University of Pennsylvania Rankings, Tuition Fees & Courses
"Make it happen at UPenn!"
Table of Content
- About the University of Pennsylvania
- The University of Pennsylvania Ranking
- University of Pennsylvania Courses
- University of Pennsylvania Undergraduate Majors
- University of Pennsylvania Graduate Programs
- University of Pennsylvania Certificate Programs
- Schools Under The University of Pennsylvania:
- University of Pennsylvania Tuition Fees
- Why Should You Apply to the University of Pennsylvania?
- Application Process for the University of Pennsylvania
- 1. Choose a Program and School
- 2. Submit the Application
- 3. Documents Required
- 4. Application Deadlines
- University of Pennsylvania Scholarships
- Student Life at the University of Pennsylvania
- Notable Alumni of the University of Pennsylvania
- Student Housing at the University of Pennsylvania
Thinking about UPenn for your next big academic move? You're not alone! The University of Pennsylvania (or Penn, as most people call it) is one of the top Ivy League schools, known for its prestige, academic rigor, and vibrant student life. Whether you’re into business, law, engineering, or medicine, the University of Pennsylvania has it all. Oh, and the Wharton School? It’s literally one of the best business schools in the world. Ready to dive into the University of Pennsylvania? Let’s break it all down.
About the University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League university located in Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States. Its campus size is 299-acre in University City. Founded in 1740, it is one of the oldest colleges in the U.S. The University of Pennsylvania's acceptance rate is 7% with the student-faculty ratio being 6:1. The total no of students enrolled is approximately 28,000, including 10,000 undergraduates and 18,000 graduate & professional students. The University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). UPenn is known for its rigorous academics, Ivy League athletics (NCAA Division I), and research-driven programs in business, law, medicine, engineering, and social sciences.
The University of Pennsylvania Ranking
The University of Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the top universities in the USAand globally. Whether you're aiming for a career in business, healthcare, or academia, Penn's rankings reflect its continued excellence in shaping the future of global education.
| Ranking Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| QS World University Ranking | Top 11 Globally (QS World University Rankings) |
| Times Higher Education World Ranking | Top 14 Globally (THE) |
| National Universities | Top 10 (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Best Colleges for Veterans | Top 15 Nationally (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Best Undergraduate Teaching | Top 20 Nationally (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Best Value Schools | Top 15 Nationally (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Most Innovative Schools | Top 25 Nationally (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Best Law Schools | Top 10 Nationally (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Best Business Schools | Top 1 Nationally (U.S. News & World Report) |
| Green Colleges | Top 50 Nationally (The Princeton Review) |
University of Pennsylvania Courses
UPenn offers a diverse range of programs across its 12 schools, covering undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. The university is particularly renowned for its business, law, medicine, engineering, and liberal arts programs.
University of Pennsylvania Undergraduate Majors
| Course | Duration | Number of Programs | Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBA | 4 years | 19 | $70,000 - $76,000 |
| B.A. | 4 years | 43 | $70,000 - $76,000 |
| B.E. / B.Tech | 4 years | 15 | $70,000 - $76,000 |
| B.Sc. | 4 years | 18 | $70,000 - $74,000 |
| B.Arch | 4 years | 2 | $70,000 |
| BSN | 4 years | 1 | $70,000 |
| B.J.M.C. | 3-4 years | 3 | $70,000 - $74,000 |
Students also have the option to pursue dual-degree and interdisciplinary programs like the Huntsman Program in International Studies and Business, VIPER Program (Dual Degree in Science & Engineering), and the Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology (M&T).
