Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering 

at Penn State University, State College

According to unofficial sources, Penn State University acceptance rate is around 54%. After considering the acceptance rate, it can be said that the university is moderately selective at the time of admissions. Hence, to get into Penn State, the applicants are required to have a good academic record. The general admissions requirements at Penn State are having the secondary school qualification. On the other hand, for admissions to graduate courses, Indian students must have a bachelor’s degree.

Yes, Penn State is a R1 university – Doctoral universities with very high-research activity. It is one of the top research institutions in the country, with USD 1.337 billion in research expenditures in 2023-24. It is ranked among the 30 research institutions nationally and employs some of the world leading researchers. In the year 2024, it was an year of Penn State Research with high impact.

Pennsylvania State University, University Park application fee for undergraduate students is USD 75 for international students. For graduate students, the following is the application fee:

• For degree programs and post-baccalaureate and graduate credit certificate programs (For Spring, Summer, or Fall 2024 admission): USD 65
• For degree programs and post-baccalaureate and graduate credit certificate programs (For Spring, Summer, or Fall 2025 admissions or later): USD 85
• Non-degree admission: USD 30

Along with the application fee, the documents that have to be submitted along with Pennsylvania State University, University Park application are:

• Official mark sheets
• Transcripts and degree certificates with date awarded
• English language proficiency score

Penn State University is ranked as a top thirty research university and its quality is reflected in the university's worldwide standings as a leader in education, research, and community. The university's record-breaking expenditures exceed USD 1.337 Billion, ranking 12 disciplines in the top 10 by the National Science Foundation. Additionally, Penn State University ranking is exceptionally well in the global rankings. It ranks at #89 in the 2025 QS rankings and #100 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings in 2025. Additionally, Penn State is famous because of its strong academic reputation, vibrant campus life, THON event, etc.

Pennsylvania State University, University Park ranks at #63 in the National Universities category in 2025. In 2024, the university was placed at #60 position. Penn State is often ranked as a Top 30 research university. In the world rankings, this university ranks at #89 in 2025, according to a top-ranking publisher. This world ranking places Penn State in the Top 6% of the Universities worldwide. In other Global category rankings for 2024-25, this university ranks at #96. Penn State University is one of the only three land-space-sun, and sea-grant universities in the U.S.

International students seeking admission to Pennsylvania State University, University Park need to have English language proficiency. For the same purpose, the university accepts the ELP test scores of IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo (as applicable). The scores required in the ELP tests are given below:

Pennsylvania State University, University Park cost for international students can be checked from the table given below:

Cost of Living: Given below is estimated 2023-24 Penn State cost of attendance for an academic year for undergraduate students:

• Room and meals for UG students: USD 12,984

Graduate Students Living Expenses for 12 months

• Living Expenses: USD 23,300 (Includes around USD 1,800 for books and supplies)
• Mandatory Health Insurance: USD 3,700

Also Read: Cost of Living in USA 

For the 2024-25 academic year at Penn State University, University Park an estimate is given below for international undergraduate students. Students can expect their fees to be around the amount given below for the rest of the 3 years:

The most popular majors at Penn State University Park include:

• Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
• Engineering
• Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
• Social Sciences
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences
• Psychology

The Pennsylvania State University – University Park ranks at #89 position in 2025 as per world-ranking publisher. The university’s position has significantly improved in the QS rankings if compared with the previous years. In 2024, it ranked at #83. According to another-ranking publisher, Penn State University ranks at #100 position in 2025. Again, in THE rankings too, the university position has improved from 2024, where it was then placed at #122 position.