About

Private

University Type

12

QS Global Rank

$62,616

Average Living Expenses

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) is a private Ivy League research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin and is the fourth oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The University of Pennsylvania has an enrollment of 25,000 students, out of which 12,222 are international students, making international students almost 50% of the student population. This not only makes UPenn a diverse cultural and educational hub, but also gives it a competitive edge.

What is the Acceptance Rate at the University of Pennsylvania?

The University of Pennsylvania acceptance rate is 6.5%, which means that out of every 100 applicants, no more than 6-7 students are accepted into the various programs offered by the university. The university has 12 schools and colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the Wharton School of Business, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, and the Perelman School of Medicine. UPenn also has several graduate and professional schools, including the Law School, the School of Nursing, and the Graduate School of Education. UPenn's faculty has received Fullbright Scholarships, Guggenheim Scholarships, and Nobel Prizes for their exceptional teaching.

UPenn offers various undergraduate and graduate programs, alongside several interdisciplinary majors, such as African Studies, Latin American Studies, and Environmental Studies.

UPenn is a vibrant and dynamic campus community. The university has over 400 student organizations, including fraternities, sororities, and academic clubs. UPenn also has a strong athletic tradition, with 31 varsity sports teams competing in the Ivy League.

Top Reasons to Study in the University of Pennsylvania

Here are some of the top reasons to study at the University of Pennsylvania:

  • Academic excellence

Penn is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, with its undergraduate programs ranked #8 and its graduate programs ranked #10 by U.S. News & World Report.

  • Diversity

Penn is a diverse university, with students from all over the world, creating a vibrant and stimulating learning environment.

  • Collaborative learning

Penn encourages students to collaborate with faculty members, helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in their careers and life.

  • Global opportunities

Penn offers students many opportunities to study abroad and to get involved in international research, helping students develop a global perspective and become leaders in a globalized world.


Courses

Cost of Studying at University of Pennsylvania

Average tuition fee

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5000+ Students

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3000+ Cr

Loan amount sanctioned

100% Free

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$89,028

Average living expenses (Masters)

$62,616

Average on-campus living expenses

$29,820

Admissions at The University of Pennsylvania

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

7%

Application Fee

$25 - $275


How to Apply at University of Pennsylvania

UNDERGRADUATE

Here are the steps on how to apply to the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:

Check admission deadlines: The admission deadlines at the University of Pennsylvania vary for undergraduate and graduate programs.

Program

Application Deadline

M.S Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Application Deadline [1 Feb 2023]

M.S Electrical Engineering

Application Deadline For Fall 2024 Intake [1 Feb 2024]

M.S Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics

Application Deadline For Fall 2023 [1 Feb 2023]

M.S Computer and Information Science

Early Application Deadline For Fall 2023 [1 Nov 2022]

Regular Application Deadline For Fall 2023 [1 Feb 2023]

B.S Computer and Cognitive Science

Early Decision Deadline [1 Nov 2022]

Regular Decision Deadline [5 Jan 2023]

B.A Architecture

Early Decision Deadline [1 Nov 2022]

Regular Decision Deadline [5 Jan 2023]

M.S Architecture

Early Application Deadline For Fall 2023 [1 Nov 2022]

Regular Application Deadline For Fall 2023 [1 Feb 2023]

Meet the eligibility requirements: UPenn has some basic eligibility criteria for all students, such as:

  • You must have completed a rigorous secondary school education.
  • You must have a competitive GPA.
  • You must have taken the SAT or ACT standardized tests.
  • You must submit English proficiency scores if your first language is not English.
  • You must also submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement if needed.
  • Create an account and submit the Common Application.
  • Pay the application fee of $75 (6,197 INR).

Gather the required materials:

  • Official high school transcripts and school report.
  • Standardised test scores. (optional)
  • Letters of recommendation from teachers or other academic advisors who know you well.
  • English proficiency test scores.
  • Financial aid materials.

POSTGRADUATE

Here are the steps on how to apply to the University of Pennsylvania for graduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Choose a program: The University of Pennsylvania offers a wide range of graduate programs, which list can be found on the Penn website.

Check the admissions requirements: Each program has its own admissions requirements, so be sure to check the requirements for the program you're interested in. The general requirements for international students are:

  • A bachelor's degree from a recognized university
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Official transcripts
  • English proficiency test scores.
  • Test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT)
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose.
  • Start the application process and submit your application: You can apply online through the Penn Admissions website. The application fee for international applicants is 90 USD (7,437 INR) - 275 USD (22,745 INR).

