International Students

A quality education should help you explore new ideas and different ways of approaching problems.

For this reason, our international student population, which comprises about 20% of each year's full-time class, is an extremely important part of our academic program.  Most international students come to Fels to learn American public management techniques, which they then put into practice in their home countries after graduation, but American students benefit just as much by learning about the strategies used to address common challenges in other countries. 

Who are we looking for?

We aim for diversity, so our international students hail from all parts of the globe, including Britain, India, Japan, Ghana, Korea, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, Spain, and Thailand.  Most have professional experience, often in local or national government, NGOs or international organizations, or in the private sector.  Over the years, we've hosted a number of Fullbright and Thouron Fellows as well as individuals sponsored by their employers.  

International Applicants: Frequently Asked Questions

Applying to graduate programs in the United States can be a confusing process. In anticipation of the questions you may have, we have created a page of Frequently Asked Questions to help make the application process easier. 

Resources

With over 100 countries represented at the University of Pennsylvania, international students at Fels join the largest community of international students in the Ivy League.  Penn's International Student and Scholar Services provides services to the international community, including English classes, information about the Visa process and other immigration, and opportunities to meet other international students and get involved in campus life.   Some students choose to get involved with the Philadelphia International House or the International Visitor's Council during their time here. 

The intimate size of the MPA programs allows international students to quickly be welcomed into the Fels community and allows for close and enduring relationships with other students, faculty, and program administration. 

How to Apply

International applicants should complete the same application as national students and will be considered for scholarships unless otherwise stated.  To be considered for funding, no additional applications or proof of income is required.  International applicants should have their transcripts translated into the American grading system by a translation service provider, such as World Education Services (WES).

If you would like to speak to a current international student or alumnus or will be in the area and would like to schedule a campus visit, please email us at felsinstitute@sas.upenn.edu.