<p>When does Penn State's application update itself? I created an account but it would only let you apply for fall 2012 and spring 2012.</p>
<p>It typically updates on September 1.</p>
<p>Is that when the essays become available as well? My understanding is its recommended but not required.</p>
<p>You can’t fill any of the application out until it opens. You will want to cut/paste your essay (which has something like a 250 word limit, and they don’t really read it) from Word or something like that, so you could work on that. But seriously, it is not the vital part of the app. PSU is looking at GPA, SATs, and strength of schedule. In that order. Schreyer is a whole different application entirely, with 3 demanding essays and they are very much interested in everything about you.</p>
<p>Though I’d have to add, they might look more at your essay/statement if your situation is different/unique. For instance, if either your gpa or SAT/ACT is low but you look promising, or you’re a transfer student, or some other thing that might make you a bit different from the typical applicant. So don’t just throw your statement together; you never know.</p>
<p>^ thats what i was going for my scores are just a bit lower than the middle 50% so i hoping the fact my dad went to PSU and the essay among a few other things will help me get accepted to the summer session.</p>