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University of Pennsylvania Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See University of Pennsylvania reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending University of Pennsylvania. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free University of Pennsylvania reviews, or contribute your own University of Pennsylvania review if you're a current student there.

  • 42 out of 44 people found this review useful.

    Katherine from Murrieta, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am enjoying being here

    I think it's the perfect school for me.
    Bang for the buck

    No one really knows until they graduate, right?
    Tips for prospective students

    You will meet many a variety of students and many of whom are just like you. It is a gorgeous campus with incredible and talented people. We're located in diverse Philadelphia; it is easy to go to historic Philly where you will find the Liberty Bell and much more! This is an urban campus with historic buildings to provide the comforts of home wherever you are from. Penn has the best undergraduate business school in the world, the Wharton School of Business. You dive into core classes your first year (no matter what specific school you're in at Penn-Nursing, Engineering, Arts and Science, or Business) and it's an opportunity seldom schools can boast.
    Great for these types of students

    Those who balance their academic and social life. Penn is also called The Social Ivy as it is the Ivy League that has the most lively campus while being academically elite as well. This doesn't mean that you have to go party everyday and every weekend, but we do know how to have fun, so if you feel like getting away from the books a night, there's always something for you to do. We know how to have fun, but we also know that we're there to get the best education possible. The libraries are always filled and there are many places to study, including in your own dorm building so you don't even have to leave your dorm!

  • 36 out of 37 people found this review useful.

    Christina from Elgin, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Penn's coursework is challenging, but I feel like you leave class every day exhilarated and excited to go back. The professors are really a huge part of that so I would check with students who already attend to make sure you snag the best ones. The history, language, and business classes have been my favorites and I have developed so many new interests and passions through these classes.
    Am enjoying being here

    I always wanted to attend a city school so Penn is perfect for me. Be careful though because Penn really is in the heart of West Philadelphia. It still feels like a campus, but it is a city school. The diversity is what I really fell for. There are students from all around the country and the world and Penn embraces and enhances this diversity.
    Bang for the buck

    I know that many students feel like Ivy league schools are too expensive and that you are only paying for the name, but Penn has the resources to get students excellent jobs after college. Besides that the learning environment, faculty, and students are worth it. In the end, I think it balances out.
    Tips for prospective students

    Penn and college in general is an adjustment. I had to get used to pacing out my coursework and figuring out how to study for classes where a midterm and a final are your grades! (Yeah it is scary). My tips would be to not over schedule yourself your first semester. You are going to want to get involved in a lot on campus and in your dorm, so try and take a lighter load. Also don't be afraid to talk to your professors. They are great about offering extra help and resources or just chatting about their research. Use the office hours they provide. Lastly, make sure to remember that college is a time to try new things. Don't be afraid to join a dance group or volunteer at a homeless shelter. Explore the world around you.
    Great for these types of students

    This school is great for outgoing students who know when to party and when to buckle down and study. You need to like living in a city and being around a diverse group of people. Penn really loves students who are passionate so show that on your application and in whatever you get involved in at Penn.

  • 12 out of 12 people found this review useful.

    Joseph from Highland Hts., OH

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League school, and is thus held too the highest standard in all academic areas. While Penn is known primarily for it's number one ranked business school, I can vouch for the legitimacy of the Engineering school. Every single class here is rigorous. As a result, a degree earned from the University of Pennsylvania, regardless of which school, carries a lot of weight in the professional world.
    Am enjoying being here

    The atmosphere here is unique. Sunday through Thursday, everybody--and I mean everybody--works hard. The libraries are full, people are studying over meals, and there are Facebook events for study sessions. But Thursday night through Saturday night, everybody releases their stress and anxiety. Penn students know when to buckle down, and the atmosphere itself is academically stimulating. But even Michael Phelps needs to take a breath during a race, and Penn students make the most of weekends to catch their breath, hang out with friends, and get the college experience.
    Bang for the buck

    After tuition, room and board, meal plan, and books, you're looking at $55,000 a year. And that's only going up. For a school that gives no merit scholarships and can only afford to aid the most desperate students, most people pay full price. While many top notch schools are comparably priced, I can't imagine how any education can be worth over $200,000. That being said, Penn's returns are better than anyone else's.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit campus. Penn was bottom of the list for me, barely even a consideration. On my way to spend two days at Duke, I felt obliged to stop and spend half a day at Penn. I won't bore you with the details, but let's just say that I'm sitting in a dorm at Penn right now with no regrets.
    Great for these types of students

