Penn GSE 2026 - Guidebook

GUIDEBOOK GUIDEBOOK 2026 2026

Guidebook created by Suditi Sundaram and the OSS team and credits to some photos from Ed Policy guidebook

A note to gse students, Congratulations! You made it. Whether you’re arriving excited, overwhelmed, or still finding your ground, know this: you belong here and we’re so grateful you chose to join our community. Being at Penn GSE is a testament to your hard work, capabilities, and resilience.

As you begin your journey, remember that there’s no “right way” to do grad school. While there may be common tips and tricks, everyone’s path looks different. There will be moments that challenge you, surprise you, make you question your decisions, and, somehow, reinforce them at the same time. In those times, come back to your why. You have the desire and power to shape the field of education. Let that guide you.

You bring all of who you are into every space you enter, and we have no doubt that Penn GSE is richer in thought and perspective because of you. Your questions, experiences, and ideas matter.

So... ask that question, make that friend, take that leap. Most importantly, be kind and give yourself grace.

Welcome to Penn GSE. We can’t wait to see all that you become.

Warmly, Penn GSE Team

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PENN GSE GUIDEBOOK

Academic Calendar

1

The Office of Student Success

3

Important Contacts & Websites

4

i. New Student Onboarding

8

PennKey Setup

9

Penn Email Setup

10

Penn Card

11

Penn Wifi

12

Path@Penn

13

Canvas

17

OnePennGSE

18

Reserving Study Spaces

19

Printing

21

ii. Social Resources

22

Penn Dining

23

Philly food diaries

24

Student Organizations and Graduate Groups

25

iii. Academic Resources

26

Writing Commons

27

Writing Support Services

28

Writing Workshops and Programs

29

Free Subscriptions & Penn Zoom

30

Project Management

31

Student Records Office & Financial Services

33

iv. Wellness Resources

34

Health, Wellness, and Recreation

35

Public Safety

36

Underrated Spots at Penn

37

v. Career Resources

38

Penn’s Career Services

39

Resources & Guides

40

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PENN GSE GUIDEBOOK

Opportunities at Penn & GSE

41

vii. International Student Resources

42

Work Authorization Info

43

Essential Resources

45

viii. Rest and Decompress

46

Penn Word Search

47

Coloring Pages

48

Manifestation 101

51

Notes

53

Academic calendar

Please refer to the One Penn GSE website for most updated information!

Fall 2026

Event/Deadline

August 20-21

Penn GSE New Student Orientation

August 24

Program New Student Orientation

Eligibility Requirements August 25 Fall Term Classes Begin You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one September 7 Labor Day (NO CLASSES) academic year before being eligible for CPT. LAST DAY to add or drop a class without financial penalty via Path @ Penn require EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs September 8

immediate inLAST an internship, practicum, or other Octoberparticipation 9 DAY to drop aacourse (NO REFUND) employment.

October 14

Opening of December 2026 Graduation Application

Advanced for Spring via the It is available only while you are in Registeration valid F-1 status and 2027 before October 26 Path@Penn completion of your program.

October 29

LAST DAY to request course grade type change

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for LAST DAY for Doctoral Students to submit dissertation CPT. November 3

for review by the Director of Academic Affairs for December 2026 Degree

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year November LAST to withdraw from a course REFUND) waiting period10may need to DAY be recalculated once the (NO student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

November 17

Open Enrollment for Spring 2027 available via Path.

November 20

LAST DAY to submit the December 2026 Graduation Application

November 24- 29

Thanksgiving Break (NO CLASSES)

December 14

Last Day of Fall Semester Classes All Coursework DUE!

January 4

Fall Term Grades due

1

Academic calendar

Please refer to the One Penn GSE website for most updated information!

