Navigating college can sometimes be a stressful experience. You probably have lots of questions but may not be sure who to ask. Don't worry. We've got you covered! Explore the topics listed in our Help Tool to find information and answers to frequently asked questions.

Ivyside Eats: Penn State Altoona's Food Pantry

With help from students, staff, and a loving community, Ivyside Eats is taking action to reduce the student hunger rate through education, food drives, donations, volunteering, and community events. The goal of Ivyside Eats is to reduce the student hunger rate at Penn State Altoona.

As costs continue to rise, food insecurity among college students has become increasingly more profound. To combat this, Ivyside Eats provides students with various foods and hygienic products. The service is available at no cost. While students must provide their Penn State ID number, no additional information is required.

The pantry is open during regularly scheduled walk-in hours or by appointment. More information is available on the Ivyside Eats site.

Donations of all types are accepted. Contact [email protected] to donate.

Visit the Ivyside Eats Site

On-Campus Housing Information

Penn State Altoona's four residence halls offer an on-campus living experience for nearly 900 students annually.

Penn State Altoona offers a variety of housing options to meet the needs of a diverse student body. Oak and Maple Halls house two students per room with one common bathroom on each floor. Spruce and Cedar Halls offer suite living, accommodating four students per suite. Each suite shares a semi-private bathroom.

Housing and Food Services

The residence halls are managed by the Office of Housing and Food Services, located in Port-Sky Café on campus. Visit their website for information and resources, including accommodation requests, move-in and move-out information, maintenance requests, frequently asked questions and more.

Visit the Housing and Food Services site

Residence Life

Penn State Altoona students join us from around the corner, the state, the country, and the world. Our residence halls reflect that diversity and provide residents a supportive environment with opportunities to learn more about themselves, each other, and the world in which we live—both locally and globally.

The Office of Residence Life, located in the Spruce Residence Hall, is administered by five professional staff members. Each of the four residence halls is supported by several Resident Assistants (RAs), who are undergraduate students selected to serve as primary resources and role models for their building residents. RAs are carefully selected and trained so they can best fulfill the needs of the residents they serve.

The Office of Residence Life focuses on the success of each resident as an individual and provides a variety of resources and services to our residents. The services we offer are focused on providing ample support to help residents appropriately manage and overcome personal, social, and academic challenges that may arise. We strive to ensure a safe and inclusive living-learning community that enhances the values of Penn State.

The Office of Residence Life provides the following resources and services for our residents:

  • Educational, cultural, and social activities to promote the building of community and assist with the social transition to college.
  • Support, assistance, and referrals for personal, academic, and mental health concerns.
  • Mediation and guidance for various roommate, suite, and social interactions.
  • A safe and supportive living-learning community based on Penn State’s Student Code of Conduct and the Penn State Values.

Visit the Residence Life site

Off-campus Living Information

First-year student requests for on-campus housing annually exceed the spaces available. When on-campus housing is filled, students may have an interest in the housing waitlist. Waitlist students are not required to live on campus if housing becomes available later. We understand that some first-year students prefer to live on campus. However, off-campus housing is the alternative for many students who would like to attend Penn State Altoona. 

Learn more on the Off-campus Living site

Commuting students make up approximately 75% of our student population. Whether you're living at a nearby apartment complex, an off-campus housing unit, or at home with your parents and/or family, be sure to take advantage of all that Penn State Altoona has to offer.

Learn about resources available to commuting students

On-campus Parking Information

Registration for student parking during the fall and spring semesters is an online application process. Students can either pay online, with a credit card, at the time of registration or pay in person at the time of pick-up. In-person payments can be made with cash, check, or money order.

NOTE: Students are not required to have permits during the summer sessions.

Learn about Student Parking

Local Bus Information

Provided by Amtran, free bus service is available to all Penn State Altoona students. Students often use buses to travel between our Ivyside and Downtown Campuses as well as to travel to shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations in the nearby communities. Information for Penn State Altoona students is available on the Amtran site.

Visit the Amtran site

Tips and Recommendations

Students are encouraged to check out the Student Handbook for tips and recommendations for using public transit.

Learn more about using public transit

Air, Bus, Car Rental, and Train Information

Getting to Penn State Altoona is easy. Buses and trains stop regularly at the Altoona Transportation Center, located in downtown Altoona. We have two airports located less than an hour away from campus and numerous car rental options.

