March 3, 2026

Wellness Resources for International Students from the MENA Region

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We are sharing our care and concern for members of our Penn community from the MENA region in light of recent events. We recognize that this may be an especially stressful and uncertain time — particularly for those who are far from family, friends, and loved ones.

Please know that you are not alone. Penn Global and International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) are here to support you. If you would like to speak with someone, need assistance, or simply want guidance navigating next steps, we encourage you to contact ISSS at 215-898-4661. Our team is available to listen and to help.

We also understand that world events can affect your ability to focus, travel plans, sense of safety, and overall well-being. In collaboration with colleagues across the University, we are here to help you navigate academic responsibilities and address any broader impacts you may be experiencing. Reaching out early can make a difference, and we are glad to connect.

Below you will find the University’s travel guidance, along with campus resources available to support your well-being, safety, and academic needs. Please review this information carefully and reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Travel Guidance

Penn-Affiliated Travel to the Middle East
As of March 2, 2026, Penn travelers are strongly advised to defer travel to and transit through the Middle East region until further notice.  This is based on current advice from the U.S. Department of State and International SOS, Penn’s private travel assistance provider, as well as the increased risk related to military operations, airspace closures, and general travel disruption.  

Penn-affiliated undergraduate travel to the Middle East is currently prohibited until March 15, 2026, at which time this stance will be reassessed.  Travelers currently in the region are advised to shelter in place as needed and remain in contact with Penn officials. All other travelers are advised to reconsider travel to the region.  If you have upcoming Penn-affiliated travel planned to the region, please contact travelsafety@pobox.upenn.edu for guidance.

Wellness Support

Student Health and Counseling
Penn Wellness 24/7 Hotline: (215) 746-9355
Any student can speak with a trained clinician by phone at any time, day or night. Virtual appointments are also available.

Medical Care
3535 Market Street, Suite 100
Phone: (215) 746-3535

Counseling
3624 Market Street, First Floor West
Phone: (215) 898-7021

Let’s Talk
Free, confidential, informal drop-in conversations with trained professionals across campus.

Helpful Readings and Self-Guided Support

Academic Support

Weingarten Center
Academic support, learning specialist consultations, and tutoring services are available through the MyWeingartenCenter Portal.

School and Program Contacts

Undergraduate Advising Offices
• College of Arts and Sciences: (215) 898-6341
• School of Engineering and Applied Science: (215) 898-7246
• School of Nursing: (215) 898-6687
• Wharton Undergraduate Division: (215) 898-7608

Campus Safety & Other Support

Division of Public Safety
HELP Line: (215) 898-4357
Emergencies (24/7): (215) 573-3333 | Campus phone: 511

Student Intervention Services (SIS)
Support for concerns about your own or a peer’s well-being: (215) 898-6081

Office of the Chaplain
Offers support and space for reflection related to the moral, ethical, and spiritual dimensions of university life: (215) 898-8456

Emergency and Opportunity Funding
Undergraduate and graduate students experiencing financial or personal emergencies may apply.

Student Registration & Financial Services
3451 Walnut Street

During times like these, it is important to care for both your academic responsibilities and your personal well-being. We encourage you to stay connected with your community, check in with one another, and seek support when needed. There is strength in reaching out.

We are thinking of you and stand ready to support you in any way we can.