Douglas Olsen
The University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia, offers a wide range of graduate programs for prospective PhD students. With over 300 degree and certificate programs, the university emphasizes the integration of knowledge across disciplines. The university is known for its research capabilities, receiving top competitive research grants in the US, and offers a variety of resources and support services for graduate students. The application process for PhD programs at Penn typically requires the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and international students can seek help from the International Student and Scholar Services for matters related to immigration, employment, and cultural adjustment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | University City, Philadelphia |
| Number of Graduate and Professional Students | 16,000+ |
| Number of Degree and Certificate Offerings | 300+ |
| Number of Research Centers and Institutes | 170+ |
| Application Materials | Letters of Recommendation, Application Fee |
| Required Tests | Graduate Record Examination (GRE) |
| Example Fields of Study | Accounting, Women's Health, Africana Studies, Anthropology, Applied Economics, Architecture |
What You'll Learn
Application process
The University of Pennsylvania, located in the University City section of Philadelphia, offers a variety of PhD programs across different fields. The application process for PhD programs at the University of Pennsylvania involves several components, each playing a crucial role in evaluating candidates' suitability for their chosen program. Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process:
Step 1: Choose Your PhD Program
The University of Pennsylvania offers a wide range of PhD programs across various disciplines. The University's School of Arts and Sciences, for instance, provides PhD opportunities in fields like Anthropology, Applied Mathematics, Africana Studies, and Art and Archaeology. Meanwhile, the Wharton School offers a PhD in Applied Economics, and the Stuart Weitzman School of Design confers a PhD in Architecture. Identify your field of interest and explore the specific PhD programs offered by the University that align with your academic and research goals.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements and Deadlines
Each graduate program at the University of Pennsylvania has its own unique admissions process and requirements. It is essential to carefully review the specific admission criteria and deadlines for your chosen PhD program. This includes understanding the academic prerequisites, such as any required standardized tests (e.g., the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)), letters of recommendation, and application essays or statements of purpose. International applicants should also refer to the Penn State Global website for additional information and requirements.
Step 3: Gather Application Materials
Start gathering all the required application materials, including transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and any other supporting documents. For letters of recommendation, the University of Pennsylvania strongly prefers online submissions through their admissions system. However, if your recommender is unable to submit a letter online, you can download and complete the "Recommendation Form PDF" and ensure it is sent to the appropriate admissions office address. Remember to retain a personal copy of your application, as all application materials become the property of the University and will not be returned.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Complete the University of Pennsylvania's graduate application process, which typically involves submitting the application form, paying the application fee, and providing all the required supporting documents. International applicants are encouraged to submit their materials at least four months before the beginning of the semester for which they are applying. It is advisable to submit your application as early as possible, as each graduate program has its own application deadlines, and late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Step 5: Await Admissions Decision
After submitting your application, the University will review your materials and make admissions decisions based on the specific criteria of your chosen PhD program. The University of Pennsylvania is committed to admitting graduate student cohorts composed of outstanding individuals who demonstrate the resilience and aptitude to succeed in their academic pursuits.
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Housing
On-Campus Housing
Historically, the University of Pennsylvania provided on-campus housing for graduate students in two buildings: Sansom Place East and Sansom Place West. However, as of the end of the 2022-2023 academic year, the university has decided to eliminate on-campus housing for graduate students, making it the only Ivy League university to do so. This change has prompted criticism from student groups such as the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GAPSA), who advocate for affordable and high-quality university-owned housing.
Off-Campus Housing
For those seeking off-campus housing, there are numerous options available in the surrounding neighbourhoods of Philadelphia. The University City neighbourhood, located in West Philadelphia, is a popular choice for students due to its proximity to campus. University City Housing rents out over 80 properties in the area, including studio apartments and one to four-bedroom apartments. Rental rates in this area are generally affordable, with prices starting at $550 per month per bedroom.
Other options for off-campus housing include Campus Apartments, which manages a variety of properties, from apartments to townhomes. Universal Realty is another option, offering one to three-bedroom apartments with modern amenities and 24-hour security. The Axis and Chestnut Hall are also popular choices for students, with The Axis providing a more affordable option for those who don't require a kitchen, and Chestnut Hall offering pet-friendly accommodations.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Spruce Hill neighbourhood is located next to University City and tends to be more affordable. Additionally, Philadelphia offers an eclectic mix of affordable housing options, including historic townhouses and converted lofts in neighbourhoods such as Old City, Queen Village, Northern Liberties, Bella Vista, Society Hill, and Fairmount.