University of Pennsylvania Graduate Programs
The University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia PA offers graduate and professional programs through its various schools:
| Course | Duration | Number of Programs | Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS | 12 months - 6 years | 54 | $25,000 - $100,000 |
| MBA/PGDM | 1-2 years | 6 | $50,000 - $95,000 |
| PG Certificate | 11 months - 4 years | 28 | $20,000 - $80,000 |
| M.A. | 11 months - 2 years | 18 | $40,000 - $80,000 |
| LL.M. | 12 months - 3 years | 6 | $40,000 - $85,000 |
| MPH | 2 years | 1 | $38,000 |
| MD | 4 years | 1 | $80,000 |
| MSN | 12-18 months | 9 | $30,000 - $85,000 |
| M.Arch | 1-3 years | 3 | $60,000 - $68,000 |
| M.Phil | 1-2 years | 5 | $30,000 - $80,000 |
| MFA | 2 years | 1 | $60,000 |
University of Pennsylvania Certificate Programs
For professionals looking to upskill, Penn offers online and on-campus certificate programs in specialized fields also known as University of Pennsylvania online degrees:
Wharton Executive Education Certificates – Finance, Leadership, Marketing, and Business Analytics (On-campus and online).
Engineering Professional Development Certificates – Cybersecurity, Data Science, and AI/Machine Learning (On-campus).
Healthcare and Medical Certificates – Penn Medicine offers certifications in Public Health, Clinical Research, and Healthcare Innovation (On-campus).
Education & Social Sciences Certificates – Instructional Design, Urban Leadership, and Behavioral Health (On-campus and hybrid).
Online Learning through Penn LPS (Liberal and Professional Studies) – Professional certificates in Applied Positive Psychology, Neuroscience, and Organizational Leadership (Fully online).
Schools Under The University of Pennsylvania:
School of Arts & Sciences (SAS)
School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS)
School of Nursing
The Wharton School
Penn Law (Carey Law School)
Perelman School of Medicine
School of Engineering and Applied Science
Graduate School of Education (GSE)
Annenberg School for Communication
School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2)
University of Pennsylvania Tuition Fees
The University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League institution, and its tuition fees vary based on the program and school of enrollment. The average cost before aid is about $89,028 and after aid, it comes to $15,000.
| Category | Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|
| Average Cost Before Aid | $89,028 |
| Average Cost After Aid | $15,000 |
| Undergraduate Tuition | $66,104 per year |
| Graduate Tuition | $41,528 - $87,370 per year |
| Medical & Law School Tuition | $66,034 - $76,166 per year |
| Executive MBA Tuition | $223,500 for 2 years |
| Certificate Programs | $2,500 - $15,000 |
| Health Insurance | ~$4,000 per year |
| Books & Personal Expenses | $3,864 per year |
| Room & Board | $18,496 per year |
Why Should You Apply to the University of Pennsylvania?
The University of Pennsylvania is known for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong industry connections, making it an ideal choice for students looking to build a successful career. With a world-class faculty, global recognition, and a robust alumni network, the University of Pennsylvania equips its graduates with the skills and resources needed to excel in the professional world. Graduates from here often secure positions at top global companies such as Goldman Sachs, Google, Microsoft, Deloitte, JP Morgan Chase, McKinsey & Company, and Amazon, among others. The university’s strong ties to industries such as finance, technology, healthcare, law, and engineering ensure that students are well-prepared for competitive job markets.
| Program | Average Salary (Post-Graduation) | Placement Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Wharton School (MBA) | $150,000+ | 96% |
| School of Engineering (MS) | $100,000+ | 93% |
| Perelman School of Medicine (MD) | $200,000+ | 100% |
| Penn Law (JD) | $180,000+ | 95% |
| School of Nursing (BSN) | $80,000+ | 98% |
| School of Arts & Sciences (BA) | $60,000+ | 90% |
Application Process for the University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania admissions are open for two main intakes: Fall (August) for most undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, and Spring (January) only for graduate programs. Applicants must follow a structured process, whether applying as an undergraduate, graduate, or international student. Below is a step-by-step guide to applying to UPenn.
1. Choose a Program and School
Applicants must apply to one of UPenn’s schools, and International students should confirm whether their program has additional requirements.
2. Submit the Application
Undergraduates – Apply via Common App or Coalition App.
Graduates – Apply through the respective school’s online portal.
International Students – Must apply through the same process but provide additional documents (listed below).
