American vs Penn State
How American and Penn State stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| American | Penn State | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 62% | 61% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1280-1460 | 1330-1480 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Public |
| Location | DC | PA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $79,000 | $36,900 |
| Average cost after aid | $37,000 | $28,100 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 1 |
- Penn State is harder to get into than American (61% versus 62%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Penn State is usually the cheaper option ($28,100 versus $37,000 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
American vs Penn State FAQ
Is American or Penn State harder to get into?
Penn State is harder to get into, admitting about 61% of applicants versus 62% at American.
Is American or Penn State cheaper?
After financial aid, Penn State is usually cheaper, about $28,100 per year on average versus $37,000 at American.
See your real chances at American and Penn State.
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