Learn about transportation options

Travel Information for International Students

The Office of International Student Services provides travel information for Penn State Altoona's international student population. International Students are encouraged to contact a staff member and check out the resources available on the International Student Services site.

Visit the International Student Services site

Medical Help

Non-emergency Services: Health and Wellness Center

Located in the Sheetz Family Health Center, the Penn State Altoona Health and Wellness Center is available for all students.

Health and Wellness Center staff are here to care for students' health issues in an atmosphere of confidentiality and respect. The center offers medical care and treatment for most illnesses and minor injuries, counseling and psychological services, student disability resources, and health education. Contact the Health and Wellness Center at 814-949-5540 with any questions.

Learn about the Health and Wellness Center

Emergency and After Hours Care

In case of an emergency, call campus police at 814-949-5222 or 911. The Penn State Altoona campus police officers are trained first responders on campus and will assist with crisis or medical emergency needs.

Learn more about Emergency and After Hours Care

Faith and Spiritual Support

Penn State Altoona's volunteer campus ministry staff helps to nurture spiritual values; encourage students to maintain and develop their faith; provide an open setting for discussion of religious, moral, and social problems; and to cooperate with other campus groups in providing for a holistic approach to personal and community growth.

We encourage you to visit our site to explore our currently available options. If you have further questions, please get in touch with our Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, Sue Patterson, at [email protected].

Visit the Campus Ministry site

Self-care Products

In addition to non-perishable food items, Penn State Altoona's Ivyside Eats Food Pantry offers various self-care products, including soap, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, paper towels, razors, shaving cream, and more.

Located in room C112 of the Smith Building, the pantry is open during regularly scheduled walk-in hours or by appointment. More information is available on the Ivyside Eats site.

Donations of all types are accepted. Contact [email protected] to donate.

Go to the Ivyside Eats site

Access to Software

Office 365: Available to everyone at Penn State, Microsoft Office 365 offers online versions of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and more. The Office Suite apps are also available to be downloaded and installed on your personal device.

G Suite: Available at no cost to Penn State students, faculty, and staff members, Penn State G Suite accounts include the following core set of apps: Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, Hangouts Meet and Chats, Sites, and Jamboard.

Adobe Creative Cloud: Everyone at Penn State is eligible to sign up for a free Adobe Creative Cloud account. Through the full suite of Adobe Creative Cloud products, you have access to a host of creative tools for digital imaging, design, web, and video, as well as online services, including 20GB of storage.

Software @ PSU: Free and discounted software available to students, such as MathWorks MATLAB, and software license purchasing for faculty and staff.

softwarerequest.psu.edu: Free software, including anti-virus, file transfer, and VPN software, available to students, faculty, and staff.

WebApps (Requires VPN): WebApps provides access to several popular applications from a wide array of devices and is available for use on personal devices to anyone with a Penn State Access Account. Available WebApps include ArcGIS Desktop, JMP Pro, Mathematica, MATLAB, Minitab, Microsoft Office, SAS, and SolidWorks.

Autodesk: Autodesk offers free educational licenses to its 3D design and engineering software, including the AutoCAD suite, Maya, and more. These licenses are available to all students, faculty, and staff. You can download these software products by signing up for an account at the Autodesk website using your Penn State e-mail address.

Visit the Information Technology site

Equipment

Media Commons

Located in the Eiche Library, the Media Commons offers equipment for student use, including the following:

  • Calculators
  • Camcorders
  • Cameras
  • Video/Photography Accessories
  • Laptops
  • Virtual Head Sets
  • Turntables,
  • Microphones
  • And more!

View the full list of available Media Commons items

Media Commons One Button Studio

Located in room 211A of the Eiche Library, the One Button Studio allows students to easily record video presentations.

Make an appointment to use the One Button Studio

Loaner Laptops

Students who wish to borrow a laptop may have one loaned to them by visiting the Service Desk, located in the Computer Center, 234 Hawthorn Building. There are PC, Mac, and Chromebook computers available to be checked out. The laptops include a standard set of programs including Microsoft Office for PC and Mac.

