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 traveling to the region. If you have upcoming Penn-affiliated travel planned to the region, please contact travelsafety@pobox.upenn.edu for guidance. As a reminder, faculty, staff, and students are required to register all Penn-affiliated international travel in MyTrips. Events can change quickly so please use the link below for continuing updates.
Despite a national decline in international student enrollment at universities across the country, Penn’s total international student enrollment increased by 2.1% in the 2024-25 academic year.
Recent data from the Institute of International Education — published on Nov. 17 in the 2025 Open Doors report — showed that Penn’s international student enrollment rose from 8,956 to 9,143 students between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years. During the same time period, colleges and universities across the country saw an on average 7.2% drop in new international enrollees.
