International Student Orientation Events  

DEAR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS, 

Congratulations on your outstanding achievement in securing admission to the University of Pennsylvania! We are thrilled to welcome you and delighted to have such an exceptional group of international students joining our vibrant campus community. Wherever you’re coming from, you bring a wealth of cultural richness and intellectual strength that will greatly enrich the Penn experience for everyone.

Your journey at Penn promises to be unforgettable—steeped in history and tradition, filled with world-class academic opportunities, and complemented by a wide range of extracurricular activities. But beyond the classroom, it’s the everyday moments that will truly define your Penn experience: taking your first SEPTA ride into Center City, walking down Locust Walk as it sparkles with winter lights, or sharing a Thanksgiving meal and stories with your roommates and professors.

Along the way, you’ll form deep and lasting connections with peers who will become lifelong friends. Penn is more than a university—it will become your home away from home. With many international and cultural performing arts groups and student organizations, you’ll find your passions nurtured and your talents celebrated in this close-knit community.

To support your transition and success, the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) team, along with many campus partners, is here to assist you every step of the way—from visa guidance and tax support to navigating unexpected challenges.

Additionally, the International Student Table for Advocacy and Relations (ISTAR)—which includes leaders from the International Student Advisory Board (ISAB), the Assembly of International Students (AIS), the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GAPSA), and the Undergraduate Assembly (UA) —works closely with Penn administrators to advocate for your needs and foster a supportive and inclusive campus environment.

As you embark on this exciting new chapter, rest assured that we have thoughtfully designed orientation programs to help you acclimate to Penn, connect with your peers, and explore the many resources available to you.

Your time at Penn will be transformative, opening doors to new perspectives, experiences, and opportunities that will shape your future in meaningful ways. We can’t wait to welcome you in person and begin this journey together.

Once again, congratulations—and we look forward to meeting you during International Student Orientation!

With warm regards,