Documents Required to Apply to University of Pennsylvania

Documents needed to apply to the University of Pennsylvania as an international student:

Undergraduate Programs:

Document

Description

High School Transcripts

Official transcripts from all high schools attended.

Standardized Test Scores

SAT or ACT scores and/or TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores for non-native English speakers.

  • TOEFL: 100 [IBT] | 250[CBP] | 600 [PBT]
  • IELTS: 7.0

Teacher Recommendations

Two letters of recommendation from high school teachers.

Personal Statement

Essay explaining the student's interest in the program and how it aligns with their academic and career goals.

Application Fee

Non-refundable application fee of $75 (6,197 INR).

Graduate Programs:

Document

Description

Bachelor's Degree Transcripts

Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.

Standardised Scores.

GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT scores depending on the program. Submit TOEFL and IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.

  • TOEFL iBT: 100 recommended
  • IELTS: 6.5 recommended

Letters of Recommendation

Two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.

Resume or CV

Detailed resume or curriculum vitae highlighting relevant academic and work experience. 

Financial Statement

Proof of financial support.

Application Fee

Non-refundable application fee of 90 USD (7,437 INR) - 275 USD (22,745 INR).


Exams Accepted By University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania accepts the following test scores from international students:

  • TOEFL
  • IELTS
  • DUOLINGO
  • SAT
  • ACT
  • GRE

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Rankings for The University of Pennsylvania

US News Ranking

#6

US World and News Report

The World University Rankings

#16

The World University Rankings

QS World University Rankings

#12

QS World University Rankings


More rankings for this university

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Students University of Pennsylvania

1,531

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442

Yocketers admitted

5,661

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International Students

% of international students in the university

29.41

Total International Students in the university

6931


Alumni at University of Pennsylvania

If you are wondering what famous alumni went to the University of Pennsylvania, know that there are about 290,000+. However, listed below are a few notable alumni of Penn:

  • Melinda Gates, philanthropist and co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
  • Noam Chomsky, linguist, philosopher, and political activist.
  • John Legend, singer, songwriter, and actor.
  • Anil Ambani, Indian business magnate.
  • Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google.
  • Anurima Bhargava, CEO of the non-profit organization CARE USA.
  • Donald Trump, 45th President of the United States.
  • Katherine Johnson, mathematician and NASA scientist.

Just like these exceptional people, you can too become part of the University of Pennsylvania’s alumni association, by fulfilling your dream of studying there through Yocket’s assistance!

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Reviews for University of Pennsylvania

Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
1

Campus locations
Pennsylvania

View on Google Earth


Transportation in the city

The best way to get around Philadelphia is by public transportation.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)

operates a vast network of buses, subways, trolleys, and commuter rail lines that can take you anywhere in the city and the surrounding area.

  • Taxi

Taxis are available throughout the city. You can hail a taxi on the street or call a taxi company.

  • Uber

Uber and Lyft are ride-hailing services that can be used to get around the city. You can request a ride through the Uber or Lyft app.

  • Bicycle

Philadelphia has a bike share program called Indego. You can rent a bike at any Indego station and return it to any other Indego station.


Services offered by the university

The University of Pennsylvania offers a wide range of services to its students. Some of the key services include:

  • Academic advising and support

Penn provides students with academic advising to help them choose courses, plan their degree programs, and succeed in their studies. The university also offers tutoring, a writing centre, and career counselling.

  • Healthcare

Penn has a Student Health Service that provides medical, dental, and mental health care to students. The university also offers healthcare services, such as a pharmacy, a health centre, and a women's health centre.

  • Safety and Security

Penn has a Division of Public Safety that provides 24/7 security to the campus. The division also offers safety programs and resources for students, such as personal safety escorts and crime prevention workshops.

  • Student disability services

Penn's Office of Student Disabilities Services provides accommodations and support to students with disabilities. The office offers services, such as testing accommodations, assistive technology, and academic advising.

  • Diversity and inclusion

Penn is committed to diversity and inclusion. The university offers programs and services to promote diversity and inclusion, such as the Office of Minority Affairs and Diversity, the Center for Women and Gender Equity, and the Office of LGBTQIA+ Student Life.

  • Financial aid

Penn offers financial aid options to students, including scholarships, grants, and loans. The university also has resources to help students with financial planning, such as the Financial Aid Office and the Financial Literacy Center.

