spark-admissions-logo Free Consultation

University of Pennsylvania

Overview

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania, a prestigious Ivy League institution, is renowned for its unwavering dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and diversity. Nestled in the vibrant city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Penn has served as a landmark of intellectual inquiry since its establishment in 1740. Year after year, the University of Pennsylvania attracts a staggering influx of more than 65,000 applications from ambitious and talented students worldwide. However, with its acceptance rate resting at a highly competitive 7%, securing admission to Penn is a formidable challenge reserved for the most outstanding and promising students. In this overview, we’ll explore the distinctive qualities that distinguish the University of Pennsylvania, from its rigorous academic curriculum and distinguished faculty to its dynamic campus atmosphere and commitment to cultivating a global and inclusive community.

Spark Admissions’ college consulting results are 8X the national average for Ivy League admissions and 6X the national average for many top 50 colleges.

Free Consultation

University of Pennsylvania Academics

The University of Pennsylvania offers an expansive academic terrain, featuring over 90 majors and minors across its four undergraduate schools: the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Wharton School of Business, and the School of Nursing. What sets Penn apart is its commitment to interdisciplinary education, demonstrated through 12 interdisciplinary programs that encourage students to think critically and creatively across traditional disciplinary boundaries. From pioneering research initiatives to hands-on learning experiences, Penn provides students with the tools and resources to tackle real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions to their fields. At Penn, students are encouraged to explore their intellectual passions through the option to create individualized majors, allowing for a tailored educational experience. Finally, Penn’s esteemed faculty members engage students through intimate classroom settings, independent studies, and research endeavors. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, Penn ensures personalized attention and meaningful mentorship opportunities for all its students.

The student/faculty ratio at University of Pennsylvania is 6:1 and 59% of classes have 20 students or fewer.

Undergraduate Colleges at UPenn:

  • The School of Arts and Sciences
  • The School of Engineering and Applied Science
  • The Wharton School of Business
  • The Annenberg School for Communication
  • The School of Nursing

Popular Majors at University of Pennslyvania:

  • Finance
  • Economics
  • Political Science
  • Biological Sciences
  • Nursing
  • Psychology

Notable or Distinct Majors at Penn:

  • Health and Societies
  • Communication
  • Architecture
  • Mathematical Economics
  • Logic, Information, and Computation
  • Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
  • Science, Technology, and Society

Unique Academic Opportunities at Penn:

  • The Huntsman Program in International Studies and Business is a dual degree offered by both the Wharton School and the College of Arts and Sciences.
  • Academically Based Community Service (ABCS) courses bring students and faculty into partnerships with public schools, communities of faith, and community organizations in the surrounding neighborhoods of West Philadelphia.
  • Global Research and Internship Programs(GRIP) and Summer Humanities Internships (SHIP) provide summer opportunities in a range of fields.
  • The Annenberg School offers unique concentrations within Communication.

Penn Admissions

Application Details:

  • Penn does not require standardized test scores from applicants. According to recent reports, the 75th percentile SAT score of an admitted student was 1560, and the 75th percentile composite ACT score was 36.
  • The Common Application is accepted at Penn.
  • A personal statement or personal essay is part of the Common App.
  • Most recently, Penn required supplemental responses to three short-answer and essay questions.
  • Students must submit a counselor recommendation, mid-year report, and school report.
  • First-year applicants must submit two teacher recommendations with their application.

Penn Application Deadlines

Early Decision
Nov 1
Regular Decision
Jan 5
Fall Transfer
Mar 15

Class Profile

University of Pennsylvania Demographics (2023-2024):

  • Asian students: 28%
  • Black students: 8%
  • Hispanic students: 10%
  • White students: 31%
  • International students: 13%
  • First-generation college students: 14%
  • 54% women; 46% men

Life in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, a city steeped in history, culture, and innovation, offers an unparalleled college experience for students seeking a dynamic and enriching environment. Boasting world-class universities and colleges, including the esteemed University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, Philadelphia provides students with access to top-tier academic programs and cutting-edge research opportunities. Beyond the classroom, Philadelphia’s vibrant cityscape offers endless possibilities for exploration and growth.