Learn more on the IT Student Services page

Find a Computer Lab and/or Printer

Computer Labs

Computer Center, Hawthorn 234

  • PC and Mac stations available
  • Black and white and color printing available
  • Service Desk location

Hours of Operation

Fall and Spring Semesters
Days Hours
Monday–Thursday 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday Closed
Summer Semester
Days Hours
Monday–Thursday 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday Closed

Other Locations

During normal hours, PC stations and black-and-white printing are available in the lobbies of the Slep Student Center and the Aaron building.

Computer Lab and Classroom Printing

Paw Prints

Paw Prints is a cloud-based, pay-as-you-go printing solution that offers convenience and individualized experiences for students. Paw Prints kiosks feature the following:

  • An easy and convenient way to print and scan documents in black-and-white and color.
  • Access cloud-based printing at every kiosk by logging in, entering a code, or inserting a USB drive.
  • Pay for prints using one of these convenient methods:

Visit Paw Prints for more information.

Paw Prints Kiosk Locations

Paw Prints kiosks can be found at the following locations at Penn State Altoona:

  • 234 Hawthorn Building, Computer Center (Black and white and color, scanning available)
  • Hawthorn Building Lobby, second floor (Black and white)
  • Eiche Library, first floor (Black and white)
  • Eiche Library, second floor (Black and white and color, scanning available)
  • First floor Slep Student Center, outside Student Affairs (Black and white)
  • Force Advanced Technology Building, second floor (Black and white)
  • Cypress Building, first floor (Black and white)
  • Aaron Building, first-floor lobby (Black and white and color, scanning available)
  • Sheetz Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence, first floor (Black and white)
  • Breezeway between Holtzinger and Science Buildings (Black and white)

Visit the IT site for more Technology Information

Technology Support

Contact Information Technology ...

Student Service Desk

At the Service Desk, students can ask general information questions or ask for assistance with lab computers. Students living on-campus can request technical support if they are experiencing computer problems by submitting a support ticket or by contacting the Service Desk.

Visit the IT Student Services page

WiFi

Students, faculty, and staff can connect to the Penn State wireless network using their Penn State Access Account. Guests should refer to the Guest WiFI page.

Connect to the psuwirelesssetup network for temporary Internet access while setting up your wireless.

Get set up for Penn State wireless

Instructions

Professional Tutoring

Free professional tutoring is available to all Penn State Altoona through the Student Success Center. Located on the bottom floor of the Eiche Library, the Center offers professional tutoring services in several disciplines, including mathematics, statistics, languages, chemistry, and nursing. Offerings vary by semester, so check out the tutoring site for an up-to-date schedule.

Visit the Tutoring site

Find a Math Tutor

Writing Commons

The Student Success Center is also home to the college's Writing Commons. The Writing Commons helps students in all disciplines become more effective, more confident writers. Our method is multi-faceted, flexible, and above all, collaborative, reflecting our respect for the individual writer whose talents, voice, and goals are central to all our endeavors. Supportive, trained undergraduate peer Writing Consultants will work one-on-one with students at all levels, disciplines, and any stage in the writing process.

Visit the Writing Commons site

Peer Tutoring

Free peer tutoring services are available to all Penn State Altoona students through the Student Success Center. Tutors are trained through a special course and are ready to help you succeed!

Request a Peer Tutor

Study Skills and Time Management

Penn State's Division of Undergraduate Studies offers numerous tools to help you succeed in your academic pursuits. The DUSuccess site has a wide variety of resources to assist with developing good study skills and time management.

Visit the DUSuccess Study Skills and Time Management page

Other Skills

LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning is an online training tool that is free for all Penn State Altoona students. Sharpen your business, technology, and creative skills on your schedule with expert-led instruction from any device, anywhere.

Go to LinkedIn Learning

Academic Accommodations

Student Disability Resources at Penn State Altoona provides information and resources concerning typical accommodations for students with disabilities.

Information is available for the following topics:

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Deaf and Hard of Hearing
  • Learning Disorders
  • Mobility Impairments
  • Neurological Disorders
  • Physical/Health-Related Conditions
  • Psychological Disorders
  • Vision Impairments

Visit the Student Disability Resources site

Major Exploration

Penn State Altoona's Division of Undergraduate Studies provides numerous tools to explore majors, including advising resources, websites, classes, career services opportunities, and more.

