The Pennsylvania State University is a public state-related land-grant research university.

University Housing caters to all students. First-years live in suites and rooms in traditional and renovated halls. Upper-class students choose from traditional halls, suites, single rooms, and apartments. Graduate students and those with families can opt for White Course Apartments.

East Halls is a vibrant and diverse residence hall complex, offering a range of experiences for students at the university. From the nostalgia of unrenovated halls like Stone and Hastings to the modern amenities of renovated halls like Tener and Earle, East Halls caters to various preferences. The proximity to dining options like Findlay Commons and recreational facilities such as the IM building and stadiums make it a convenient living choice. While unrenovated halls may lack AC and have communal bathrooms, they provide a unique charm and ample opportunities for social interactions. On the other hand, renovated halls boast modern features like private bathrooms and AC units. The dorms are known for fostering a sense of community, with students often meeting new friends on their floors or at social events. Despite some drawbacks like distant class locations and occasional noise issues, East Halls offers a memorable freshman experience where students can engage in activities ranging from dorm parties to tailgates. Whether you prefer the character of traditional halls or the comforts of renovated ones, East Halls provides a dynamic and lively environment for students to thrive in during their first year at college.

Pollock Halls, located in a prime spot on campus, offers easy access to classes, downtown, and the dining hall. Despite the convenient location, students have expressed mixed feelings about their living experience. Some residents appreciate the relatively clean bathrooms and friendly atmosphere, while others lament the outdated facilities, cramped rooms, and lack of social engagement. The smaller dorms, shared bathrooms, and occasional maintenance issues, like malfunctioning elevators, have been common complaints. However, there are contrasting opinions depending on the specific hall within Pollock, with Beaver Hall standing out as a more favorable option with newer amenities. Overall, Pollock Halls seems suitable for students who prioritize location and practicality over luxury living, with some finding the cozy yet basic accommodations satisfactory for their freshman year.

West Halls offers a prime location for students, particularly those studying engineering and IST, as it is within a five-minute walk from most classes and the library. The dorm features spacious single and double rooms with excellent furnishings, though some unrenovated rooms may come with minor maintenance issues like tiles falling in bathrooms. The proximity to dining options is a significant perk, with Waring Dining Commons just a short walk away. Students appreciate the mix of private and communal bathrooms, though cleanliness can sometimes be an issue in shared facilities. The dorm fosters a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those who value quiet for studying, yet still provides opportunities for socializing with like-minded peers. While West Halls boasts a great location and dining options, some students note the loud heaters and lack of individual AC control. Although not recently renovated, its strategic position and community make it a desirable choice for many students.

Eastview Terrace is an upperclassmen dorm renowned for offering a private and serene living environment at a premium cost. Each resident enjoys the luxury of a personal bedroom and bathroom, prioritizing privacy and comfort. The dormitory is exceptionally quiet, making it ideal for introverts or those focused on academics who prefer solitude over socializing. Although Eastview Terrace is conveniently located within a five-minute walk to Redifer Commons and downtown, it requires a longer trek of about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the HUB and most classes. Residents benefit from amenities like free laundry facilities and indoor trash collection, and each room is equipped with standard appliances, including a fridge and microwave. Study rooms and chill areas with TVs on each floor cater to both academic and leisure needs, although the dorm can feel somewhat isolated. With just 20 people per floor and infrequent encounters with others, Eastview Terrace truly offers a private retreat on campus.

South Halls offers a mixed experience with both renovated and unrenovated options, catering to diverse student preferences. The renovated sections, akin to a hotel, are favored for their superior cleanliness, air conditioning, and private bathrooms that offer better privacy and comfort. These areas are particularly commended for eliminating the awkwardness associated with shared facilities, enhancing the overall dorm experience. In contrast, the traditional unrenovated parts lack air conditioning but do have heaters, making a fan a necessity during warmer months. McElwain and Simmons Halls have renovated areas in the basement, featuring private bathrooms and updated kitchens. The location of South Halls is advantageous, being conveniently situated near downtown and the HUB. However, it requires a 15-20 minute walk to certain campus classes, such as those at the IST building. Overall, South Halls is considered a safe and recommended choice for students who value better room amenities over proximity to academic buildings, providing a decent college living experience.

North Halls is highly regarded by students for its spacious and air-conditioned rooms, making it one of the best dorms on campus. The rooms feature private bathrooms, and residents can opt for single accommodations or suite arrangements with another roommate, allowing both to have private bedrooms and a shared bathroom. Cleaning staff regularly maintain the bathrooms, contributing to the overall cleanliness and appeal. North Halls is conveniently located near key campus facilities such as the Forum, the arboretum, various museums, and the library. While the North dining hall might be smaller and in need of some modernization, the food quality is often praised, and students enjoy the walk to other dining options. The dorm's quiet atmosphere is appreciated, especially for studying during weekdays. With a significant number of international students residing in North, the dorm fosters a unique cultural exchange and offers ample study spaces for its residents. The community feel in areas like Robinson Hall’s lounge is highlighted as a great way to meet people. Despite some minor issues like worn furniture and limited dining variety, students find North Halls' location and amenities to be both functional and welcoming.

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East Halls

Pollock Halls

West Halls

Eastview Terrace

South Halls