Admissions

With access to expert faculty, research opportunities, and a global network of more than 725,000 alumni, the experiences and knowledge gained at Penn State Altoona will form the foundation for the life you want to build.

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Virtual Housing Event

Tuesday, March 3, at 6:00 p.m.
If you’re thinking about living on campus at Penn State Altoona, you won’t want to miss our virtual Housing event. Learn about on-campus living, dormitory options and amenities, meal plans, and more from our housing staff. Don’t miss this event to get all your questions answered about on-campus living opportunities.

The Nittany Lion mascot posing confidently with arms crossed in front of the Nittany Lion Shrine at University Park.

2+2 & PS(U)

Monday, March 16, 2026
Do you have questions about the 2+2 academic path? Are you interested in visiting Altoona and University Park? Your day will begin at Penn State Altoona, where you will attend a panel, take a campus tour, and enjoy lunch. You will then travel to University Park to hear from current students who began their Penn State journey at Altoona and are now attending University Park. Your day will end with a tour of campus.

The Nittany Lion mascot holding a sign advertising Penn State Altoona's Admitted Student Event

Admitted Student Event

Saturday, March 28, 2026
Deciding what college to attend is an extremely important decision, and we’re committed to helping you with that process. Join us for our upcoming on-campus Admitted Student Event (ASE) at Penn State Altoona on Saturday, March 28, to visit our staff, speak with faculty, and take a campus tour. This program is only open to students who have already been admitted to Penn State Altoona.

The Smeal College Building at Penn State

2+2 Altoona, Smeal, and You

For Smeal students starting at Penn State Altoona: join us to learn about the 2+2 pathway to the Smeal College of Business, meet our Smeal faculty and students, and enjoy some Creamery ice cream!

And consider registering for our Admitted Student Event the next day, Saturday, March 28. Register now if you haven't already.

The Eve Chapel overlooking the reflecting pond on Penn State Altoona's campus

Visit Us

Get to know Penn State Altoona by visiting us. On-campus visits for students and their families include a presentation and a campus tour. Virtual visit opportunities are also available.

A female student sits near the campus Railroad clock while a male students stands in the background

How to Apply

Penn State Altoona's admissions team is here to assist with the application process. Be sure to check our list of application reminders and admission requirements. The specific forms and documentation required are different depending on the type of applicant. The best way to stay informed is to sign up for admissions updates.

Choose the best option for you:

A smiling graduate wearing a navy blue cap and gown with a white tassel sits among a crowd during a commencement ceremony, surrounded by fellow graduates and an audience in the background.

Explore Academics

You've got options! Start your education at Penn State Altoona and choose to stay here to complete one of our 21 bachelor's degree programs, or begin one of Penn State's 275+ majors here and complete them at another Penn State campus.

A faculty member stands in front of a chalkboard while teaching to a class of students

High School Dual Enrollment Program

Dual enrollment allows you to take college-level courses that supplement your high school curriculum. Qualified students earn college credits and experience the workload of a college class through the program. Students who have completed their junior year or are currently in their senior year of high school are eligible for dual enrollment. Exceptions for high school juniors and underclass students are considered case-by-case.

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Helpful Resources for Applicants

Applying to colleges can seem overwhelming. But everything you need to know is right here, and Penn State Altoona's admissions staff is just an email or phone call away if you have any questions. 

Several students cheering around the Lion Shrine

Accepted Students

Congratulations! You've been accepted to Penn State Altoona! So now what? Let us guide you through the rest of the admission process.

Female students at the THON booth during the Involvement Fair

Get to Know Us!

About Penn State Altoona
Learn everything you need to know about the campus, the Altoona community, and more. 

Opportunities and Involvement
Penn State Altoona offers you many out-of-class experiences, with research, internships, and study abroad opportunities; clubs and organizations; and recreational activities including NCAA Division III varsity athletics, club sports, fitness classes, and more! 

A close-up of the lion shrine at Penn State Altoona

Information for School Counselors

School counselors play an important role in the application process, and Penn State Altoona hopes to make things as simple as possible for you and your students.