Penn State ACT Requirements

Hi everyone! I'm looking into applying to Penn State and I'm curious about their ACT requirements. Does Penn State have a minimum ACT score? Additionally, do they prefer certain sections over others? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! Penn State does not have a minimum ACT score requirement for admission; instead, they evaluate your application holistically, meaning they consider not only your test scores but also your high school coursework, grades, and extracurricular activities. With that said, it's important to be aware of what Penn State's typical ACT score ranges are for admitted students. For the Class of 2025, the middle 50% ACT range was between 25 and 32. If your ACT score falls within or above this range, it increases your chances of being competitive in the admissions process.

Penn State doesn't explicitly state a preference for certain ACT sections over others. They're typically interested in your overall performance on the exam. However, it's a good idea to make sure your subsection scores are balanced and that you perform well in areas relevant to your intended major. For example, if you're planning to study engineering or a science-related field, strong scores in the Math and Science sections would be beneficial.

Remember, standardized test scores are just one part of your application, so also focus on maintaining a strong GPA, taking challenging courses, and being involved in meaningful extracurricular activities. Good luck with your application!