 USD (₹5,912 INR). |
| Application Requirements | A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. |
| An overall scholastic average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale). | |
| Official transcripts. | |
| GMAT/GRE scores. | |
| English proficiency test scores: TOEFL iBT: 80, IELTS: 6.5 | |
| Special program requirements: SOP, Resume/CV, essays. |
Pennsylvania State University MBA Admissions
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | MyPennState |
| Application Fee | 75 USD (~₹5,912 INR). |
| Academic Requirements | Academic transcripts. |
| GPA: Minimum 3.4/4 (89%). | |
| GMAT: 666 or above (recommended) or GRE: 314 or above (recommended). | |
| Supporting Documents | LOR for USA. |
| Resume. | |
| Essay and statement of interest. | |
| Video application. | |
| 1-3 yrs of work experience | |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL iBT score: Minimum 80. |
| IELTS score: Minimum 6.5. |
Pennsylvania State University Undergraduate Admission
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | MyPennState or the Common App |
| Application Fee | 75 USD (₹5,912 INR) |
| Admission Requirements | School records including each subject studied with marks or grades earned each year. |
| A key of the marking system with minimum required passing score. | |
| Examination results of the secondary school leaving exam. | |
| Copies of diplomas or certificates. | |
| Standardized test scores. | |
| Minimum required scores proving English language proficiency. | |
| Course descriptions of all classes taken (post-secondary institutes). | |
| Supporting Documents | Academic transcripts. |
| An audition (for fine arts or music courses). | |
| Portfolio review (if applicable). | |
| Geographic and cultural background. | |
| Personal statement. |
Penn State University Rankings
Here is the Ranking of the Penn State University by the different ranking bodies for the year 2025:
| Ranking Category | 2025 Rank |
|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | #89 |
| QS World Sustainability Ranking | #19 |
| QS Global MBA Ranking | #76 |
| US News Best Global Universities | #96 |
| THE World University Ranking | #100 |
Some of the University highly ranked subjects of the university are:
- Mineral and Mining Engineering is ranked #10 by QS as of 2025.
- Sports-Related Subjects ranks #14 according to QS as of 2025.
- Hospitality and Leisure Management holds the #23 spot in the QS rankings as of 2025.
- Education and Training is ranked #31 by QS as of 2025.
- Geophysics is ranked #36 in QS Subject Rankings as of 2025.
- Geology is ranked #37 by QS as of 2025.
Penn State University holds impressive rankings for 2025 across various global platforms. It is ranked #89 in the QS World University Rankings, #19 in QS World Sustainability, and #76 in the QS Global MBA Ranking. Additionally, its subjects are highly regarded, with Mineral and Mining Engineering (#10), Sports-Related Subjects (#14), and Hospitality and Leisure Management (#23) leading the way. These rankings reflect Penn State’s strong academic reputation, making it a great choice for international students.
Also Check: High Paying Jobs in USA
Comparison with Similar University
Here are the comparison of the Pennsylvania State University with some of the similar universities for helping international students in planning and arriving at the prompt decision:
| Aspect | Pennsylvania State University | University of Pennsylvania | University of Pittsburgh | University at Buffalo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Collegedunia Score | 5.9/10 | 7.9/10 | 6/10 | 4.4/10 |
| Overall Ranking | #89 QS World University 2025 | #11 QS World University 2025 | #275 QS World University 2025 | #251 Times Higher Education 2025 |
| Subject Strength | #32 for Engineering (US News 2024) | #19 for Engineering (US News 2024) | #47 for Engineering (US News 2024) | #201 for Engineering (Times Higher Education 2024) |
| #51 for Data Science & Analytics (QS 2024) | #20 for Data Science & Analytics (QS 2024) | #13 for Medicine (US News 2024) | #76 for Medicine (US News 2024) | |
| #105 for Medicine (QS 2024) | #3 for Medicine (US News 2024) | #89 for Law (US News 2024) | #176 for Law (Times Higher Education 2024) | |
| Programs | 163 UG, 117 PG | 63 UG, 71 PG | 91 UG, 47 PG | 67 UG, 93 PG |
| Acceptance Rate | 51.3% | 7.0% | 55.0% | 59.4% |
| Exam Scores | IELTS: 6.5, SAT: 1160, TOEFL: 80, GMAT: 540 | IELTS: 7, SAT: 1450, TOEFL: 100 | IELTS: 7, SAT: 1260, TOEFL: 80, GMAT: 580 | IELTS: 6.5, SAT: 1160, TOEFL: 80 |
| Tuition Fees (UG) | $35,984 | $53,166 | $32,656 | $24,600 |
| Tuition Fees (PG) | $38,198 | $56,786 | $40,848 | $23,100 |
| Hostel + Meal (per year) | $26,664 | $18,970 | $15,844 | $37,230 |
| Placement (Average Salary) | PhD: $150,000 - $158,000, MS: $83,000 | PhD: $147,000, MBA: $175,000, MSF: $150,000 | PhD: $150,000 - $158,000, MS: $83,000 | PhD: $150,000 - $158,000, MBA: $93,000, MSc: $85,000 |
| Application Requirements | Self-Reported Academic Record, SAT/ACT, IELTS/TOEFL | Academic transcripts, LORs, SOPs, Resume, Standardized test scores, Interviews | Self-Reported Academic Record, SAT/ACT, IELTS/TOEFL | Self-Reported Academic Record, SAT/ACT, IELTS/TOEFL |
