How Are Admission Decisions Made?
Admission decisions for first-year students are made on the basis of several combined factors, including:
- Final grades in all subject areas for years nine, ten, and eleven of high school.
- Weighted average or class rank for students who have taken AP/honors courses.
- Required Carnegie (high school) units.
- Standardized test scores (SAT1 or ACT).
About two-thirds of the decision for each student is based upon the high school grade-point average (GPA). The remaining one-third of the decision is based on other factors, which might include standardized test scores, class rank, a student's personal statement, and activities list.
For more information about Penn State admission requirements, including information about individual majors and information for adult and transfer students, visit Undergraduate Admissions.