Overview
Portland State University is an open admission public four-year institution in Portland, Oregon. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Portland State University accepts nearly all applicants through its standard admission process, but you'll need to complete specific steps by their deadlines. Submit your application through the university's online portal along with official high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores if you're a recent graduate.
Several programs require separate applications and maintain competitive admission standards despite the university's overall accessibility. The Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science has additional requirements and earlier deadlines for programs like computer science, computer engineering, and electrical engineering. The School of Nursing requires prerequisite coursework completion before you can apply to the nursing program itself.
Housing fills up quickly at Portland State, so submit your housing application and deposit as soon as you're admitted if you want to live on campus. The university sits in downtown Portland, meaning you'll have access to the city's transit system, internship opportunities, and urban amenities right outside your dorm.
Plan to attend Summer Orientation, which helps with course registration and connects you with academic advisors in your intended major. Engineering and computer science students should pay particular attention to math placement during orientation, as proper course sequencing matters significantly for these technical programs.
Portland State operates on a quarter system rather than semesters, so your academic year runs from late September through mid-June with three 10-week terms. This affects everything from financial aid disbursement to course planning, and the pace moves faster than semester schools.
The downtown location means parking is limited and expensive. Most students use public transportation, which you can access with your student ID card. The MAX light rail stops directly on campus, connecting you to the airport, suburbs, and other parts of the metro area.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $12,932/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $11,238
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $30,138
- Students Receiving Aid
- 40%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 53.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $57,906/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 74.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Portland State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Portland State University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Portland State University?
Portland State University has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of February 1 for fall term and October 1 for winter term. Applications are accepted after these dates if space is available.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Portland State University?
Portland State University accepts up to 124 transfer credits from accredited institutions. Students must complete at least 45 credits at PSU to earn a degree, including 36 upper-division credits.
Does Portland State University offer early decision or early action programs?
Portland State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions throughout the year.