What is University of Pennsylvania's acceptance rate?

University of Pennsylvania's acceptance rate is 5.4%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for UPenn?

Admitted students typically score about 1490–1570 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–36 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is UPenn test-optional?

University of Pennsylvania's current testing policy is: Test required. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

University of Pennsylvania Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (5.4%)

5.4%

Acceptance rate

1490–1570

SAT (mid 50%)

34–36

ACT (mid 50%)

Test required

Testing

How hard is it to get into UPenn?

With a 5.4% acceptance rate, University of Pennsylvania is extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into. It enrolls roughly 10,000 undergraduates (urban setting) in Philadelphia, PA. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1490–1570 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 34–36.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.96. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test required. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at UPenn's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $66,100 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Business (Wharton) · Nursing · Engineering · Dual Degrees

See UPenn’s supplemental essay guide

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UPenn admissions FAQ

What is University of Pennsylvania's acceptance rate?: University of Pennsylvania's acceptance rate is 5.4%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for UPenn?: Admitted students typically score about 1490–1570 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–36 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is UPenn test-optional?: University of Pennsylvania's current testing policy is: Test required. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

UPenn official website
UPenn on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on University of Pennsylvania’s official admissions site.