Visit the Career Exploration page

MyPlan

MyPlan is a four-part career assessment that looks at your personality, interests, skills, and values. It is a great tool for both traditional students interested in career/major options and professionals considering a career change. MyPlan will provide a list of occupations that match your results. It is recommended that you schedule an appointment with a staff member in Career Services to discuss your results. Contact Career Services to receive the access code.

Visit MyPlan

Advising

Penn State Altoona utilizes a shared advising model.

  • Faculty Advisers: Students who have already selected a major or are in pre-major status are advised by Penn State Altoona faculty members.
  • DUS Advisers: Students who enter the University in undecided status or are transitioning from one major to another are advised by professional advisers from the college's Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS).

Find out who your adviser is by visiting LionPATH or Starfish.

What is DUS?

Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) is the designation the University uses to identify students who have not yet settled on a major. It's also the name of academic advising offices across the University that help students decide on a major and a college to enter. DUS aims to help students make informed decisions and shape meaningful educational opportunities enabling their success while at Penn State.

Learn about DUS at Penn State Altoona

Internships/Micro-internships

Internships

Several bachelor’s degrees require a senior-level internship. For others, an internship may be the major’s “capstone” course. Exploratory internships are available for second- and third-year students as well.

Visit Penn State Altoona's Internship site

Micro-Internships

When you are launching your career, micro-internships provide a tremendous opportunity. Not only can you explore different career paths and work on interesting assignments, but you can also demonstrate your abilities to potential employers while building your professional portfolio and network. Beyond that, your academic experience will improve as you apply what is taught in the classroom to the real world and vice versa.

Learn about Micro-internships

Study Abroad/Study Away

The Office of Study Away at Penn State Altoona believes that all interested students, regardless of major, should have the opportunity to spend a spring break, a semester, or a full academic year away from campus on an academic program in a different part of the country or world.

The office assists students in selecting appropriate study away programs, understanding the financial implications of study away, and explaining the credit process. Students interested in studying away for spring break, a semester, or a year may choose from Penn State Altoona-sponsored programs or Penn State Global programs.

Visit Penn State Altoona's Study Away/Study Abroad page

Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities

Undergraduate research and creative activities allow you to work closely with a mentor and explore a topic in greater depth, producing new knowledge, scholarship, or creative work. Through these transformative experiences, you will receive personal attention from Penn State Altoona faculty, the opportunity to team with fellow students on short or long-term projects, and the chance to interact with faculty at other campuses, visiting scholars, and graduate/postdoctoral students. At other institutions of higher education, such personal mentoring from faculty is usually only available to senior graduate students; at Penn State Altoona, it is the norm.

Visit the Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry site

Career Planning

Choosing a career can feel like an overwhelming task. Don't worry! You're not alone. Penn State Altoona Career Services will work with you from start to finish—including career counseling and major exploration, searching for the career that fits your personality, putting together a stellar resume, and preparing for your job interview.

Visit the Career Services office, located upstairs in room 205 of the Slep Student Center. Or give them a call at 814-949-5058

Topics for appointments include the following:

  • Individual career counseling to review MyPlan results to explore majors and occupations as well as set goals
  • Job shadowing and informational interviews
  • Resume, cover letter, and references preparation and critique
  • Making the most of career fairs and using the Career Closet
  • Preparing for interviews
  • Nittany Lion Careers – post your resume and search for jobs and internships
  • LinkedIn profile critique
  • Explore Parker Dewey micro-Internships
  • Job and internship search
  • Graduate school and medical school assistance

Want to get started on your own? Consider using the sites below.

Visit the Career Services site

All-Gender Restrooms

All-gender restrooms are available at the following locations:

  • 107 Bookstore
  • 126 Cedar Residence Hall
  • 101 Devorris Downtown Center
  • 102 Devorris Downtown Center
  • 127 Devorris Downtown Center
  • Edith Davis Eve Chapel
  • 104 Environmental Resource Laboratory
  • 101 Sheetz Family Health Center
  • 103 Sheetz Family Health Center
  • Second Floor Lobby, Adler Athletic Cdenter
  • E107 Smith Building
  • Oak Residence Hall

Find these locations on the campus map

Lactation Rooms

Breastfeeding can be more challenging after mothers return to school or work. Research shows that when mothers are provided with essential services to support breastfeeding and pumping, they can achieve their goals. The Breastfeeding Support Program at Penn State is here to help you every step of the way!

