University of Pennsylvania Admissions

Latest Update:  The University of Pennsylvania’s undergraduate application for Fall 2026 (Class of 2030) via the Common App opened on August 1, 2025. Early Decision applications are typically due by November 1, 2025, and Regular Decision by January 5, 2026. As of June 20, 2025, Penn’s Graduate School of Education launched the Algebra 1 Fellowship, a three-year initiative funded by the Neubauer Family Foundation.  The program aims to enhance Algebra 1 instruction for 8th- and 9th-grade teachers in Philadelphia schools, providing stipends, professional learning credits, and a Penn GSE certificate of participation.

The University of Pennsylvania (Penn) is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in Philadelphia. It was founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, and is known for its interdisciplinary learning and strong emphasis on research.

In the most recent University of Pennsylvania Admission cycle, the institute received 65,236 applications and admitted 3,523 students, resulting in a 5.4% acceptance rate. Around 92% of admitted students were in the top 10% of their high school class. Penn had 6,903 international students enrolled as of Fall.

If you're considering studying abroad in the US, the University of Pennsylvania offers excellent admission opportunities. With over 90 undergraduate majors and several graduate degrees across 12+ schools, it is consistently listed among the top universities in the US.

Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know before you apply at the University of Pennsylvania:

Feature	Details
Established	1740
Campuses	1 (Philadelphia)
Total Enrollment	29,109 (including part-time)
Acceptance Rate	6%
Graduation Rate	97% (6-year graduation rate for Penn undergraduates)
Degrees Offered	MBA MSE in Computer & Information Science MS in Architecture BA in Economics  B.S. in Finance

To apply confidently and on time, it's crucial to know the session deadlines, which are just as important as selecting the right course.

University of Pennsylvania Admission Dates 

Keeping note of the admissions timeline can be overwhelming, but knowing the key dates for each intake at the University of Pennsylvania is crucial for staying on track. The university offers mainly one intake a year, in the Fall session. However, the institute has Early Decision and Regular Decision options for students to choose from. 

For some online programs, such as the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, Penn also offers Spring and Summer intakes. Keeping track of these deadlines ensures you can complete your application on time and prepare adequately for your future at Penn.

Below, you’ll come across the major deadlines for most University of Pennsylvania courses.

Fall Intake

The Fall intake is the primary admission period for most Penn programs, with applications opening in November and decisions announced by April. International students follow the same deadlines as domestic students. 

Early Decision is for students who are committed to attending if accepted, while Regular Decision offers more time to explore other options, but applications must be submitted by January 5.

Here are the major deadlines associated.

Decision Type	Application Deadline	Decision Notification
Early Decision	November 1, 2024 (closed)	Mid-December 2024 (closed)
Regular Decision	January 5, 2025 (closed)	Late March 2025 - Early April 2025 (closed)

Apart from the Fall intake, the University of Pennsylvania offers spring and summer intakes for some specific online programs. Here are the related deadlines at a glance.

Spring Intake

For programs offered through Penn LPS Online, there are additional intake options beyond the primary Fall session. The Spring intake provides flexibility, allowing students to start their studies at the beginning of the calendar year. It's essential to be aware of these dates to plan your application accordingly.

Below are the Spring application deadlines for various programs:

Program	Term	Deadline
Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences	Spring 1	Priority: October 1, Regular: November 1
	Spring 2	Regular: February 1
Gateway Program	Spring 1	Regular: December 1
	Spring 2	Regular: February 15
Certificates and General Courses	Spring 1	Regular: December 15
	Spring 2	Regular: February 15

Some of the online programs at the University of Pennsylvania also offer a Summer intake. Here are the related deadlines at a glance.

Summer Intake

The Summer Intake at the University of Pennsylvania offers several key programs, including the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, the Gateway Program, and various Certificates and General Courses. 

This intake, which occurs during April and May, provides students with the opportunity to engage in academic courses during the summer term, helping them advance their studies or explore new academic interests.

Below are the critical deadlines for these programs:

Program	Deadline
Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences	Regular: April 1
Gateway Program	Regular: May 1
Certificates and General Courses	Regular: May 5

With these deadlines in mind, you are now ready to move forward in the University of Pennsylvania admissions process.

