Pennsylvania State Police this week reported another jump in the number of applicants to become cadets, six months after Governor Josh Shapiro waived the college credit requirement to apply.
In the last cadet selection cycle, 1,830 applicants were eligible for the State Trooper Exam, which was another “substantive increase” in the number of applications, according to State Police, who added that 41% of the eligible applicants would not have been able to pursue careers as state troopers due to the college credit requirement.
“We’re pleased to see this increase in applications from women and men with the passion and determination to be part of something bigger than themselves, individuals willing to go above and beyond to serve and protect, with character and strong moral fiber not exclusive to those with a college education,” said Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “I wish them success as they pursue a challenging but rewarding career as a state trooper.”
During the three-month cycle from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31, PSP received eligible applications from 752 individuals who listed a high school diploma or equivalent as their highest level of education, while 581 applicants had some college but no degree.