Penn State University is more than just a large American university with a long history and an impressive student population. It is a complete ecosystem where education, research, career development, and student life are so closely intertwined that the boundary between “studying” and “real life” begins to fade from the very first semester. People come here not for a checkbox on a résumé or a prestigious name on a diploma, but for an experience that genuinely reshapes their life trajectory.

Every year, Penn State welcomes tens of thousands of students from across the United States and from more than 100 countries worldwide. For some, it is their first step beyond their home country; for others, a deliberate choice in favor of a strong public university with a practical, hands-on approach to education. Penn State is often chosen by those seeking balance: a high academic standard without excessive elitism, rigorous programs without overpaying for a brand name, and at the same time a full-fledged American student experience with everything that comes with it.

For international students, Penn State represents a kind of compromise between prestige and common sense. It lacks the gloss and exclusivity of Ivy League universities, but offers access to modern laboratories, research projects, internships, and real career opportunities in the United States. This is a university that does not promise an easy path, but provides practical tools for growth — academic, professional, and personal.

In addition, Penn State has a distinct atmosphere of its own. Campus life, athletic traditions, student organizations, travel across the country, and firsthand immersion in American culture all become part of everyday life rather than a distant backdrop. Studying here is rarely confined to classrooms alone: it continues through conversations, collaborative projects, trips, and experiences that simply cannot be found in textbooks.

In this article, we will take a closer look at:

• How Penn State differs from other U.S. universities and who it is best suited for;
• What programs and study formats are available to international students;
• How the admissions process works and what really matters when applications are reviewed;
• The cost of studying and living in Pennsylvania and what prospective students should be prepared for in advance.

This guide will be especially useful for those who see Penn State not just as a university, but as a gateway to American education and life in the United States as a whole.

Penn State University: A State Within a State in the USA

Pennsylvania State University, known worldwide as Penn State, is a university whose history closely mirrors the history of the United States itself. Its path is not about elite closed circles or inherited privilege, but about growth, practicality, and the ability to evolve alongside the country.

Penn State was founded in 1855, in the mid-19th century — a time when America was only beginning to shape its system of higher education. Originally, it was an agricultural college, created to train specialists who could work the land, develop industry, and support the nation’s economic growth. This applied, hands-on approach became the foundation of the university’s philosophy for decades to come.

1. 01. A university for people, not for the elite
   Unlike the old private universities of the East Coast, Penn State was conceived from the very beginning as an accessible public institution. Its mission was to provide quality education to a broad range of people — farmers, engineers, teachers, managers — not only to members of privileged social groups.
   This principle remains relevant today. Penn State has always developed in close connection with real life, responding to the needs of society and the economy. That is why the university steadily expanded its academic fields, opened new campuses, and adapted to changing times.
2. 02. Growth and expansion: how a 24-campus university emerged
   Throughout the 20th century, Penn State grew alongside the state of Pennsylvania and the country as a whole. To make education accessible across different regions, the university began opening regional campuses. This led to the formation of a unique system of 24 campuses spread throughout the state. This model made it possible to:

• Educate students closer to where they live;
• Support and develop local communities;
• Gradually transfer top students to the main campus.
  For many, Penn State became a university they could grow with — starting their studies at one campus and continuing at another.

1. 03. University Park — the historic heart of Penn State
   The main campus,  University Park, holds a special place in the university’s history. It is here that Penn State’s core academic traditions, student culture, and spirit were formed. Over time, a small educational center evolved into a full-fledged university town where:

• Academic buildings stand side by side with residence halls and sports arenas;
• Life remains active both day and night;
• Traditions are passed down from one generation of students to the next.
  University Park has become a symbol of Penn State and a magnet for students from across the U.S. and around the world.

1. 04. Traditions that have endured for centuries
   The history of Penn State is not only about dates and buildings, but also about enduring traditions, many of which are more than a hundred years old:

• A strong culture of student communities;
• A special reverence for university sports;
• Active involvement of alumni in the life of their alma mater.
  Here, the university is seen not as a temporary stage, but as part of one’s personal biography. It is no coincidence that Penn State graduates often speak about their university with pride and warmth.

