The University of Pennsylvania has updated its study abroad application process and software, introducing a new system that will affect students applying for spring 2027 programs.According to Daily Pennsylvanian, the changes are part of a wider set of updates by Penn Abroad over the past year. These include adjustments to program caps, application timelines and approval processes.
The new system changes how applications are submitted.
The most visible change is the introduction of a new application platform, Passport. The updated system is expected to change the way students search for programs and submit applications.Under the new system, students will be able to open their applications themselves from April 15. Previously, students needed to request access, which staff would process.Penn Abroad associate director Greta Kaczynski said the change is intended to make the process more accessible. “We’re trying to make things smooth and user-friendly for students and not strain our staff’s workflow.” Daily in Pennsylvania.
More options are needed in program selection.
The application requirements have also been updated. Students will now need to list three alternative programs when applying, compared to one alternative previously.The change is intended to improve placement flexibility, particularly for select programs where seats are limited.Also, the number of applications each selected program receives has been increased from 15 to 25. Capacity of 40 students will continue for other programs.Penn Abroad has also revised how these caps are calculated. Instead of tracking open applications, the count will now be based on submitted applications.
After submission, the academic approval process proceeds.
Students will still need academic approval from their home schools, but the timing of this step has changed. Now during the application process approval will be requested after submission of application.Students will also be able to track their approval status directly through the system.
Deadlines for selected programs have been moved earlier.
The timeline for study abroad applications has also been adjusted.For selected programs, the deadline has been extended from September to June. The deadline for academic approval in these programs is now June 15.For non-selective programs, students must open their application by September 1, with academic approval by September 15.The only exceptions are the programs offered by Oxford University and Cambridge University, which continue to follow earlier timelines.According to Kaczynski, the purpose of the earlier deadline is to give students more time to consider alternatives if they are not accepted to their first choice. “If students find out they’re not getting into their first choice program, they have more time to make their secondary application,” he said. Daily in Pennsylvania.
A gradual change in the way a process works
By adjusting deadlines, adding alternative options and updating the system, Penn aims to streamline the process and better manage study abroad demand and application flow.The updated system will first be used for spring 2027 applicants, marking the next step in how study abroad programs are managed at the university.
