As the world continues to combat COVID-19, we know that this is a challenging time for many, and we hope that you are well and safe. Below is a collection of links to various resources that you may find useful.

Financial resources

For students:

If you need a laptop or other software to assist you in completing your schoolwork remotely, please contact Student Intervention Services at vpul-sisteam@pobox.upenn.edu or contact Penn First Plus at pennfirstplus@upenn.edu

If you need assistance paying for food at home, internet access at home, or baggage fees, please contact Student Financial Services at sfsmail.pobox.upenn.edu OR contact your assigned Financial Aid Counselor.

If you have left the US and are still paying for cell phone service, use this recommended service to freeze your phone number until you return: ConnectED Mobile.

For the community:

Gifts to help international undergraduate students and their families during this time can be directed to the COVID-19 Special Response Fund for International Undergraduates. This fund will be used to support emergency and ongoing financial needs for international undergraduates due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Donate here

Student-Led Resources

Admin Resources

AIS Statement

As of March 11, COVID-19 has officially been classified as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. The disease - having infected more than 100,000 people and killing 4,200 - has disrupted communities around the world. Beyond compromising one’s own health, COVID-19 has also compromised the safety of the AAPI community, with many falling victim to acts of blatant racism.

To date, the US has already reported over 1,000 active cases, with 24 states declaring a state of emergency. Several universities have already shut down regular operations for the remainder of the spring semester - this includes peer institutions such as Harvard, Princeton and Yale. As part of the initiative to slow the spread of the viral disease, the University of Pennsylvania has also decided to close, moving classes online beginning March 23rd.

In light of these recent events, AIS (Assembly of International Students) urges the University of Pennsylvania to provide more urgent support for its International and First Generation and Low Income (FGLI) populations in the face of rapid policy changes. With ISSS advising international students to return to their homes, it is critical that the University of Pennsylvania consider the unique challenges associated with this request, from travel restrictions, increased health risks, timezone-related issues, as well as financial limitations. Moving forward, we hope that the university can continue to meet new changes with necessary academic and financial accommodations for its entire student population, especially FGLI and international students.