We’ve been trying to schedule a visit to Penn State, but there have been a lot of complications. Does Penn State care if we visit? My son will apply even if we don’t visit, but I’d hate to hurt his chances of admission.
Thanks
We applied without visiting… just apply before nov 30th… what’s the major?
I applied without doing a tour, I had went around with a friend who went there, but PSU didn’t know I was there. You don’t need to visit to apply and get in.
No they don’t. Just get your app in on the early side especially if applying to a popular major. From the PSU threads on CC this year admissions was a hot mess later in the cycle in particular because they started accepting the common app this year and received around 100k apps.
If in doubt, then include copies of your receipts for Penn State paraphernalia with your application.
I’m a PA mom and my kids’ high school sends a lot of kids to Penn State. Officially PSU says they don’t track interest, but an Admissions Rep who comes to our school every year says they do.
Of course, kids get in without touring, but if you’re concerned, try to meet reps at a local college fair.
Also consider DUS as a backup choice for fall and summer.
Engineering, Business and earth and Minerals apply early
Meeting reps at events helps a lot. As a post above stated it was a tough year for Penn State applicants… so comparing it to past cycles is tough…
Yeah if your major isn’t a direct admit major only (nursing, some engineering, etc) apply for DUS. You can switch out at orientation if you want. Also make sure to do the optional essay, and write if there were any struggles/reasons why there may be a discrepancy in your transcript (if there is one). I agree with the applying early, try to apply before November if possible. What are your stats if you don’t mind me asking?
^ I meant your son. Whoops lol
According to the Common Data Set which shows what they consider and what the do not for admissions, demonstrated interest is NOT considered. They cannot and do not want to track the visits and correspondence and match those with applications. It’s already a mess, that would be an added mess!
Unfortunately, many of the ‘regional admissions reps’ that show up at people’s schools are volunteers and do not work for the university so they often have in-congruent information.
However, it’s probably a good idea to visit if you live nearby, not for any admissions advantage, but to get a feel for the place, meet professors and perhaps current students (schedule ahead of time), take a tour, etc.