Testing

Applicants may self-report test scores at the time of their application. We use standardized testing as part of our comprehensive review process to gain more insight into the academic preparation of our applicants. These tests represent only one component in our dynamic admissions process in combination with other academic and non-academic factors.

For more information on our updated testing policy, please view our announcement in the Penn Admissions Blog and our FAQs about Testing.

SAT and ACT Testing Deadlines (2026-2027 Admissions Cycle)

Dates below represent the final month during which eligible tests can be taken. For instance, if you are applying Early Decision, you may submit scores for SAT tests taken during the month of November. Scores for tests taken after these dates may not be received in time for consideration.

To ensure we receive your test scores in a timely manner, please select Penn as an institution you would like your scores sent to.

Testing codes:

• SAT: 2926
• ACT: 3732
• TOEFL: 2926

The SAT and ACT

There is no minimum score required to apply to Penn. We understand that standardized testing only provides a fraction of insight into your academic performance, and through our comprehensive review process, we consider multiple factors to determine your preparedness for Penn.  

No preference is given to the SAT or the ACT. If an applicant submits both tests, we will pay attention to the higher score from either test.  

The College Board and ACT provide free resources that can help you prepare for the exams.   

Learn more about preparing for the SAT.

Learn more about preparing for the ACT.

Score Choice

• Although we permit applicants to use Score Choice to discern which score reports you want to submit, we encourage students to submit their entire testing history for both ACT and SAT exams to provide more context and to avoid inaccuracies.
• If you submit multiple sets of test scores, we will combine your highest Evidenced-Based Reading and Writing with your highest Math score in either format to calculate a superscore. 

Superscoring

• For the SAT, we will combine your highest Evidenced-Based Reading and Writing with your highest Math score across multiple tests to calculate a superscore.
• For the ACT, we consider the highest individual English, Math, and Reading scores across multiple tests to calculate a composite superscore. The Science section is not required for students who choose to submit the ACT.
• If you are self-reporting exams from multiple dates to create your superscore, then we expect you to provide official reports for each test that contributes to your superscore prior to enrollment in line with our self-reported testing policy.

Testing Waiver

Applicants who have not taken the SAT or ACT and experience hardship in meeting this requirement may submit a testing waiver when completing the application. In lieu of submitting testing information, applicants will be asked to share the nature of their hardship (such as lack of test center availability, financial hardship, natural disaster or civil unrest). Once submitted, the testing requirement is automatically waived.

Please note, applicants who have taken standardized testing are required to submit their scores. Should we receive reported or self-reported SAT or ACT scores, those scores will supersede your waiver and we will use this information in our review process.

Self-Reported Scores

Applicants have the option of self-reporting their SAT and ACT scores when they apply—with some exceptions:

• Recruited athletes are required to submit official testing through the appropriate testing agency or University-approved source.
• Prior to enrollment, admitted students who submitted self-reported test scores on the application are required to submit official test scores to Penn.

To self-report your scores, use the testing section of the Common App, the Coalition Application, or QuestBridge Application.

• To ensure accurate “super scoring” (recognizing the highest composite score across multiple sittings), we recommend you self-report each test you have taken to select the highest score in each section.
• You may also self-report your scores directly through your Penn Portal once your application is received.

English Language Proficiency Testing

A strong command of the English language is essential for successful study at Penn.  You are exempt from submitting an English proficiency test score if either of the following is true: 

• English is your native language, or  
• English was your primary language of instruction for at least three years (in high school, college, or a combination of both) by the time you enroll at Penn.

If neither applies to you, you must submit scores from one of the following tests:

• TOEFL
• IELTS
• Duolingo English Test

Please note that Penn does not currently accept the IELTS Indicator exam or MyBest scores for the TOEFL.  

To learn about the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test and to register for the examinations, please visit the websites below. Penn's school code for the TOEFL is 2926.

• TOEFL
• IELTS
• Duolingo English Test

Be sure to designate the University of Pennsylvania as a recipient university each time you register for an examination. If you have already taken a test but did not designate the University of Pennsylvania as a score recipient, please do so afterwards.  

Penn does not accept self-reported scores for English proficiency examinations. Any student required to submit English-language proficiency exams must have official results for their TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions through official testing agencies to be considered with a student’s application.

Please be aware, TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the date of the exam We must receive your scores prior to their expiration. This means your scores must be valid at the time you submit you application. If you are not able to send scores through the testing agency due to their expired status, and you have no other valid scores to provide, you will need to sit for another English proficiency exam.