How Hard is it to get Into Penn? 

The University of Pennsylvania (often referred to simply as ‘Penn’) is a prestigious Ivy League school known for its world-class academics, notable alumni, and interdisciplinary approach. Its highly selective admissions process makes it one of the hardest schools to get into. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to Penn’s competitiveness and how Dukes Plus can help you stand out in your application. 

Is Penn a Good University? 

Penn consistently ranks among the top universities globally. It is renowned for its Wharton School of Business, often regarded as the best business school in the world, and its highly competitive Perelman School of Medicine. The U.S. News & World Report ranks Penn in the top 10 U.S. universities. The university is home to many influential alumni, including Elon Musk and Warren Buffett. 

The university’s multidisciplinary approach across its four undergraduate schools—the College of Arts & Sciences, School of Engineering and Applied Science, Wharton School, and School of Nursing—creates a vibrant and intellectually challenging environment for students. 

The Entry Requirements for Penn 

Gaining admission to Penn is extremely difficult, with an overall acceptance rate of around 6% for the Class of 2027. Although Penn does not set a minimum GPA requirement, the admitted students typically demonstrate top academic performance, with most ranking in the top 10% of their high school class.  

Academic Achievements and GPA 

Admitted students generally have strong academic records, with a GPA that is typically close to a 4.0 on a weighted scale. While Penn doesn’t explicitly require a minimum GPA, applicants should aim to excel in a rigorous curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, which are highly valued by the admissions committee. 

Standardised Test Scores (SAT/ACT) 

Penn follows a test-optional policy, meaning students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. For those who do submit scores, the middle 50% SAT range for enrolled students is between 1510-1560, and for the ACT, it is between 34-36

Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) Programs 

Penn encourages students to pursue the most challenging courses available to them, such as AP and IB programmes. Successful applicants often have a record of excelling in these demanding academic courses. 

Extracurricular Activities 

Extracurricular involvement is a crucial part of Penn’s holistic admissions process. The admissions team looks for students who demonstrate leadership, creativity, and dedication in their activities. Whether it’s academic clubs, sports, or community service, a well-rounded profile will help you stand out and boost your chances! 

Why is it Difficult to get into Penn? 

There are several reasons Penn is so hard to get into. First, the sheer volume of applications—59,465 for the Class of 2027—means competition is fierce. With only 2,416 spots available in the incoming class, the acceptance rate hovers around 6%, making it one of the most selective universities globally.  

Moreover, Penn’s applicant pool consists of students with outstanding academic and extracurricular profiles. Penn’s holistic admissions process means that it evaluates candidates beyond grades and test scores, considering essays, recommendations, and applicants’ personal qualities. 

What Subjects are Hardest to get Accepted into at Penn? 

Some of Penn’s most competitive programs include Business (Wharton), Medicine, and Engineering. These programmes are highly selective due to their limited spots and the high demand for admission. 

MajorNotabilityAcceptance Rate
Business (Wharton) Top-ranked business school globally  ~7-9%   
Medicine (Perelman School) Highly selective with cutting-edge research   ~3.8%   
Engineering (School of Engineering) Innovative programs with a focus on research   ~10%   
Computer Science High demand in tech-driven careers   ~11%   
Economics Popular major with interdisciplinary focus ~8-10% 

How Can Dukes Plus Help Your Penn Application Succeed? 

At Dukes Plus, we provide comprehensive support tailored to your specific goals and strengths, helping you navigate Penn’s complex admissions process. Every year, we help dozens of students secure places at Ivy League schools, including Penn. Our experts can guide you in crafting a compelling application that highlights your unique qualities and aligns with Penn’s values. 

For more personalised guidance, visit our private US admissions consulting page, or contact us for a consultation to help you build a winning application. Also, check out our comprehensive guide How to get into Penn in 2024 .

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Sources  

Admissions & Aid | University of Pennsylvania  

Welcome, Admitted Class of 2027! |

Penn Admissions  Facts | University of Pennsylvania

General Academic Competencies | MD Admissions