1. 05. A scale that is hard to imagine
   Today, Penn State is one of the largest universities in the United States and the world:

• More than 88,000 students study on campus and online;
• 24 campuses are located throughout Pennsylvania;
• Hundreds of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs;
• Dozens of world-class research centers.
  At the same time, Penn State is not a “faceless diploma factory.” The university is structured so that students learn within relatively compact academic communities, making it easy to build relationships with professors and become involved in projects from the early stages of study.

1. 06. Academic structure and fields of study
   Penn State brings together dozens of colleges and schools, including:

• College of Engineering
• Smeal College of Business
• College of Information Sciences and Technology
• College of Earth and Mineral Sciences
• College of Agricultural Sciences
• College of Health and Human Development
  Each of them operates almost like a separate university, with its own programs, research initiatives, and industry connections. This allows Penn State to be equally strong in engineering and IT, as well as in business, medicine, environmental studies, and the humanities.

Modern Penn State is the result of a century and a half of gradual development rather than a sudden leap or a successful rebranding. It embodies the core values of American public education: openness, practicality, future-orientation, and respect for the past.

That is why Penn State is perceived as a university with character — not loud or flashy, but stable and reliable. One that does not promise miracles, but provides a solid foundation for those who are ready to work and grow alongside it.

From the First Semester to a Doctoral Degree: How Education at Penn State Is Structured

Penn State University structures its academic system so that students can complete their entire educational journey within one institution — from introductory foundational courses to advanced scientific or professional specialization. The formats of study are designed not formally, but with real student life in mind: uncertainty, changing interests, and career plans that may evolve over time.

1. 01. Undergraduate studies: space for exploration and choice
   Undergraduate programs at Penn State are well suited for high school and college graduates who want not just to earn a degree, but to understand who they want to become next. The standard duration of study is 4 years, but these years rarely follow a rigid template.
   One of the key features of the undergraduate level is the wide selection of majors. At the same time, students are not always required to make a final decision about their field of study at the admission stage. The first semesters are often devoted to foundational courses and exposure to different areas of knowledge. What international students especially value:

• The ability to change majors without losing a year of study;
• A flexible curriculum structure;
• A balance of required courses and electives;
• The option to add a minor — an additional area of specialization.
  This format reduces pressure and allows students to build an individual academic path rather than follow a predetermined route.

1. 02. Graduate studies: depth and professional focus
   Master’s programs at Penn State are designed for those who already hold a higher education degree and want to strengthen their professional expertise or change career direction. Depending on the program, the duration of study ranges from 1 to 2 years.
   Graduate study is more structured and intensive than undergraduate education. Students are expected to demonstrate a high level of independence, the ability to work with large volumes of information, and to apply knowledge in practice. The most popular fields among international students include:

• MBA and business programs focused on management, analytics, and strategy;
• Data Science and IT fields that are in demand on the global job market;
• Engineering disciplines closely connected to industry;
• Public Policy and international programs for those planning careers in international organizations;
• Architecture and design, where a combination of theory, practice, and portfolio development is essential.
  Many master’s programs include project-based work, internships, group case studies, and interaction with representatives of businesses and organizations.

1. 03. Doctoral studies (PhD): a path for those who go deeper
   Doctoral programs at Penn State are intended for those pursuing academic, teaching, or expert careers. This is the longest and most demanding format of study, lasting several years. A PhD is not simply education, but full-fledged professional activity within the university. Doctoral students often:

• Receive funding that covers tuition;
• Work as teaching assistants;
• Participate in international academic programs;
• Publish research papers;
• Present at academic conferences.
  This format requires strong motivation and readiness for long-term commitment, but provides deep immersion in a chosen field and a strong academic reputation.

One of Penn State’s major strengths is the opportunity to continue education sequentially without changing universities. Many students begin with an undergraduate degree, then move on to a master’s program, and later to a doctorate, already familiar with the system, faculty, and academic culture from the inside.

Penn State approaches education as a long-distance journey rather than a one-time stage. That is why its study formats appeal to those who value flexibility, gradual development, and the ability to adapt their education to real goals rather than rigid program frameworks.