    The typical student here tends to be farely polarized: incredible work ethic and party animal. While Penn is ideal for anyone of this personality complexion, it isn't mandatory. I certainly didn't fit this mold--though I'm slowly being converted--and many of my friends don't either. Nonetheless, do not apply here if you aren't prepared to work hard and pull plenty of all-nighters.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Kate from Cleveland, OH

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    While I've had some professors of intro level classes that I've really disliked, I've also had a lot more whom I've loved. Some professors are only there because they have done amazing research, so they may not be good at communicating that to students. However, the majority of my professors have been amazing lecturers and mentors, and I definitely am learning a lot. There are so many resources beyond professors, in tutoring centers, help sessions, writing reviews, TAs, and office hours, just to name a few.
    Am enjoying being here

    I honestly love being at Penn. It's been a great couple of years so far, and I know it will only get better. Even though everyone works hard in school, most people aren't working all the time and definitely find time to have fun. There is always so much going on, both on campus and off campus. The proximity to Center City makes going to any event or venue in the city really easy. I've met so many different kinds of people; there really is a place for everyone.
    Bang for the buck

    Penn is really expensive, and sometimes it is hard to see where the money really goes on a day-to-day basis. I have siblings or friends at other schools that tell me certain services that they receive as part of their tuition, but at Penn, it seems like we pretty much have to pay for everything. That being said, there are amazing resources that our tuition money goes to - library databases, an amazing gym, the new Penn Park, etc. Also, Penn is pretty generous with financial aid. The most significant return is probably from networking - between professors, peers, and those extended networks, you meet a lot of people that could definitely help you get to where you want to be post-college.
    Tips for prospective students

    Come willing to try a lot of new things! There are so many sports, clubs, and activities to try available; keep an open mind to trying a new one!
    Great for these types of students

    motivated, well-rounded, involved

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Britney from Lake Worth, FL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I'm not going to lie. Penn is pretty rigorous and you can't afford to slack off to much. But, I am learning so much! I have never worked so hard in my life and I have never been rewarded so much. I definitely have a future because of Penn.
    Am enjoying being here

    I did not know anyone else here. I was all alone at first and I was terrified here. But, everyone is so nice and kind! There is a reason why Penn is known as the Social Ivy. It's not difficult to make friends or to keep friends. I have a strong community here and I have a lot of support.

    There are also many great opportunities and events here. For example, just two days ago, I attended an event where America Ferrara was the keynote speaker and I talked with her and got a picture with her! Since I have come to Penn, I have seen three Broadway shows and I have had several new experiences.
    Bang for the buck

    Penn is definitely an expensive school but I believe that it is worth every penny. I know I am going to have a successful future because of Penn. I have an infinite amount of opportunities here and the long run I'm going to pay it all off and live without any financial worries.
    Tips for prospective students

    Study. I can't emphasize that anymore. In high school, you may be able to get away with not studying (I did), but you can't at Penn or anywhere else. Work hard and you will be awarded. However, don't forget to have fun! Penn has a great greek life and there are several parties or other events that are just as fun.
    Great for these types of students

    I personally think Penn is great for any type of student. No matter your race, gender, and/or sexual preference, you will be accepted at Penn. Penn is also good for those students who like to party but then get down to work during the week and just for those students who only like to study.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Nathalie from Miami, FL

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I am so excited to become a part of Penn's Making History campaign to promote endeavors among its students! The opportunities created are truly endless!
    Will enjoy being here

    I am beyond ecstatic to be attending! It is a dream come true and I have heard so many accounts about the great, positive, and joyful atmosphere of Penn's campus. An urban setting definitely fits this Miami girl, except the weather might not be so dandy.
    Bang for the buck

    As an Ivy League and a private institution, one can already expect a hefty bill at the end of every semester. Fortunately, Penn provides so many financial aid opportunities. I was offered $42,800 out of approximately $55,000. I am paying the price of a public university to attend a top-notch Ivy League institution!

  • 3 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Nicole from IN

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    The campus is right in the middle of the city so you can go to lots of corner cafes and restaurants.
    Bang for the buck

    They do not offer loans so if FAFSA says you only have to pay $50 dollars they will help you with the rest in work-studies and grants!