Spring 2027

Event/Deadline

January 18

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (NO CLASSES)

January 20

Spring Term Classes Begin

Eligibility Requirements LAST DAY to add or drop a course without financial penaltyon viaaPath@Penn You must have been lawfully enrolled full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. February 2

February 3

Opening of May 2027 Graduation Application

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require March 1 LAST DAY to drop a course (NO REFUND) immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

March 6 - 14 Spring Term Break (NO CLASSES) March 29

LAST DAY to request course grade type change

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

March 29 Advanced Registration for Fall 2027 opens in Path@Penn Open Enrollment for Summer 2027 available via

March in 29 English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for Students Path@Penn CPT. April 5

LAST DAY to withdraw from a course (NO REFUND)

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year studentsonce to submit dissertation for waiting period may LAST needDAY to for beDoctoral recalculated the student has April 5 review for May 2027 Degree again obtained valid F-1 status.

April 16

May 2027 Graduation Application Closes

May 11

Last Day of Spring Semester Classes All Coursework DUE!

May 22

GSE Commencement Ceremony

May 24

University Commencement Ceremony

2

The Office of Student Success Your guides through your journey here at Penn GSE! The Office of Student Success’ (OSS) mission is built on a foundation of core values that guide our work and interactions with students: Empowering Academic & Personal Success Building a Versatile Skillset Fostering and Building Community 3700 Walnut street gse room 204 Providing Services in Times of Need

gse-oss@gse.upenn.edu

What does OSS do?

Eligibility Requirements Our goal is to help you be successful, during your time at GSE and beyond.

You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before We provide domains: beingsupport eligible in forfive CPT.

SOCIAL EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in Events and programming around enjoyment and community building. an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

Includes Orientation and Commencement.

ItACADEMIC is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Advising & classroom support Guidance accommodation processes Studentsthrough in Englishthe Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. Time management &. learning strategies support If you had a gap Advocacy in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may Student need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

CAREER

1:1 career support, workshops, and networking opportunities

WELLNESS 1:1 support meetings, wellness programming Guidance on Student Health & Counseling (SHaC) Support with administrative processes like leaves of absences, returns, etc. international student support International student support, OPT/CPT processes, workshops, etc. : (215) 898-7659

: gse-oss@gse.upenn.edu

WE ARE HERE TO HELP! 3

KEY WEBSITES MORE Detailed information in upcoming pages

Academic Calendar

Path @Penn

Canvas

ONEPENNGSE

Graduation Applications

4

Not sure who to contact for what?

215-898-6415

admissions @ gse.upenn.edu

Office of Admissions and Financial Aid Questions about tuition, loans, financial aid, work study

215-898-2059

gse-sro @ gse.upenn.edu

STUDENT RECORDS OFFICE For registration, degree conferral, holds, transcripts, and the academic calendar

215-898-1501

cdkubik@ upenn.edu

Office of ACADEMIC AFFAIRS For questions about academic policies, milestone check-ins, or the Student Handbook

215-898-7659

GSE-oss @ gse.upenn.edu

office of student success Leaves Of Absence, Wellness & Career Support, Social Programming, International Student Guidance, Orientation and Commencement

5

Not sure who to contact for what?

Faculty Specific course details, course times/rooms, syllabi & grade changes

program staff everything program-related: requirements, timelines and course suggestions

Information technology Pennkey troubleshooting, email account, printers

6

MATCH THE FOLLOWING Familiarize yourself with key campus services!

Match the service requests to their respective departments.

This exercise will hopefully deepen your understanding of the resources available to you and where to find them.

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for WHAT DO I NEED? WHERE DOCPT. I GO? course details, syllabus and grade EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose require OFFICE OFprograms STUDENT SUCCESS changes

immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

Student programming

Program managers

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

FINANCIAL AID SUPPORT Information technology Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for graduation and degree faculty CPT. requirements If you had a gap in study or a status DIRECTOR violation, the one academic OF CAREER SERVICES AT academic policies and timelines OFFICE OF STUDENT SUCCESS year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

Penn Key, Penn email and printing troubleshooting

OFFICE OF FINANCIAL AID

program timelines and course suggestions

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

Career AND GA-SHIP GUIDANCE

STUDENT RECORDS OFFICE

7

NT ONBO E UD

TS W EN

A R GNID

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

This section covers all the essential steps for your logistical onboarding as a new student. Includes:

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year Setting campus Wi-Fi waiting period may need to be up recalculated once the student has again Activating your email to accessing course obtained valid F-1 status. registration

Student portals Tech support

8

setting up your pennkey what is a pennkey?

