The Pennsylvania State University--University Park

School Overview

The Pennsylvania State University--University Park is located in University Park, PA, 16802, set within a rural environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #59 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

With an acceptance rate of 61%, The Pennsylvania State University--University Park offers a realistic pathway for students who have maintained a consistent academic record throughout high school. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 1240-1420 and ACT scores of 27-32. The average high school GPA among enrolled freshmen is 3.8.

As a large research university with 42,619 undergraduates, The Pennsylvania State University--University Park offers an extensive selection of courses, majors, and extracurricular activities. Students have access to world-class laboratories, libraries, and collaborative spaces. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 32% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 72%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

The most popular fields of study at The Pennsylvania State University--University Park include Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services (16% of students), Engineering (15% of students), and Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services (11% of students). These enrollment patterns reflect the institution's strengths and the career interests of its student body, giving prospective students a clear sense of the academic culture and post-graduation opportunities available here.

Room and board adds approximately $15,524. However, the average net price after financial aid is $32,223, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. Need-based aid averages $12,218 per recipient, demonstrating the institution's commitment to making education financially accessible. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with The Pennsylvania State University--University Park's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. The Pennsylvania State University--University Park combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, a diverse range of popular programs to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether The Pennsylvania State University--University Park is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.