Penn State Altoona currently has a dedicated lactation station located downtown on the first floor of the Aaron Building.

Visit the Breastfeeding Support Program site

Medical Help

Health Services

Located in the Sheetz Family Health Center, the Penn State Altoona Health and Wellness Center is available for all students! Health Services is committed to promoting health, wellness, and safety at Penn State Altoona and the surrounding community by providing quality medical care.

Visit Penn State Altoona's Health Services page

Emergency and After Hours Care

In case of an emergency, call campus police at 814-949-5222 or 911. The Penn State Altoona campus police officers are trained first responders on campus and will assist with crisis or medical emergency needs.

Learn more about Emergency and After Hours Care

Counseling and Psychological Services

The Counseling Center is staffed by licensed counselors who provide both individual counseling and case management services. The Center's staff is dedicated to assisting students in their pursuit of personal and academic growth, helping students gain a better understanding and appreciation of themselves, and supporting students as they make important decisions about their lives.

Visit the Counseling and Psychological Services page

Emergency and After Hours Care

In case of an emergency, call campus police at 814-949-5222 or 911. The Penn State Altoona campus police officers are trained first responders on campus and will assist with crisis or medical emergency needs.

Learn more about Emergency and After Hours Care

Peer Advocacy

Penn State Altoona's Health and Wellness Center, in partnership with the Human Development and Family Studies degree program, offers a peer advocate program for Penn State Altoona students. Trained students will serve as peer advocates to offer a supportive listening environment with drop-in hours.

Peer advocates are trained to assist with problem-solving and reframing on topics including the following:

  • Roommate/residence hall issues
  • Relationship difficulties
  • Family turmoil
  • Trouble navigating how to talk to a professor
  • Loneliness
  • Healthy lifestyle and choices
  • Cultural differences (international students especially)
  • Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging concerns
  • Stress surrounding coursework and time management
  • Help navigating support offices
  • Advising advice

If a student comes in with a higher level of need, peer advocates are trained to refer them to the college’s Health and Wellness Center.

Students can attend to discuss concerns about stress, relationships, the future, courses, feelings of being overwhelmed, or just to talk. For more information, contact Heidi Manfred at [email protected].

Peer Advocacy Hours

Organizational and Life Skills

Balancing school and life can be challenging. It can be difficult to find time for classes and studying while also allowing time for families, jobs, self-care, and more. If you find yourself struggling, reach out to the Health and Wellness Center. Our staff is here to listen and connect you with the resources you need to help you succeed. Contact the Health and Wellness Center at 814-949-5540 with any questions.

Learn more on the Health and Wellness Center site

Social/Hangout Space

Penn State Altoona offers several spaces on campus for students to hang out and relax in between classes. These spaces include the following:

  • Slep Student Center
    • Fireside Lounge
    • Pond View Lounge
    • Lounge space outside the Division of Student Affairs office
  • Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts
    • Titelman Study

Note: Some of these spaces are also used to host campus events and may not be available at all times.

Not familiar with the campus? Use our interactive campus map to find these and other buildings and locations.

Visit the Campus Map

Study Space

Robert E. Eiche Library

The Eiche Library provides options for quiet studying as well as group study rooms which are available for three-hour reservations as available. Students can learn more and reserve group study space on the Eiche Library site.

Visit the Eiche Library site

Faith Space

Students can make use of the Interfaith Prayer Room in the Edith Davis Eve Chapel. The room is available for students who wish to pray or worship in a safe, quiet environment.

The Chapel sanctuary is also available when not being used as an event space.

Learn more about faith and spirituality at Penn State Altoona

Meditation Space

Information coming soon.

Safe Space

Penn State Altoona's Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging is available to help students identify appropriate safe spaces on campus.

Contact the Office Director, Sue Patterson, at [email protected] or 814-949-5123 for more information.

Visit the DEIB site

Center for Student and Civic Engagement

The Center for Student and Civic Engagement is your connection to what’s happening on campus. We offer numerous ways for you to get involved, make a difference, make friends, and develop life and leadership skills.

