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University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) Acceptance Rates 2024

University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) Acceptance Rates 2024

15 min Read|October 23 2024
|Written by:

Vicky Liu

Contents

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), an Ivy League institution located in Philadelphia, is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to interdisciplinary education. Every year, thousands of students from across the globe apply to UPenn, drawn by its prestigious reputation, strong emphasis on research, and vibrant campus life. Admission to UPenn is highly selective, with applicants evaluated on a holistic basis, considering not only academic achievement but also personal qualities, extracurricular involvement, and leadership potential.

Overall Acceptance Rate

In 2024, UPenn received a vast number of applications, cementing its status as one of the most sought-after universities in the world.

  • Total Applicants: 65,236
  • Total Admitted: 2,396
  • Overall Acceptance Rate: 3.67%
Admission Rate - Class of 2028

Source: UPenn Admission Statistics

This 3.67% overall acceptance rate, with 2,396 students admitted, reflects the university’s ongoing competitiveness and puts it on the same tier as other Ivy League schools. While the applicant pool has grown larger each year, the number of admissions slots has remained relatively static, leading to a continual decline in the overall acceptance rate. In comparison, UPenn’s acceptance rate was 7.4% a decade ago, illustrating just how much more selective the process has become.

Factors Influencing the Overall Acceptance Rate

Several key factors contribute to the shrinking acceptance rate:

  • Increased Global Recognition: UPenn’s reputation continues to grow, attracting applicants from all over the world. Its renowned Wharton School, cutting-edge research opportunities, and interdisciplinary programs have expanded its applicant pool.
  • Test-Optional Policy: Since the pandemic, UPenn, like many universities, adopted a test-optional policy. This move has allowed students who may have been hesitant to apply due to lower standardized test scores, including ACT scores, to do so without fear of disadvantage, thus increasing the number of applicants.
  • Holistic Review Process: While academic excellence remains critical, UPenn values the holistic review of applicants, considering extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and personal essays. This approach gives students from various backgrounds the chance to shine.

Admission Requirements for UPenn

UPenn’s admissions process is holistic, meaning they consider a variety of factors beyond academics to identify well-rounded students. Here are the key requirements for undergraduate admissions:

  1. Academic Excellence: A strong high school transcript is essential, with most admitted students ranking in the top 10% of their class. Advanced coursework (AP, IB, or honors) is highly valued, particularly in subjects related to the applicant’s intended major​.
  2. Standardized Testing (Optional): UPenn follows a test-optional policy. Applicants may submit SAT or ACT scores, but those who don’t will not be at a disadvantage​. Nonetheless, those who do submit their scores tend to be in the range of 1500 to 1600 for SAT and 35-36 for ACT. Students are advised to seek out SAT tutors or ACT Tutors if they would like to improve their performance.
  3. Extracurricular Activities: UPenn looks for leadership, commitment, and involvement in activities like community service, athletics, and research, with a focus on sustained engagement.
  4. Letters of Recommendation: Two teacher recommendations are required, emphasizing the applicant’s intellectual curiosity and potential for success.
  5. Personal Essays: Applicants must submit a Common Application or Coalition Application essay, plus UPenn-specific supplemental essays that highlight their fit with the university’s programs and values. When in doubt, students are strongly encouraged to find assistance from Personal Statement Tutors.
  6. Holistic Review: UPenn considers the applicant’s background, socioeconomic status, and access to resources, ensuring a diverse and inclusive student body. For international students who need extra help navigating the whole process, US College Admission Tutors is the place to go.

This comprehensive evaluation allows UPenn to admit students who excel academically while contributing to the broader campus community​

SAT & ACT Score Ranges - Class of 2028

Source: UPenn Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rates by Subject

UPenn offers a broad spectrum of academic programs across its four undergraduate schools, each with varying levels of competition. Admission rates by subject area reflect the popularity and demand of these programs.