University of Pennsylvania Admission Process 

The University of Pennsylvania admits students through various routes, including freshman, transfer, graduate, and international, each having its own set of eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.

Applying to the University of Pennsylvania involves various aspects of your background, achievements, and the submission of valid documents required for studying abroad. Understanding each component can help you present a well-rounded application.

Here is a summary of the University of Pennsylvania Admission process:

Step 1: Choose Your Application Type

Penn offers several application options:

• Common Application: Accepted by most schools within Penn.
• Coalition Application: Also accepted by all schools.
• QuestBridge Application: For high-achieving students with significant financial need.

Ensure you select the application that aligns with your circumstances and preferences.

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

All applicants must provide:

• Application Form: Complete the chosen application form.
• Transcripts: Official high school transcripts.
• Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are required for the 2025-26 application cycle. Moreover, TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores are required to verify language proficiency levels for English.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are required: one from your school counsellor and two from teachers.
• Essays and Short Answer Prompts: Personal essay and Penn-specific short answer responses.
• Supplementary Materials: Optional, such as additional recommendation letters or portfolios.

Step 3: Application Review

Penn employs a comprehensive, whole-person review process, meaning that no single part of your application is given more weight than another. 

The Admissions Committee considers your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation to understand your alignment with Penn’s mission and educational experience. 

Step 4: Decision Notification

After submission, you will be notified of your admission decision by:

• Early Decision: Mid-December.
• Regular Decision: Late March to early April.

Note: Ensure that you submit all materials by the respective deadlines to avoid delays.

If you're unsure about your eligibility or need guidance on navigating Penn's application process, you can book a free 1:1 session with upGrad experts to get personalized advice for your University of Pennsylvania application.

With a fair understanding of the application process, let's examine the specific requirements and deadlines for MBA programs.

University of Pennsylvania MBA Admissions

The University of Pennsylvania is one of the best universities in the USA for an MBA. The Wharton School offers a prestigious MBA program that begins accepting applications in July each year. For the 2025-2026 session, the Round 1 deadline is September 3, 2025, with the Round 2 and Round 3 deadlines being January 6, 2026, and April 1, 2026. 

The full-time MBA program spans 20 months, and Wharton provides flexibility in content, timing, and format. With a median starting salary of $175,000 (INR 1.5 Cr), graduates are well-equipped with multiple career options in the future.

Below is a breakdown of the University of Pennsylvania MBA admission criteria:

MBA Admission Requirements

To be considered for the MBA program, applicants must possess a strong academic background, demonstrate leadership potential, and have relevant professional experience. 

The program attracts candidates with an average of 5 years of work experience. Applicants should submit GMAT or GRE scores, academic transcripts, two essays, a professional resume, and letters of recommendation from work supervisors. The average GMAT score for students currently admitted to Penn is typically around 730.

Here are the key MBA admissions requirements at Wharton:

Requirement	Criteria
Academic Requirements	A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. No specific GPA is required, but a strong academic record is essential.
Work Experience	At least 5 years of professional work experience on average.
GMAT/GRE Scores	GMAT or GRE is required; Wharton does not have a minimum score requirement.
Admission Essays	Two required essays: one on professional goals and another on contributions to the Wharton community.
Letters of Recommendation	Required from professional sources, preferably from a current or former supervisor.
Resume	An updated professional resume highlighting work experience, leadership, and accomplishments.
Interview	By invitation only, conducted virtually or in person.
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT (minimum 100, IELTS (7.0+), or Duolingo (130+) for international students.
Application Fee	$275 (INR 23.9K); Non-refundable

Once you're familiar with the application requirements, the next step is to explore available MBA scholarships that can help finance your education.

MBA Scholarships

Wharton offers several scholarships designed to support exceptional MBA candidates. The Wharton Fellowship Program, which covers full tuition, is one of the prime University of Pennsylvania Scholarships. The Lauder Institute Fellowship supports students pursuing a joint MBA/MA in International Studies. 

