Hey, fellow A2C peeps! I'm seriously considering Penn State as one of my top choices. Can anyone give me some advice on their admissions requirements – like GPA, test scores, and any specific extracurriculars they value? Thanks!
Congrats on considering Penn State as one of your top choices! It's a fantastic school with many opportunities. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about their admissions requirements:
GPA: While Penn State doesn't have a specific minimum GPA, it's helpful to aim for a competitive GPA with respect to their recently admitted students. The average GPA of admitted students is 3.67, so aiming for around a 3.5 or higher would be beneficial in this case. Keep in mind that taking rigorous courses, like AP, honors, or IB classes, may help you stand out from other applicants.
Test Scores: As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, Penn State is test-optional. This means that, while submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required, you may still do so if you think it'll strengthen your application. Historically, the middle 50% SAT scores for admitted students ranged from 1230-1390, and the middle 50% ACT scores ranged from 27-32.
Extracurriculars: Penn State, like many universities, employs a holistic review process, which means they'll consider your extracurricular involvement in your application. While there aren't any specific extracurriculars that Penn State specifically values, it's essential to demonstrate passion, commitment, and leadership in your chosen activities.
A strong application might include extracurriculars from Tiers 1-3, such as national recognition, state awards, participation in various clubs/sports, or leadership roles in those activities. It's better to focus on quality rather than quantity, so be sure to prioritize activities that align with your interests and where you've made a significant impact.
While admissions vary on a case-by-case basis, it's crucial to have a well-rounded application with strong academics, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities that set you apart.
Along with these factors, don't forget to focus on writing compelling essays for any supplemental writing components in your application, as this is your chance to share your personality, personal growth, and what you can bring to the Penn State community. Good luck!
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