Subject AreaAcceptance Rate (%)
Wharton School (Business)6%
College of Arts & Sciences7%
School of Engineering8%
Nursing School9%

Source: UPenn Admission Statistics

  • Wharton School: As the flagship business program, Wharton consistently draws a highly competitive pool of applicants. With its focus on producing global business leaders, Wharton is one of the most selective programs at UPenn.
  • College of Arts & Sciences: The broad nature of this college makes it popular, but the diversity of majors within allows for slightly more flexibility in acceptance rates compared to Wharton.
  • School of Engineering: Applicants with a strong background in STEM subjects are attracted to UPenn’s top-tier engineering programs, contributing to a high level of competition.
  • Nursing School: While the Nursing School faces a slightly less competitive admissions process, its focus on producing healthcare professionals with a blend of clinical and research expertise keeps its standards high.

Given the intense competition over academic performance for a place at these schools, students are encouraged to maximise their academic scores by seeking academic support from the Best Tutoring Companies in the USA.

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Acceptance Rates by Ethnicity

UPenn has long been dedicated to building a diverse student body, with efforts to ensure representation from a variety of racial and ethnic groups. However, the 2024 admission cycle took place against the backdrop of the recent Supreme Court ruling banning affirmative action, which has had a significant impact on how race and ethnicity factor into admissions.

Ethnicity Profile - Class of 2028

Source: UPenn Admission Statistics

The Impact of the Supreme Court's Affirmative Action Decision

In 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that affirmative action policies that consider race in college admissions were unconstitutional. This landmark decision forced institutions like UPenn to reevaluate their approach to maintaining diversity without explicitly considering race in admissions decisions.

UPenn, like many universities, responded by increasing its reliance on other factors, such as:

  • Socioeconomic Status: Students from low-income families and first-generation college students have received increased focus. In this cycle, 21% of admitted students received Pell Grants, and 19% were the first in their families to attend college.
  • Personal Essays: The use of personal essays has become even more critical, giving students the opportunity to discuss their unique backgrounds and experiences without directly referencing race.
  • Geographic and School Context: Admissions offices are giving more weight to students from underrepresented regions or underfunded high schools, ensuring diversity through different lenses.

While the ban on affirmative action may have reshaped how universities approach diversity, UPenn remains committed to enrolling students from a wide range of backgrounds, as evidenced by the variety of ethnicities represented in the Class of 2028.

Ethnic Profile Stats - Class of 2028

Source: UPenn Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rates by Gender

UPenn continues to maintain a relatively balanced gender ratio in its student body, though specific programs sometimes reflect gender imbalances.

  • Male Students: 46%
  • Female Students: 53%
  • Non-binary, transgender and/or gender-questioning: 1%
Gender Profile Stats - Class of 2028

Source: UPenn Admission Statistics

While the overall gender balance is close to equal, certain departments see more skewed distributions:

  • Engineering: Male students make up the majority, consistent with national trends in STEM fields.
  • Nursing: Female students continue to dominate this field, though efforts to encourage more male applicants are ongoing.

UPenn’s commitment to gender equality is reflected not only in its admissions but also in its programming and support structures, designed to foster an inclusive environment for all students.

Acceptance Rates for International Students

UPenn is an international hub, attracting applicants from all corners of the globe. Many international students come from IB schools and they would often choose IB Tutors in the US for academic support. However, the Pennsylvania acceptance rate for international students remains lower than for domestic applicants due to the limited number of available spots and high competition.

  • Percentage of International Students in Admitted Class: 15%
  • Countries Represented: 92, with the largest contingents coming from China, India, South Korea, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

International students bring a global perspective to the UPenn community and help enrich the cultural diversity of the US Education System, an additional benefit of admitting international students from the university's perspective. However, the competition is fierce, as students from abroad often boast impressive academic records and extracurricular achievements. The admissions office evaluates international applicants with the same holistic review process but must balance the proportion of international students in each incoming class.

Financial Aid for International Students

Unlike some U.S. universities, UPenn offers need-based financial aid to international students. This policy ensures that talented students from all financial backgrounds can access the university, though the number of spots remains limited.