Your key to nearly all digital resources and vital websites at Penn.

The name you choose for your PennKey is also your email address, so choose wisely!

where can i set it up?

Once accept your offer at Penn, you will receive an email about your PennKey setup. It is highly recommended that you complete this process before your arrival at Penn.

You will receive a temporary PennKey and ID number in an email (example above).

Additional PennKey FAQs:

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Penn Email Setup how can i set up my ‘upenn.edu’ email?

In order to set up your Penn email address, you need to first set up your PennKey. After a few business days, your PennKey will activate and you can set up your email account.

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

Above are set-up instructions from the OnePennGSE website.

If you don’t have access to your email three (3) business days after your PennKey activation, submit a ticket with IT. Tip: Do not use your Penn email for personal registrations. Your account is deleted 60 days after graduation and cannot be recovered thereafter. To avoid any future complications, use your Penn Email only for school-related purposes.

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getting your penncard what is a penncard?

Your Penn ID Card is vital for accessing Penn’s physical spaces! You need it to enter any and all buildings on campus. You either present it to a guard at the front desk or tap it for entry - either way, always have it on you!

Eligibility Requirements Make a PennCard You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one appointment academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other The PennCard Centeremployment. is located on the 2nd floor It is available onlyBookstore while you are in valid F-1 status and before the of the Penn (3601 Walnut Street). completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT.

For your appointment, Carry:

If you had apassport gap in study or a status violation, the one academic A valid year waiting period may need to ORbe recalculated once the student has again obtained F-1 status. or the U.S. A valid photo ID issued by a U.S.valid state, territory, Federal Government (driver's license, state-issued photo ID card, U.S. military ID, etc.).

You can also load PennCash onto your card, which functions as a prepaid debit feature that can be used at different locations around campus.

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getting on penn’s wifi how can i connect to Penn wifi?

1. Go to the OnePenn GSE Information Technology page You will need your PennKey to log in.

2. Follow the steps on the screen, also shown below:

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for If you run into any issues:CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

OR

SUBMIT A TICKET TO IT

REFER TO THE WIFI FAQs

12

path

penn

what is path@penn?

Path@Penn is your academic planning hub, with links to important Financial Services. This is where you will browse and register for classes, access Canvas, and check for any account holds. TheEligibility landing page for Path@Penn is shown Requirements below: You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

access path@Penn here!

13

path

penn: Selecting Courses

The most important clickable on Path@Penn is the “Add/Drop/Swap classes.” The landing page for it is shown below. This is where you will make all the changes to your class schedule each semester.

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT.

how do i know which classes to look for?

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic Refer to your program’s planned Program of Study.

It year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the highlightsstudent all yourhas program requirements. can contact your again obtained validYou F-1 status. program staff for that.

14

path penn: Advanced Search & Primary Carts i want to take classes from other schools. what do i d0?

If you want to take classes in another school, you will use the Advanced Search feature.

Eligibility Requirements

You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one The two most important filters are: academic year before being eligible for CPT. School: Allows you to select the school you want to opt for (e.g. Wharton, EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose require Penn Carey Law, programs etc.). immediate participation in an internship, practicum, or other Level: Lets you afilter for only graduate employment. level courses.

Add classes your Primary or the It is available only while you are in valid F-1tostatus and before Alternatives Cart. completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. what do the different carts mean?

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic Primary Cart: Where you year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student build your ideal class has again obtained valid F-1 status. schedule. Your top course picks go here.

Alternatives Cart: Exactly what the name suggests.

Your backup options go here in case your first pick is full.

15

path penn: Requesting Permission for Courses what does “Requesting permission” mean?

There may be times when the class you want is already full or has restrictions on who can enroll. In that case, you will need to request Eligibility permission to either enroll in theRequirements course or to be added to the waitlist.

You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one To do this,academic click “Request for This Course” yearPermission before being eligible forwhen CPT.you are adding it to your cart. A box will appear for you to input your request.

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require

immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

Some courses with restrictions may ask you to explain why you wish to join the class and/or how it aligns with your educational goals.

Please remember that waitlist requests must go through Path@Penn. Do NOT email the instructor.