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Matt from CA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    It's an Ivy League school. Education should be tough notch, as academics are taken very seriously.
    Will enjoy being here

    Very exciting culture, and known as the social ivy, so they like having fun. At the same time though, there will be a lot of work, and you'll be in a very cold place, especially if you're coming from CA.
    Bang for the buck

    Unless you get substantial financial aid (which is quite possible), you'll be paying the sticker price of $57k+. Which is quite a lot of money. Penn doesn't offer any merit or athletic scholarships either, so don't count on that no matter how smart or athletic you are.
    That being said, Penn students (especially Wharton) come out of school with great jobs and make the big bucks, so taking on a little debt is manageable.
    Tips for prospective students

    Study for the SAT and make sure you take the most difficult classes in HS, and then do well in them. If you're going into Wharton, you need to have taken Calculus and done well on the Math 2 Subject test. Show that you're interested in business, and can bring something to the community to make it better.
    Great for these types of students

    Business students
    Kids that want an Ivy League education but also a social 4 years.
    Independent-not too much hand holding here.
    Students wanting to be in the city but still want a campus

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Emanuel from Pasadena, CA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I've learned a lot from visiting campus and attending the seminars. I can't wait to be fully immersed in the curriculum!
    Will enjoy being here

    I'm looking forward to the vibe on campus, which is one of the reasons I decided on coming to Penn. Spring Fling sounds like a blast even though it is quite a ways from now. I also plan to be involved around campus as much as possible.
    Bang for the buck

    Great education even though its a bit pricey. They try to help you out, but it will be kind of expensive. Well it was for me.
    Tips for prospective students

    Do your research and visit the campus if you can. Talk to some current students. It helps.
    Great for these types of students

    Outgoing and ready to live in Philadelphia.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Madeline Overmoyer from New Oxford, PA

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Like any Ivy League school, it's best to get all you can out of your high school education. Make sure to take rigorous courses, and gain leadership positions in things you love. Penn looks favorably upon those with passion.

  • 0 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Takara from Los Angeles, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Ambitious students who plan to enjoy career success upon graduation

  • 11 out of 37 people found this review useful. 3 people found this inaccurate.

    Miranda from Titusville, PA

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA is the #1 school in the world for doctors and veternarians.

    Bang for the buck

    It was founded by Benjamin Franklin!

    Great for these types of students

    Students interested in Medicine.

  • 3 out of 42 people found this review useful. 1 person found it offensive. 5 people found this inaccurate.

    Mahjeed from Mather, CA

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    go see
    Great for these types of students

    academically inclined

  • Mengzhou from Stoneham, MA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Penn is everything you expect and didn't expect from an Ivy League university. You'll find plenty of interesting courses to take, people to meet, and things to do. It's a bit daunting at first, but wonderful.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't slouch on the Penn supplemental essay! Show them why you deserve to go to Penn-there are a million reasons!
    Academic Rigor

    If you took a heavy courseload during high school, full of APs and honor-level courses, you will do great here, but expect a decent amount of work. The sooner you learn skills like time management, the better.
    Dorm Life

    Overall good, but a lot of tradeoffs in the college houses. Freshman dorms like Hill and the Quad are great for making the process of making friends and getting to know people easy, but the facilities are sub-par. The high rises (Harrison, Harnwell, and Rodin) on the other hand have great facilities, but don't have as strong of a tight-knit community. There are plenty of good off-campus options for upperclassmen, in case you don't get your first choice during room selection every year.
    Food and Dining

    Dining hall food is mediocre on average, but has its good days; there's a decent amount of options, especially the vegetarian options at King's Court. Off-campus food trucks and restuarants around campus are great. All the incoming frosh are required to have a dining plan their year, and most upperclassmen opt out of the dining plan completely after that first year.
    What to do for fun

    So much goes on throughout the week and during the weekend. If you're into frat parties, there's plenty every weekend. If you want off-campus fun, there's plenty of shops, sights, and nightclubs in downtown Philadelphia.
    Bang for the buck

    There are great opportunities in pretty much every industry or academic field, through research work, summer internships, etc. Ultimately, how much enrichment and skill-building you gain in these four years depends on how much you make of it.
    Great for these types of students

    People who like to party, people who like to constantly challenge themselves, and the mix of both.
    Clubs and Activities

    Everything you can think of.
    Greek Life

    Greek Life may seem pretty big here, but less than half of the students are actually involved in fraternities or sororities. There's not a lot of social pressure to be part of them, and how important greek life is pretty much depends on you.
    Campus Safety

    West Philadelphia is known to be a dangerous city, but campus police is pretty tight here, so there's generally nothing to be worried about. Only precaution you should take is not to wander around alone at night.

