The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) is ranked #10 among national universities. As an Ivy League school, it’s known for prestigious academics among other things. That said, do its different schools also share the same high ranking the whole institution has? In particular, what is the UPenn Engineering ranking?
In this article, we’ll give an overview of UPenn Engineering’s ranking, together with factors that helped boost that rank, and how you can apply for the school.
- What Is UPenn’s Engineering Ranking?
- What Does UPenn Engineering Offer?
- How to Apply to UPenn Engineering
- How Can You Boost Your UPenn Engineering Application?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
What Is UPenn’s Engineering Ranking?
University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) is consistently recognized among the top engineering programs globally and locally by various ranking organizations. Here’s a quick look at its rankings for 2025:
| Ranking Organization | Category | Rank |
| U.S. News & World Report | Graduate Engineering | 17 |
| U.S. News & World Report | Undergraduate Engineering | 27 |
| U.S. News & World Report | Graduate Biomedical Engineering | 7 |
| U.S. News & World Report | Undergraduate Biomedical Engineering | 12 |
| Times Higher Education | Overall Engineering | 34 |
It’s easy to say that UPenn Engineering is good and then just show you the rankings. However, those ranks wouldn’t be possible without factors like academic environment, resources, and outcomes. Below, we’ll look at several aspects that make SEAS an excellent option for future engineers.
Rigorous academic programs
UPenn Engineering has a comprehensive curriculum that gives you a strong foundation in the basics of engineering principles and building specialized knowledge on top of that. Each SEAS program has its own specific curricular requirements. However, all students should also take up certain units. These are:
- Math and natural science
- Core engineering courses within the chosen major
- Professional electives
- Social science/humanities and free electives
- Writing requirement
- Engineering ethics requirement
A UPenn Engineering education is a highly interdisciplinary one. Even within Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) and Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) programs, there are many opportunities for you to choose the subjects that align with your goals and interests.
There are also dual-degree programs like the Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology (also known as M&T, which combines business and engineering) and the Roy and Diana Vagelos Integrated Program in Energy Research (aka VIPER, which combines science and engineering).
Cutting-edge research
As an Ivy League institution, UPenn is also a renowned research university, so it’s not surprising that it has many breakthroughs in engineering.
For instance, Penn engineers have created mvGPT, a gene editing tool capable of editing genes, activating gene expression, and repressing genes. This can help address different genetic problems in the same cell.
SEAS also highly encourages undergraduate students to participate in research. You can look for faculty members who are conducting research in a specific area that interests you and contact them.
Aside from that, there are also research programs within SEAS and the university’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. These can give you exposure to lab research and funding for independent projects.
State-of-the-art facilities and resources
UPenn Engineering can support the research done by its students and faculty by providing facilities and resources that improve learning and research opportunities. Some examples are:
- Center for Engineering MechanoBiology (CEMB). As a National Science Foundation Science and Technology Center, CEMB integrates engineering and biology to study the role of mechanics in biological processes, offering advanced microscopy and biomechanics laboratories.
- General Robotics, Automation, Sensing & Perception (GRASP) Laboratory. This is an interdisciplinary center for research in robotics, automation, sensing, and perception, featuring advanced robotics equipment and sensor technologies.
- Laboratory for Research on the Structure of Matter (LSRM). This interdisciplinary research center has sophisticated materials characterization tools and synthesis equipment to help in the synthesis, characterization, theory, and modeling of new materials that can assist in the development of future technologies.
- Center for Targeted Therapeutics and Translational Nanomedicine (CT3N). This center is a collaboration between SEAS and the Perelman School of Medicine. It aims to facilitate and speed up translational research regarding targeted therapeutics and nanomedicines.
- Center for Innovation in Data Engineering and Science (IDEAS). This center aims to develop innovative data engineering and data science techniques to transform scientific discovery, create trustworthy autonomous systems, and improve AI in neuroscience and health.
Strong career opportunities
UPenn’s Career Services offers comprehensive support to students, including career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs, further improving their career prospects.
Not convinced? Within six months of graduation, 78.3% of the SEAS Class of 2023 are employed (whether full-time, part-time, in military service, or in volunteer service). Most of them were employed in the technology industry by big names like:
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Bloomberg
- Palantir Technologies
You can also be employed in other industries, such as:
- Consulting
- Financial services
- Engineering/Manufacturing
- Biotechnology
- Natural resources
The school’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship also supports students interested in launching their own ventures.
What Does UPenn Engineering Offer?
UPenn Engineering aims to nurture innovation, research, and education in engineering and technology. To achieve this, it offers a range of academic programs across various engineering disciplines. SEAS is divided into six departments:
- Bioengineering. This department focuses on the application of engineering principles to biological and medical systems.
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. This department deals with the design, development, and application of chemical and biological processes. You’ll be prepared for careers in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to energy.
- Computer and Information Science. This department studies computation and information, including areas like computer science, software engineering, and artificial intelligence.
- Electrical and Systems Engineering. This department focuses on the principles of electrical engineering and systems science, covering areas such as electronics, signal processing, and control systems.
- Materials Science and Engineering. This is actually the smallest department in SEAS. It explores the properties, processing, and applications of materials. Upon graduation, you’ll be ready for careers in industries like aerospace, manufacturing, and electronics.
- Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics. This department focuses on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems.
How to Apply to UPenn Engineering
When you’re applying to UPenn, you’re actually applying to a specific undergraduate school/coordinated dual-degree/specialized program. However, the application process is still the same for everyone.
