Overview
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York is an open admission public four-year institution in York, Pennsylvania. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
You submit your application through Penn State's unified application system, which means you apply to the Penn State system first and then select York as your campus preference. The application deadline is rolling admission, but submit by February 1 to maximize financial aid opportunities and housing options.
Penn State York operates as a commonwealth campus where you can complete your first two years before transferring to University Park or another campus to finish your degree. Some students complete all four years at York in select programs like business, information sciences and technology, or education. Check which majors require a campus change after two years versus which you can complete entirely at York.
Housing fills quickly despite the smaller campus size. York offers apartment-style residence halls rather than traditional dorms, and you need to submit your housing application and deposit immediately after admission to secure a spot. Many students commute from the surrounding area.
The campus requires you to attend an orientation session before your first semester. You register for classes during orientation, so come prepared with backup course options since some sections fill rapidly on the smaller campus.
York's location means you have access to internships and job opportunities in both York and nearby Baltimore. The campus maintains smaller class sizes than University Park, which means more direct professor interaction but fewer course sections offered each semester.
If you plan to transfer to University Park after two years, maintain strong grades and complete your general education requirements at York. The transition is straightforward since you remain within the same system, but competitive majors like engineering or business may have additional requirements for the transfer.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,922/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $15,180
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $25,118
- Students Receiving Aid
- 28%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 11.4%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,435/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 77.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Penn State York follows the same standardized testing policy as other Penn State campuses. Check the current Penn State admissions website for the most up-to-date testing requirements, as policies can change.
What is the application deadline for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York?
Penn State York uses the same application deadlines as other Penn State campuses. Priority consideration typically has earlier deadlines than regular admission, so check the Penn State admissions website for specific dates.
Can I transfer from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York to University Park?
Yes, Penn State has a campus change process that allows students to transfer between campuses, including from York to University Park. Students typically need to meet specific GPA and credit requirements for their desired major.
How many years can I stay at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York?
Penn State York offers the first two years of most Penn State degrees, after which students typically transfer to University Park or another four-year campus to complete their bachelor's degree. Some programs may have different timelines.