University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The University of Pennsylvania (Penn) is a prestigious Ivy League research university located in Philadelphia, founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, one of the U.S. founding fathers. Franklin envisioned an institution of higher learning that not only educated the clergy but also taught arts, humanities, and practical skills to prepare students for public service and personal success. His guiding principle, "well done is better than well said," is reflected today in Penn's commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

As of fall 2017, 21,599 students were enrolled at Penn, evenly divided between undergraduate and graduate students. The university fosters interdisciplinary learning and research, offering double degree programs, unique majors, and academic flexibility, making it a highly competitive institution, especially at the undergraduate level. The admission rate for the class of 2021 was just 9.3%, with 46% of the student body identifying as Black, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American. Uniquely for an Ivy League school, women make up more than half (54%) of the student population.

Penn’s arts and sciences programs are ranked among the top 10 nationally, and its graduates enjoy some of the best employment prospects, with many going on to lead major companies, including Fortune 500 CEOs. These factors solidify the University of Pennsylvania as a distinguished Ivy League institution.