From Engineering to the Humanities: Academic Programs at Penn State Beyond the Clichés

Penn State University is often referred to as a “university of opportunities”, and this is not a marketing slogan. In terms of the number and diversity of academic fields, it truly resembles a small academic world where you can find almost any specialization — from classical engineering disciplines to rare interdisciplinary programs at the intersection of technology, society, and culture.

It is important to understand that Penn State does not divide fields of study into “primary” and “secondary.” The university values a systemic approach and gives students the freedom to combine interests, shaping their education around real goals rather than rigid faculty boundaries.

1. 01. Engineering and technology: the foundation of Penn State
   Engineering disciplines have historically held a special place within the university’s structure. Penn State developed as a practice-oriented institution, and engineering remains one of its strongest and most in-demand academic areas. Students choose fields such as:

• Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering;
• Computer engineering;
• Aerospace technologies;
• Industrial engineering;
• Robotics and automation.
  The educational approach is designed so that students do not merely study formulas and theories, but understand how this knowledge works in the real world. Project-based learning, teamwork, and hands-on courses become the norm already at early stages of study.

1. 02. IT, data science, and digital fields
   Penn State actively develops programs related to digital technologies and data analysis. These fields are especially popular among international students focused on the global job market. Key areas include:

• Computer science;
• Data science and analytics;
• Information systems;
• Cybersecurity;
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning.
  A distinctive feature is interdisciplinarity. Students often combine IT fields with business, economics, sociology, or environmental studies, making graduates more flexible and competitive.

1. 03. Business, economics, and management
   Smeal College of Business is one of the most well-known business schools at Penn State. Its programs are designed for those planning careers in the corporate world, entrepreneurship, or consulting. Popular fields include:

• Finance and investments;
• Marketing and analytics;
• Management;
• Logistics and supply chain management;
• Entrepreneurship.
  Education here is practice-oriented: case studies, group projects, and business simulations. Students learn to make decisions under uncertainty — just as they would in real business environments.

1. 04. Architecture, design, and creative industries
   For those seeking a balance between structure and creativity, Penn State offers strong programs in architecture, design, and visual communications. Areas of study include:

• Architectural design;
• Landscape architecture;
• Industrial and graphic design;
• Digital media.
  These fields require a portfolio and involve intensive practical work. Students learn to think spatially, work with clients, and turn ideas into complete, finished projects.

1. 05. Humanities and social sciences
   Despite its strong technical focus, Penn State pays significant attention to the humanities. These programs are chosen by students interested in society, culture, and international processes. Fields include:

• Political science and public policy;
• International relations;
• Sociology;
• Psychology;
• History and philosophy.
  Education in these areas focuses on developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to work with information — competencies valued far beyond the academic sphere.

1. 06. Environmental studies, agricultural sciences, and sustainability
   Penn State’s historical roots in agricultural education are still reflected in its strong programs related to natural resources and sustainable development. Students study:

• Environmental science and conservation;
• Agribusiness;
• Natural resource management;
• Food systems.
  These fields are particularly relevant in today’s world and are often combined with economics, policy, and technology.

One of Penn State’s greatest strengths is the flexibility of its academic pathways. Students can:

• Change majors;
• Add minors;
• Combine different fields of knowledge;
• Move between programs within the university.

This approach makes education dynamic and adaptable rather than rigidly fixed from the start.

Penn State University offers not just a list of majors, but a space for conscious choice. Students can arrive with a general interest and graduate with a clear professional direction — and this is exactly what makes the university attractive to students from all over the world.

A Campus of Its Own: Life at Penn State Beyond the Classrooms

Penn State University is often described not just as a university, but as a whole universe where studying is only one part of everyday life. The campuses are designed so that students don’t need to constantly “go into the city” to feel part of an active, vibrant environment. Everything important is nearby: people, events, nature, sports, and opportunities for movement and travel.