Here are some notable scholarships available for MBA candidates:

Scholarship	Type	Details
Wharton Fellowship Program	Merit-based	Eligibility: Awarded based on academic excellence and leadership potential. Benefits: Covers full tuition fees.
Prism Fellowship	Merit and need-based	Eligibility: For students from underrepresented backgrounds in the business field. Benefits: $10,000 to $25,000 (INR 8.7L - 21.7L) based on merit and need.
Forté Fellowship	Merit-based	Eligibility: For women pursuing full-time MBA programs. Benefits: $20,000 (INR 17.4L) towards tuition, along with networking and career resources.

Let’s now move on to the University of Pennsylvania MS Admissions, where you’ll explore the application requirements and deadlines for master’s degree programs.

University of Pennsylvania MS Admissions

The University of Pennsylvania offers a range of top Master of Science (MS) courses spanning various disciplines, including engineering, data science, biotechnology, and more. MS programs typically require 1.5–2 years of full-time study. 

For the upcoming admissions cycle, application deadlines vary by program, with most programs following a Fall intake. The university’s MS programs are available in both on-campus and hybrid formats, depending on the discipline and department.

Let’s now break down the key admission criteria for the University of Pennsylvania’s MS programs.

MS Admission Requirement

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, particularly in the last 60 units of coursework. Additionally, standardized test scores (such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE) are required for international students to demonstrate English language proficiency.

Below are the key requirements and deadlines for the University of Pennsylvania MS admissions.

Requirement	Criteria	Details
Academic Qualification	Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.	Minimum GPA of 3.0, especially in the last 60 units of coursework.
Resume	A professional resume is required.	Must highlight academic history, work/research experience, and skills.
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores	TOEFL iBT ≥ 100, IELTS ≥ 7.0, Duolingo ≥ 130 (required for non-native English speakers).
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	Required for MS programs.	Typically, a 1–2 page essay outlining your objectives and academic fit.
Letters of Recommendation (LOR)	Typically, two recommendations from academic or professional sources are required.	Should provide insight into your academic and professional potential.
Academic Transcripts	Required from all post-secondary institutions attended.	Must be submitted at least 8 weeks before the program start date.
Additional Documents	Depending on the program, additional documents may be required (e.g., for engineering or STEM courses).	Some programs may require a specific coursework background.

Meeting these eligibility criteria is the first step toward a successful MS application at the University of Pennsylvania. After ensuring your eligibility, it’s essential to explore the scholarships available to MS students.

MS Scholarships

The University of Pennsylvania offers several fully funded scholarships to support MS students. For international students, the university employs a need-aware approach, considering financial need during the application process. 

Penn’s commitment to supporting its students extends beyond scholarships. Penn also offers job-oriented courses, fellowships, and assistantships to help students manage costs. Penn meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, ensuring students can focus on their studies without being burdened by significant debt.

Below are some of the key scholarships available to MS students at Penn:

Scholarship	Type	Details
Penn Graduate Fellowships	Merit-based	Eligibility: Available to students pursuing a full-time graduate program.  Benefits: Covers full or partial tuition, based on merit.
Research Assistantships	Need-based/Research	Eligibility: Available for students in research-heavy MS programs.  Benefits: Provides a stipend and tuition remission.
Engineering Excellence Fellowship	Merit-based	Eligibility: For students applying to Penn’s School of Engineering and Applied Science.  Benefits: Covers partial tuition and living expenses.
International Student Scholarships	Need-based	Eligibility: For international students applying to MS programs.  Benefits: Varies, typically a partial tuition award.

With the MS scholarships explained, let’s move on to discuss the requirements and deadlines for MD program applications.

University of Pennsylvania MD Admissions 

Each year, the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine admits approximately 154 students into its MD program. The deadline for Early Decision Program applicants is August 1, 2025, while the deadline for Regular Decision applicants is October 15, 2025.

For the 2024–25 entering class, the median GPA was 3.97, and the median MCAT score was 522, with a range from 514 to 528.