  • Whether it’s soaking in the iconic skyline from atop the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s “Rocky Steps,” delving into American history at Independence National Historical Park, or simply wandering through the charming streets of Old City, there are endless ways to immerse oneself in the city’s unique character.
  • Philadelphia boasts a plethora of green spaces and parks like Fairmount Park and Rittenhouse Square, offering students a retreat from the bustling city streets. These urban oases provide spaces for relaxation, outdoor activities, and community gatherings, such as picnics, festivals, and outdoor yoga sessions.
  • Sample a variety of delicious food from numerous vendors in the bustling Reading Terminal Market. Don’t forget to try one of Philly’s famous cheesesteaks!
  • Attend a Phillies, Eagles, 76ers, or Flyers game to experience the local sports culture.
  • Catch live music or shows at venues like The Fillmore, Union Transfer, or the Kimmel Center.
  • Spend an art-fueled day exploring the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, and the Franklin Institute.

With its blend of urban energy, historical significance, and academic excellence, Philadelphia offers students a truly immersive and dynamic college experience amid the vibrant tapestry of the East Coast.

Penn Campus Life:

The University of Pennsylvania offers a dynamic and enriching student life that fosters personal and academic growth. With a diverse community of over 10,000 undergraduate students and an additional 11,000 graduate and professional students, Penn’s urban campus buzzes with energy and excitement. From historic buildings steeped in tradition to modern facilities equipped for cutting-edge research, this campus provides a stimulating environment for intellectual exploration and social engagement. From intramural sports to community service projects, Penn offers a plethora of avenues for students to learn, grow, and thrive. With its vibrant campus culture, rich traditions, and inclusive atmosphere, Penn fosters a sense of belonging and empowers students to make a meaningful impact both on campus and beyond.

Penn Social Activities:

  • PennApps: Penn hosts one of the largest student-run hackathons in the world, PennApps, wherein students from across the globe converge to collaborate and innovate on projects spanning software, hardware, and design.
  • Penn Hype: For students passionate about hip-hop and dance, Penn Hype offers a platform to hone their skills and perform at various events, including showcases, competitions, and workshops.
  • Penn Electric Racing: Engineering students interested in electric vehicle design and racing can join Penn Electric Racing, where they work on designing, building, and racing formula-style cars in competitions such as the Formula SAE series.
  • Penn is ranked as the top school in the Ivy League Schools for the number of students who participate in a study abroad program.

University of Pennsylvania Traditions:

  • Skimmer Fest: Skimmer Fest is a tradition unique to Penn’s Greek community. It is a week-long series of events and competitions, including talent shows, lip-sync battles, and philanthropic fundraisers, culminating in the crowning of the “Skimmer Queen” and “Skimmer King.” About one in five students at Penn is involved in Greek life.
  • Penn Relays: The Penn Relays is the oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States and has been hosted by UPenn each year since 1895.
  • Toast Throwing: Quaker fans at Penn demonstrate their school pride through a unique ritual during football games. After the third quarter, everyone sings “Drink a Highball,” a nod to the university’s unofficial cocktail, the Pennsylvanian. More recently, students have begun to literally “raise a toast” by tossing bagels, bread and other breads into the air.

Penn Housing and Dorms:

The University of Pennsylvania offers a variety of campus housing options and requirements for undergraduate students, ensuring a comfortable and enriching living experience.

  • All first-year students are required to live on campus in a College House and participate in a meal plan.
  • Upperclassmen have the option to live in college houses, which are residential communities organized around shared academic interests or themes. Penn also offers apartment-style living for upperclassmen who prefer more independence, with options for both on-campus and off-campus apartments.
  • Specialized housing options include residential programs such as language houses, where students can immerse themselves in a specific language and culture.
  • Students involved in Greek life can choose to live in their fraternity or sorority chapter house.

University of Pennsylvania Cost of Attendance

This estimate takes into account tuition and fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Total tuition costs

$89,028
  • There are multiple opportunities to receive financial aid assistance including grants, work study programs, loans, and outside scholarships.

Get Into University of Pennsylvania with Spark Admissions

If the University of Pennsylvania is your dream school, know that putting in some strategic planning during high school and starting early on college planning can make all the difference. Whether you need help crafting an academic narrative or figuring out how to stand out as a competitive applicant, Spark Admissions is here to help. Our crew of expert college admissions consultants knows the ins and outs of what it takes to get into Penn, and we’re all about helping you make that dream a reality. Connect with us today to schedule a complimentary initial consultation to help make your Penn admission goals a reality!

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Read more about getting into Competitive Colleges