Visit the Center site

Connect

Your Online Involvement Community

Connect is Penn State Altoona's platform to empower students to discover opportunities and take charge of their own co-curricular journey with an intuitive hub of interest-based engagement experiences. Through Connect, you can join organizations, see upcoming events, and get connected to other campus resources! All Penn State Altoona recognized student organizations are housed on this platform for you to explore as well as several student-service-based departments.

Learn more about Connect

Campus Calendar

The campus calendar provides a broad overview of upcoming events for students, faculty, and staff.

Visit the Campus Calendar

Community Activities, Attractions, and Organizations

There's plenty to do in the communities near campus. Check out the opportunities below.

Note: This list is provided for informational purposes only. We neither endorse nor seek to promote any particular organization.

Entertainment and Activities

Arts and Performance

Area Attractions and Outdoor Activities

Commuter Space

A commuter lounge is available in room 128 of the Eiche Library. Commuting students are welcome to stop by to relax and unwind between classes.

Learn more about resources available to commuters

Title IX

Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance. All forms of sexual or gender-based harassment—including but not limited to dating and domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault—are violations of Title IX. Title IX protects individuals of all genders and sexual orientations and applies to students, faculty, staff, independent contractors, campus visitors, and other participants in University educational programs and activities.

To ensure compliance with Title IX and other federal and state civil rights laws, the University has designated a Title IX Coordinator to monitor compliance with Title IX and ensure that reports of sexual or gender-based harassment or misconduct are appropriately investigated and addressed by the University. Any student, faculty, or staff member who has questions or concerns about their rights under Title IX or who believes that he or she has been the victim of sexual or gender-based harassment or misconduct is encouraged to contact the University’s Title IX Coordinator.

Get information about Title IX resources at Penn State Altoona

University Police

University Police at Penn State is responsible for the protection of and service to its students, faculty, and staff. In addition, University Police is charged with the protection of property and maintenance of order as well as the enforcement of both the laws of the Commonwealth and University regulations. University Police has full law enforcement authority.

Learn about Police and Safety at Penn State Altoona

Local Police Departments

Penn State Altoona's Ivyside Campus is located on the border between two local police jurisdictions:

If you have an issue that involves local police and you're not sure who to contact, reach out to Penn State University Police at 814-949-5222.

Visit the Police and Safety site

Hazing

Hazing is any action taken or any situation created intentionally that causes embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule and risks emotional and/or physical harm to members of a group or team, whether new or not, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.

The Center for Student and Civic Engagement offers information about hazing resources and ways to report hazing incidents.

Visit the Hazing Prevention page

Bias/Report Hate

The Report Bias website provides students, faculty, staff, alumni, and guests with a Penn State User ID with a web form for reporting acts of bias that occur at Penn State. Students may use the form to report any act of bias they experience themselves or observe directed against anyone else. Penn State students may also submit a report by contacting the 24-Hour Hotline at 1-800-560-1637.

Visit the Report Bias site

Student Legal Services

Student Legal Services provides advice, referrals, document drafting, and other legal services to University Park and Commonwealth Campus students facing personal legal issues. To get started, complete an intake form or stop by drop-in hours. The service is free and confidential and is made possible by your student initiated fee.

Learn about Student Legal Services

Landlord/Tenant Issues

Penn State Altoona's Division of Student Affairs offers resources for students living off-campus. You can find numerous resources on the Off-campus Living site. If you're experiencing issues with your landlord, please reach out to us at 814-949-5053.

Visit the Off-campus Living site

Behavioral Threat Management Team Referral Form

Penn State Altoona's Behavioral Threat Management Team takes your safety and concerns seriously. Please complete the form on the site linked below. If you would like to anonymously report a concern, please complete the form with as much detail as possible. Anonymous reports will be investigated thoroughly, however, additional information may be needed to take appropriate action.

Note: These reports are NOT monitored 24/7. Do not use this system to report immediate concerns. Call 9-1-1.

Visit the Behavioral Threat Management Team Referral Form

Care and Concern Report

Share a concern about a student’s academic progress, wellness, or safety. The program's main purpose is to be proactive in assisting students by identifying students of concern and intervening early with students who appear to be having academic or health/safety issues.

