University of Pennsylvania Scholarships

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), a member of the Ivy League, is one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. Founded by Benjamin Franklin, it is celebrated for its innovative approach to education, blending rigorous academics with practical experience. However, like most elite universities, UPenn comes with a significant price tag—tuition, fees, and living expenses can exceed $85,000 annually.

To make education accessible, UPenn provides a robust range of scholarships, grants, and fellowships for undergraduate and graduate students. These awards are designed not only to support academic excellence but also to ensure that financial need does not prevent talented students from attending.

This article explores the features, types, eligibility, and benefits of UPenn scholarships for both undergraduates and graduate students.

Features of UPenn Scholarships

  • Need-Blind Admission (U.S. Students): For U.S., Canadian, and Mexican applicants, admissions decisions are made without regard to financial need.
  • 100% Need Met: UPenn meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, both domestic and international.
  • No Loan Policy: Since 2008, financial aid packages are loan-free, reducing student debt by replacing loans with grants.
  • Merit Recognition through Fellowships: While most scholarships are need-based, select graduate and professional fellowships reward merit, leadership, and research potential.
  • Global Accessibility: International students are eligible for both need-based aid and select graduate fellowships.

Undergraduate Scholarships at UPenn

1. UPenn Need-Based Aid

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicants must first gain admission into UPenn’s undergraduate program.
  • Financial aid is awarded strictly on demonstrated family income and need.
  • Families earning below $75,000 annually generally receive full coverage for tuition, housing, and meals.
  • Families with incomes up to $150,000 are eligible for substantial financial assistance.

Scholarship Coverage

  • Full tuition support (valued at up to $65,000 per year).
  • Housing and meal plan coverage (up to $20,000 annually).
  • Extra costs, such as books, travel, and personal expenses, are also included.

2. UPenn Merit-Based Scholarships

While most UPenn aid is need-based, the university also recognizes outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and service through merit-based awards.

Types of Merit-Based Scholarships

  • Benjamin Franklin Scholars Program: For undergraduates with exceptional academic promise and intellectual curiosity.
  • University Scholars Program:  Supports students engaged in advanced, independent research.
  • Joseph Wharton Scholars Program:  Available for business students at the Wharton School.
  • Penn World Scholars Program: Designed for high-achieving international students.
  • Named Endowed Scholarships: Donor-funded awards given to students with academic merit, leadership qualities, or specific backgrounds.

Benefits

  • Recognition of academic excellence.
  • Funding for research, study abroad, or special projects.
  • Mentorship, leadership workshops, and networking opportunities.

3. International Student Scholarships

Eligibility:

  • International applicants with demonstrated financial need.
  • Strong academic performance and leadership potential.

Coverage:

  • Full or partial tuition, depending on financial need.
  • May include room and board for high-need students.

Graduate Scholarships and Fellowships at UPenn

Graduate students at UPenn benefit from a wide array of scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships, tailored to support professional growth, research innovation, and leadership development.

1.  UPenn Wharton School (MBA Scholarships)

Scholarship Options:

  • Wharton Dean’s Fellowships: Offers full or partial tuition support for outstanding MBA candidates.
  • Wharton Diversity & Leadership Awards: Designed for women, minority students, and emerging global leaders.
  • Howard E. Mitchell Fellowships: For students who promote diversity and inclusion in business.
  • Emerging Economy Fellowships: For students from developing countries contributing to global business growth.

Benefits:

  • Full or partial tuition coverage, leadership development programs, and international learning opportunities.

2. UPenn Law School Scholarships

Scholarship Options:

  • Merit Scholarships: For students with exceptional academic records and leadership potential.
  • Public Interest Scholarships: For students pursuing careers in public service, government, or non-profits.
  • Law School Excellence Awards: Provide full or partial tuition to high-achieving law students.
  • Law School Public Service Fellowships: Support students pursuing careers in legal aid, nonprofit work, or government service.
  • Levy Scholars Program: Full tuition plus stipends for outstanding students committed to legal research and scholarship.

Benefits:

  • Tuition support, stipends, and funding for summer internships or clerkships.

3. UPenn Research and Teaching Assistantships

Eligibility:

  • Graduate students demonstrating research skills, teaching ability, and academic excellence.

Benefits:

  • Tuition remission.
  • Stipends for living expenses.
  • Research experience under faculty mentorship.
  • Teaching opportunities that strengthen professional development.

4. UPenn Graduate Fellowships

These prestigious awards support master’s and Ph.D. students in pursuing advanced study and research.

Types of UPenn Graduate Fellowships

  • University Fellowships: Full funding for doctoral students across disciplines.
  • Benjamin Franklin Fellowships: For Ph.D. students demonstrating research excellence and leadership potential.
  • Research Fellowships: Provides stipends and research funding for STEM, humanities, and social sciences students.
  • Diversity Fellowships: Supports underrepresented students in graduate education.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition coverage, living stipends, health insurance, research travel grants, and multi-year financial security.

How to Apply for UPenn Scholarships

Applying for scholarships and financial aid at the University of Pennsylvania is part of the admission process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Apply for Admission

  • Submit your application through the Common Application or the Coalition Application (For undergraduates).
  • UPenn Graduate School Application (For graduates)
  • Ensure you meet all deadlines (Early Decision or Regular Decision).

2. Complete Financial Aid Forms

  • Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – required for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
  • Submit the CSS Profile – required for both U.S. and international applicants.
  • Provide your family’s tax returns, income statements, and financial documents as requested.

3. Check Additional Requirements

  • Some scholarships (like merit-based awards or fellowships) may require extra essays, recommendation letters, or leadership portfolios.
  • Graduate students (Wharton, Law, etc.) should apply directly through their school’s scholarship or fellowship office.

4. Review and Submit Before Deadlines

  • Financial aid deadlines usually align with admission deadlines.
  • Make sure all forms and documents are uploaded on time through UPenn’s financial aid portal.

5. Receive Your Aid Package

  • Once admitted, UPenn will send a customized financial aid award letter outlining scholarships, grants, and any work-study options you qualify for.