| Campuses and B-Schools | Smeal College of Business | The Wharton School | Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business | Smeal College of Business |
| CollegeDunia Reviews | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.9/10 |
Penn State University Scholarships
Tabulated below are some of the popular scholarship opportunities for international students to help reduce their financial burden during their time in university:
| Scholarship / Funding Name | Eligibility Requirements | Award / Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Penn State Alumni Association Scholarship | Previously enrolled in an undergraduate degree at Penn State | Variable |
| Professional Master's Excellence Award | For doctoral students: GPA of 3.5 in final year of graduate degree, Academic excellence in master’s, Professional experience, creative work, etc. | Variable |
| Special International Grant-in-Aid | Students enrolled in an Education Abroad program, Minimum 3.0 GPA in bachelor’s | Annual: $1,000–$2,000Fall/Spring: $500–$1,500Summer: $500 |
| Graduate Assistantships | Graduate international students (varies by department), Based on academic merit and program need | Stipend + Tuition Remission + Insurance + SubsidiesValue: $57,868–$66,589 (Individual)$65,891–$74,612 (Family) |
| Graduate Fellowships | Graduate international students, Must apply through their respective departments | $31,500 (10-month stipend) + Health Insurance |
Also Check: Interesting Facts About USA for International Students
Penn State University offers a vibrant sports culture with a wide range of athletic activities. The university is home to Beaver Stadium, one of the largest stadiums in the U.S., and has a strong football tradition, along with top-tier facilities for sports like wrestling, basketball, and more. Students can participate in a variety of recreational sports or cheer for the university’s NCAA Division I teams. The campus is also located in State College, a friendly and safe college town, providing a perfect blend of academics and extracurricular activities.
FAQs
Ques: What are the Pros and Cons of Penn State University?
Ans: Some of the prominent pros and cons gathered from the collegedunia review of the students enrolled in the universities are listed below:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lively and Beautiful Campus with iconic spots like the Arboretum, Lion Shrine, and secret pond. | Harsh Weather Conditions with extremely cold winters and strong winds. |
| World-Class Sports and Athletic Facilities including Beaver Stadium, gyms, and wrestling rings. | High Tuition and Living Costs with expensive tuition and off-campus living costs. |
| Vibrant Student Life with numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and events like THON. | Large Class Sizes (500-600 students) in some courses, affecting personalized attention. |
| Strong Alumni Network and Rich Traditions like THON and State Patty's. | Limited Industry-Related Courses focusing more on theory and fundamentals like Machine Learning. |
| Hands-On Learning and research opportunities with a focus on projects and collaborations. | Limited Social Scene for students who aren't interested in frats and parties. |
| Variety of Food Options both on-campus and downtown, catering to diverse cuisines. | Campus is Very Large and takes time to travel between the extreme ends. |
| Safe College Town with good part-time job opportunities for students. | Limited RA Opportunities and few industry-linked courses in certain departments. |
| Top-tier Infrastructure including well-maintained dorms, free WiFi, and modern amenities. | Distance from Major Cities like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia (2-3 hours away). |
Ques: is campus life like at Penn State University?
Ans: Campus life at Penn State is dynamic and expansive, covering 8,000 acres with facilities like a golf course, yoga centers, and the renowned Pattee and Paterno Library, which is one of the top 10 research libraries in North America. Students enjoy diverse food options, including Indian cuisine at “Choolah,” and a plethora of clubs (from rifle shooting to lettuce clubs) to explore their interests. The welcoming environment and strong alumni network of nearly 800,000 members provide a sense of belonging and career support. However, the campus size can be overwhelming, and the harsh winters (temperatures dropping to -22°C) and overcrowded buses may pose challenges.
Ques: What are some student traditions at Pennsylvania State University?
Ans: Penn State has a rich set of traditions that make campus life vibrant. The biggest one is THON, a 46-hour dance marathon to raise funds for pediatric cancer. Blue and White Weekend celebrates the school spirit with a spring football game and festivities. Students also love the Nittany Lion Shrine, where they take photos, especially during important events like graduation. Homecoming features a parade, football game, and the selection of the Homecoming Court. The Lion’s Walk is a spirited march to the stadium before home games. Other traditions include winter sports at Tussey Mountain and singing the Fight Song and Alma Mater at games to show school pride.