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canvas where can i find my course details and assignments?

Canvas is the primary platform for course management at Penn GSE. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the platform Eligibility Requirements efficiently: You must have been lawfully enrolled on ayour full-time basis for one Go to canvas.upenn.edu and sign in with PennKey academic year before being eligible for CPT. credentials.

Use Dashboard to view upcoming deadlines, recent announcements, and assignments.

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require Click on Courses to access your course list.a practicum, or other immediate participation in an internship,

employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

StudentsAccess in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for your course materials CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic View the Dashboard year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the to see upcoming Receive messages from your student has again obtained valid F-1 status. assignments classmates and professors

17

ONE PENN GSE Welcome to OnePennGSE, your central resource for all things PennGSE. Here, you can reserve rooms, find faculty/staff contact information, access important forms (Leave of Absence, Withdrawal, etc), and discover much more!

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for To access all the forms required: CPT. 1.Go to onepenn.gse.upenn.edu 2.Click on Student Records Office from the Navigation Bar above) If you(displayed had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic 3.Click on Student Forms Library from the Side Menuonce (shown year waiting period may need to be recalculated the student below)

has again obtained valid F-1 status.

18

reserving study spaces at gse The GSE building has great study and break spots for in-between classes! While most of them are open to all, some are available only on a first-come, first-serve basis.

HOW DO I reserve STUDY SPACES AT GSE? Eligibility Requirements Youmust needhave your been PennKey SSO to reserve a You lawfully enrolled onroom. a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. Visit OnePennGSE -> Click Facility Services from the Menu -> Select “Room Reservations” on the left-side menu -> Click EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require “Hoteling Group Study Room Reservations”. Make sure to click immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other this otherwise you will be redirected to faculty room reservations!

employment.

The page should look like this:

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

19

Upon logging in, select the "Office" option at the top left of the screen. This will show you the four groupstudy rooms available in GSE (all located on the first floor).

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for Once you reach this page, CPT.you can book a room of your choice*.

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated student *Note: This process will be changing soon. The linksonce will bethe in the has again obtained valid F-1 status. same spot, but the system will be slightly different.

20

Printing at GSE how do i print at gse?

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the 1. Locate the printers in the GSE building lobby. completion ofQR your program.

2. Follow the instructions on the code.

Students in English 3.You can either: Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. Download a software on your laptop in order to print directly from the student printer

IfOR you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic Use the period two deskop provided by the printers to student year waiting maycomputers need to be recalculated once the access your files has again obtained valid F-1 status.

4. Every GSE student will have $35 already loaded into their account for printing. Only for GSE printers.

5. Select "GSE Lab Xerox" as your printer.

6. Type your PennKey into the pop-up on your screen.

7. Swipe your ID card at the printer.

8. Choose the print jobs to release.

Double-sided: 7¢ per page Single-sided: 10¢ per page

21

e s our R l a i ce c o

s

S

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students Englishhighlights Languageopportunities Programs (ELP) not eligible for CPT. Thisinsection toare connect with the

GSE and Penn community—through events, student groups, If you had a gap in studyand or agraduate-wide status violation, the one academic campus resources, initiatives.

Includes: year

waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtainedDining valid F-1 status.

Discovering underrated spots on Penn’s campus Important student groups and involvement opportunities

22

PENN DINING 1920 Commons 3800 Locust Walk Largest café on campus

Pret-a-Manger 3730 Walnut Street Fresh food and organic coffee

Quaker Kitchen 201 S 40th St @ Gutmann College House

Houston Market 3417 Spruce Street 8 different food stations Lower level of Houston Hall

Graduate Dining Plans

There are eight meal plans.

You get money added to your PennCard, which you swipe at the dining location.

Specific locations offer a 5% discount.

Plans are transferrable per semester and end on Commencement.

23

PHILLY FOOD DIARIES ME

NU

BO

OK

Whether you're looking for a quick bite between classes, a coffee shop to study in, or a great spot for dinner with friends, this menu book highlights studentapproved favorites in and around Philadelphia.

