Overview
University of Pennsylvania is a extremely selective private four-year institution in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The school accepts 6.5% of applicants and enrolls 10,768 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 6.5%
- Average SAT
- 1,535
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,500–1,570
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 35
- Total Enrollment
- 10,768
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Penn operates under a "One University" policy, meaning you can take courses across all four undergraduate schools without restrictions. This cross-school flexibility should feature prominently in your "Why Penn" essay, but avoid generic statements about interdisciplinary learning. Instead, name specific courses from different schools that align with your academic goals.
The admissions office wants to see your fit with Penn's pre-professional culture. Unlike peer institutions that emphasize pure academic exploration, Penn students typically arrive with clear career trajectories. Your essays should connect your interests to specific Penn resources like the Huntsman Program for international business, the Jerome Fisher Program combining business and engineering, or Wharton's extensive alumni network in finance.
Don't write about Philadelphia's history or cheesesteaks in your supplemental essays. Penn readers see these clichés repeatedly. Focus instead on Penn-specific opportunities like the Penn Museum's archaeological collections, the Kelly Writers House literary community, or research opportunities at the Perelman School of Medicine.
Penn offers both Early Decision and Regular Decision, with ED providing a significant advantage. The binding nature of ED should align with genuine commitment to Penn's culture, not just strategic positioning. Your ED application must demonstrate specific knowledge of Penn traditions like Spring Fling, Hey Day, or the Button.
Apply directly to one of Penn's four undergraduate schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, Wharton, Engineering, or Nursing. Each school has distinct admission criteria and culture. Wharton applicants face the most competition and should highlight quantitative achievements and business experience. Engineering applicants need strong STEM backgrounds and should reference specific faculty research or labs.
Your essays should reflect Penn's practical approach to education. While other Ivies might appreciate theoretical discussions, Penn wants to see how you'll apply knowledge in real-world contexts. Reference specific programs like the Weiss Tech House for entrepreneurship or the Penn Social Impact House for social change initiatives.
Avoid portraying Penn as your backup Ivy. The admissions office can detect when applicants view Penn as less strong than Harvard or Yale. Your application should convey genuine enthusiasm for Penn's unique blend of academic rigor and pre-professional focus.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $31,229/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $66,104
- Students Receiving Aid
- 16%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 96.8%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $111,371/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 98.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Pennsylvania offer early decision or early action?
University of Pennsylvania offers Early Decision, which is binding. The Early Decision deadline is typically November 1st.
Is University of Pennsylvania test-optional for admissions?
University of Pennsylvania requires either SAT or ACT scores for admission. The school does not have a test-optional policy.
Can you transfer to University of Pennsylvania as a sophomore?
University of Pennsylvania accepts transfer students for sophomore and junior year entry. Transfer applications are typically due in March for fall admission.
What are the application deadlines for University of Pennsylvania?
University of Pennsylvania has an Early Decision deadline of November 1st and a Regular Decision deadline of January 5th. All application materials must be submitted by these dates.