Courses & Fees
Compare courses in a cleaner, easier way
Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.
Courses
233
Fee from
₹40,52,306.4
Exams
IELTS · TOEFL
Showing 5 of 149 bachelors
Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration4 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageEnglish
Fees
Tuition FeeINR 43 L/Yr
Native FeeUSD 45,874 /Yr
Fee trendTuition progression
Admission Guide
Admission Process
Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is a top-tier public research university, ranked 89th in the World University Rankings 2025 and 96th in the U.S. News Best Global Universities Rankings 2025. With an acceptance rate of around 55%, the university is a popular choice for international students seeking high-quality education in fields like business, engineering, and computer science. Penn State enrolls students in fall, spring, and summer intakes, ensuring flexible entry points for diverse academic needs.
To apply, international students must meet specific requirements, including a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 or IELTS score of 6.5, along with submitting standardized test scores like the SAT/ACT for undergraduates or GMAT/GRE for certain graduate programs. Additional documents include academic transcripts, personal statements, and proof of finances, making Penn State accessible for those prepared to meet its robust academic standards.
Explore: Pennsylvania State University Rankings
Table of Contents
- Top Programs at Pennsylvania State University for International Students
- Pennsylvania State University Application Deadline
- Pennsylvania State University Graduate Admission
- Pennsylvania State University MBA Admissions
- Pennsylvania State University Undergraduate Admission
- Pennsylvania State University Selection Criteria
- Pennsylvania State University Admission Decision
- FAQs
Top Programs at Pennsylvania State University for International Students
Here’s a quick overview of some of the top programs at Pennsylvania State University for international students, along with their duration and tuition fees for international students:
| Course Name | Duration | Tuition Fees (USD) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science [M.S] Computer Science | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Psychology | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master Data Analytics | 2 years | $46,899 | ₹40,80,213 |
| Master of Arts [M.A] Engineering Management | 2 years | $44,996 | ₹39,14,652 |
| Master of Project Management | 1 year | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Health Policy and Administration | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Management [M.I.M] Management and Organizational Leadership | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master’s in Business Analytics | 1 year | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Finance [M.Fin] | 1 year | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
| Master of Science [M.S] Computer Science and Engineering | 2 years | $46,790 | ₹40,70,730 |
Pennsylvania State University Application Deadline
The table below showcases the application deadlines for international students applying to Pennsylvania State University for the 2025 academic year:
| Admission Term | Admission Type | Application Available | Complete Application Deadline | Admission Notification | Deadline for Accepting Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall / Summer | Early Action | August 1, 2025 | November 1, 2025 | By December 24, 2025 | May 1, 2025 |
| Fall / Summer | Priority Admission | August 1, 2025 | February 1, 2025 | By April 1, 2025 | May 1, 2025 |
| Spring | Regular Admission | June 1, 2025 | October 1, 2025 | Rolling (by November 1) | November 15, 2025 |
Also Check: Penn State University Acceptance Rate
Pennsylvania State University Graduate Admission
The table below outlines the key graduate admission requirements for international students applying to Pennsylvania State University:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | Applicants can apply via MyPennState to submit an online application for the courses of their choice. |
| Application Fee | Students need to pay a non-refundable fee of 75 USD (₹5,912 INR). |
| Application Requirements | A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. |
| An overall scholastic average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale). | |
| Official transcripts. | |
| GMAT/GRE scores. | |
| English proficiency test scores: TOEFL iBT: 80, IELTS: 6.5 | |
| Special program requirements: SOP, Resume/CV, essays. |
Pennsylvania State University MBA Admissions
The table below highlights the key admission requirements for the MBA program at Pennsylvania State University for international students:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | Applicants can apply via MyPennState to submit an online application for the MBA program. |
| Application Fee | Students need to pay a non-refundable fee of 75 USD (~₹5,912 INR). |
| Academic Requirements | Academic transcripts. |
| GPA: Minimum 3.4/4 (89%). | |
| GMAT: 666 or above (recommended) or GRE: 314 or above (recommended). | |
| Supporting Documents | LOR for USA. |
| Resume. | |
| Essay and statement of interest. | |
| Video application. | |
| 1-3 yrs of work experience | |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL iBT score: Minimum 80. |
| IELTS score: Minimum 6.5. |
Pennsylvania State University Undergraduate Admission
The table below provides a clear overview of the admission requirements for international students applying to undergraduate programs at Pennsylvania State University:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Portal | International applicants must apply via MyPennState for undergraduate courses. |
| Application Fee | 75 USD (₹5,912 INR) Non-refundable. |
| Admission Requirements | School records including each subject studied with marks or grades earned each year. |
| A key of the marking system with minimum required passing score. | |
| Examination results of the secondary school leaving exam. | |
| Copies of diplomas or certificates. | |
| Standardized test scores. | |
| Minimum required scores proving English language proficiency. | |
| Course descriptions of all classes taken (post-secondary institutes). | |
| Supporting Documents | Academic transcripts. |
| An audition (for fine arts or music courses). | |
| Portfolio review (if applicable). | |
| Geographic and cultural background. | |
| Personal statement. |
Pennsylvania State University Selection Criteria
Pennsylvania State University evaluates applications holistically, considering more than just academic achievements. They assess high school grades, GPA, test scores, and other key aspects like auditions or portfolio reviews for creative programs. Applicants’ geographic and cultural backgrounds, personal statements, and activity lists are also taken into account.