Here’s a breakdown of the MD admissions requirements at the University of Pennsylvania:

MD Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the University of Pennsylvania's MD program, applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.49, a valid MCAT score with a median score of 522 (range 514-528), and at least three letters of recommendation. 

Moreover, international applicants must complete a year of full-time coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and math (BCPM).

Here’s the complete admission criteria:

Requirement	Criteria	Details
Academic Background	Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution	A minimum GPA of 3.49 (minimum for admitted students)
MCAT Scores	A valid MCAT score taken between January 2022 and September 2025	Median score of 522 (range: 514-528)
Letters of Recommendation	At least three letters of recommendation	Must include a letter from a science professor and pre-health advisor or career service office
Essays	Required personal statement and secondary essays	Essays should cover your motivations for studying medicine and your fit for Penn.
Interview	By invitation only	Interviews are conducted between September and January
International Applicants	Students with degrees from institutions outside the U.S. or Canada	Must complete a year of full-time coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and math (BCPM) before applying.

Once you understand the MD admission requirements, it's essential to explore the scholarships available to support the financing of these medical courses.

MD Scholarships

The University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine awards around 35 full-tuition MD scholarships annually. For example, the Perelman Family Scholarship can cover partial to full tuition for eligible students, while the Public Service Fellowship supports students committed to public service. 

Below are some of the prominent scholarships available:

Scholarship	Type	Details
Perelman Family Scholarship	Merit-based	Eligibility: Awarded to students based on academic excellence, leadership, and personal background.  Benefits: Covers partial to full tuition depending on the scholarship.
Rising Second-Year Scholarships	Merit-based	Eligibility: Awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional performance in their first year of study.  Benefits: Varies based on academic achievement and leadership, covering up to full tuition.
Public Service Fellowship	Need-based	Eligibility: For students committed to a career in public service or working in non-profit sectors.  Benefits: Varies, typically offering a partial tuition award with additional funding for career development in public service.

With the MD program admission process and scholarships outlined, let's now proceed to the admission criteria for other postgraduate courses.

University of Pennsylvania: Other PG Courses Admission

The University of Pennsylvania offers more than 300 postgraduate (PG) programs, including certifications, advanced certificates, and professional courses across various disciplines. 

Depending on the course, these programs may vary in length, typically ranging from 9 to 24 months. The university offers PG courses through multiple schools, including the School of Engineering, the School of Arts and Sciences, and more.

Let’s now look into the detailed admission requirements for various postgraduate courses at the University of Pennsylvania.

Other PG Course Admission Requirements

The university’s PG admission process requires applicants to get a bachelor’s degree, relevant work experience, and standardized test scores (where applicable). Additional documents, such as a statement of purpose and letters of recommendation, are also commonly required. 

Below is an overview of the general admission criteria for postgraduate programs at the University of Pennsylvania:

Requirement	Criteria	Details
Academic Qualifications	Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution	Minimum GPA of 3.0 (varies by program)
Work Experience	Professional experience may be required, especially for specialized courses.	Typically 1–3 years for most programs
Test Scores	GMAT/GRE scores (if required by the program).	Test scores vary by program; for example.
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE for non-native English speakers.	TOEFL iBT ≥ 100, IELTS ≥ 7.0, PTE ≥ 68.
Letters of Recommendation	Typically, 2–3 letters of recommendation.	Letters from academic or professional sources are required.
Statement of Purpose	A statement outlining your goals and fit for the program.	A 1–2 page essay is required for most programs.
Resume/CV	Professional or academic resume.	Must include work history, academic achievements, and skills.

With a fair understanding of the PG course admissions process, let’s cover the Bachelor’s admission requirements and deadlines.

University of Pennsylvania Bachelor's Admissions

The University of Pennsylvania Acceptance Rate for undergraduate programs is just 5%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States. Prospective students can apply through Early Decision (deadline: November 1) or Regular Decision (deadline: January 5).

With a total of 10,610 undergraduate students, Penn offers several advantages. Let’s explore them before getting into the key admission requirements.