Here are the basic steps on how to apply to UPenn Engineering:
1. Complete the Common Application or Coalition Application.
UPenn accepts either the Common Application or the Coalition Application. You’ll need to create an account on your chosen platform and complete all the required sections—including personal information, family background, academic history, and extracurricular activities.
The university is also a QuestBridge partner institution and participates in the National College Match program. If you’re a high-achieving student with significant financial need, you can apply through the QuestBridge Application.
2. Gather the required documents.
There are several things you’ll need to submit along with your application:
- $75 application fee or fee waiver
- Official high school transcript and school report
- Letters of recommendation
- Standardized testing
- Financial aid materials (optional)
- Supplementary materials (optional)
After the application deadline, you’ll also need to submit a mid-year report.
3. Write the UPenn supplemental essays.
Aside from the personal statement in Common App or Coalition, you’ll also need to answer UPenn-specific questions. All applicants will be required to submit three essays: two general prompts and one school-specific prompt.
How Can You Boost Your UPenn Engineering Application?
UPenn has an extremely competitive application process, with an acceptance rate of only 5.4% for the Class of 2028. If you want a shot at being accepted, you’ll need a strong application that shows academic excellence, a genuine passion for engineering, and a good fit for the university’s environment.
To improve your chances of being admitted to Penn Engineering, here are some tips:
Strong academic record
UPenn doesn’t have a minimum GPA, SAT, or ACT requirements. But that doesn’t mean you’ll get off lightly with less-than-stellar grades. After all, a strong academic record is important to any successful application.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.9 and the SAT range is 1510 to 1560. Meanwhile, the average ACT score is 35. That means that if you want to keep up with other applicants, you’ll need to match their grades or be better.
Since you’ll be applying to SEAS, we highly recommend that you take rigorous mathematics and science courses that are relevant to the engineering field you’re aiming for. These include:
- AP Precalculus
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- AP Physics C
- AP Computer Science A
- AP Computer Science Principles
- AP Chemistry
- AP Biology
- AP Environmental Science
Consult with a faculty member or guidance counselor on the specific AP classes you’ll need to take. If you’re applying for a program in the Department of Computer and Information Science, the AP Computer Science classes will be really helpful to you. Meanwhile, if you’re eyeing a major in the Department of Bioengineering, biology and chemistry will be good for you.
Taking challenging coursework and excelling shows that you’re ready for the rigorous curriculum at UPenn Engineering.
Extracurricular activities
Participating in extracurricular activities related to STEM can significantly strengthen your application. Join a robotics club, try applied math programs like MathQuantum Summer Research, or participate in the Science Olympiad.
Engaging in engineering-related research is also a good way to show UPenn admissions officers that you’re ready for engineering and the research that will ultimately come with it.
Regardless of the extracurricular activities you engage in, participating in them outside of the classroom shows that you have a passion for engineering beyond academic requirements.
However, participating in non-engineering extracurricular activities like arts, sports, or community service can also show a well-roundedness that can tell admissions officers who you are outside of your interest in engineering.
Essays and personal statement
UPenn supplemental essays and the personal statement are a big opportunity for you to talk about your personality, motivations, and why you’re a good fit for Penn Engineering.
The SEAS-specific question is especially important since it should show admissions officers how you’re thinking of pursuing your engineering interests at the school. To answer this well, you’ll essentially need to reflect on three things:
- Your engineering interests, skills, and experiences
- Penn Engineering’s departments and programs
- How your interests connect to SEAS resources
Letters of recommendation
UPenn requires three letters of recommendation from three specific people:
- School counselor or college official
- Teacher in a core subject area
- Another teacher or supporter in your community who you think can add a different perspective of you
When choosing teachers to write your letters, it might be a good idea to go for those in math and science who know you well enough to provide insights into your abilities, work ethic, and potential in engineering.
Of course, it would also be a good idea to build a good relationship with them first so they’re more familiar with you. This can include actively participating in class or attending office hours to talk more about recent topics and showing interest in related materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is UPenn Engineering’s acceptance rate?
UPenn doesn’t officially release acceptance rates for each of its undergraduate schools or programs. Overall, though, UPenn’s latest acceptance rate is only 5.4%.
2. Is UPenn a good school for engineering?
Yes, UPenn is a good school for engineering, ranking #27 among undergraduate engineering schools in the country. It also has rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong career opportunities that make it an excellent engineering school.
3. Does UPenn track demonstrated interest?
No, UPenn Engineering doesn’t track demonstrated interest when reviewing applications. Engaging with the university may be able to help you learn more and craft better essays, but it won’t directly impact your admission decision.
4. Which school is #1 in the US for undergraduate engineering?
The #1 in the US for undergraduate engineering is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This is followed by Stanford University and UC Berkeley, respectively.
Takeaways
UPenn’s Engineering is ranked high both in and out of the country, upholding the whole university’s reputation in academic excellence.
- UPenn undergraduate engineering is ranked #27 nationally by the U.S. News & World Report and #34 globally by Times Higher Education.
- UPenn Engineering has six departments. Aside from that, you can also apply for engineering-related dual-degree programs like The Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology and The Roy and Diana Vagelos Integrated Program in Energy Research.
- UPenn Engineering doesn’t have a separate admissions process, but you can still show your interest in your chosen program through your college application, especially in the SEAS-specific essay.
- Is UPenn Engineering calling to you? Senior admissions consultants can help improve and polish your college application to improve your chances of getting accepted.
