Information for International Applicants

IMPORTANT NOTICE:
WPWP Programs to be phased out by the Spring 2013 term. Download a PDF with more information.

 


Visas

Program participants are responsible to have the appropriate immigration status that will allow them to participate in the program. Because WPWP curriculum is part-time for working professionals, we are unable to issue immigration documents for our program. For complete and updated information about visas, you may contact the University of Pennsylvania's Office of International Programs.

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Proof of English Language Proficiency

Wharton Programs for Working Professionals, including the Wharton Business and Law Certificate, offer students a learning experience that encourages public speaking, group discussions, and active class participation. To succeed, students must possess a highly developed proficiency in written and oral English.

In addition to having the appropriate visa, international students whose first language is not English must submit with their application proof of English language proficiency, demonstrated through one of the following:

  • TOEFL CBT: 240 with TSE 55 or iBT Speaking and Writing 24
  • TOEFL PBT: 585 with TSE 55 or iBT Speaking and Writing 24
  • TOEFL/iBT above 96 total with 24 in Speaking and Writing
  • TOEIC 850
  • CAE: grade B or above (or CPE: grade C or above)
  • IELTS: 7.0 or higher
  • ELP student: 800 level

TOEFL Waiver: You may request to waive the TOEFL if:

  • you have earned an undergraduate or master's degree in an English-speaking country or from an institution in which English is the language of instruction, or
  • have completed a U.S. graduate degree program followed by at least three years of work in the U.S.

Applicants may be required to provide evidence in support of the waiver with an iBT Speaking and/or an iBT Writing score of 24 or higher, or one of the above tests with the score level indicated.

Testing: Applicants may have the option to take the SPEAK Test (the University of Pennsylvania version of the TSE) which is offered by the University's English Language Programs office (ELP). The ELP offers on-site testing three times annually: at the end of the spring, fall, and winter semesters. Questions about registration and payment may be directed to the ELP at 215.898.8681.

Note: If your test score is more than two years old, you must retake the test. Wharton accepts only official TOEFL scores sent by the ETS.

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ELP STUDENT INFORMATION

Wharton Programs for Working Professionals, including the Wharton Business and Law Certificate, offer students a learning experience that encourages public speaking, group discussions, and active class participation. To succeed, students must possess a highly developed proficiency in written and oral English.

In addition to having the appropriate visa, international students whose first language is not English must submit with their application proof of English language proficiency, demonstrated through one of the following:

  Language Proficiency Level Enrollment
Gateway I
  • TOEFL iBT above 96 with no section score lower than 24
  • TOEFL PBT 585 with TSE or iBT Speaking and Writing 24
  • TOEIC 850
  • CAE: Grade B or above (or CPE: grade C or above)
  • IELTS: 7.0 or higher
  • ELP student: 800 level
At this level, you enter directly into WPWP courses
Gateway II
  • TOEFL iBT above 80-96 with no section score lower than 20
  • TOEFL PBT 545 with TSE 50 or iBT Speaking and Writing 20
  • TOEIC 700-850
  • CAE: FCE
  • IELTS: 6.0-7.0
  • ELP student: 700 level
At this level, you study academic English and study skills for at least one semester (4 months) before you begin WPWP courses. Proficiency will be evaluated before enrolling in a WPWP course.
Gateway III
  • All scores below Gateway II
At this level, you should plan to study at the ELP before entering WPWP courses. Your length of study will vary depending on your English proficiency level.

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International Transcripts

When submitting transcripts for application, all courses must be verified and translated into English and into North American standards before submission by an authorized translation service, such as World Education Service (WES) or Education Evaluators International (EES). You will be required to provide an official paper transcript sent directly from each college or university attended to WES, EES, or other authorized third-party verification agency.

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Housing

We do not offer housing facilities for students. However, international students who combine study in our programs with classes at ELP may arrange for housing through ELP.

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