1. 01. University Park — a true university town
   The main Penn State campus, University Park, in terms of scale and infrastructure, is comparable to a small town. It has its own residential areas, cafes, shops and services, cultural venues and museums, sports complexes, and extensive green spaces.
   At the same time, the campus follows a unique university rhythm: the academic year, sports season, holidays, and traditional events form a calendar that students quickly get used to.
2. 02. Beaver Stadium and the culture of big sports
   One of the most recognizable symbols of Penn State is Beaver Stadium, one of the largest university stadiums in the world. During football games, it seats over 100,000 spectators, and on those days, the quiet university town literally transforms. It’s more than just sports:

• Games become social events;
• Students, alumni, and families gather together;
• The atmosphere resembles a city-wide celebration.
  Even those who are not sports fans find it hard not to feel the collective energy — it becomes part of the university identity and students’ memories.

1. 03. Appalachian nature — a rare bonus for students
   One of the unexpected advantages of Penn State is its location. The University Park campus is surrounded by hills, forests, and Appalachian nature parks. For students, this means:

• Weekend walks and hiking;
• Bicycle routes;
• A change of pace after intensive study weeks;
• A sense of space and fresh air, rare for large universities.
  For international students, especially from major cities, this is a pleasant discovery: studying in the U.S. can be combined with proximity to nature without feeling isolated.

1. 04. Geography that broadens horizons
   Penn State is located far enough from busy metropolises not to distract from studying, yet close enough for easy access. Within a few hours are New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., as well as small historic towns of the East Coast. This makes the university a convenient starting point for:

• Short weekend trips;
• Cultural journeys;
• Exploring different parts of the U.S.
  Many students use holidays and breaks between semesters to see the country beyond the campus.

1. 05. Travel as part of the student experience
   Studying at Penn State often becomes the start of a student’s first deep encounter with America. Students:

• Travel through national parks;
• Discover different states and cities;
• Learn to navigate the country;
• Develop a deeper understanding of American culture.
  These trips are not a tourist “checklist.” Rather, they are a gradual, living immersion — through roads, landscapes, small towns, and large metropolises.

Life at Penn State is not just lectures, exams, and deadlines. It’s evening conversations, events, trips, games, walks, and the first independent decisions away from home.

For many alumni, this part of the experience turns out to be the most valuable. The campus becomes a place where not only professional paths are shaped, but also a sense of oneself in the world — which is why Penn State is often remembered fondly, even years after graduation.

From Ideas to Impact: Research and Innovation at Penn State

Penn State University has long moved beyond being just a university where research exists separately from the everyday life of students and faculty. Here, science and innovation are not abstract lab projects but a living environment where ideas are born, hypotheses are tested, and solutions for the real world are developed. This is why Penn State consistently ranks among the leading research universities in the U.S.

1. 01. Research as part of university culture
   At Penn State, research is not confined to a small circle of professors. The university fosters a culture where research naturally extends from learning. Students at all levels — from undergraduates to doctoral candidates — are involved in projects from an early stage. This is reflected in:

• Research-based courses and seminars;
• Student participation in laboratory and field projects;
• Interdisciplinary teams;
• Opportunities to publish and present at conferences.
  This approach helps students develop not only knowledge but also research skills — asking questions, seeking answers, and working with uncertainty.

1. 02. Innovation at the intersection of disciplines
   One of Penn State’s strengths is its interdisciplinary approach. Many research projects arise at the crossroads of different fields: technology, medicine, ecology, social sciences, and business. The university actively supports projects where:

• Engineers collaborate with designers;
• IT specialists work with economists;
• Scientists cooperate with industry professionals.
  This format allows ideas to move from theory to practice faster and creates solutions that are truly applicable beyond the academic environment.

1. 03. Infrastructure for research and project launches
   Penn State invests in creating conditions where research can thrive without bureaucratic barriers. The campuses are equipped with modern laboratories, research centers, and collaborative workspaces. Students and researchers have access to science hubs and innovation centers, technology labs, prototyping spaces, and startup incubators. This provides the opportunity not just to study innovation but to actively participate in creating it.
2. 04. Support for early-career researchers
   A notable feature of Penn State is its focus on those beginning their research journey. The university offers student grants, mentorship programs, publication support, and assistance in developing research initiatives.
   As a result, many students build a portfolio of research projects while still studying, which becomes a significant advantage for future careers or admission to higher academic levels.
3. 05. Connecting research with the real economy
   Research at Penn State does not exist in a vacuum. The university actively collaborates with businesses, government agencies, and international organizations. This allows for:

• Adapting scientific developments to real-world needs;
• Creating applied solutions;
• Developing technologies that are used beyond the campus.
  For students, this means working on tasks that have practical value and long-term impact.

