Can I participate in sports on campus?
Yes! You are welcome to be a part of campus athletics. Penn State Beaver has varsity (intercollegiate) teams and intramural sports. To learn more, please visit our Athletic Department website.
What kind of housing is available?
Harmony Hall, a traditional-style residence hall, is located on campus and can house 210 students. For more information, check our Housing & Food Services pages.
What is there to do on campus?
Throughout the year, the Office of Student Activities hosts a wide range of events on campus, and you can become involved in plenty of clubs, organizations and varsity and intramural sports teams. The campus is near Pittsburgh, which offers numerous entertainment, athletic and cultural opportunities.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in F-1 and J-1 status. Health insurance charges will be on the student bill in LionPATH for all international students. Students have the first week to apply for an insurance waiver if they have insurance meeting all of the waiver standards; otherwise, they will be automatically enrolled in the Penn State Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP). For more information, see University Health Services.
What immunizations do I need to receive?
All students must show proof of immunizations for Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR). Students living on campus must also have proof of the Meningococcal Vaccine, also known as Menveo, Menactra. All immunization records MUST be in English. Upload your immunizations. If you are unable to upload your Immunizations prior to arrival, or do not have the required vaccinations, the campus nurse can assist you during your arrival check in. For information about immunization requirements, see University Health Services.
What is the weather like?
Penn State Beaver is located in southwestern Pennsylvania, which has four distinct seasons of winter, spring, summer and fall. These seasons can include snow, rain, low or freezing temperatures, high temperatures, mild temperatures, humidity, dry air, cool air and sunshine. You will need clothing to accommodate the changing seasons. You will also need professional clothing for interviews and special occasions on or off campus. Rain protection, such as an umbrella and a waterproof coat, and cold weather protection, such as a heavy coat, hats, gloves and scarves, are necessities.
Can I buy what I need near campus?
Students have access to multiple shopping facilities near campus. If you do not have what you need when you arrive, we will be happy to help you determine what purchases need to be made. Shuttles are provided to assist students with transportation to local shopping areas, restaraunts and entertainment. More information regarding shuttles can be found here.
How do I open a bank account?
With an ATM (Automated Teller Machine) located right on campus, PNC Bank makes banking easy for Penn State Beaver students. Representatives from PNC will be available at New Student Orientation to answer questions and assist students with opening an account. Find out about PNC accounts for international students.
How do I get a driver's license?
If you wish to drive in the United States, you will need a Pennsylvania driver's license. Directions for obtaining a license may be found here.
Can I work while attending classes?
Employment for F-1 and J-1 students is limited, on-campus employment is permitted with certain restrictions. Students must complete employment paperwork with ISSA in order to work on-campus. A Social Security number is required for anyone receiving payment. Please contact Jill Bender in Student Affairs and Engagement for assistance with the employment paperwork. Additional information regarding employment is available on Global Penn State's employment page.
Do I need a Social Security number?
Only students who are hired to work on campus must obtain a Social Security Card. This is not required for all international students. Information on how to do that is available on Global Penn State. Please see Jill Bender in the Student Affairs & Engagement Office, SUB 113 for assistance.