Overview
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks is an open admission public four-year institution in Reading, Pennsylvania. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Penn State Berks uses the common application with a November 30 priority deadline, though you can apply later with rolling admissions through the summer. Submit your application, official transcripts, and standardized test scores directly through the common app portal.
The campus operates as a commonwealth campus where you complete your first two years before transferring to University Park or another Penn State location to finish your degree. Some programs like engineering and business have more competitive admission requirements even though the overall campus admits nearly all applicants. Nursing requires separate application to the program after completing prerequisites.
Housing fills up quickly despite the small campus size. Submit your housing application and deposit immediately after being accepted if you want to live on campus. The residence halls house about 800 students, and many upperclassmen move off-campus to nearby apartments in Reading.
Your academic advisor will help you plan coursework to transfer smoothly to University Park for your junior and senior years. Some majors require specific prerequisite courses that must be completed at Berks before transferring. Check the degree requirements early so you don't miss required classes.
The campus sits in a suburban area about an hour from Philadelphia. You'll need a car or reliable transportation since the location limits walking options for food, shopping, and entertainment. Most students either bring cars or coordinate rides with roommates who have vehicles.
Orientation happens during the summer before your first semester. You'll register for classes, meet with advisors, and complete placement tests during this mandatory session. Financial aid disbursement typically occurs a few days before classes start each semester.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $24,581/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $15,944
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $26,668
- Students Receiving Aid
- 29%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 24.4%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,435/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 77.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks?
Penn State Berks requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with recommended coursework in English, math, science, and social studies. SAT or ACT scores are optional for most applicants.
When is the application deadline for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks?
The priority application deadline is February 1 for fall admission. Applications received after this date are reviewed on a rolling basis as space permits.
Can students transfer from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks to University Park?
Students can apply for internal transfer to Penn State University Park after completing at least 12 credits at Berks. Transfer depends on academic performance and space availability in the desired major.
Does Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks require SAT or ACT scores?
Test scores are optional for most applicants. Students may submit SAT or ACT scores if they believe the scores will strengthen their application.