University of Pennsylvania skyline looking east with Penn Park in foreground

Penn GSE delivers a dynamic Ivy League education set in the real-world learning laboratory of an iconic American city. We hope you like cheesesteaks, but it’s okay if you don’t. Philly has a lot to offer, no matter your tastes.

Philadelphia is both historic and a trendsetter. It’s America’s fastest-growing city for Millennials and Gen Z, who are re-energizing urban neighborhoods. The diverse population speaks dozens of languages, adds distinctive cultural influences, and enhances the city’s reputation as a haven for foodies. Plus, it’s easy to get around on foot, by bicycle, or by public transit.

Whether you're arriving for the first time or have called Philly home for years, you'll find community, opportunity, and new adventures in every corner of the city.

Housing and Campus Safety

Graduate students at Penn have a range of housing options, from off-campus rentals throughout Philadelphia to on-campus opportunities like Graduate Associate roles in College Houses. Penn’s Division of Public Safety offers services to support a safe campus and surrounding community.

Off-Campus Housing

Graduate students looking to live off-campus in Philadelphia will find many options to consider based on preferences in location, type and size of unit, and amenities. The Office of Off-Campus Services provides a database of rental listings, roommate matching, and useful information on the housing search process.

On-Campus Housing

Graduate students looking to live on Penn's campus in University City can explore on-campus housing through Graduate Resident Advisor (GRA) positions in the undergraduate College Houses.

Campus Safety

Penn’s Division of Public Safety is responsible for providing comprehensive safety and security services for the campus and surrounding community. The Division delivers a comprehensive and integrated safety and security program in partnership with the community they serve. For detailed information about the collection of crime statistics required by the Clery Act, visit the Division of Public Safety’s Clery Act & Crime Reporting page.

Philly Facts

  • 17% Less expensive than living in other major U.S. cities

  • 6th Largest city in the U.S.

  • 100+ Museums and cultural institutions throughout the city

  • 2nd Highest concentration of colleges in the U.S.

  • 150+ Neighborhoods to explore, according to The Pew Charitable Trusts

  • 2,000+ Outdoor murals, making Philly the mural capital of the U.S.