Socioeconomic Background and Acceptance Rates

Socioeconomic diversity is a core value at UPenn, and the university has taken significant steps to make its education accessible to students from all backgrounds. In 2024, the socioeconomic profile of the accepted students underscores UPenn’s commitment to affordability and inclusion.

  • First-Generation College Students: 18%
  • Pell Grant Recipients: 22%
  • Average Financial Aid Award: $60,000 per year
  • Students with Family Contribution Under $10,000: 40%

The Role of Financial Aid

UPenn’s need-blind admissions process for U.S. students ensures that financial need does not impact admissions decisions. The university also offers generous financial aid packages, making it possible for students from a wide range of financial backgrounds to attend. In 2024, more than half of the incoming class received some form of financial aid, and students with lower family contributions are particularly well represented.

Ivy League Comparison

As an Ivy League school, UPenn is often compared to other top institutions in the league. While each school has its unique strengths and weaknesses, UPenn stands out for its strong programs in business, engineering, and the arts. The table below provides a brief comparison of Ivy League admissions statistics for the Class of 2028:

UniversityAcceptance Rate
Harvard3.6%
UPenn3.67%
Yale3.7%
Columbia3.9%
Princeton4.62%

This comparison illustrates the competitive nature of Ivy League admissions, with UPenn maintaining a strong position among its peers. The university’s slightly higher acceptance rate compared to some other Ivy League schools reflects its broad appeal and the diverse range of programs it offers. For more on the acceptance rate of the rest of the universities, check out Harvard University Acceptance Rates, Yale University Acceptance Rates, Columbia University Acceptance Rates 2024 and Princeton University Acceptance Rates.

Factors Affecting Future Acceptance Trends

Several ongoing trends are likely to influence acceptance rates at UPenn in the coming years:

  • Test-Optional Policy: The continuation of the test-optional policy will likely keep application numbers high. However, as students adjust to this policy, the role of standardized testing may evolve, especially as admissions officers adapt to evaluating applicants without these scores.
  • Holistic Review: UPenn’s commitment to holistic review is likely to deepen as the university seeks to evaluate the full spectrum of applicants’ potential, especially in the post-affirmative action landscape.
  • Diversity Initiatives: UPenn will continue to explore new ways to foster diversity, particularly in light of the Supreme Court decision. Programs targeting underrepresented high schools, partnerships with community organizations, and targeted financial aid initiatives will play a crucial role.

Conclusion

The University of Pennsylvania’s 2024 acceptance rates reflect a highly competitive admissions process shaped by multiple factors, from program-specific demand to recent legal rulings on race-conscious admissions. As UPenn continues to adapt to these challenges, it remains committed to assembling a diverse and academically outstanding student body. For future applicants, the key to success lies in presenting a holistic, well-rounded application that demonstrates both academic excellence and personal growth. With its ongoing commitment to financial aid and inclusive recruitment strategies, UPenn will continue to attract a wide range of talented students from across the globe.

FAQ

Does UPenn consider legacy status in admissions?

Yes, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) does consider legacy status as part of its admissions process. Legacy applicants, typically defined as students who have a parent or grandparent who graduated from UPenn, may receive a slight advantage during the holistic review process. However, it is important to note that legacy status alone does not guarantee admission. These applicants are still expected to meet the high academic and extracurricular standards set for all prospective students.

What's the most important factor in UPenn's admissions decision?

The most important factor in UPenn's admissions decision is academic excellence. UPenn places significant emphasis on a student's high school academic record, including their GPA, the rigor of their coursework (such as AP, IB, or honors classes), and their class rank if available. Admissions officers look for students who have demonstrated strong performance across subjects, particularly in challenging courses relevant to their intended major.

While academics are the foundation of the admissions process, UPenn uses a holistic review approach. This means that, beyond academics, factors like extracurricular activities, leadership roles, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and a student’s overall fit with the university’s values are also considered. However, academic achievement remains the most critical component for gaining admission to UPenn.

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Vicky Liu

Written by: Vicky Liu

University College London - LLM Law

Vicky has an undergraduate degree from The University of Hong Kong and a Masters from University College London, and has a background in legal and educational writing.

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