Living at Penn State
As a parent or family member, perhaps you are looking just for information or you have a few questions about living at Penn State. Maybe you have a concern about your student's overall experience and you are not sure who to contact. Rest assured that there are many people to help. In fact, Housing & Food Services, Residence Life and other units collaborate to create a supportive living and learning environment for your student.
First-Year Student Residency Requirement
At the University Park campus, first-year students are required to live on campus. Research shows that first-year students on campus have better grades, develop a better academic foundation, acquire stronger social skills, and learn to form responsible, independent decisions. After their first year, students are not guaranteed on-campus housing. Upper class students request housing through an on-line housing contract process for the upcoming academic year.
Life on campus for new students
Check out First Thirty, Penn State's reality show following four new students as they begin their college life at University Park.
Off-Campus Living
If your student moves off campus, there will still be many University resources available to him or her. Just a few of these resources are University Health Services, the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), the Office of Off-Campus Living, Penn State Learning, Food Services, and LateNight Penn State events.
Remember that all of us at Penn State are working together to provide a rewarding experience for your student while living in our community.