CAMPUS · UNIVERSITY PARK, PA · PUBLIC

Penn State University

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

54.2%

01Acceptance 02Tuition 03Transfer 04ROI 05AP Credit 06Majors 07Housing 08International

International Students at Penn State University: By the Numbers

11.5%

International Undergrads

5,027

International Undergrad Count

3,643

International Graduate Students

16.5%

International (All Students)

Cost of Attending Penn State University as an International Student

International students typically pay out-of-state tuition rates. Here's the full cost picture.

Room & Board	$13,030/yr
Estimated 4-Year Total	$52,120

Note for public universities: Penn State University is a public institution. International students pay out-of-state tuition, which is significantly higher than in-state rates. Financial aid for international students at public universities is limited.

How to Apply to Penn State University as an International Student

Meet English Proficiency Requirements

Most schools require TOEFL (typically 100+ iBT) or IELTS (7.0+). Some accept Duolingo English Test.

Submit Standardized Tests

SAT: 1310+, ACT: 29+

Prepare Financial Documentation

You'll need proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Apply for F-1 Student Visa

After admission, Penn State University will issue a Form I-20. Use this to apply for an F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy. Start the process 3-4 months before your program begins.

Penn State University Student Body Diversity

Diversity breakdown of Penn State University's undergraduate student body.

White

62.2%

Black/African American

4.5%

Hispanic/Latino

8.3%

Asian

6.9%

International

11.5%

Career Outcomes for Penn State University International Graduates

International students at Penn State University can work in the U.S. after graduation through OPT (Optional Practical Training). STEM majors qualify for a 3-year OPT extension.

$63,435

Median Earnings (10yr)

$55,620

Median Salary (6yr)

$25,000

Median Debt

OPT & H-1B Path: After graduating from Penn State University, international students get 12 months of OPT work authorization (36 months for STEM fields). Many use this time to secure H-1B visa sponsorship from employers.

Student Demographics

White

62.2%

Black/African American

4.5%

Hispanic/Latino

8.3%

Asian

6.9%

International

11.5%

Penn State University International Student FAQs

How many international students attend Penn State University?

11.5% of Penn State University undergraduates are international students. That's about 5,027 international undergrads. Schools with higher international shares typically have stronger ESL support, international student offices, and on-campus resources for non-US applicants.

How much is international tuition at Penn State University?

International students at Penn State University typically pay the full out-of-state sticker price of about $39,694/yr (tuition + room and board + fees). Financial aid for international students is more limited than for US citizens, though some schools offer merit scholarships.

Is the Penn State University acceptance rate harder for international students?

Penn State University's overall acceptance rate is 54.2%. International applicants typically face in line with overall admission odds because of limited international quotas. Strong test scores (TOEFL 100+/IELTS 7.0+) and clear English proficiency help.

What English test does Penn State University require for international applicants?

Most US colleges including Penn State University accept TOEFL iBT (typical minimum 80-100), IELTS (6.5-7.0), and Duolingo English Test (115-130). Highly selective schools require scores at the upper end of those ranges. Some schools waive the test if you've studied 3+ years in English.

Does Penn State University sponsor F-1 visas for international students?

Yes — Penn State University is SEVP-certified and issues I-20 forms to admitted international students. Once you're admitted and pay your enrollment deposit, Penn State University's international student office issues your I-20, which you use to apply for an F-1 student visa at the US embassy in your home country.