All these are some basic services provided by the University of Pennsylvania. But there are also some special services offered for international, disabled, and individuals belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.


Student life at University of Pennsylvania

Let us look at the factors that contribute to the vibrancy of student life at the University of Pennsylvania:

  • Join a club or organization

There are hundreds of student organizations to choose from, so you are sure to find one that interests you. From academic clubs to fraternities and sororities, there is something for everyone.

  • Get involved in athletics

Penn has 31 varsity sports teams, so you can find a sport to play no matter your skill level. You can also cheer on the Quakers at one of their many home games.

  • Take advantage of the arts

Penn has a thriving arts scene, with world-class museums, theatres, and performance spaces. You can also participate in student-run arts organizations or take classes in dance, music, or theatre.

  • Volunteer in the community

Penn students are encouraged to give back to the community, through many opportunities to volunteer, from working with local schools to helping the homeless.

  • Explore Philadelphia

Penn is located in the heart of Philadelphia, a city with a rich history and culture. There are endless things to do in Philadelphia, from visiting historical sites to sampling the city's world-famous cheesesteaks.

These are just a few factors that make the University of Pennsylvania’s student life so happening. If you go there, you will feel involved and get various opportunities to shine as an individual.


On campus accomodation at University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania offers a variety of on-campus housing options for undergraduate and graduate students.

Undergraduate Housing

  • College Houses

The College Houses are the traditional undergraduate housing at Penn. There are 12 College Houses, each with its unique personality and community. Rooms in the College Houses are either single or double occupancy, and most have shared bathrooms.

  • Sansom Place

Sansom Place is a newer on-campus housing option that offers apartment-style living. Apartments in Sansom Place can accommodate up to 4 students, and each apartment has its kitchen and bathroom.

Graduate Housing

  • Graduate Residence Halls

Graduate Residence Halls offer traditional dormitory-style living. Rooms are either single or double occupancy, and most have shared bathrooms.

  • Graduate Apartments

Graduate Apartments offer apartment-style living. Apartments can accommodate up to 4 students, and each apartment has its own kitchen and bathroom.

  • Graduate Houses

Graduate Houses are similar to the College Houses, but they are reserved for graduate students. Rooms in the Graduate Houses are either single or double occupancy, and most have shared bathrooms.

  • Housing Costs

The cost of a single room in a College House is around \$11,000 (INR 9,12,059) per semester, while the cost of a four-bedroom apartment in Sansom Place is around \$18,000 (INR 14,92,461) per semester.

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Faculty Information

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FAQ

1. What are the University of Pennsylvania fees for Indian Students?

University of Pennsylvania fees for Indian Students vary between INR 17.02 to 67.41 lakhs per annum.

2. Is there a provision to switch programs once admitted to one program at the University of Pennsylvania?

Yes. Students may seek to transfer into a different engineering master's program after one semester at Penn. However, the students cannot currently switch between an on-campus and an online program, nor vice versa.

3. Is any accommodation facility available for graduate students at the UPenn Ivey League?

Both graduate and undergraduate students at Penn can live on campus. Off-campus housing is an option for students, for this, the university office can assist a student. The university's housing departments on either side (on and off campus) are very knowledgeable and helpful.

4. Does the UPenn Ivey League help students find internships and jobs?

The university's career services office is a great source for students. They oversee all aspects of on-campus hiring, including firm presentations and interviews.

5. Can students work on-campus along with the academics at Penn?

Although part-time employment on the Upenn campus is welcome, there is no official connection between a job and fee payment. However, as soon as a student’s financial assistance application is submitted, he/she may be eligible for work-study opportunities.

6. What is the University of Pennsylvania's acceptance rate?

The University of Pennsylvania's acceptance rate is 6.5%. 

7. What is the cost of attendance at UPenn?

The cost of studying at the University of Pennsylvania ranges between $62,616 - and $89,028 (INR 51,91,774 - 73,81,712).

8. What are the eligibility criteria for the University of Pennsylvania?

To gain admission to UPenn, applicants must have a strong GPA and the required documents that vary program-wise. Indian students must provide the English language test scores, to portray English proficiency.

9. What is the acceptance rate for UPenn for Indian students?

The acceptance rate of the University of Pennsylvania for Indian students is 3 - 4%.

10. How many Indian students are in UPenn?

The University of Pennsylvania has an enrollment of approximately 12,000 international students, and Indian students make up approximately 609 of that crowd.