24

all student organizations at penn gse

ALL graduate student groups at penn

25

RESO C I M U E D

R C SE

A C A

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

In this section, find the tools and support systems to help Students in English Language Programs (ELP)GSE. are not eligible for CPT. you succeed academically at Penn Includes: If you had a gap in study or a statussupport violation, the one academic year Writing waiting period may needLearning to be recalculated once the student has again consultations obtained valid F-1 status.

Accommodations

Resources to help you build strong habits and reach your academic goals

26

21

writing resources Writing COMMONS The Writing Commons Initiative is Penn GSE’s in-house support system for student writing. In addition to a Canvas site that houses writing-related resources, the Writing Commons host co-writing spaces and writingrelated events, and helps to bring together campus resources to help students succeed in their writing endeavors.

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap Commons in study Canvas or a status the one academic The Writing site (a violation, work in progress; shown above) will have information on: year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student The APA style, and how to cite sources with it has again obtained valid F-1 status.

The basics of academic argumentation, style, and tone Other writing tools, tips, and tricks

For more information about Writing Commons—or if you just have doubts or questions about academic writing—feel free to reach out to our Associate Director of Academic Support, Josh Schwartz (jss499@upenn.edu).

27

21

writing resources In addition to the Writing Commons, we have a plethora of academic support services designed to help you hone your writing skills and improve academic projects.

Writing Support Services Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one Weingarten Center: Offers individual academic writing consultations, year before being eligible for CPT. workshops, and group sessions focused on various aspects ofstudents whose programs require EXCEPTION: for graduate academic writing, includingin an internship, a practicum, or other immediate participation structure, argumentation, and style.

employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the Libraries: Provides access to a completionPenn of your program. vast array of academic resources, including databases, citation tools, and Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for research guides. Librarians are CPT. available for one-on-one consultations to assist with research and writing.

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

Kelly Writers House at Penn is a hub for writers and creative thinkers, offering a vibrant space for literary events, workshops, and collaboration. It serves as a welcoming community where students, faculty, and the public can engage in various forms of writing and artistic expression.

28

Writing Workshops and Programs Penn GSE Writing Retreat The Office of Student Success hosts an annual Writing Retreat, a communal writing space with occasional workshops and light programming.

download here

online writing tools Weingarten Center’s Study Tools and Strategies: Helpful resources to support learning developed by learning specialists. Downloadable time management and study templates available.

Eligibility Requirements Zotero: A free reference management tool that assists with organizing Youresearch, must have been lawfully enrolled on a citations. full-time basis for creating bibliographies, and managing oneTip! academic year one before eligible CPT. is to Pro In grad school, of thebeing top ways to be for successful find a knowledge management system that works for you. Using Zotero, for example, allows you to download articles, EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose research programs require organize them into categories/folders, take notes (handwritten immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other ones, too, if you have an iPad), and easily access citations. employment.

Purdue OWL: An excellent online resource offering guidance on general writing practices, citation styles (APA, MLA, Chicago), and It isgrammar. available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion your Grammarly: Penn students have of access toprogram.

Grammarly, a tool that helps with grammar, punctuation, and style issues.

Microsoft OneNote: A great note-taking and source management Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for application. Allows you to format your notes into subsections and CPT. chapters for easier navigation.

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic Graduate Center Resources year waitingBoot period may need to two-week be recalculated once the 1. Dissertation Camp: A bi-annual, writing retreat student hasenvironment again obtained valid F-1 status. providing a focused to advance through the dissertation process.

2. Writing Accountability Groups: Join or form groups with peers to provide mutual accountability and support for writing projects.

Pro Tip! For each class, create a reading group. It will allow you to split readings, discuss ideas, and ensure group accountability.

3. Writers Retreats & Graduate Writers Rooms: Dedicated spaces and structured environments to help graduate students make progress on major writing projects.

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SUBSCRIPTIONS As a Penn student, you get access to several subscriptions at no cost. These include media websites, magazines, and mobile applications such as: New York Times

Washington post

Eligibility Requirements You must have The been lawfully enrolledLe on a full-time basis for Atlantic Monde one academic year before being eligible for CPT. Wall Street Journal

Bloomberg.com

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other Financial Times employment.