Beyond academics, the university values leadership, extracurricular activities, community service, and a demonstrated passion for their field of study. These attributes help showcase the applicant’s well-rounded personality and ability to contribute meaningfully to campus life.
Pennsylvania State University Admission Decision
Pennsylvania State University generally takes about 4-6 weeks to review applications and make admission decisions after all required documents have been submitted. During this period, the university carefully evaluates each application to ensure a comprehensive review. If applicants do not receive a decision within the stipulated time, it is recommended to first check their application status on the MyPennState portal. Should there still be no updates, reaching out to the admissions office directly for assistance can provide clarity and ensure there are no outstanding requirements.
Once international students are admitted to Pennsylvania State University, they will be contacted by the Directorate of International Student and Scholar Advising (DISSA). Students need to provide proof of their financial resources. DISSA handles the visa eligibility documents, but students must also coordinate with the admissions office for further steps.
Also Check: Pennsylvania State University Reviews and Ratings
Additionally, Penn State uses an online system called iStart to guide newly admitted international students. Through iStart, students will complete eForms with necessary personal and immigration details. After submission and review, the I-20 or DS-2019 forms will be issued for visa processing. Students must pay the SEVIS fee at least three days before their visa interview and schedule an appointment with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, where they will submit their documents and receive a visa stamp once approved.
FAQs
Ques: Are interviews required for admission to Penn State?
Ans: Interviews are not generally required for most programs, but specific graduate programs or competitive scholarships may request them.
Ques: What are the housing options for international students?
Ans: Penn State offers on-campus housing for undergraduate students and limited graduate housing, along with resources for finding off-campus accommodations.
Ques: Can I defer my admission to Pennsylvania State University after being accepted?
Ans: Yes, admitted students at Penn State can request to defer their admission for up to one year, subject to university approval.
Ques: Does Penn State offer scholarships for international students?
Ans: Yes, Penn State offers merit-based scholarships like the Provost’s Award, International Student Grant, and Academic Excellence Scholarship, along with limited need-based financial aid, depending on the program and campus.
Placements & Recruiters
Pennsylvania State University Placement Details
Pennsylvania State University in State College, Pennsylvania, United States placement details include salary insights, top recruiters, and hiring trends to help students understand career outcomes and campus opportunities.
Students usually compare highest package, average package, and recruiter profile before applying. This section gives a compact overview of career outcomes and placement visibility in State College, Pennsylvania, United States.
Recruiters
N/A
Salary Metrics
0/2
Placement Metric
Average Package
N/A
Shows the typical package range students may expect based on the available average salary data.
Placement information is currently limited.
More salary or recruiter data may be updated later for this college.
Rankings over the years
Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.
2022
Highlights
2022
2022
- Best overall country rank: #27
- Mining Engineering: #1 in country
- Top source: ARWU
- 64 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 8 ranking records in 2022
2023
Highlights
2023
2023
- Best overall country rank: #26
- Computer Science: #13 in country
- Top source: US News
- 51 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 3 ranking records in 2023
2024
Highlights
2024
2024
- Best overall country rank: #24
- Mining Engineering: #2 in country
- Top source: QS
- 62 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 3 ranking records in 2024
2025
Highlights
2025
2025
- Best overall country rank: #24
- Mining Engineering: #2 in country
- Top source: QS
- 53 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 4 ranking records in 2025
2026
Highlights
2026
2026
- Best overall country rank: #24
- Social Studies: #17 in country
- Top source: Collegedunia
- 7 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 3 ranking records in 2026
Contact Information
Student Reviews & Ratings
Overall sentiment and category-wise rating summary
Overall score
7.4/10
Top Rated
Based on 19 ratings
Rating Breakdown
Visual summary of rating distribution and categories
Live Summary
Academic
7.7/10
Faculty
7.9/10
Infrastructure
8.6/10
Accommodation
7.6/10
Placement
6.9/10
Extracurricular
8.1/10