Registering for a Course
Your next step, whether to enroll in a course or apply to a degree program, depends on your educational goal and academic background. To begin the application process, click on one of the above application links; for more information, choose the description below that best fits your needs.
Apply to a Penn State degree program
Once you have selected your program and campus location, apply to Penn State through an online application form. The Applying on the Web Worksheet will help you gather all the information you need before you begin the actual application. An adult learner
specialist at the campus you plan to attend can also help you with this process.
Transfer earned credits
Official transcripts from all prior schools, as well as your high school transcript, are required as part of the application review. You should apply for admission
as a transfer student if you have completed at least 18 semester credits
at another regionally accredited college or university before enrolling at Penn State. Learn more about transfer admission by academic college.
Take courses without applying to a degree program
You can enroll in a course or courses as a nondegree student. This option is
available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. High school and college transcripts are not required for you to enroll as a nondegree student. Nondegree students pay the
regular tuition rate and earn credits and grades.
Earn your first degree
The requirements for degree
admission as an adult learner are different from those of a traditional student. For adults who have been out of high school for five or more years, or have veteran status,
SAT and ACT scores are waived. It is always a good idea to talk with an adult learner specialist at the campus you plan to attend.
Pursue a second undergraduate degree
While there are specific majors/programs that do not admit students who have already earned an undergraduate degree, in most cases you may apply for
admission (or re-enrollment, if appropriate) to pursue a second degree as long as you meet the entrance requirements. And your previously earned credits will still apply if they
fulfill degree requirements. Talk about your plans with an adult enrollment coordinator.
Apply to a master's degree program
Admission is granted jointly by the Graduate School and the program in which the
applicant plans to study.
Take courses online
You can earn a graduate or undergraduate degree or certificate or take individual courses online to meet your professional needs or personal interests. Visit the World Campus website to learn more, or talk directly with someone at the World Campus Advising Center.