Visit the Care and Concern Page

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Resources

Penn State Altoona is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive community that encourages all members to reach their full potential through learning, work, and service. At Penn State Altoona, we envision a community where all individuals embrace and advance the framework for diversity, values, and principles articulated by the University. We strive to promote a student experience that embraces diversity.

Explore Diversity at Penn State Altoona

Scholarships and Awards

Scholarships are based on financial need, merit, or both and do not have to be repaid. The source for scholarships may be the institution that the student is attending or an outside source.

Visit the Scholarships and Awards page for more information

Work-Study Jobs

Federal Work-study allows you to earn money to help cover non-billable educational expenses by working within your college or campus, University office, or at an off-campus, nonprofit organization.

Positions are available at every Penn State campus.

Learn more about Work-Study Opportunities

Part-time Jobs

Many students work part-time while taking classes. Penn State Altoona's Career Services Office can help you find a part-time job that is flexible enough to work with your class schedule and will help you finance your education.

Visit the Career Services site

On- and Off-campus Employment

On-campus Employment

Available positions on all Penn State campuses are listed on the University's Human Resources site.

Visit the Human Resources Jobs site

Off-campus Employment

Our Career Services Office is here to help you land the perfect job. Visit their site to learn about resume help, job search, job fairs, interview skills, and more!

Visit the Career Services site

Grants

A grant is gift aid and does not have to be repaid. Grants are awarded based on financial need, enrollment status, expected family contribution, and cost of attendance. Penn State undergraduate students who complete a FAFSA are automatically considered for the grants listed on the menu. No separate applications are required.

Grant types include the following:

  • Federal Pell Grants
  • Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant
  • Penn State Tuition Assistance Grant
  • Pennsylvania State Resident Grant
  • Non-Pennsylvania Resident Grant

Learn more about Grants

Loans

Because grant and scholarship funds are limited, many students must rely on loans to cover at least some portion of college costs. Undergraduate students, parents of undergraduate students, and graduate students may borrow money for education. In fact, approximately 80% of Penn State's aid recipients borrow educational loans.

Learn more about Loans

FAFSA

Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to maximize consideration for financial aid. The application opens every year on October 1. We suggest that students complete the FAFSA by December 1.

Questions or concerns regarding FAFSA at Penn State Altoona can be forwarded to [email protected].

Visit the FAFSA website

Paying My Student Bill

Student accounts are managed through the Bursar's Office. Visit the Bursar's Office site for answers to frequently asked questions, including the following:

  • How and where can I pay my semester bill?
  • What is the Student-Initiated Fee?
  • Do you have any payment plans?

Visit the Bursar's Office site

Money Management

Penn State's Sokolov-Miller Family Financial and Life Skills Center provides students with the ability to use knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively for a lifetime of financial well-being.

Among its many student services, the Center offers workshops, first-year seminars, and webinars under the MoneyCounts: A Financial Literacy Series. The Center also offers personal one-on-one meetings with staff and/or student ambassadors who provide peer-to-peer financial education and resources. In addition to a financial literacy website that includes a wealth of financial information, the Center offers online self-study modules on twenty-eight different topics and a newly created mentoring program to connect alumni with students.

Visit the Center site

Veterans Benefits

Penn State Altoona values the service that our soldiers have given to our country, and we value the contributions that our veterans make in the classroom and the community.

We strive to provide the highest quality service to veterans, service members, and their family members. While our primary mission is to assist current and future students with maximizing their veteran education benefits, the office can also provide referrals for other veteran-related matters.

Visit the Veterans Education Benefits site

Notifying the University of Your Intent to Graduate

To graduate, you must satisfy all the University, college, and major requirements that were in effect at the time of your most recent admission or re-enrollment as a degree candidate to the University.

To submit your notification, go to LionPATH and select "Graduating this semester". If you encounter any issues with LionPATH, contact the Registrar's Office.

Learn more about the Intent to Graduate process

Cap and Gown for Commencement

All participants are expected to wear academic attire for the commencement ceremony. A complete unit (cap, gown, and tassel) costs approximately $55 plus tax. Students can order their caps and gowns at the Penn State Bookstore on campus.

Commencement Ceremony Details

Penn State Altoona hosts two commencement ceremonies annually at the end of the fall and spring semesters. Details for graduates and attendees are available on the Commencement site.

