In today's rapidly changing and competitive marketplace, education is truly a life-long endeavor. That's why adult students are enrolling in colleges and universities in record numbers. At Penn State Greater Allegheny, you get the quality education employers demand and the individual attention you deserve.

Are you an Adult Learner?

Penn State defines an adult learner as a student who is on or multiple of the following:

  • 24 years of age or older
  • a veteran or actively serving member of the armed services
  • returning to school after four or more years of employment, homemaking, or other activity
  • assuming multiple adult roles, such as parent, spouse/partner, employee

If you have attempted 18 or more credits at an accredited institution of higher education, please also see information for transfer students.

What to Expect

Adult students often enter the college environment feeling anxious and uncertain about their ability to succeed and compete successfully with more traditional students. However, current research says that adult students are typically more successful than younger students because of the maturity and experience they bring to the classroom.

Adults are most likely to exhibit high levels of motivation, more specific career goals, and an uncompromising desire to get the best, most effective education possible.

As an adult learner at Penn State Greater Allegheny, you'll have unlimited support and opportunities. You can:

  • Get professional guidance and support all along the way.
  • Receive special admissions consideration regarding standardized test scores and high school grade point average (GPA).
  • Take advantage of a variety of scheduling options, including enrolling part- or full-time while participating in day and/or evening classes; completing a program at your workplace; or studying at home through online courses.
  • Interact with a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff.
  • Accumulate college credits that are transferable to other learning institutions.
  • Earn a certificate or degree that is respected worldwide.

How to Apply

  1. Create a MyPennState profile
    Note: If you schedule an appointment with Admissions, we’ll waive the $65 application fee. Check out how to apply for free. 
  2. Fill out the application in your MyPennState profile. Have a copy of your high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores available to fill out the Self-Reported Academic Record. 
  3. Review your MyPennState checklist for prompts to ensure all required supporting materials have been received. These may include: official final high school transcript, GED, college transcript, or DD 214, as well as SAT or ACT scores, if applicable. These may be mailed or faxed to our Admissions office. Once all materials have been received, your application will be considered complete.  
  4. After receiving your offer of admission, pay the $230 registration fee. Students planning to live on campus should also pay the $100 housing fee and complete the online housing contract. 
  5. Congratulations! You’re officially a Penn Stater. Check your email regularly for information about taking the ALEKS assessment and New Student Orientation.