How To Apply

With undergraduate campuses across Pennsylvania and the online World Campus, we are ready to support you with top-notch programs, engaging student life, and vibrant communities. Students have two options when applying to Penn State University Park, one of our commonwealth campus locations or to an online program at our World Campus. Students may apply to Penn State using either the MyPennState application, or through the CommonApp. Penn State holds no preference between the two methods and encourages students to use the method which works best for them. Review our for admission requirements and steps to apply.

The Penn State Undergraduate Admissions application requires applicants to pay a nonrefundable application fee via credit card. Students who have requested and received an approved application fee waiver will be able to bypass the payment screen on the application.

Domestic Fee: $65

International Fee: $75

You are eligible for an application fee waiver if you meet one or more of the following criteria:

• You are enrolled in or eligible to participate in the federal free or reduced price lunch program (FRPL).
  If you attend a school where all students receive free lunch or testing fee waivers, you do not necessarily qualify for an application fee waiver. Before requesting an application fee waiver, check if you meet federal guidelines for FRPL or ensure you meet at least 1 other qualification. 

• You have received or are eligible to receive an SAT or ACT fee waiver.

• Your annual family income falls within the income eligibility guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.

• Your family receives public assistance.

• You are enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families (e.g., GEAR UP, TRIO such as Upward Bound or others).

• You live in a federally subsidized public housing, a foster home or are homeless.

• You are a ward of the state or an orphan.

• You have received or are eligible to receive a Pell Grant.

• You can provide a supporting statement from a school official, college access counselor, financial aid officer, or community leader.

All application fees are non-refundable.

Beginning August 1, 2020 students applying for the spring, summer, or fall application terms applicants can decide whether or not to have SAT or ACT exam scores considered as part of the admission review.

First-year Penn State applicants for Spring, Summer, or Fall 2026 are able to choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their applications.

To be eligible for financial aid, students must fill out a FAFSA form. Review our Applying for Aid information by visiting the .