International Supporters
Sending someone you love to college is a big deal, and when their studies take them to a different country, it can feel even more momentous. We are incredibly proud of our International student and scholar community at Penn, and provide a variety of resources to support our students from around the globe.
13% of Penn’s current first-year class is made up of international students from over 100 countries! Your student will be surrounded by other Quakers from Africa, Asia, Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, Central and South America, Europe, Mexico, the Middle East, and the Pacific.
Penn’s International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) is dedicated to assisting our international students and their supporters - from immigration paperwork, to ensuring students thrive on campus. We recommend international students visit the ISSS website for helpful information during the application process and throughout their time at Penn.
University in the US
College in the US is typically a two-year or four-year commitment. Penn is a four-year University, and most students complete their studies in that time period. 97% of our students graduate in six years or less.
Upon completing their studies, students will receive an Undergraduate Degree in their field of study. Some may choose to continue their studies and pursue a Master’s Degree or Doctorate, but for many careers, an Undergraduate Degree is sufficient for entering the workforce.
The American school calendar is broken up into two semesters: courses begin in what is called the “Fall” semester, running from August-December, and are followed by the “Spring” semester which covers January-May. Some students choose to dedicate their summers to research, internships, work, or additional studies, but the school year officially runs from August-May.
Housing
Penn students must live on campus for their first two years. It’s a great way to get to know other students, while adjusting to college life. Typically, first-year students share rooms with a roommate and use communal bathrooms. Rooms come furnished with beds, desks, and dressers or closets, and students provide their own bed linens, towels, and decorations. Many of our College Houses also have amenities like laundry rooms, fitness centers, study rooms, lounges, cafes, and music rooms that students can enjoy.
Later in their time at Penn, students may opt to live off-campus. ISSS provides guidance around living arrangements, as well as where to stay when visiting Penn on their website.
Between mid-December and mid-January, classes are suspended and students are on Winter Break. Students typically return home during this time. Those who wish to remain on campus during winter break may request special housing for that period through winter break registration.
Students also enjoy time off during Spring Break, which occurs for a week in March. While many students opt to travel or return home during this time, campus housing remains open and students are welcome to remain on campus for the duration of Spring Break.
Safety
Penn has been ranked one of the safest campuses in the country year after year. Penn’s Division of Public Safety is active 24/7 to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. All academic and residential buildings require key-card access for entry at Penn, and walking escorts are available to students at all times. We care deeply about your student’s safety here!
Getting Settled in the U.S.
It can be daunting to navigate setting a student up for success in another country. Fortunately, our ISSS department is here to help you every step of the way. From pre-orientation programs that help students acclimate before New Student Orientation to the International Student Resource Handbook, ISSS will help you transition to Penn with confidence. Here are some of the most common topics our international applicants ask about:
Employment
The United States has strict laws pertaining to work for those who are not citizens or permanent residents. While it is possible to work as an international student, those who wish to work while at Penn must take care to ensure they are only engaging in authorized work. This typically comes in the form of on-campus employment, and for students receiving financial aid, it may be part of their financial aid package. We encourage students to work directly with ISSS if they are planning to work while at Penn to ensure they are in full compliance with the law.