Overview
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg is an open admission public four-year institution in Middletown, Pennsylvania. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Penn State Harrisburg accepts applications through the Penn State application system with a rolling admissions process that continues until programs reach capacity. You should submit your application, high school transcripts, and standardized test scores as early as possible to secure your spot and have the best selection of housing options.
Several programs at this campus maintain competitive admission standards despite the university's overall accessibility. The nursing program requires separate application materials and has limited enrollment each year. Engineering programs also evaluate applicants more selectively and may have higher academic requirements than the general admission threshold.
Housing fills quickly at Penn State Harrisburg since the campus serves both residential and commuter students in the Harrisburg metropolitan area. Submit your housing application immediately after admission confirmation if you plan to live on campus. The campus requires all first-year students under 21 to live in residence halls unless they live with family within commuting distance.
As a Penn State Commonwealth Campus, you can start here and transfer to University Park after completing prerequisite courses, though many students choose to complete their entire degree at Harrisburg. The campus offers the 2+2 plan where you spend your first two years at Harrisburg and finish at University Park, or you can pursue one of the four-year degree programs available entirely at this location.
New Student Orientation occurs during the summer before your first semester and includes academic advising, course registration, and campus introductions. You must attend an orientation session before enrolling in classes. The campus operates on Penn State's semester system with classes beginning in late August for fall semester.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $23,478/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $15,944
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $26,668
- Students Receiving Aid
- 26%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 29.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,435/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 81.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg?
Penn State Harrisburg uses rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received. Apply early for the best chance at housing and financial aid.
Does Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg require SAT or ACT scores?
Penn State Harrisburg requires either SAT or ACT scores for admission. Test-optional policies are not available at this campus.
Can I transfer to Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg from another college?
Yes, Penn State Harrisburg accepts transfer students. You need at least 18 college credits to apply as a transfer student rather than a first-year student.
Does Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg offer early decision or early action?
Penn State Harrisburg does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through the regular rolling admissions process.