1. 06. Innovative thinking as a skill
   One of Penn State’s major achievements in research is fostering innovative thinking. Students are taught not just to follow instructions but to explore unconventional approaches, test ideas, treat mistakes as part of the process, and collaborate in teams. These skills are valued not only in academia but also in business, technology, and management.

Penn State views research and innovation not as a separate status but as a continuous process of development. The university constantly updates directions, formats, and approaches while maintaining academic depth and practical relevance.

This is why Penn State attracts those who want to be not just consumers of knowledge, but participants in its creation — people who understand how ideas are born and how they can change the world around them.

More Than Prestige: Why International Students Choose Penn State Consciously

Choosing a university in another country is rarely a spontaneous decision. For international students, it is almost always a carefully considered choice, taking into account the quality of education, budget, post-graduation opportunities, and what daily life in the U.S. will be like. Penn State University often turns out to be the option where these factors come together in a stable and logical balance.

1. 01. Balance of quality and cost without overpaying for a brand
   Penn State is a public university, which is a fundamentally important point. In the U.S., public universities often offer a high level of education without the price tag typical of private top-tier institutions. For international students, this means:

• More predictable tuition costs;
• No extra payment for “exclusive status”;
• Access to a large university with a strong academic reputation.
  At the same time, a Penn State diploma is widely recognized and valued by employers both in the U.S. and abroad. The university regularly appears in national and international rankings, and its graduates work in global companies, startups, and government agencies.
  Many international students choose Penn State as a rational alternative to private universities: less showy elitism, more practical benefit.

1. 02. Applied programs focused on real-world careers
   Penn State has historically been a practice-oriented university, and this is still reflected in its curricula. Programs that are directly linked to the modern labor market are especially valued. Among the most in-demand fields are engineering, IT and computer science, business and economics, medicine and life sciences, hospitality management, agriculture, and environmental studies. Learning here rarely stops at theory. Many courses are built around real-world cases, project work, internships, and industry-driven tasks. For international students, this is crucial: they gain not only knowledge but also an understanding of how this knowledge is applied in the American professional environment.
2. 03. The authentic American student experience
   For many students, studying in the U.S. is not only about a diploma but also about experiencing American culture firsthand. Penn State provides a highly authentic environment in this sense. Here you will find everything associated with classic American college life:

• Football games in a stadium with a capacity of over 100,000;
• Hundreds of student clubs and organizations;
• A campus that is alive 24/7;
• An active social and cultural life.
  International students do not feel like isolated observers. They become part of the general rhythm, traditions, and events that shape the university’s identity.

1. 04. An environment that’s easy to adapt to
   Despite its size, Penn State remains welcoming to international students. The university environment is multicultural, and international students are a normal part of campus life. This makes it easier to adapt in the first months, make friends, integrate into academic and social life, and understand the cultural nuances of the U.S. Many students note that Penn State offers a rare combination: a large university without the feeling of being lost.

Penn State is rarely chosen for a flashy name or trendy rankings. It is chosen consciously — for stability, opportunities, and an honest approach to education. For international students, it is a university that:

• Provides a solid academic foundation;
• Does not create illusions but offers real opportunities;
• Allows a full American student life experience.

That is why Penn State often becomes not just a place of study but a springboard for further career and life in an international environment.

How to become a Penn State student: a detailed guide for international applicants

Applying to Penn State University as an international student is not just about gathering documents. It is a process that demonstrates how prepared a candidate is for academic life in the U.S., their ability to plan their path, and how well they can take advantage of university opportunities. The university evaluates applicants holistically: not only grades but also motivation, interests, experience, and potential are considered.

1. 01. Language requirements: the first step toward study
   For international students, English is the main medium of instruction, so the university has strict language requirements:

• TOEFL — a test assessing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English.
• IELTS — an alternative to TOEFL, recognized by the university.
• Some programs may require higher minimum scores, especially for master’s and PhD programs.
  It is important to understand that test results are not just a formality. They indicate that the student will be able to successfully study, participate in discussions, and complete academic assignments in English.

