Welcome to Penn State, First-Year Students!
Starting college is a big step, and we’re here to help you through it. At Penn State, your journey begins at the Greater Allegheny campus with support built in from day one. You’ll earn a Penn State degree in a smaller, close-knit campus setting where guidance is easy to find and opportunities are within reach.
Who is a first-year applicant?
You are considered a first-year student if you:
- Are a traditional high school student applying to college for the first time
- Have a high school diploma or GED but have never enrolled in college
- Have earned fewer than 18 college credits after high school
If you don’t fall into these categories, see our pages for Adult Learners, Student Veterans, Transfer Students, or International Students.
Your degree options
As a first-year student at the Greater Allegheny campus, you can:
- Complete a four-year bachelor’s degree entirely at Greater Allegheny campus
- Start your first two years here, then transfer to another Penn State campus through the 2+2 Plan
- Complete a two-year associate degree entirely at Greater Allegheny campus
All options lead to a Penn State credential with the same academic standards across the University.
Applying is easy
- Create a MyPennState profile – Schedule an admissions appointment to waive the $65 application fee.
- Complete your application – Have transcripts and test scores ready to complete your Self-Reported Academic Record.
- Submit any required materials – Official transcripts, test scores, or GED results.
- Pay the $230 registration fee and the housing fee if living on campus.
- Watch for emails about ALEKS placement and New Student Orientation.
Re-enrolling at Penn State?
If you were previously enrolled as a degree-seeking student at Penn State and earned credits, you do not need to apply again. You are considered a re-enrolling student and can work directly with the campus to return.