You simply need to authenticate your PennKey. It is available youhelpful are in for valid F-1 status and before These canonly provewhile to be very your research and class the completion of your program. papers.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT.

Penn zoom

If you had a gapget in Zoom studyPro or a violation, thethrough one academic Students if status they access the software yearPenn waiting period may to bemeetings recalculated Zoom.

You can hostneed unlimited with up once to 300the student has again obtained valid F-1 status. participants and they can last up to 24 hours.

More information 30

PROJECT management “There is only one way to eat an elephant: one bite at a time.”

This seems like an odd phrase, but it showcases how Eligibility Requirements task, nobeen matter how enrolled challenging, be tackled bitone Youany must have lawfully on a can full-time basis for by bit. In graduate school, projects can feel academic year before being eligible for CPT. overwhelming. Learning how to break them down is an essential time task management tactic.

Here are EXCEPTION: for&graduate students whose programs require some tips on how to do that effectively: immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

down project: It breaking is available only while a you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

ESTABLISH THE STEPS: Map out the things you need to do for the project.

Check the rubric toPrograms understand the project Students in English Language (ELP) are not eligible for requirements and mark deadlines.

Then, start working CPT. backwards - break down the larger task down into smaller, manageable to-do’s.

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student INTENTIONAL TIME CHECK: Set aside dedicated time to work on has again obtained valid F-1 status. each task. Create a timeline and block off time accordingly.

IDENTIFY RESOURCES: Do you need to schedule an appointment with your professor? Read and review multiple articles? Meet with team members? Write it all down. and establish a communication/execution plan.

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other tips: TIME YOURSELF: We often underestimate the time it takes to complete a project. Always account for extra time and set internal deadlines. If it helps, request a friend to check in on you every now and then and hold you accountable.

LEARN HOW YOU LEARN: Notice your learning and working patterns. Are you the most productive in quiet rooms or happening places? Does re-writing class notes help you with Eligibility Requirements retention? Are you a visual learner or do you learn through Youteaching must have beenAlign lawfully on ayour full-time for one others? yourenrolled process with most basis productive academic year before being eligible for CPT. patterns.

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

What interests me about this

How can I break this work and how can I align it project down into with my learning It is manageable available only while you are in valid F-1 statuspreferences? and before the pieces?

completion of your program.

questions

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for to ask CPT. W ha

yourself

is a r a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic If youthad how ealistic t will I imelin year waiting period may need to be recalculated theI h Who and once how can a c c o o ld m y s e a n d elhas u n ta b f student again obtained valid F-1 status. ask for help? le ?

Pro-tip: Notion is an extremely useful time & space management software. It’s customizable and allows you to take notes, manage tasks and create databases!

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student records office The Student Records Office is your GO-TO place for everything related to billing, registration, time status, degree conferral, graduation applications, enrollment, degree verifications, doctoral hearings, and anything academic records related.

Scan for More information gse-sro@gse.upenn.edu

Financial Services Pay your bill on Penn.pay Payments can be made through mail, Wire Transfer or 529 Plans. You can also pay in person or online via Penn.Pay. Late payments will incur a penalty of 1.5% of the fee amount.

IMPORTANT LINKS & RESOURCES

Understanding your bill

Financing and Payment plan

financial aid information

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SS RESOU E LN

R C SE

L E W

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT.

Your well-being matters. This section connects you to campus wellness services. Includes:

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again Mental health support obtained valid F-1 status.

Leave of Absence policies Tips for maintaining a life balance during graduate school

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Health, Wellness, and Recreation Penn houses a ton of health, wellness, and recreation resources.

Below is an overview of some of them, alongside other crucial information as you begin your journey at Penn GSE.

Recreation at Penn: On this site, you will find information on the Penn gyms (Pottruck and Fox), intramural sports, personal training, swimming, rock climbing, and more.

wellness at penn: This site gives you access to your student health portal. You can discover medical and mental health resources, their hours of operation, and other support services.

Immunization & Insurance Requirements Make sure you meet the insurance requirements and have documentation for all required vaccinations. Penn also has student health insurance options*.

Counseling Services Penn offers many counseling services, including drop-in hours, one-on-one appointments, and prescription services.