1. 02. Academic documents: what to prepare
   The next step is to provide official academic records. The basic set includes:

• High school diploma or higher education certificate;
• Translations of documents into English by a certified translator;
• Transcripts providing a full record of school or university performance.
  These documents confirm that the applicant is ready for the academic workload and meets program requirements.

1. 03. Supplementary materials: standing out among others
   In addition to standard documents, the university often requests supplementary materials to better understand the applicant’s personality and potential:

• Motivation letter
  Explains why the student chose this program and Penn State.
• Recommendations
  Letters from teachers or supervisors confirming abilities, responsibility, and interest in the chosen field.
• CV or résumé
  Especially important for master’s and PhD programs to demonstrate work experience, internships, and projects.
• Portfolio
  For creative fields, design, and architecture.
• GRE or GMAT
  Required for some master’s programs, mainly technical and business fields.
  These elements give the admissions committee a complete picture of the candidate and help them stand out among hundreds of applicants.

1. 04. What Penn State really values
   It is important to remember that the university does not focus solely on formal grades. The admissions committee pays attention to:

• Logical choice of program
  Does the student understand why they are applying and how it aligns with their career goals?
• Motivation and determination
  Is the student ready to actively participate in academic and extracurricular life?
• Potential for growth
  Can the applicant adapt, develop, and contribute to the university community?
  In other words, Penn State looks for students who think about the future, not just the diploma.

Preparing for admission is not a race for documents but an opportunity to present oneself in the best light. The university values those who can plan, articulate motivation, and demonstrate real achievements.

Approaching the process thoughtfully and systematically, Penn State opens doors not only to the campus but to a broad, enriching student life in the U.S., where study, practice, and personal growth go hand in hand.

The Cost of a Dream: Tuition and Living Expenses at Penn State

Studying abroad is often seen as an unattainable dream, but Penn State University proves that quality education in the U.S. can be both accessible and predictable. When planning a budget, it is important to consider not only tuition fees but also housing, food, transportation, and everyday expenses.

1. 01. Tuition: an investment in the future
   For international students, studying at Penn State is an investment that pays off through professional opportunities and experience. The average cost depends on the level of the program:

• Undergraduate
  From $35,000 per year. This includes tuition for the chosen major, access to libraries, laboratories, and student services.
• Graduate
  From $40,000 per year, though the exact amount depends on the program. Some business and engineering programs may be slightly higher due to specialized infrastructure and materials.
  It is important to understand that these amounts cover only the academic portion. Penn State is a public university, so tuition is lower than at private East Coast universities, while quality and opportunities remain high.

1. 02. Housing and daily expenses: what to consider
   Living on or near campus creates additional costs that should be considered when planning a budget. On average:

• Housing
  $800–1,200 per month. This includes both student dormitories and private apartments nearby. On-campus housing often includes basic furniture and utilities.
• Food
  $400–600 per month. The university offers a variety of dining halls, cafeterias, and student meal programs, allowing students to plan meals according to their taste and budget.
• Transportation, insurance, and personal expenses
  Separate. Many students use bicycles, university transport, or carpooling to save money. Health insurance is mandatory for international students, and Penn State provides convenient plans.
  Pennsylvania has a moderate cost of living. Unlike California or New York, housing and services here are more affordable, while the quality of life remains high.

1. 03. Campus and student life: more than academics
   Penn State is not only about lectures and laboratories. The main University Park campus, as well as regional campuses, create a vibrant environment where student life is intertwined with culture, sports, and recreation. Students have access to:

• The living nature of the Appalachians, with opportunities for walks, bike routes, and outdoor recreation;
• Convenient access to major East Coast cities: New York, Philadelphia, Washington — all within a few hours’ drive;
• Travel across the U.S. during breaks and semester holidays, turning study into a real adventure.

For international students, Penn State often becomes the first serious immersion into American life. Here, it is possible to study, work on projects, experience the culture, and travel around the country simultaneously.

Tuition and living costs at Penn State are more than just numbers. They are a tool that allows students to build a quality education, gain experience, and create lasting memories without sacrificing comfort or opportunities for growth.

