Ready to Apply to a Penn Engineering Graduate Program? Here are 5 Steps to Craft a Strong Application

Applying to graduate school is an opportunity to present yourself as the ideal candidate for your dream program. At Penn Engineering, we’re looking for passionate, innovative thinkers ready to shape the future. The following are five essential steps to help your application rise to the top.

1. Define Your Vision

Your application should reflect a clear sense of purpose. What excites you most about engineering? How does Penn Engineering align with your ambitions? Use your personal statement to articulate your long-term goals and how this program will serve as a stepping stone toward achieving them.

In two pages or less, write an essay that answers the questions below. (But if you’re applying to the Integrated Product Design program, see the IPD-specific questions on their website.) Use specific examples where possible:

• Why are you interested in this program?
• What have you done that makes you a great candidate?
• How will you benefit from the program?
• How do you plan to contribute to the student community at Penn Engineering while you’re here?
• Why will you succeed in the program?
• What will you do/accomplish once you have completed the program?

2. Build a Strong Support Network

When choosing who will write your letters of recommendation, think strategically. Select individuals who can speak to your strengths with specific examples, whether they are a professor who oversaw your research or a supervisor who witnessed your problem-solving abilities firsthand.

Here are the specific requirements for submitting letters of recommendation:

• Provide two letters of recommendation (three for the CIS Ph.D. and BE Ph.D. “Medical Physics” concentration only), including one from a faculty member familiar with your scholarly abilities.
• Your letter writers will receive an email when you enter their contact information in the application for admission. The email provides a link to complete a form and upload their letter.
• There are no formal requirements or guidelines for how the letters should be written, but strong letters often include examples of your academic and professional achievements.

3. Demonstrate Attention to Detail

Submitting an error-free application shows that you value precision—a critical skill in engineering. Review every document thoroughly. Ensure your personal statement is concise and compelling, your CV is well-organized, and all required materials are uploaded correctly. Small mistakes can distract from your otherwise stellar application.

4. Showcase Your Unique Contributions

What sets you apart from other applicants? Highlight your most impactful experiences, whether an innovative research project, leadership in a technical organization, or professional achievements. Rather than simply listing accomplishments, explain how these experiences have prepared you to contribute meaningfully to Penn Engineering’s dynamic community.

5. Take Initiative to Connect

Demonstrating interest in Penn Engineering goes beyond submitting an application. Attend webinars, reach out to current students and faculty, or participate in Q&A sessions with our Admissions Team. These opportunities provide you with valuable insights and signal your enthusiasm for joining our graduate programs.

Each step of the application process is an opportunity to showcase who you are and what you can bring to our community. By following these steps, you’ll craft an application that highlights your potential and sets you apart. 

Ready to get started? Visit the Penn Engineering Graduate Admissions website for additional resources and guidance. For answers to questions about the application process, including test score requirements, financial aid options, and application deadlines, visit our FAQ page. Watch recordings of Information Sessions with our faculty and Q&As with our Admissions Team on our YouTube Channel.