  • Allyse from Orlando, FL

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    It would be very difficult to beat their education. Their campus is absolutely beautiful. Bonus - It is IVY LEAGUE :)
    Tips for prospective students

    Study hard. You have more of a chance of getting in than you think. Don't assume you won't get in just because it is prestigious .
    Academic Rigor

    I'm sure it will be very difficult. (But I haven't gone yet...)
    Dorm Life

    Looks nice, especially in the high rises :)
    Food and Dining

    When I visited, the food was decent. Not fine dining but enough variety to keep you interested.
    What to do for fun

    Explore the campus. Site-seeing in Philly.

  • Nana from Grayson, GA

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The community seemed really supportive. The student body was diverse. The people seemed genuinely happy.
    Tips for prospective students

    Leadership makes you stand out. Community service and involvement are excellent, but the University seems to be looking for leadership above all in extra-curricular activities.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms in the high-rises are cozy. The people are friendly overall, and the RA I met was really involved.
    Bang for the buck

    The school appears to use a generous portion of their funds on student activities. These expenditures enable the students to have more opportunities which will distinguish them from others when it is time to compete in the job market.
    Clubs and Activities

    The talent show showcased some of their available talent groups. They were really enthusiastic, talented, and entertaining.

  • Nish from Troy, MI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    I would advise students to take advantage of opportunities presented to them. Also, it is important to maintain a good balance between studies and extracurricular activities. Finally, make sure to talk to advisors and professors as they have a lot to offer.
    Academic Rigor

    Academics are a strong part of Penn. Penn is strong in business, the sciences, engineering, and the humanities. What makes Penn special is the opportunities to explore interdisciplinary fields.
    Dorm Life

    The best place for freshmen to live is the Quad or Hill due to the nice social atmosphere there. One nice thing about dorms is that there are three on-campus high rises where a lot of non-freshman live. Dorm life overall is pretty good.
    Food and Dining

    This is where Penn could use work. Many students, after their freshman year, drop the formerly required dining plan and depend on cooking and restaurants instead. I would recommend Penn focus on their food rather than the dining halls itself,
    What to do for fun

    Being in Philadelphia, there is a lot to do for fun. There are many kinds of restaurants on campus as well as in Center City. You can also check out the historic sites in downtown Philadelphia. A common activity for Penn students is going to Center City for the day.

  • Paula from Illinois

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    To me, Penn is the most down-to-earth school I visited. We have an open campus, so there are always families and people around. Philadelphia is a great place to find student-priced things to do. The Penn community is great about making sure you'll always feel confident in both academics and extracurriculars.
    Tips for prospective students

    Get off campus! Go explore the city, since that's where you'll be spending a LOT of time. South Street is a great place to start-go check out the Magic Gardens and grab a cheesesteak from Jim's and a water ice from Rita's. Center City is gorgeous, and Old Philly is a great place to hang out with your parents(or roommate, in my case).
    Academic Rigor

    It's hard. It can get really, really frustrating, especially if you're not used to doing less than brilliantly in school. Penn has a TON of resources to help, though. It's actually insane how much help you can get. There are free, personal tutors, the Writing Center, and the Learning Resources Center. Even the librarians are trained in specific fields.
    Dorm Life

    I live in King's Court English College House, and I think it's the most underrated dorm at Penn. It just got renovated the summer before I moved in, so there's new furniture, renovated bathrooms, new floors, ceilings, and paint. The rooms are HUGE-most rooms have either a bay window or one or two walk-in closets. Some rooms have both! Mine has a bay window, a regular window, and two sliding closets with more than enough space. The location is great(think waking up 10 minutes before class and getting there with a minute to spare).

    Other dorms on campus are nice, too. The Quad is the hub for freshmen, but it's old. The highrises are where most upperclassmen live(including me next year) and they're very nice.
    Food and Dining

    I love Penn, but the food leaves a little to be desired. Hill House has the best dining hall, hands down. Next is Kings Court English's dining hall. Commons is so, so bad. So bad. BUT lucky for me, they're renovating it this summer to include more dining options.

