• Congruence between an applicant's career goals and our program goals
• Strong academic record
• Strong references that address an applicant's analytical and research aptitude
• Strong GRE or GMAT scores. Test scores are required for all applicants, there are no exceptions

Except for the GMAT or GRE general test which is required of all applicants, there are no specific admission requirements. The TOEFL test must be taken by applicants whose native language is not English.

Admission to Candidacy
Before admission to candidacy, the student is required to complete the course requirements as described. Health services research prelims are given at the end of the second year. The student's major disciplinary cluster is usually given at the end of the first year.

Financial Aid
All students receive financial aid to cover full tuition for four years. They also receive a stipend for at least three and usually four years. Students are strongly encouraged to seek additional funding for their fourth and any additional years. The National Research Service Award (NRSA) is a major source of financial assistance. Funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, NRSA is distinctive in being one of the first programs to recognize the need to train physicians and doctoral students in the principles of health services research. Penn is one of only 25 universities nationwide to receive this funding. Other funding is provided by the Health Care Department and the Wharton School. This includes funding from the Merck Company Foundation's Program on Pharmaceutical Policy Issues (PPPI); the Yamanouchi USA Foundation; the University and Wharton Dean's Fellowships; and individual health services research grants.