Careers360 Logo

Access premium articles, webinars, resources to make the best decisions for career, course, exams, scholarships, study abroad and much more with

Plan, Prepare & Make the Best Career Choices

logoImg

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

Mississippi, United States of America | Estd in 1740 | Private University

THE Rank : 14 | QS Rank : 13

Updated onMar 19, 2024 11:44 AM IST
Interested in this College ?
Get updates on Eligibility, Admission, Placements Fees Structure
BrochureFees Structure

About University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania, also known as Penn is a prestigious private Ivy League research university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Penn was established in 1740 and is one of the oldest universities in the US. It's not just known for its academics, but also its rich history and vibrant campus life. Penn was also the first university in the US to allow women students. 

University of Pennsylvania acceptance rate is under 6%, which shows that admissions are very competitive. Candidates must have an application with strong GPA, extracurricular involvement, and a well written statement of purpose to be considered for admission to Penn. Admission to the university is also based on SAT / ACT or English Proficiency scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic

The university welcomes students from all backgrounds and provides a vibrant and inclusive environment. Penn has more than 28,201 students enrolled in both full-time and part-time courses, among which there are 6,931 + international students. The University of Pennsylvania has an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, demonstrating the university's commitment to student happiness and personalised learning. 

Penn boasts top-ranked programs in medicine, law, business (Wharton School), engineering, education, and many more. The university prepares students for demanding careers through challenging classes and research opportunities. For admission to the University of Pennsylvania, students must submit 57,376 USD (INR 47,64,092.80) tuition for the 2023-2024. The University of Pennsylvania has over 90% 6-year graduation rate for all Penn undergraduates.

Penn is also ranked in the top universities in the country and has grabbed 6th position in the US News & World Report 2024. The University of Pennsylvania is ranked 12th globally by QS WUR 2024 and 16th in the Times Higher Education 2024 rankings. At least 43 different Penn graduates have won 81 Olympic medals (26 of which are gold). 2 Penn alumni have served as NASA astronauts, while 5 Penn alumni have received the Medal of Honour.

Penn is located in West Philadelphia and features beautiful buildings such as College Hall and stunning green landscapes. Over 800 student-run organisations at the university provide the opportunity to explore interests, interact with peers, and make a difference. Penn also offers specialist advisers, mentoring programs, and mental health services to students to ensure that they feel supported throughout their journey. 

Latest Updates at the University of Pennsylvania

All aspirants of University of Pennsylvania must send the application form along with the required documents prior to the deadlines stated by the institution. The deadlines are as follows:

  • The Early Decision for international student is November 1.
  • The Regular Decision for international student is January 5.

Is it too late to apply to UPenn?

Applicants applying before deadline dates may increase the chance for obtaining admission in the University of Pennsylvania, which means the application procedure is the same for those who want to utilise Early Decision, but they must submit their applications earlier (by November 1) than those who choose to use Regular Decision (by January 5).

 Read more: Benefits of studying in USA

University of Pennsylvania Highlights

not-found
Year of Establishment1740
not-found
Institute TypeUniversity
not-found
OwnershipPrivate
not-found
Number Of Students11251
not-found
Campus Size299 acres
not-found
Faculty Count6121
not-found
Acceptance Rate6%
Bachelors vs Masters
Gender Ratio
Male: 55%Female: 45%
Male: 55%Female: 45%
Student Demographic
  • Domestic:   9338
  • International:   1463

University of Pennsylvania Ranking and Stats

The University of Pennsylvania is ranked among the top universities in the US and the world. Penn is ranked 6th in the 2024 edition of the U.S. News & World Report National Universities. Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 ranked the University of Pennsylvania at 16th rank worldwide. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, Penn grabbed 12th position in the world.

The University of Pennsylvania is ranked 14th globally in the ARWU 2023. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report ranked the Wharton School 3rd among Best Business Schools, and the School of Engineering and Applied Science 4th among Best Engineering Schools.

Why is UPenn so prestigious?

The UPenn is one of the prestigious university in the United State of America.  In the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report's National Universities, Penn is rated sixth. Higher Education Times The University of Pennsylvania was placed 16th overall in the World University Rankings 2024. As to the QS World University Rankings 2024, Penn secured the 12th rank globally.

Ranking Body
THE
Subject
Overall

Parametric Score and Ranking 2024

Overall Score91
University rank16
Parameter Ranking
Citations
97.6
Industry Outcome
97.7
International Outlook
78.8
Research
89.7
Teaching
87.7

Ranking by year

Ranking

Show adjacently ranked institutions

Score
Rank
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
Adjacently Ranked Colleges

University of Pennsylvania Courses

The University of Pennsylvania is a popular choice for students seeking for a satisfying academic experience. Penn offers four major undergraduate colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Nursing, the Wharton School, and the School of Engineering and Applied Science. The University of Pennsylvania provides over 4,200 courses in over 40 languages. Learners can pursue multiple degrees by selecting from a choice of interdisciplinary minor courses. 

One of the popular courses at the University of Pennsylvania is Doctor of Medicine. The duration of the programs is made up of a 4-year multidisciplinary curriculum of six modules. The students get to explore three themes which include the science of medicine, the technology and practice of medicine, and professionalism and humanism.

The University of Pennsylvania provides an opportunity for students to enrol in extensive MD+ options as well including eight master's degrees and 10 certificates through its various schools.

What are the courses available in University of Pennsylvania?

The courses available at University of Pennsylvania includes Business, Management, Marketing, Social Sciences; Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Health Professions, Engineering; Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Philosophy and Religious.

 

Accreditations
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)
Education Level
Select
Stream
Select
Mode
Select
LevelUG
MajorTheatre
Duration48 Months
LevelUG
MajorHealth
Duration48 Months
LevelUG
MajorManagement
Duration48 Months
LevelUG
MajorControl
Duration48 Months
LevelUG
MajorMechanical
Duration48 Months
LevelUG
MajorNursing
Duration48 Months

University of Pennsylvania Cost Of Living

The University of Pennsylvania's tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is 63,452 USD (INR 52,68,600.40). Tuition, general costs, technology fees, and clinical fees are all included. In addition to tuition, students must pay for accommodation, food, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenditures while studying in the USA. The tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 academic year are as follows:

  • Tuition: 57,376 USD (INR 47,64,092.80)

  • General Fee: 5,462 USD (INR 4,53,525.43)

  • Technology Fee: 225 USD (18,682.39)

  • Clinical Fee (for students in certain programs): 449 USD (INR 37,281.75)

Is it expensive to study in the university?

The cost of attendance at the University of Pennsylvania includes both direct expenditures, such as tuition, fees, housing, and eating, and indirect charges, which do not appear on the education bill. Some of these fees, such as books and materials, transportation, and a personal expenditure, are not charged by Penn. The cost of living at Penn, US varies according to housing type and food plan. The expected cost of expenditures for the 2023-2024 academic year is shown in the table below.

Cost of living at the University of Pennsylvania

Expense list

Living On Campus

Living Off Campus

Living with family

Tuition 

58,620 USD

58,620 USD

58,620 USD

Extra fees

7,484 USD

7,484 USD

7,484 USD

Housing 

12,166 USD

12,564 USD

0 USD

Food

6,330 USD

5,796 USD

2,318 USD

Books & supplies

1,358 USD

1,358 USD

1,358 USD

Personal expenses

2,008 USD

1,358 USD

1,358 USD

University of Pennsylvania Admission and Application

Application deadline May,2024

University of Pennsylvania acceptance rate is approximately 6%, which shows that only a few students are admitted to the university every year. Applicants looking for admission to University of Pennsylvania are required to apply online by filling out an application form of either Common App or the Coalition Application available on the official website. A detailed procedure is mentioned below.

University of Pennsylvania Application Deadline: Candidates looking for admission to the university are required to submit their Regular Decision application form before January 5, 2024. 

University of Pennsylvania Application Fee: Students are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of 75 USD (INR 6,227), or eligible applicants can however apply for a fee waiver, if applicable.

How to apply to Penn?

The University of Pennsylvania allows 2 types of application, one is a Common Application, and the other is a Coalition Application. They treat both the applications in the same way, and no preference is given to any special format. They accept students from all across the globe with varied backgrounds. Students who are interested in Penn’s admission can follow these steps below:

Step 1: Candidates applying to Penn can start by visiting their official website.

Step 2:  Next, candidates can select as first-year or transfer students for application.

Step 3: Before proceeding further, candidates should get aware of the different programs offered by the university.

Step 4: Next, candidates can select from any one of our 4 undergraduate schools or a coordinated dual-degree, specialized program or accelerated.

Step 5: After selection of their preferred program, candidates can apply for the degree.

Step 6: Finally, the applications will be reviewed, and admission will be granted to the selected students.

University of Pennsylvania required documents

University of Pennsylvania Scholarship

The University of Pennsylvania has awarded 2.6 billion USD to undergraduate students to more than 24,000 students. 45% of traditional undergraduate students received grant-based financial aid in 2021-22. The University provides over 10 million USD each year in financial aid to students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States, Canada, or Mexico.

The University of Pennsylvania offers various scholarships to its undergraduate and postgraduate students. Like other Ivy League universities, Penn does not award scholarships or grants on the basis of academic or athletic merit. The University of Pennsylvania only provides need-based based scholarships based only on your family’s financial need, as determined by Student Financial Services. 

Need-based scholarships are awarded to students who show that they are in financial need. Penn is committed to provide 100% financial need to all their undergraduate students. The scholarships act as a continued support throughout their four-year undergraduate program if they continue to demonstrate need.

Does University of Pennsylvania offer full financial aid for international students?

Yes, the university offers 100% demonstrated needs of students and considers their eligibility in the same manner for both national and internal students. Hence, If offered admission, University of Pennsylvania will meet 100% of the demonstrated financial need with grant aid. 

Read more: Scholarships in the United States

University of Pennsylvania Eligibility

Candidates must have the following selection requirements to be considered for admission to the University of Pennsylvania:

  • They must have an excellent academic record, including high scores in maths, science, and core subjects. 

  • To improve their application, students must have standardised exam scores (SAT or ACT). Applicants who are competitive often score in the top 75th percentile.

  • They must participate in extracurricular activities that highlight their well-roundedness and leadership capabilities. 

  • They should include letters of recommendation from instructors or supervisors that give insight into their academic accomplishments, research experience, and career prospects.

  • A persuasive statement of purpose should be provided, precisely explaining your research interests and academic aspirations. 

  • Research experience, internships, or professional employment in your subject might help to boost your application and demonstrate your dedication to your chosen field.

English language requirements 

If English is not their first language, candidates must meet the English language requirements for their chosen course. To meet these requirements, candidates can take a variety of English language tests, including the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and Pearson's PTE Academic. Applicants can learn more about the criteria for their chosen course by checking the official website.

University of Pennsylvania Campus Facilities

Study Amenities

Library

University of Pennsylvania has 14 libraries that together provide huge physical and digital collections, one-to-one consultations, workshops, and other student services. All libraries provide designated study areas, reservable group study rooms and booths, computers, printers, monitors along with software services to meet individual needs. Print and digital collections together contain over 7 million books, journals, databases, as well as media materials such as streaming videos, musical scores, and much more, in more than 400 languages. Students at University of Pennsylvania get access to 1.11 million ebooks, and 4.23 mn microform items with subscriptions to over 68,000 print serials and e-journals.

Sports

Sports

University of Pennsylvania has over 36 active club sports– from cricket to curling to Taekwondo, sailing to ping pong. Students can not only learn, and practise their favourite sport for recreation, but also compete in predetermined leagues or regional tournaments. Experienced athletes can join University of Pennsylvania Varsity Athletics to compete in the intercollegiate teams and NCAA Division I athletic competitions. 12 athletic facilities at University of Pennsylvania include Franklin field, a Squash centre, and indoor stadiums.

Swimming Pool

Sheerr Pool is the swimming pool at University of Pennsylvania for all recreational teams, varsity sports teams as well as club sport teams. It also hosts men's and women's swimming and diving teams. Constructed way back in 1967, it has a stair entrance, a handi-accessible chair, and an on-deck dry sauna and shower. The pool acts as both a 2 short-course pool and a long course pool with 25 Yards, 12 lanes in the former case, and 50 metre 6 lane pool in the latter case. 

Transportation

Transport Facility

University of Pennsylvania has campus shuttles, bicycles, carpooling, bus rides to and from the city through selected stops as modes of transport. Students can travel through buses in East, West and inter-city routes free of charge, on institutional ID cards. The University of Pennsylvania has special shuttle services for people with limited mobility. Bicycling is allowed and highly encouraged. Students can rent, share bicycles in over 70 locations in Philadelphia, 6 University of Pennsylvania campus locations. Bicycle riding is allowed only in the designated paths.Van pooling and carpooling facilities are also available at discounted rates.

Infrastructure

Cafeteria

There are 12 cafeteria at University of Pennsylvania– Accenture Café, Mark’s Café, The ARCH Cafe,  1920 Retail,  Beefsteak, Houston Market / Pure Fare / Brick Oven,  Joe’s Café, The Café at the New College House, English House Café, McClelland Express, Falk Dining Cafe, and Spruce Street Cafe. There is also a Starbucks.

Accenture cafe serves brewed beverages, fresh sandwiches, soups, salads, muffins, pastries, etc. All cafeterias at University of Pennsylvania provide choices regarding foods with allergens, and special dietary restrictions like vegan, gluten-free etc. Students can check the menus for filtering for foods that best suit them. Mark’s cafe, and Joe’s cafe serve light coffees, drinks and other beverages.

University of Pennsylvania International Office Details

University of Pennsylvania is a highly-ranked institution with a strong reputation for excellence. Penn is a good choice for students who are looking for a world-class institution that offers an exceptional academic experience, with an active and supportive student community. The University of Pennsylvania has more than 28,201 students enrolled in both full-time and part-time courses, among which there are 6,931 + international students.

All overseas students can contact the University of Pennsylvania on the following details:

University of Pennsylvania Website: upenn.edu

University of Pennsylvania Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States

Penn Telephone no: (215) 898-5000

Is it hard to get into the University of Pennsylvania?

Yes, admission to the University of Pennsylvania is very competitive. It is a very selective institution with a 6% acceptance rate. This indicates that just 6 out of every 100 applications are accepted. Penn's acceptance rate for foreign students is 3.5%. In the fall semester of 2022, 12,222 international applicants applied to Penn's undergraduate programmes, and 431 of them were offered admission. 

A variety of factors contribute to the challenges of getting into the University of Pennsylvania. The university is extremely popular, and it receives applications from candidates all around the world. Furthermore, Penn has an excellent academic reputation, and it recruits students who can succeed in a challenging educational environment.

University of Pennsylvania Gallery

View All Photos And Videos

Gallery

View All Photos And Videos

FAQ's

The University of Pennsylvania is ranked among the top universities in the US and the world. Penn is ranked 16th globally in the 2024 edition of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, UPenn grabbed 12th position in the world. The University of Pennsylvania is ranked 14th globally in the ARWU 2023. 

For Indian aspirants, admission to an Ivy League university such as Penn is a major accomplishment. Indian candidates can contact Indian alumni of Penn or other Ivy League colleges to learn and gain insights from their experiences. However, admission to an Ivy League university is extremely difficult. Indian students can gain admission to Penn by emphasising on academic performance, extracurricular activities, and a strong application.

On a scale of 4.0, the average GPA for accepted students at the University of Pennsylvania is 3.9. The minimal GPA criterion for admission to Penn varies based on the programme to which you are applying. Other characteristics considered by Penn include the test results, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of reference.

Pennsylvania has a number of notable institutions and colleges, including the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, Penn State University, and Temple University. Pennsylvania has a growing economy with a varied range of businesses such as healthcare, technology, finance, and manufacturing. This offers graduates with numerous work possibilities and high career prospects after graduation. While Pennsylvania is typically less expensive than other states, the cost of living can vary depending on the location you reside.

Yes, acceptance to the University of Pennsylvania can be extremely difficult. With a 6% acceptance rate, it is a fairly selective university. This means that just 6 applications out of every 100 are accepted. The acceptance rate for international students at Penn is 3.5%. In the fall semester of 2022, 12,222 overseas candidates applied to Penn's undergraduate degrees, with 431 accepted. 

Yes, the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) is an Ivy League university in the United States. The Ivy League is an athletic conference made up of eight elite private colleges in the United States Northeast region. Penn has a long history of academic success and is often considered one of the best educational institutions in the world. Penn is a founder member of the Ivy League, who joined in 1876.

Download Careers360 App's

Regular exam updates, QnA, Predictors, College Applications & E-books now on your Mobile

  • student
    250M+

    Students

  • colleges
    30,000+

    Colleges

  • exams
    500+

    Exams

  • ebook
    1500+

    E-Books

  • certification
    12000+

    Cetifications

student
Mobile Screen

We Appeared in