University of Pennsylvania Stats
-
Established
1740
-
Ranked
4 # Best University
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Acceptance Rate
6%
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Average Cost
$8,460.00
Degree Programs
University of Pennsylvania Financial Aid & Scholarships
The University of Pennsylvania is committed to making education accessible and affordable for all students. Penn meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for undergraduate students through a combination of grants and work-study, with an average financial aid package of $54,301. The university operates a need-blind admission policy for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible non-citizens, ensuring that financial circumstances do not impact admission decisions. Penn's financial aid program is entirely grant-based, meaning students are not required to take out loans. Families with incomes less than $65,000 typically receive financial aid packages that cover tuition, fees, room, and board.
Scholarships
Penn offers a variety of scholarships, primarily need-based, to ensure that students from all economic backgrounds can afford a Penn education. The university does not offer merit-based scholarships for undergraduates, focusing instead on need-based aid. However, there are specific scholarships available for students in certain programs or from particular backgrounds, such as the Penn First Plus program for first-generation, low-income students, and the QuestBridge National College Match for high-achieving, low-income students.
To apply for financial aid at the University of Pennsylvania, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. These forms help determine a student's eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid. Additionally, students may need to submit tax returns and other financial documents to verify their family's financial situation. The priority deadline for submitting these forms is typically in early February for incoming first-year students. Penn's financial aid office provides personalized support to help students and families navigate the application process and understand their financial aid packages.
Scholarships available
6
8020 Endowed Scholarship
- Essay required
- Award Amount Varies
Aami Hsea Foundation Health Systems Engineer Scholarship
- Essay required
- Win up to $3,000
4 H Invitational Livestock Judging Contest
- N/A
Aapina Scholarship
- Essay required
- Win up to $500
Aatcc Piedmont Section Scholarship
- Win up to $3,000
Aaaa Scholarship
- Merit based
- Essay required
- Win up to $12,000

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University of Pennsylvania Student Life
The University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia, is home to approximately 25,000 students, with 10,000 undergraduates and 15,000 graduate and professional students. The diverse student body includes individuals from over 100 countries, with international students making up 20% of the population. Known for its rigorous academic programs, the university has a competitive admission rate of around 6%.
Total Students
~ 25
UG Students
40%
PG Students
60%
International Students
~ 20%
UG Students
40%
PG Students
60%
- 6% Acceptance Rate
Student Life & Campus Info
Student Organisations
The University of Pennsylvania offers a vibrant student life with over 450 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. Students can engage in Greek life, participate in community service through the Netter Center for Community Partnerships, and explore a wide range of interests through Penn Clubs.
Sports
Penn Athletics features 33 varsity sports teams and numerous club and intramural sports. The university's athletic facilities include the historic Franklin Field, the Palestra, and the Pottruck Health and Fitness Center, providing students with ample opportunities for physical activity and competition.
Campus facilities
Penn's campus is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center, which houses millions of volumes and offers extensive research resources. The campus also features the Penn Museum, the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, and modern research labs, making it a hub for both academic and extracurricular activities.
University of Pennsylvania Housing
Penn's college house system integrates living and learning, with each house offering unique programs, events, and resources. The houses are equipped with dining facilities, study spaces, and recreational areas, fostering a holistic student experience.
Penn guarantees on-campus housing for all first-year students and sophomores. Upperclassmen have the option to live on campus, but it is not guaranteed. The university encourages students to take advantage of the vibrant residential community.
The University of Pennsylvania offers a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls, suite-style living, and college houses. First-year students are typically housed in one of the college houses, which provide a supportive community environment.
University of Pennsylvania Reviews
"Penn's interdisciplinary focus and Wharton's resources are invaluable. The campus is beautiful, and Philly is a vibrant city."
"The pressure is real, but Penn's pre-professional atmosphere is motivating. Could use more mental health support."
"Loved the tight-knit community within my college house. Balancing academics and social life in Philly is an art."
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FAQs
To get into the University of Pennsylvania, focus on maintaining a strong GPA, achieving high standardized test scores (if applicable), participating in extracurricular activities, and crafting a compelling personal statement. Strong letters of recommendation also play a crucial role.
The University of Pennsylvania's peer institutions include Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, as well as other prestigious universities like Stanford and MIT.
Yes, the University of Pennsylvania has prerequisites that vary by program. It's important to check the specific requirements for the program you are interested in.
Prerequisites at the University of Pennsylvania do not typically have an expiration date, but it's best to confirm with the specific program for any updates or changes.
The University of Pennsylvania is known for its strong emphasis on research, interdisciplinary studies, and its prestigious Wharton School of Business.
The University of Pennsylvania is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The University of Pennsylvania is situated in the University City neighborhood of Philadelphia, which is just west of the Schuylkill River.
Application deadlines vary by program and admission cycle. Please check the official University of Pennsylvania website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Required documents typically include an application form, transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Check the specific program for any additional requirements.
You can check the status of your application by logging into the application portal on the University of Pennsylvania's official website.