10 Facts You Didn’t Know About the University of Pennsylvania

From the tradition of tossing toast at the stadium to inventions that changed the world — dive into the fascinating stories of the University of Pennsylvania, one of the oldest and most influential universities in the U.S., founded by Benjamin Franklin.

This university is not only renowned for its academic excellence but also preserves unique traditions and historical curiosities that make it truly special.

1. 01. Unusual sports traditions

• Toast throwing
  During football games at the home stadium, Franklin Field, fans uphold a century-old tradition: when the line “Here’s a toast to dear old Penn” is sung in the university anthem, they throw thousands of pieces of toasted bread onto the field. The ritual originated during the Prohibition era as a sober alternative to an alcoholic toast. In a good season, up to 30,000 toasts are thrown, and special equipment — the “Toast Zaporozhets” — is used for cleanup.
• Goalpost tossing
  In the past, when the Penn Quakers won the Ivy League championship, jubilant fans would carry football goalposts off the field and throw them into the Schuylkill River.
• Ancient rivalry
  The rivalry with Princeton University is one of the oldest and fiercest in U.S. college sports. It extends beyond football and basketball and even influenced the architectural appearance of the Penn campus.

1. 02. Student superstitions and legends

• The compass on the path to luck
  In the center of the main pedestrian walkway, Locust Walk, a compass is embedded in the pavement. Among freshmen, it is said that stepping on it will cause you to fail your first exams. The legend was supposedly created by a fraternity to make it easier to start conversations with new students.
• Midnight scream
  The night before the first microeconomics exam, hundreds of freshmen gather at midnight on the balcony of a dormitory and scream together to relieve tension.

1. 03. Historical curiosities

• Ambiguous motto
  From 1756 to 1898, the university’s official motto was Sine Moribus Vanae. Later, it was discovered that it could be translated not only as “vain without morals” but also as “immoral women without morals.” The current motto reads Leges sine moribus vanae (“Laws without morals are useless”).
• Medical revolution from a pressure cooker
  The kidney dialysis apparatus was first constructed by medical student William Inoue… using an ordinary pressure cooker.

1. 04. Global innovations born at Penn

• Cradle of the computer era
  It was here, at the Moore School of Electrical Engineering, that in 1946 the ENIAC — the world’s first general-purpose electronic digital computer—was created, launching the computer revolution.
• Pioneer in education
  Penn was not just an old university but the first in the U.S. to follow the European model of a multidisciplinary university combining several schools. It also saw the establishment of the first medical school in the U.S. (1765), the first business school in the world — Wharton (1881), and the first student union in the U.S. — Houston Hall (1896).

1. 05. The world of business and famous alumni

• Billionaire factory
  Penn holds the national record for the number of billionaire alumni among all U.S. universities. Among them are Elon Musk and Warren Buffett (both Wharton graduates), as well as fashion house founder Tory Burch.
• Diverse leadership
  Notable alumni include 3 U.S. presidents, 14 heads of other states, 64 billionaires, 38 Nobel laureates, and 8 signers of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.

1. 06. Facts from history and science

• The first secular university in America
  From its founding, UPenn was conceived by Benjamin Franklin as an institution free from religious dogma, unlike other colonial colleges. It represented a fundamentally new approach to higher education.
• Temporary U.S. capital
  During the Revolutionary War, the main building, College Hall, served as the headquarters of the Second Continental Congress after British troops left Philadelphia. For a short time, the UPenn campus became one of the first meeting places of the U.S. government.
• Training surgeons for the Civil War
  As the first medical school in the country, UPenn trained a large number of doctors for both sides of the conflict: around 800 surgeons for the Union Army and over 500 for the Confederate Army.
• Contributions to global science
  Beyond the first computer ENIAC, UPenn researchers contributed to many fields. They discovered the tomb of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Sebekhotep and developed a method for direct reprogramming of human cells.