3. Documents Required
High School Transcript (Undergraduates) / Bachelor’s Degree Transcript (Graduates).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional for undergraduates, required for some graduate programs).
Letters of Recommendation – Two teacher recommendations + counselor (Undergraduates), or 2-3 professional/academic letters (Graduates).
Supplemental Essays – Required for all applicants.
Extracurricular Activities List (Undergraduates) – Highlight leadership roles and achievements.
English Proficiency Tests (For International Students) – TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo scores are required if English is not the first language.
Financial Documentation (For International Students) – Must show proof of funds to cover tuition and expenses.
4. Application Deadlines
Early Decision (Undergraduates - Binding) – November 1, 2024
Regular Decision (Undergraduates) – January 5, 2025
Graduate Programs – Vary by department (Typically December - March)
International Students – Follow the same deadlines but should apply early to allow for visa processing.
Undergraduate applicants may be invited for an optional alumni interview, while graduate applicants in business, law, or research-intensive programs may be required to complete an interview as part of the admissions process. Admission decisions are released based on the application cycle, with Early Decision results announced in mid-December and Regular Decision results in late March or early April, while graduate admissions vary by program. Once admitted, students must confirm enrollment and submit a deposit. International students must also apply for an F-1 visa or J-1 visa using the I-20 form provided by UPenn to ensure timely processing for their studies in the United States.
University of Pennsylvania Scholarships
The University of Pennsylvania offers a variety of need-based financial aid and scholarships to help students manage the cost of education. Unlike some universities that offer merit-based scholarships, UPenn focuses primarily on need-based aid to ensure that financial circumstances do not hinder a student’s ability to attend. Here are the key scholarship and financial aid options available at The University of Pennsylvania:
| Scholarship Name | Type (Fully/Partially Funded) | Approximate Amount Offered | Eligibility | Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penn Grant | Fully Funded (Need-Based) | Up to $66,000 per year | Undergraduate students with financial need | All undergraduate programs |
| Named Scholarships | Partially Funded | Ranges from $5,000 to $50,000 per year | Students receiving need-based aid | All undergraduate programs |
| Benjamin Franklin Scholars (BFS) Program | Partially Funded (Academic Enrichment) | Varies; students receive additional grants, stipends, and academic support | High-achieving students with strong leadership and academic excellence | Selective undergraduate programs |
| Mayor’s Scholarship Program | Partially Funded | Up to full tuition and fees | Philadelphia high school students with financial need | All undergraduate programs |
| Military and ROTC Scholarships | Fully/Partially Funded | Covers full tuition, fees, and living stipends (up to $30,000 per year) | Students enrolled in Army, Navy, or Air Force ROTC programs | Undergraduate programs eligible for ROTC |
| Yellow Ribbon Program | Fully Funded (For Veterans) | Covers full tuition and fees beyond GI Bill benefits | Veterans or dependents eligible for GI Bill benefits | All undergraduate and graduate programs |
| International Student Financial Aid | Partially Funded (Need-Based) | Varies, can be up to full tuition based on demonstrated need | International undergraduate students with financial need | All undergraduate programs |
| Penn First Plus Support | Partially Funded | Additional grants and stipends up to $10,000 per year, plus mentorship and academic support | First-generation, low-income students | All undergraduate programs |
The University of Pennsylvania remains committed to making education accessible, ensuring that 46% of undergraduate students receive grant-based financial aid with an average package of around $63,000 per year. For more details, students can check the official website of the University.
Student Life at the University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania offers a lively student experience with a strong focus on academics, extracurricular activities, and social events. With over 450+ student organizations, students engage in everything from cultural clubs and performing arts to entrepreneurship and athletics. Penn’s Spring Fling, the Ivy League’s largest student-run festival, features live concerts, food trucks, and carnival games. Other major events include Hey Day, where juniors celebrate their transition to seniors and Ivy Day, a historic tradition honoring student achievements. The Penn Relays, the oldest and largest track and field competition in the U.S., also brings together students and top athletes.
