Military and Veteran Students
Penn State provides many resources for applicants and students who are military and veteran service members whether they are attending residential or online programs.
Discounted Application Fee
Veterans and Military Service Members receive a discounted rate of $40 on their degree application fee. This represents more than a 35% decrease from the standard $65 degree application fee.
For Questions about Funding and Tuition Costs
You will undoubtedly have questions about tuition costs and available financial aid. The best offices that can assist you with military and veteran student questions are:
Veteran Student Career Resources
Explore a combination of general resources and those specific for veterans to give you leverage when searching for your next career opportunity.
Veteran Affairs and Service
Supports military-connected students by enabling their access to all aspects of higher education and empowering them to succeed while at Penn State and as they transition to post-education endeavors.
Office of Veterans Programs
Provides certification of veterans education benefits and comprehensive counseling, programming, advocacy, and support to all military affiliated students, ensuring continuity and success throughout their Penn State experience.
Commission for Adult Learners
Penn State’s Commission for Adult Learners is composed of faculty, staff, and students from several University locations. Members are dedicated to improving the adult learner experience at Penn State.
Adult Learner Programs & Services
Provides advocacy, mentorship, programming, and helpful resources for non-traditional undergraduate students during their educational journey.
For those utilizing federal tuition assistance benefits and wishing to transfer credits from an external institution, please declare your intentions to your graduate program adviser once enrolled. You should also refer to Graduate Council policy on Transfer Credit GCAC-309 for further information.
Deployment and Relocation
If you are ordered to relocate or deploy, and you cannot complete a schedule of courses for a given semester, you may request a short-term absence, extended absence, leave of absence, or partially cancelled schedule. This applies to any active-duty service members or activated reserve-component members of the U.S. Armed Forces and/or spouses/domestic partners of active-duty members or activated reserve-component members.
“Penn State offers exceptional graduate programs providing great opportunities to learn and develop technical and interpersonal skills. Penn State has world-class laboratories equipped with cutting-edge technologies, providing students with unparalleled research opportunities. Renowned professors, who are pioneers in their respective fields, mentor and guide students, fostering a culture of academic excellence and innovation. The university prioritizes the development of students' skills and offers numerous avenues to showcase their work, ensuring they receive recognition and support for their contributions. Additionally, Penn State boasts a vibrant and inclusive culture, supported by dedicated departmental staff who provide invaluable assistance and guidance throughout students' academic journey.”
— Kiran Bhaskar
Doctoral candidate in Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering