University of Pennsylvania Admissions
University of Pennsylvania is a prestigious Ivy League research university renowned for its academic excellence. Known for its highly selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of 6%, UPenn attracts top students from around the world. Gaining admission requires a strong academic record, coupled with exceptional extracurricular involvement and compelling personal narratives. While the university emphasizes a holistic review of applications, academic rigor remains a crucial component.
Undergraduate Programs
- UPenn offers admission to four undergraduate schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, Wharton School, Penn Engineering, and Penn Nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (85%) in high school.
- The admissions process is highly competitive for all schools. Applicants typically possess outstanding academic records, with a strong emphasis on rigorous coursework.
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) are considered, but holistic evaluation remains the cornerstone of the admissions process.
Graduate Programs
- UPenn’s graduate programs vary in admission criteria, but a strong academic foundation is generally required.
- Minimum GPA of 3.9 (98%).
- Factors such as research experience, work experience, and letters of recommendation significantly influence the admissions decisions.
- Given the high demand for graduate programs, a competitive application is essential for success.
Admission to both undergraduate and graduate programs at UPenn is highly selective, and a strong application is crucial for securing a place at this esteemed institution.
Application Fee | UG: 75 USD PG: 90 USD |
Acceptance Rate (UG) | 6% |
ELP Tests Accepted | |
Standardized Test Scores (PG) | |
International Application Deadlines | UG: 1 Nov, 2024 (early action) PG: Varies as per courses |
University of Pennsylvania Admission Requirements for Graduate Programs
UPenn has four undergraduate schools and 12 graduate and professional schools. International students seeking admission at University of Pennsylvania will have to fulfill the following admission requirements:
University Eligibility
- UPenn offers admission to four undergraduate schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, Wharton School, Penn Engineering, and Penn Nursing.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (85%) in high school.
- The admissions process is highly competitive for all schools. Applicants typically possess outstanding academic records, with a strong emphasis on rigorous coursework.
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) are considered, but holistic evaluation remains the cornerstone of the admissions process.
Graduate Programs
- UPenn’s graduate programs vary in admission criteria, but a strong academic foundation is generally required.
- Minimum GPA of 3.9 (98%).
- Factors such as research experience, work experience, and letters of recommendation significantly influence the admissions decisions.
- Given the high demand for graduate programs, a competitive application is essential for success.
Admission to both undergraduate and graduate programs at UPenn is highly selective, and a strong application is crucial for securing a place at this esteemed institution.
Application Fee | UG: 75 USD PG: 90 USD |
Acceptance Rate (UG) | 6% |
ELP Tests Accepted |
|
Standardized Test Scores (PG) | GMAT , GRE |
International Application Deadlines | UG: 1 Nov, 2024 (early action) PG: Varies as per courses |
UPenn Admission Requirements for Graduate Programs
| Program | Degree Requirements and Aggregate | ELP Scores | GMAT/GRE Scores | Documents Required |
| M.S in Electrical Engineering | 3-4 year undergraduate degree | TOEFL-IBT: 100. IELTS: 7.5 | GRE Scores (optional) | 2 LORs, Personal Statement, Resume |
| M.S in Engineering – Data Science | 3-4 year undergraduate degree | TOEFL-IBT: 100, IELTS: 7.5 | GRE Scores (optional) | 2 LORs, Personal Statement, Resume |
| Master of Computer and Information Technology | 3-4 year undergraduate degree | TOEFL-IBT: 100, IELTS: 7.5 | GRE Scores (optional) | 2 LORs, Personal Statement, Resume |
| M.S in Biotechnology | 3-4 year undergraduate degree | TOEFL-IBT: 100, IELTS: 7.5 | GRE Scores (optional) | 2 LORs, Personal Statement, Resume |
| Master of Science in Nursing | BSN degree | TOEFL-IBT: 100, IELTS: 7.0 | Not required | 3 LORs, Personal Statement, Essays, Resume |
| Master of Public Health (MPH) | Undergraduate degree in a related discipline | TOEFL-IBT: 100, IELTS: 7.0 | Not required | 3 LORs, Personal Statement, Resume |
| Master of Law (LLM) | JD or relevant law degree | TOEFL-IBT: 100, IELTS: 7.0 | Not required | 2 LORs, Personal Statement, Resume |
University of Pennsylvania Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programs
Penn’s undergraduate students have the opportunity to pursue 90 majors across four schools. International students seeking an undergraduate degree at University of Pennsylvania will have to fulfill the following admission requirements:
University Eligibility
- Completed application
- Official high school transcripts – Mid-Year and Final Report
- GPA of 3.0/4 (85%)
- English proficiency scores
- TOEFL score: 100
- IELTS: 7.0
Documents Checklist
- Secondary school report
- Essay
- Letter of recommendation
- 2 academic teacher evaluations
- Interview or portfolio, if required
University of Pennsylvania Application Deadlines for UG
|
Intake |
Deadline |
|
Early Decision |
1 November |
|
Regular Decision |
5 January |
University of Pennsylvania Selection Criteria
The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) has a number of selection criteria for admission, including academic excellence, extracurricular engagement, and a desire to serve society:
- Academic excellence
90% of admitted students are in the top 10% of their high school class, and the recommended GPA is between 3.8 and 4.0. If your GPA is lower, you may need to compensate with a higher SAT or ACT score. You may also need to perform above average on standardized tests.
- Extracurricular engagement
UPenn looks for students who have shown leadership, commitment, and impact in their extracurricular activities.
- Desire to serve society
UPenn seeks students who are inspired by the university’s founder, Benjamin Franklin, to serve the community, Philadelphia, and the world.
Other selection criteria include:
- Submitting a Common Application or Coalition Application
- Getting letters of recommendation from a counselor, teacher, and another person
- Writing supplemental essays and a personal statement
- Submitting transcripts and school reports
- Paying the $75 application fee, or requesting a fee waiver
- Meeting testing requirements, which may include SAT or ACT, and language tests
- Participating in an interview
Frequently asked questions:
When does the University of Pennsylvania declare its decision?
The admission decision will be announced by Mid-December for Early Decision applicants and by April 1 for Regular Decision applicants.
Is it difficult to get into the University of Pennsylvania?
For the class of 2027, UPenn received a total of over 59,000 applications and accepted only 2,400 candidates. With an acceptance rate of 6%, the university showcases a highly selective admission process. Students fulfilling the admission requirements for the program they want to apply for, have higher chances of getting admission at UPenn.
How do I get into the University of Pennsylvania from India?
Students seeking admission at UPenn from India must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 (85%) in high school for UG and a GPA of 3.9 (98%) for PG. There are no minimum GPA requirements for UPenn MBA admissions. However, the average GPA of recently admitted students is 3.6 (91%).
What is the admission criteria for UPenn?
While the university emphasizes a holistic review of applications, academic rigor remains a crucial component. 90% of admitted students are in the top 10% of their high school class, and the recommended GPA is between 3.8 and 4.0. If your GPA is lower, you may need to compensate with a higher SAT or ACT score. You may also need to perform above average on standardized tests.
How many applicants apply to UPenn?
Penn received 59,465 applications for admission to the Class of 2027. Of those applicants, 3,489, or 6 percent, were offered admission.
How do you increase your chances of getting into UPenn?
To increase your chances of getting into UPenn, focus on academic excellence (high GPA, rigorous coursework), impactful extracurriculars, compelling essays, and demonstrating genuine interest in the university.