It is recommended to start your search for housing as early as possible, with six months in advance being the ideal timeframe. Websites like Amber provide a simplified process for comparing thousands of housing options, ranging from budget-friendly rooms to luxurious apartments, ensuring you can find a stay that fits your needs and budget.
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Research opportunities
The University of Pennsylvania offers a plethora of research opportunities for prospective PhD students, providing an environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and cutting-edge investigations.
Research Institutes and Centers
Penn is home to numerous research institutes and centers that serve as hubs for interdisciplinary research and collaboration across various fields. These institutes offer PhD students the chance to engage with renowned scholars and work on groundbreaking projects. Examples include the
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Funding and scholarships
The University of Pennsylvania offers various funding opportunities and scholarships for PhD students. The specific funding and scholarship options available to you will depend on your individual circumstances, such as your financial need, academic merit, and field of study. Here is an overview of the funding and scholarship options for PhD students at the University of Pennsylvania:
University Funding and Scholarships
The University of Pennsylvania provides financial aid packages to cover 100% of the demonstrated financial need of its students. This aid can come in the form of grants, work-study jobs, and loans. Penn GSE also offers various scholarship and fellowship opportunities to doctoral students to help offset tuition costs. Additionally, the university offers the Graduate Emergency Fund, which provides grants to assist currently enrolled graduate and professional students with unexpected financial needs and one-time expenses.
External Scholarships
There are numerous external scholarship opportunities available for PhD students at the University of Pennsylvania. These include international scholarships, such as the Islamic Scholarship Fund for Muslim US nationals and the Higher Education Scholarship Test for Indian students. Additionally, there are external scholarships offered by organizations dedicated to helping students become leaders in education.
Federal Financial Aid
Federal financial aid is also an option for PhD students at the University of Pennsylvania. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG) and Pell Grants are available for students with financial need as determined by their FAFSA applications. Additionally, students can explore government-sponsored programs such as Direct Loans, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and Work-Study opportunities.
State Grants
State grants, such as the Vermont Grant, are also available for eligible students. However, it is important to note that the University Grant will not be available to replace state grant funds if the application deadline is missed.
It is recommended to review the specific funding and scholarship opportunities offered by the University of Pennsylvania that align with your individual circumstances and field of study. The university provides resources and support to help students navigate the financial aid process and explore external funding sources.
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International student support
The University of Pennsylvania offers a range of support services for international students pursuing a PhD. The university is located in the University City section of Philadelphia and most students live in University City or the adjacent Center City neighbourhoods.
International Student and Scholar Services
The division of International Student and Scholar Services provides help, advice, and information on matters related to immigration, employment, adjusting to a new culture, and living in Philadelphia.
International Guest Student Program (IGSP)
The International Guest Student Program (IGSP) is designed for international undergraduate students who want to pursue for-credit coursework at the University of Pennsylvania. The program offers support to enhance academic records, build credentials for graduate study, or refine language and cross-cultural communication skills. Advisors help students select appropriate courses based on their language proficiency, academic background, schedule, and interests.
Financial Aid
International students interested in financial aid must apply for it at the same time as they apply for admission. The University provides over $10 million each year in financial aid to non-US citizens or permanent residents in the form of grant funds and work-study. International students are generally not eligible for federal funding. Those interested in pursuing a loan should speak to a financial aid counsellor and will likely need to identify a US co-signer.
Housing
The University's Office of Off-Campus Services assists students with finding housing in Philadelphia and related matters such as leases, landlords, and utilities. The Graduate Student Center's Resources for New Grad Students includes a section on Moving to Philadelphia, covering transportation, parking, and dining.
Graduate Student Center
The Graduate Student Center is a central space for graduate and professional students to connect and access a variety of services and resources. It provides support for graduate student life, research, career advancement, and work-life balance across campus.
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Frequently asked questions
The University of Pennsylvania offers a wide range of PhD programs, including Anthropology, Africana Studies, Applied Economics, Applied Geosciences, Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, and many more.
Most PhD programs at the University of Pennsylvania require applicants to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Additionally, international students should refer to Penn State Global for specific requirements and support.
It is recommended to submit your application materials as early as possible, as each graduate program has its own application deadlines. International applicants are encouraged to submit their applications at least four months before the start of the semester.
In addition to the online application and application fee, you may need letters of recommendation. While online submissions are preferred, offline recommendations can be submitted by downloading the "Recommendation Form PDF" and completing the first section, including the address of the appropriate admissions office.
The University of Pennsylvania offers a range of resources to support graduate students, including the Graduate Student Center, which provides services and resources for graduate and professional students to fully participate in the graduate community. The university also assists with housing, offering sessions on finding housing in Philadelphia and related information.