*Failure to meet immunization requirements will result in a hold on your account! Don’t let that happen.

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Division of Public Safety Penn takes student safety very seriously and offers robust resources for student wellbeing.

PennTransit helps greatly with transportation around the University City area. The app provides information on bus schedules and allows you to schedule a ride with Eligibility Requirements our Penn shuttles.

You must haveonbeen enrolled on a full-time basis for one Available Androidlawfully and iOS academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for escorts graduate students whose programs require walking If you’re feeling unsafein or an need someone a practicum, or other immediate participation internship, Scan here for to walk you home, walking escorts are student employment.

available 24 hours. They will accompany discount on you anywhere you need to go within the public transportation It is available onlypatrol while you are in valid F-1 status and before the university’s zone.

completion of your program.

Call 215-898-9255 to request a walking escort!

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. on-DEMAND shuttles Evening shuttle services are offered to and from locations withininthe Pennor area coverage.

These run pm - 3 am If you had a gap study a status violation, thefrom one7academic (Monday to Friday) and pm - 3 am (weekends).

You can year waiting period may need to be6:30 recalculated once the student book these on the PennTransit App! has again obtained valid F-1 status.

Dial 215-573-3333 or 511 to reach University Police.

Student walk-in emergencies are tended to bY Student Health Services (3535 Market St, Suite 100).

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UPENN BIOPOND

KELLY WRITER’S HOUSE

3805 Locust Walk

220 South 34th Street

Fisher Fine Arts Library

UNDERRATED SPOTS AT PENN

433 S. University Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19104

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ESOU R R E R E R

C E S

AC

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT.

In this section, explore resources that support your professional growth. Includes:

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again One-on-one career coaching obtained valid F-1 status.

Resume and cover letter consultations Information pertaining to job boards and networking events Workshops designed for Penn GSE students and alumni

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10 ways to use penn’s Career Services as a master’s student Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

With so many resources available, it can be difficult to determine

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before which ones are most useful to you. The website above ^ allows you the completion of your program. to explore services that best meet your needs and help you make the most of the services being offered.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again obtained valid F-1 status.

ESSENTIAL RESOURCES Your cheat-sheet for all things Career Services.

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RESOURCES & GUIDES UNIVERSITY-WIDE CAREER SERVICES pENN GSE CAREER SERVICES

for additional questions, coNTACT CHRISTA HUNTER, The director of career services: cjhunter@ upenn.edu.

Career Services also hosts Advising hours every weekday.

YOU CAN SCHEDULE a 30-minute, 1:1 advising appointment (virtual or in-person) through Handshake.

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Opportunities at penn & gse Venture lab Venture Lab is the entrepreneurship center at the Wharton School. It serves Penn students and alumni interested in entrepreneurship and innovation.

Eligibility Requirements

Free membership available for studio access, networking You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one events, guest speeches, and cutting-edge technologies!

MORE INFORMATION

academic year before being eligible for CPT.

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs netterrequire Center immediate participation in anAcademically internship, a practicum, or other Based Community Service (ABCS) University-Assisted Community Schools (UACS) employment.

Educate, engage, empower, and serve not only students but also other members of the community. The Netter Center provides an organizing framework brings programs, including the ABCS It is available only while you are in validthat F-1 status and before courses, to West Philadelphia schools.

Join to make a difference completion of your program.

Philadelphia Students in EnglishWriting LanguageProject Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT.connects leaders The Philadelphia Writing Project (PhilWP) from PreK–University and out-of-school-time programs to advance writing education across Philadelphia.

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic They offer professional learning opportunities, workshops, and year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student courses for educators, families, and youth throughout the learn more about year. has again obtained valid F-1 status. philwp

Maker space & PENN GSE catalyst Center for Global Education Innovation They connect people and ideas, advance education in novel, meaningful directions, and build on Penn GSE's legacy of education innovation and leadership. They operate at the nexus of education, business, and technology.

FIND OUT MORE

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S O U R C E S

A N R E T NI

TUDEN S L A TR N Eligibility Requirements E O I You must have been T lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT.

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

This section will be your guide to international student

Students in Englishsuccess Language Programs are not eligible for CPT. at Penn GSE. (ELP) Includes: If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year Immigration guidance waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again CPT/OPT work authorization information obtained valid F-1 status.

