About the school

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania University’s College of Liberal and Professional Studies aims to set the standard for higher education by developing distinctive and leading-edge opportunities for students from all backgrounds and ages. As a leader in innovation and personalised learning, the College of Liberal and Professional Studies provides quality educational programmes for a diverse community of learners. The programmes offer students the opportunity to gain the skills they need to succeed in a changing global society. The college alums are skilled in their respective fields and committed to positively impacting the world. They engage with social and cultural concerns, embrace diversity, and promote societal values through their education and experiences at the College. Philadelphia is well-known for its prestigious colleges, including the University of Pennsylvania, America’s first University. It provides international students with a culturally varied environment and ample job opportunities, making it a viable educational destination.

Where is the school located?

Life at the College of Liberal and Professional Studies

Students can find accommodations to make them feel at home, given the wide range of housing and dining options available on and off campus. These accommodations are comprised of distinct room types, amenities, and communities. In addition, off-school services assist students by providing a list of places to stay, including nearby hostels, student residences, beds and breakfasts, hotels, and motels. The college dining ensures delicious food is served to faculty, staff, and students in various settings. In partnership with Bon Appétit, the Retail Dining on Campus oversees several retail establishments across campus, including multiple cafés, markets, and grocers. Understanding and appreciating diversity is one of the most critical priorities of the College. Students can join student organisations for various interests and causes. They can participate in social, political, artistic, and multicultural activities that put learning into practice. The Weingarten Learning Resources Centre provides various services, such as private tutoring and interactive programmes, to support students in developing content knowledge and learning strategies to further their academic and professional objectives. The College offers many unique and enthralling opportunities for students to partake in competitive team sports and stay physically fit. The LPS Graduate Student Association (LPSgov) gives graduate students a voice and improves their study and professional development within and outside the classroom.

Additional benefits of studying at the College of Liberal and Professional Studies

The University of Pennsylvania leads the Ivy League with the highest count of international students. This vibrant global population, up 11% of the student body, enhances Penn's essence. Embracing multiple perspectives and insights, the College values the global perspective these students bring. The College of Liberal and Professional Studies guarantees a smooth transition by offering language resources and assistance under the direction of the International Student and Scholar Services staff at Penn. The College provides specially designed courses that foster intellectual development and English language skills. Penn’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) offers core services to international students. It provides advice, information, and referrals on immigration, employment, and overseas travel. Along with practical issues about residing in Philadelphia, the ISSS also assists with social and personal adjustments to a new culture.

Admissions criteria

Generally, applications require the following types of information: Create an account at Penn’s website to submit your application Submit the completed enrolment form and deposit a non-refundable fee of $25 Students with a high school diploma/passed high school equivalency exam/General Educational Development (GED) test can apply Submit unofficial transcripts via an online system (.doc, .xls, .pdf, .txt). Official transcripts are needed upon an admission offer The official record and an official English translation must be presented if the institution does not issue transcripts and diplomas in English Foreign-language applicants must provide their current TOEFL, IELTS, or DET results. TOEFL: Code 2986, 100 (iBT), 250 (CBT), and 600 (PBT). IELTS: 7. DET: 120. At-home scores accepted Current CV or resume A minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA One letter of recommendation from competent individuals such as a supervisor or professor Application essay describing your educational background, experience, and your academic and professional aspirations All applicants must confirm that their computer technology is current and meets system requirements Standardised test scores, such as the SAT/ACT, are not required but are optional to submit in support of your application Liberal and Professional Studies graduate programme costs: -9-month programme: Housing: $12,564 Food: $5,796 Books and supplies: $1,358 Transportation: $1,062 Personal expenses: $2,008 Health insurance: $4,210 Total: $26,998 12-month programme: Housing: $16,752 Food: $7,728 Books and supplies: $1,812 Transportation: $1,416 Personal expenses: $2,676 Health insurance: $4,210 Total: $34,594 Please consult the school’s necessary admissions and financial aid websites for detailed information and updates.

Job placements

The College of Liberal and Professional Studies is committed to providing the support every student needs to make their career successful New students get a Handshake account from the first semester for career support, including appointments, workshops, job boards, and fairs Before securing a job, students can learn skills to thrive in their industry and role. Upskilling is a powerful tool for professional growth, job satisfaction, income, and career prospects Going Global offers a searchable database of international job and internship listings and offers country and global city-specific resources