    Houston Hall is great for spending dining dollars, but it gets pricey.
    What to do for fun

    Get off campus! Go around Philly. There is so much to do and you'd need more than four years to do it all. I love the Penn Museum, personally. I go there whenever I have free time. It's free with a PennCard, so check it out!
    Bang for the buck

    The financial aid is really, really good. Penn is giving me a LOT of money so I can afford to come here. There are a lot of fees, though, and Penn isn't super merciful if you fall behind. The bookstore is ridiculously overpriced, but so are all college bookstores. Just rent your books if you can.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    So many weird traditions. At football games, we have a toast throw at halftime. The Penn Band (best student group on campus!) plays Drink a Highball, and at the line that goes Here's a toast to dear old Penn! Everyone just rains toast onto the track. We used to actually drink highballs, but that's frowned upon now, so we use real toast.

    There are a lot of statues people use as landmarks to meet up. The Tampons, the Button, and the Love Statue are few.
    The Tampons are actually two, red, stick-looking modern type sculptures. But apparently they look like dueling tampons.
    The Button's actually just a big, white button in front of the main library.
    Great for these types of students

    Smart, self-motivated, well-off, quirky, funny, creative, human
    Greek Life

    Lots of Greeks, but if the scene isn't for you, it's not smothering. Just be friends with some so you can get into the parties.
    Campus Safety

    Penn has blue lights, Penn police, and their own security guards around campus 24/7. Shuttles will come pick you up if you're scared to walk home alone, or a police officer on a bike will walk with you.

  • Josh from Dayville, CT

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Penn students are defined by their passion, even if it is undefined upon entering freshman year. Classes are so difficult that you have to experience them to understand, but the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastery over them is liberating and pure euphoria. Perhaps the most amazing thing about Penn, though, is what you will learn outside of the classroom through your peers and their amazing cultures.
    Tips for prospective students

    Finish your high school career strong--don't let senioritis best you--and enjoy a well-deserved, relaxing summer. You will be plenty busy when you arrive on campus in the fall.
    Academic Rigor

    Even if Penn seems impossibly difficult, there are so many resources that you literally have no reason to fail.
    Dorm Life

    I live in a highrise (apartment-like dorm), so I am biased, but visiting friends from other elite universities say that our dorms, even our worst, are nicer than theirs. I haven't heard of any nightmare-roommate stories, either, which is good since roommates are picked at random if they are not requested.
    Food and Dining

    Dining halls are not created equally. However, there are tons of dining halls and alternate options on campus (Subway, Starbucks, Burger Stop, and more restaurants than I can count).
    What to do for fun

    Partying is a major source of fun for many (most?) students. However, everyone enjoys going into Center City to shop, dine, stroll, or just hang with friends. Networking. Engaging with the community and volunteering in (virtually) everything. Sleeping is fun for every college student.
    Bang for the buck

    Penn is expensive, but students receive an unparalleled education. It is definitely worth it.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Greek life is very large at Penn (but 75% of students enjoy college without it)

    The Philomathean Society is both the oldest continuous organization and, specifically, literary society in the US.

    NSO (new student orientation) is absolutely amazing and is not lame or awkward like at most schools. Penn spends over a million dollars every year on just this one week. They even rent the Philadelphia Museum of Art for an evening and have the event catered by a five-star chef.

    Hey Day is a tradition that Juniors celebrate when they move up as seniors. It gets pretty rowdy.

    Great for these types of students

    Passionate
    Smart
    Driven
    Innovative
    Creative
    Leaders
    Clubs and Activities

    There is a club for everything. Seriously. And if not, you can propose one and Penn will fund it because they can.
    Greek Life

    Very present. You cannot really avoid it on the weekends, but you can definitely enjoy your Penn experience without it.
    Campus Safety

    Allied Barton on Penn's campus has been ranked the nation's best campus security. Penn is in West Philly which, in parts, is dangerous, so street-smarts are important when off campus. However, Penn security has a very broad patrol area.

  • Bradford from Philadelphia, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    penn is an all-around highly inclusive and diverse community centered in the heart of philadelphia. each of penn's undergraduate schools has its own flair and distinction, and each one has a program the is one if not the best in the world.
    Tips for prospective students

    apply early decision with real research on why penn would be your best fit. you need to demonstrate true desire to come to penn, and you have to show that you've put as much effort into what you're saying as they do into reading it.
    Academic Rigor

    penn allows first semester freshman 4 credits, and second ones 5, and the courses should all be challenging to an extent, but in a good way. using the penn course review helps students make informed decisions about which classes are best for their needs.
    Dorm Life

    dorms are quite austere, and the quad has weirdly shaped ones. dorms provide the necessities, but penn doesn't give you much more than that in them.
    Food and Dining

