Overview
Penn Foster College traces its roots to the International Correspondence Schools founded in 1890, evolving over more than a century into a distance-education institution focused on practical, career-focused credentials. It became known for making postsecondary education accessible to nontraditional students, including working adults, military members, and career changers, through self-paced online coursework. The college is regionally and nationally recognized for its affordability and flexibility rather than selective academic prestige, emphasizing workforce readiness over traditional campus-based scholarship.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Scranton, Pennsylvania |
| Founded | 1890 |
| Total students | 35,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 20:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 100% |
| Graduation rate | 35% |
| Average starting salary | $38,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $4,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $4,700 |
| Room & board | $0 |
| Average financial aid | $1,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 40% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business Management
- Veterinary Technician
- Criminal Justice
- Medical Billing and Coding
- Early Childhood Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.