Freshman Students

We offer nationally accredited academic programs, small class sizes, and the opportunity to work with award-winning faculty in class and on research. Come here for one of more than 30 bachelor’s programs, or complete your first two years in one of Penn State’s more than 160 undergraduate majors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you send me an application for admission?

In order to obtain an application you have to create your PSU personal profile, called MyPennState. This individualized profile is your connection to admissions at Penn State and enables you to access all of our online services including application forms.

Can you send me information on majoring in XYZ at Harrisburg?

Please visit the undergraduate major and requirements page for additional information. You can find all of Penn State's majors and requirements, including our options if you're undecided or not entirely sure of your intended major.

How do I schedule a visit to tour the Harrisburg campus?

Please visit our calendar of events and RSVP for one of our scheduled visits.  Please report to the

Swatara Building
777 West Harrisburg Pike
Middletown, PA 17057. 

You may park in our parking lot and you will be given a parking pass upon check-in.  

What will Penn State evaluate when considering my application for admission?

First-year student admissions decisions are made on the basis of several combined factors: final grades in all subject areas for years nine, ten, and eleven of high school if you are currently a high school senior, and weighted average or class rank for students who have taken AP/Honors courses --required Carnegie (high school) units-standardized test scores (SAT/SAT 1 or ACT). Approximately two-thirds of the evaluation is based on high school grade point average and one-third on SAT or ACT score.

Transfer admissions decisions are made on the basis of a student's cumulative collegiate grade-point average and completion of appropriate prerequisite courses. Requirements vary by academic college and semester standing may affect availability of campus locations.

How will Penn State notify me of its decision regarding my application or may I contact the admissions office to check the status of my application?

You can check the status of your application on your MyPennState account. You will also receive information through the mail regarding the outcome of the application evaluation.

We ask that you resist the urge to email or call the admissions office “just to check” your application status. Heavy email and phone traffic can slow the evaluation process as it means that counselors who ordinarily would be processing and evaluating applications will instead be handling these requests for information.

Does Penn State participate in an Early Action or Early Decision process?

No, though we do recommend that all students apply before November 30th of their senior year.

Does Penn State rank high schools?

No. We also make no distinction between students who attended public schools and those who attended private schools.

Does Penn State require interviews?

Interviews are not typically required as part of the admission evaluation. Only special admission programs such as the provisional and education opportunity programs require admission interviews. Additionally, some academic colleges, such as the College of Arts & Architecture, may make use of an interview, audition, or portfolio review.

Are first year students guaranteed on-campus housing?

No. Currently our campus can accommodate 433 first year students who wish to live on-campus. Housing at Penn State Harrisburg is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis after accepting your offer of admission.  Learn more about on-campus housing.

Are admissions requirements for out-of-state students different from those for in-state students?

No. Penn State does not employ any geographic quotas or limitations on students attending the University. Therefore, there is no need to make use of differentiated admission criteria.

If I graduate with from Penn State Harrisburg, will my diploma say Penn State University?

Graduates of baccalaureate degree programs at Penn State Harrisburg will receive a Pennsylvania State University diploma-the same distinction received by graduates of Penn State University Park. The same renowned and respected diploma from The Pennsylvania State University ensures that graduates from Penn State Harrisburg will receive the same consideration and respect in the job market.

Where can I find out about financial aid?

Visit the Penn State Harrisburg Financial Aid Website.

What are the tuition and other expenses?

For tailored information on tuition, please visit Penn State's tuition calculator.

I was offered admission to your campus but I’m currently on a wait list for housing. What are my options?

90% of our students live off-campus. Please visit our Off-Campus Housing page to review a list of off campus listings and/or to sign up to our Roommate Selection Service to access other Penn State Harrisburg students seeking roommates.

I have accepted my offer of admission to your campus. When can I schedule my classes?

You will receive information via regular mail on your next steps.  If you are a new First-Year student, you must first complete your Freshman Testing. You will then be invited to attend the New Student Orientation.