1. 07. Student life and sports

• The oldest track and field competition
  The annual Penn Relays are the oldest and largest track and field competitions in the U.S., held since 1895. Each spring they attract hundreds of athletes and thousands of spectators.
• Rowbottom student riots
  Between 1930 and 1966, the university had an unusual and destructive tradition — the so-called Rowbottom Riots, when students caused disturbances, broke windows, and played pranks.
• Global campus
  UPenn was an international university long before it became mainstream. As early as 1921, students from 50 countries studied here. Today, this tradition continues: the university offers strong programs in East Asian, Middle Eastern, and global studies, and the campus is a complex mosaic of cultures, perspectives, and languages. The Wharton School of Business holds a special place, with alumni forming the world’s largest network of billionaires — from Elon Musk to Donald Trump.

1. 08. Innovation engine: from ENIAC to today
   The spirit of practical invention, bequeathed by Franklin, continues to thrive in UPenn’s labs and research centers, making it one of the most productive “factories of the future” in the world.

• Digital revolution
  Perhaps the university’s most famous invention is ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer). Created in 1946 at the Moore School of Electrical Engineering, this 27-ton machine was the world’s first general-purpose electronic digital computer. Its creators, Presper Eckert and John Mauchly, did not just build a calculator — they laid the architectural foundations for the entire computer industry. Even in the 21st century, the university remains a leader: the GRASP Laboratory is a world leader in robotics, with applications in space, medicine, and industry.
• Medical breakthroughs
  Professor Ralph Brinster, who worked at the university for decades, pioneered mammalian embryo research, laying the foundation for in vitro fertilization (IVF) technology. Today, UPenn scientists lead in developing personalized immunotherapy for cancer (CAR-T), literally reprogramming patients’ immune cells to fight disease.
• Innovation landscape
  Understanding that ideas need space to grow, the university created Pennovation Works. This research park, located on a former industrial site, embodies an innovation ecosystem where startups, academic labs, and investors work side by side, turning theoretical developments into commercial products and technologies.

1. 09. The quirkiest student traditions and tight-knit community

• Daily festival
  The “Feb Club” is a tradition where seniors attend a party or special event every day throughout February. The most active participants’ names are placed on an “honor board” in a local bar.
• Rites of passage
  “Hey Day” is an annual ceremony marking students’ transition from junior to senior year. On this day, juniors wear red shirts, straw hats, carry canes, and march ceremoniously along Locust Walk.
• The “Social Ivy”
  UPenn is often called The Social Ivy for balancing serious study with an active social life. The campus atmosphere embodies “work hard, play hard.”
• Large-scale newspaper
  The student newspaper The Daily Pennsylvanian was founded in 1885 and has been published daily since 1894. Over 250 students participate, making it one of the oldest and largest independent student newspapers in the country.
• Unique financial approach
  UPenn follows an “all-grant financial aid” policy, covering 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students (U.S., Canadian, and Mexican citizens) entirely through scholarships and grants, without requiring loans.

1. 10. Architecture and campus
   The university is renowned not only for its history but also for its unique architectural style.

• Architectural standard
  The historical appearance of the main campus was designed by the architectural firm Cope & Stewardson. They developed and popularized the “Collegiate Gothic” style, later used at Princeton University and other prestigious universities.
• Own urban forest
  In addition to the main campus, the university owns the Morris Arboretum, covering 92 acres (about 37 ha). It is the official arboretum of Pennsylvania and houses a collection of more than 13,000 plants.

These facts are just a small part of what defines the spirit of the University of Pennsylvania. It is a place where respect for history and tradition blends with a drive for innovation, creating the unique atmosphere of one of the greatest universities in the world.

Discover the USA more deeply with American Butler

Penn State University is a university for those who:

• Want a strong American education without elitist pretension;
• Value practical experience, not just theory;
• Plan a career in an international environment;
• Want to experience real student life in the U.S., not just “study and graduate.”

Studying here often becomes a starting point for significant changes — in your career, worldview, and lifestyle.

Studying in the U.S. is more than classes and exams. It’s about a country you want to see, understand, and feel. American Butler helps to:

• Assist with documents, choosing a university or school;
• Organize personalized trips across the U.S.;
• Show America beyond tourist clichés;
• Plan trips for students and their families;
• Combine study, leisure, and exploration of new places.

America can amaze you — if you know where to go and how to look.