    dining on campus is decent, but campus is surrounded by many great restaurants and shops to eat.
    What to do for fun

    go into center city and explore philadelphia is a pretty common day trip, other time you can go to king of prussia mall or the like.
    Bang for the buck

    it's an ivy, but it's still expensive, but you do get your money's worth out of an education here.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    hey day -- juniors have a procession down locust walk to become seniors.
    econ scream -- night before the first econ midterm of the semester at midnight the entire freshman class comes out in the upper quadrangle and relieves the stress by screaming.
    spring fling -- one of the largest parties on the east coast a week-long (for some, for others just a few days) festivity centering on a grand concert by some big headliner.
    Great for these types of students

    studious, motivated, self-driven, looking to make an impact
    Clubs and Activities

    penn has more clubs than any one person can possibly imagine, and it's really easy to become a club as well.
    Greek Life

    great greek life, 30+ fraternities and 8 sororities. 30% of the students are involved in greek life.
    Campus Safety

    very, very safe campus. penn police are omnipresent, and i have never ever felt unsafe on campus or in the area, regardless of the time of day or night.

  • Diana from San Marino, CA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    It is diverse and has most probably the best undergraduate schools out there in the world.
    Tips for prospective students

    Just be yourself and if they think the school fits you, then you'll do well!
    Academic Rigor

    It is going to be demanding, it is an Ivy League after all.
    Dorm Life

    I don't know yet.
    Food and Dining

    Nor am I sure of that either because I'm not yet there.
    What to do for fun

    There are a lot of hangouts and the students themselves are fun.

  • Claudia from Lorton, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I look at the world from a different perspective now. In high school I felt like I wasn't learning about relevant things, but everything I am learning at Penn has a meaning and affects my life. I have learned to question everything. I have also learned a lot about myself as a person. All of the adversities I've faced so far have showed me my weaknesses and strengths.
    Am enjoying being here

    Penn doesn't only provide learning inside the classroom, but also community involvement. There are countless of volunteer opportunities from volunteering for one day to a work study job or a community service based class. I am very passionate about helping people, and by having the option to follow this passion through my work-study job and the student groups I am in is everything I could ask for. Nourish International is a group that raises awareness and fund-raises to end world hunger and poverty. I can't explain how perfect this group fit my interests. It was a perfect match. I am loving Penn because I am able to find people who have similar interests and because I am able to follow my passion for helping people. Choosing this school over another school (which is ranked higher) is the best decision I've ever made because I couldn't be any happier.
    Bang for the buck

    Penn is very generous because it rewards students who work hard and enables them to get a great education that they can afford. Even though tuition is over $57,000 I am only paying about $3000, which is amazing! Money plays a huge role in choosing what school to attend or even if going to college is a possibility. If it wasn't for Penn's generous financial-aid package, then I wouldn't be able to afford going there. Even though my dad doesn't have a stable job, the options that Penn provides for paying your tuition is extremely helpful and thankfully my family has not had to take out loans to pay for my education.
    Tips for prospective students

    Figure out whether Penn really is the place for you. Don't worry about rankings, the most important thing is whether you think you'll be happy where you are going. Spend a lot of time thinking about your essay and make sure you show why you are unique and deserve to be at that school.
    Great for these types of students

    Community service oriented students
    Great academic and social scenes
    Passionate students

  • Anh from NJ

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    There are so many available classes and paths of learning available and I'm sure the professors will be amazing!
    Will enjoy being here

    There is so much to do! From what I saw, there simply was too much to do and some hard choices are going to have to be made. All the student organizations, and the atmosphere and environment all suit me very well.
    Bang for the buck

    I'm getting quite a bit of scholarship money so it's all good! :D
    Tips for prospective students

    Study hard, volunteer, participate, and write a banging essay.
    Great for these types of students

    Well yes the school would definitely be great for someone who is unique and is involved.

  • Need money from Philadelphia, PA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Many of my friends who currently attend the university love the school. You get to learn a lot while still having fun.
    Will enjoy being here

    University of Pennsylvania has a great campus that is close to center city. There is always something to do at Penn.
    Bang for the buck

    The cost of attending is pretty high. I am unsure about how I will finance my education.
    Tips for prospective students

    When looking for colleges, the campus is pretty important too. Penn has an amazing urban campus.
    Great for these types of students

    It is great for academically focused students who are also willing to have a lot of fun.