Bachelor's Admission Requirements at the University of Pennsylvania

To apply to the University of Pennsylvania, you usually require a GPA of 3.5 or higher (weighted) and competitive SAT scores of 1400 or higher or ACT scores of 34 or higher. Non-native English speakers must meet proficiency requirements with a TOEFL iBT score of 100+ or an IELTS score of 7.0+. 

Here’s an overview of the general admission criteria for undergraduate applicants:

Requirement	Criteria	Details
Academic Qualifications	Completion of high school with strong academic performance.	Minimum GPA of 3.5 or higher (varies by program).
Standardized Tests	SAT/ACT scores (optional for many programs).	SAT ≥ 1400 or ACT (34-36) usually (varies by program).
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE for non-native English speakers.	TOEFL iBT ≥ 100, IELTS ≥ 7.0, PTE ≥ 68.
Letters of Recommendation	Typically, two or three letters from teachers or mentors are required.	Letters should highlight academic strengths, leadership, and character.
Statement of Purpose	A personal essay explaining your academic and career goals.	Typically, a 1–2 page essay.
Resume/CV	A professional or academic resume, especially for applicants with work experience.	Must include work history, academic achievements, and skills.

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, consider the available scholarships and financial aid that can help support your undergraduate journey at the University of Pennsylvania.

Bachelor's Scholarships at the University of Pennsylvania

Some of the most prominent scholarships include the Penn First Plus program, which covers full tuition and fees for first-generation students with financial need.

Let’s explore other major scholarships for Bachelor’s programs at UPenn.

Scholarship	Eligibility
Penn First Plus	Eligibility: For first-generation college students with demonstrated financial need.  Benefits: Covers full tuition, fees, and additional financial support for living expenses.
Moelis Scholars Program	Eligibility: Awarded to high-achieving students in need of financial aid.  Benefits: Provides full tuition, books, and a stipend for living expenses.
Penn Grant	Eligibility: Available to all traditional undergraduate students with financial need.  Benefits: Provides need-based support for up to eight academic semesters, covering tuition and fees based on demonstrated financial need.
Maguire Scholarship	Eligibility: Awarded to up to five students in each incoming class based on financial eligibility and academic standing. Benefits: Provides last-dollar financial support for up to four years, covering the remaining tuition costs.

These scholarships are designed to help make Bachelor’s programs at Penn accessible to students.

With the undergraduate admission requirements and scholarships covered, let's discuss the support resources to help you succeed throughout your academic journey at Penn.

University of Pennsylvania Student Support Services 

The University of Pennsylvania offers comprehensive support services designed to help you succeed academically, personally, and professionally. Penn is committed to providing resources that assist in academic achievement, mental well-being, career readiness, and social integration. 

With a diverse student body, including over 9,000 international students, Penn’s services ensure that students from all backgrounds receive the guidance and assistance they need to thrive.

Penn’s extensive support systems include career counseling services, academic tutoring, and student accommodation assistance. Below is an overview of the key support components available to all students at Penn:

• Academic Support: Penn offers a variety of academic resources, including writing assistance, math and science tutoring, and peer tutoring. For example, the Weingarten Learning Resources Center provides educational support to help students enhance their academic performance.
• Counseling & Mental Health: Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides individual counseling, group therapy, and stress management workshops. Students can also access wellness programming and telehealth services to support their mental well-being.
• International Student Support: Penn’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) offers specialized services for international students, including orientation programs, advising, and immigration services.
• Career Services: Penn’s Career Services office helps students prepare for their professional futures. Services include resume reviews, internship matching, and job search tools. Career fairs and networking events connect students with employers across industries.
• Housing & Residential Life: Penn’s Residential Services provide students with on-campus housing and help students transition into college life. Residential Advisors (RAs) support students with personal and academic concerns.
• Athletics & Recreation: The Department of Recreation offers various fitness classes, wellness programs, and opportunities to participate in team sports.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Students can engage with sustainability programs through the Penn Sustainability Office, participating in initiatives like recycling and sustainable food systems on campus.

These resources reflect Penn’s dedication to not just academic success but also overall student well-being. Whether you need academic support, career guidance, or mental health resources, Penn ensures you have proper access to the required support.