Greek life, with over 40 fraternities and sororities, plays a significant role in social activities, alongside numerous club sports and intramural leagues. Penn’s Performing Arts Council hosts theater, dance, and music performances throughout the year, while events like PennFest and Skimmer Fest bring students together for campus-wide celebrations. The university also encourages civic engagement through initiatives like the Netter Center for Community Partnerships, connecting students with local volunteer programs. With a packed calendar of events, festivals, and student-led activities, Penn ensures an energetic and well-rounded college experience. When it comes to living in the city, the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia, including areas like Chestnut Hill, Rittenhouse Square, and Society Hill, provide a secure and welcoming environment for students.
Notable Alumni of the University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania has produced some of the most influential figures across various industries, including business, politics, entertainment, and academia. From world-renowned entrepreneurs and U.S. presidents to celebrated artists and scientists, Penn's alumni network is vast and impactful. Here are some of the most notable graduates from the university:
Elon Musk – CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, co-founder of PayPal and OpenAI.
Donald Trump – 45th President of the United States, businessman, and media personality.
Warren Buffett – Legendary investor, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway (attended but did not graduate).
Noam Chomsky – Renowned linguist, philosopher, and political activist.
John Legend – Award-winning musician, EGOT winner.
Elizabeth Banks – Actress, producer, and director known for The Hunger Games and Pitch Perfect.
Andrea Mitchell – Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent for NBC News.
Ivanka Trump – Businesswoman, former Senior Advisor to the President, and author.
William Henry Harrison – 9th President of the United States.
Anil Ambani – Indian businessman, former chairman of Reliance Group.
Student Housing at the University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania offers a range of on-campus options designed to provide comfort, community, and convenience for students. For students seeking off-campus student housing in Pennsylvania, University City and surrounding neighborhoods like Spruce Hill, Powelton Village, and Center City offer a variety of apartments and shared housing options. Amber makes it easier for students to find affordable and secure apartments near campus, offering a range of options tailored to student needs. Some popular off-campus student housing near the University of Pennsylvania include:
521 N 34th St, Philadelphia – A well-connected student-friendly residence near Penn.
University Crossings Drexel, Philadelphia – Modern apartments with excellent amenities close to both Penn and Drexel.
The Eleanor at Walnut, Philadelphia – Comfortable and spacious student living in a prime location.
The Eleanor at Chestnut, Philadelphia – Premium housing option offering top-tier facilities.
The Summit at University City, Philadelphia – Ideal for students looking for modern and well-furnished apartments.
With diverse living options and proximity to campus facilities, Penn students can find accommodations that best suit their needs and lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the University of Pennsylvania an Ivy League?
Yes, the University of Pennsylvania is one of the eight Ivy League schools, known for their academic excellence, prestige, and competitive admissions. The Ivy League includes universities like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, and UPenn is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the U.S. and globally.
What GPA is needed for UPenn?
UPenn has a highly competitive admissions process. While there is no official minimum GPA requirement, successful applicants typically have a GPA of 3.9 to 4.0 (unweighted). The university considers a holistic application review, so strong extracurriculars, test scores, and essays can also impact admission chances.
Is the University of Pennsylvania expensive?
Yes, UPenn is considered an expensive institution, with tuition and fees averaging around $66,000 per year (excluding room, board, and other expenses). However, it offers generous need-based financial aid, and over 45% of students receive financial assistance to help cover costs.
Is UPenn University better than Harvard?
Harvard and UPenn are both top-tier Ivy League universities, but their strengths differ. Harvard University is often ranked higher globally and is known for its law, medicine, and public policy programs, while UPenn is particularly strong in business (Wharton), nursing, and interdisciplinary studies.
Is UPenn a Tier 1 school?
Yes, UPenn is a Tier 1 university, meaning it is among the most prestigious and research-intensive institutions in the U.S. It consistently ranks within the top 10-15 universities globally in various rankings and is known for its strong faculty, rigorous academics, and influential alumni network.