International Applicants
SP2 welcomes applicants from around the world. International applicants follow the same general application process as other applicants, with additional requirements related to academic credentials and, when applicable, English language proficiency.
Applicants who will require University-sponsored immigration status should also review the information below regarding eligible programs and visit Penn’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).
International Transcript Evaluations
Applicants must obtain a course-by-course evaluation for transcripts that reflect either:
- A degree earned at an institution outside the United States; or
- More than two semesters of study at an institution outside the United States.
This requirement applies even if your coursework was taught in English or your transcript is issued in English.
How to submit your academic credentials
- Upload your university-issued transcript to your SP2 application.
- Request a course-by-course evaluation from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)(opens in a new tab). SP2 accepts course-by-course transcript evaluations from any NACES-member organization(opens in a new tab). Some of our applicants have used: World Education Services (WES) and (opens in a new tab)Educational Perspectives(opens in a new tab)
- Have the completed evaluation sent directly to the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice.
Please note
Processing times vary by transcript evaluation provider and may take several weeks. We recommend beginning the evaluation process at least eight weeks before your application deadline.
Questions about the status, processing time, or contents of your course-by-course evaluation should be directed to the evaluation provider.
Your application is not considered complete until SP2 has received the required transcript evaluation.
English Language Proficiency Exams
English Language Proficiency Exams
For international students whose first language is not English, applicants must meet SP2’s English proficiency policy by one of the following options:
Option 1: Provide test scores with a test date within the last two years:
| Test | Minimum Score | Send Scores To: |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL Internet-Based Test (iBT) Pre-2026 scale | 100 | Institutional Code D698 and Department Code 99 |
| TOEFL Internet-Based Test 2026-on (iBT26) Scale | 5.0 | Institutional Code D698 and Department Code 99. |
| IELTS | Overall Band Score of 7.5 | Send electronically to University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice. For IELTS, confirm that you have selected the correct account by verifying the address: |
| Duolingo English Test | Overall Score of 135 | Send electronically to University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice. |
Option 2: Qualify for a waiver
- A degree from a college or university in the United States;
- A degree from a college or university in a country in which English is recognized as the official language; or
- A degree from a college or university where English is the medium of instruction and this is indicated on your academic record or Certificate of English Medium of Instruction.
Applicants Requiring Visa Sponsorship
International applicants who require University-sponsored F-1 or J-1 immigration status must enroll in an SP2 program that is eligible for visa sponsorship and must meet applicable University and federal enrollment requirements. Visa eligibility and requirements are determined in consultation with Penn’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).
Programs Not Eligible for Sponsorship
SP2 cannot provide University-sponsored student visa documentation for:
- The Online Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership (NPL); or
- The Doctorate in Nonprofit Administration (DNPA); or
- Non-degree courses or program enrollment formats that do not meet applicable requirements for University-sponsored student immigration status.
Please Note
Doctorate in Clinical Social Work (DSW)
International students admitted to the DSW program may request an I-20 from ISSS for each required one-week onsite immersion. The I-20 may be used to apply for an F-1 visa. A new I-20 is required for the second immersion. If your F-1 visa remains valid, you do not need to apply for a new visa; however, you must obtain a new I-20 and pay the I-901 SEVIS fee associated with the new SEVIS number.
Doctorate in Nonprofit Administration (DNPA)
International students are welcome to apply to the DNPA program. Please note that SP2 and the University of Pennsylvania do not provide F-1 or J-1 immigration sponsorship for participation in the DNPA program.
After You Are Admitted
Penn’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) manages immigration documentation and advising for international students.
Admitted students who require Penn-sponsored F-1 or J-1 status will receive instructions for accessing iPenn and requesting the appropriate immigration document, such as the Form I-20 or DS-2019.
Penn does not automatically issue these documents upon admission. Students must complete the required ISSS process and submit the appropriate immigration and financial documentation.
Plan Ahead
We encourage all international applicants to apply for admission early to allow sufficient time to complete the entire visa process. Because visa processing timelines vary, admitted international students should begin this process as soon as they receive instructions from ISSS.
Application Deadlines
| Program | Deadline | Application Fee |
|---|---|---|
| MSW, MSSP, and NPL | Priority Deadline: December 1 Final Deadline: February 1 | $25 |
| DSW | February 15 | $65 |
| DNPA | February 15 | $65 |
| PhD | December 1 | $80 |
Financial Aid
SP2 offers a limited number of merit-based awards to eligible masters, Doctorate in Clinical Social Work, and Doctorate in Nonprofit Administration students. Explore the Graduate Student Center(opens in a new tab) resources for more about financial support for the PhD in Social Welfare program.
Please note that financial documentation required by ISSS for immigration purposes is separate from SP2’s financial aid process.
Questions?
Questions about your SP2 application
SP2 Admissions
University of Pennsylvania
School of Social Policy & Practice
3701 Locust Walk
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Questions about visas or immigration status
Contact Penn International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) for guidance regarding F-1 or J-1 status, I-20 or DS-2019 issuance, immigration documentation, and maintaining student immigration status.
Penn International Student & Scholar Services(opens in a new tab)