The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education comprises 10 universities that serve 82,000 students, of which 90% claim residency. It’s a key statistic given the commonwealth’s attempts to lure college graduates to settle and grow families amid a looming demographic crisis.

“These graduates are both broadly educated and specifically prepared to enter roles with talent shortages, from hospitals and classrooms to law enforcement, growing businesses and the high-tech STEM economy,” said system Chancellor Christopher Fiorentino.

“As state-owned public universities, we have a responsibility to equip students to be critical thinkers, good communicators, and creative problem solvers as we help provide the talent that Pennsylvania needs,” Fiorentino said. “These graduates exemplify that students are overwhelmingly choosing majors to get jobs that are in high demand, and they are ready for rewarding careers that help drive Pennsylvania’s economy.”

The system has prioritized affordability since 2018, when the first of seven tuition freezes was implemented. As of 2025, students pay $7,716 per semester, roughly one-third of the statewide average and less than half the national average of $15,900, according to data from the U.S. Department of Education.

That’s why system officials have asked lawmakers for another $40.3 million to maintain the freeze, in line with Gov. Josh Shaipro’s own request.

“PASSHE graduates are prepared, driven and essential to Pennsylvania’s future,” Fiorentino said. “Their education opens doors not only for personal advancement but also for community and statewide progress. These students are filling roles that keep our hospitals, schools and businesses thriving, and they are the next generation of civic leaders who will take Pennsylvania into the future.”