Visit the Commencement site

Stay Connected to Penn State Altoona

Penn State Altoona alums, students, faculty, and staff are always active and busy accomplishing great things all over the world. We want to keep updated with what's happening in your life! If you have recently changed employment, added to your family, or moved, we hope you'll share your news with us.

Penn State Altoona's Office of Development and Alumni Relations is dedicated to keeping alumni and friends of the college connected and informed.

Visit the Penn State Altoona Alumni site

Sports and Recreation

Recreation

Penn State Altoona's Recreation Office oversees various recreational activities, including aquatics, intramural sports, club sports, athletic facilities, and fitness classes. A variety of student employment opportunities also are available.

Visit the Recreation site

Sign up for Intramurals through IM Leagues

Intercollegiate Athletics

Intercollegiate Athletics strives for excellence by offering students model programs to develop meaningful standards of academic excellence, athletic performance, leadership, community service, and sportsman-like conduct within the educational and social environment of Penn State Altoona.

Penn State Altoona is home to fourteen athletic programs.

Visit the Intercollegiate Athletics site

Accessibility Accommodations

Penn State Altoona is committed to providing a welcoming, encouraging, and empowering environment for students with disabilities to ensure equal access, full participation, and reasonable accommodations for their academic pursuits. Student Disability Resources is responsible for coordinating support services, reasonable academic accommodations, and promoting disability awareness in the university community.

Office for Student Disability Resources

The Office for Student Disability Resources (SDR) is the designated office that provides reasonable accommodations and services to students with disabilities who are enrolled at the University Park location. In addition, Penn State has a disability services office at every Penn State campus that provides accommodations and services for students with disabilities. Each designated office requests and maintains disability-related documents; certifies eligibility for services; determines and develops plans for reasonable accommodations such as academic adjustments, auxiliary aids, and/or services as mandated under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Visit the Student Disability Resources site

Emergency Assistance

If you are afraid that you will not be able to avoid hurting yourself or someone else, get help immediately.

988 and the Penn State Crisis Line can also be used for consultation if you know someone or are with someone who is experiencing a crisis. Faculty and staff may also refer to the Red Folder for additional information to assist students in distress.

More Emergency and After Hours Care Information

Robert E. Eiche Library

The Robert E. Eiche Library serves the research and coursework-related needs of the college community. The library's staff supports the college's educational goals by purchasing materials that meet curriculum needs, providing ways of locating these materials effectively and offering special instruction sessions as well as scheduling class instruction sessions to help students improve their research and library skills.

Learn more about the Eiche Library

Writing Commons

The Writing Commons helps students in all disciplines become more effective, more confident writers. Our method is multi-faceted, flexible, and, above all, collaborative, reflecting our respect for the individual writer whose talents, voice, and goals are central to all our endeavors. Supportive, trained undergraduate peer Writing Consultants will work one-on-one with students at all levels, disciplines, and at any stage in the writing process.

Learn more about the Writing Commons

Basic Needs Assistance Request Form

Penn State offers the request form as a way for students who are facing challenges with access to adequate food, stable housing, or meeting other basic needs. The form is reviewed, and the student will be provided with resources via email as well as the option to meet with a case manager in Student Care and Advocacy to walk through resources and answer any questions.

Go to the Basic Needs Assistance Request Form

Citation Help (MLA/APA/Chicago)

Robert E. Eiche Library

The Eiche Library offers in-person citation support for students. Citation resources are also available on the Eiche Library site.

Visit the Eiche Library site

Campus Closures

There are situations, including inclement winter weather, that will necessitate either a delay, a closing, or an early dismissal at Penn State Altoona. Because many of our students live on or within walking distance of the campus, we typically remain open unless the campus cannot be cleared or the main roads are impassable.

All employees and students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own safety. Students, faculty, and staff should use their own best judgment when considering traveling to campus or the need to leave early during times of inclement weather. Faculty and staff also should review Human Resources Guideline 10: "Handling Weather Day Absences" for specific information on how time missed for weather situations is handled.

Other

While we like to think we have all the answers, of course, the truth is ... we don't! But that doesn't mean we're not ready to help!

Please fill out our online form and let us know what YOU want to know. We'll get back to you as soon as possible with the information you need.

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