Cultural and academic transition Professional development opportunities to support your experience in the U.S.

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Work Authorization info can i work on campus?

Yes. Students are generally permitted to work on campus. However, they must: Only work at the school that issued their valid I-20/DS-2019.

Eligibility Requirements Attend that school AND maintain an active F-1/J-1 Status

You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one You cannot work more than 20 hours a week during the academic academic year before being eligible for CPT. year. You can, however, work up to 40 hours a week over the summer/winter break if you are not attending any classes.

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other Working off-campus sites: employment. work is permitted It is off-site available only while youonly areif:in valid F-1 status and before the completion of yourconnected program.to Your employment is educationally Penn.

Your in work is associated with Penn's established Students English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for curriculum OR is related to a graduate-level CPT. research project that Penn has officially contracted to perform.

More Information The work is an integral part of your program of If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic study. period may need to be recalculated once the student year waiting

has again obtained valid F-1 status.

Before proceeding with any off-campus work site, you must: Provide documentation showing the relationship between Penn and your employer.

Consult an ISSS advisor before confirming to the site that employment qualifies.

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Work Authorization info

what is cpt and opt?

Eligibility CURRICULAR PRACTICAL TRAINING isRequirements a temporary

authorization forlawfully international studentson on a full-time basis for one You work must have been enrolled F-1 visas.academic It allows youyear to: before being eligible for CPT. Work off-campus during your academic

program.

EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require Participate in internships, co-ops, or immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other practicums that are directly related to your employment.

Learn more about CPT major field of study.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Optional Practical Training is a work

authorization for F-1 international in the for Students in English Language Programs (ELP) arestudents not eligible US. It allows you to work in your field of study for CPT. up to twelve months.

If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic There are two types of OPT: pre & post year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student completion. The months worked under prehas again obtained valid F-1 status.

Learn more about OPT

completion OPT are later subtracted from the overarching twelve months.

OPT allows for in-person and remote work, and includes volunteering and/or unpaid internships.

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ESSENTIAL resources

International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) ISSS is your international student encyclopedia. They handle everything related to immigration advising, cultural programming, academic resources and everyday guidance.

Additionally, they offer a wide range of services designed to help you thrive on and off campus.

ISSS HOMEPAGE

OnePennGSE International Student Support

LINK TO WEBPAGE

This website will provide you with information more specific to Penn GSE. Please note that it is still advisable to reach out to ISSS and refer to their resources for thorough and accurate information.

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DECOM D P AN

R E S S

TS E R

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

You just went through a lot of information! This section is intended toLanguage be a breakPrograms for you to creatively Students in English (ELP) are notdestress. eligible for CPT. Includes: If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student has again Penn GSE Word Search obtained valid F-1 status.

Coloring Pages of locations across Penn’s campus

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PENN WORD SEARCH

Eligibility Requirements You must have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one academic year before being eligible for CPT. EXCEPTION: for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in an internship, a practicum, or other employment.

It is available only while you are in valid F-1 status and before the completion of your program.

Students in English Language Programs (ELP) are not eligible for CPT. If you had a gap in study or a status violation, the one academic year waiting period may need to be recalculated once the student hasCATALYST again obtained GAPSA valid F-1 status.

BELONGING WELLNESS LEADERSHIP

OSS

SEMINAR

BUTTON

VAN PELT

WEINGARTEN

BENJAMIN

EQUITY

COHORT

GRAD CENTER

LOVE STATUE

ISSS

PENNCARD

STITELER

WALNUT

ONE PENN GSE

QUAKER

THESIS

WDSM

WHARTON

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MANIFESTATION 101

I HOPE T Of in

TRY... o et

. d..

I ho p

We are all here with dreams, goals, and aspirations. In the Venn diagram below, write down some things you wish for yourself during your time at GSE. When times get tough or you need a little pick-me-up, this will be your reminder to keep going.

I HO

PE TO BECO

..

ME

.

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notes

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notes

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notes

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Guidebook created by Suditi Sundaram and the OSS team and credits to some photos from Ed Policy guidebook