# Housing & Dining

**Source**: https://admissions.upenn.edu/student-life/residential-life/housing-dining
**Parent**: https://admissions.upenn.edu/student-life/residential-life

There’s more to Penn than academics—like where you’ll be living!

Wondering what it's like to live here at Penn? Well for starters, as soon as you step foot on campus, you’ll be immersed in Penn’s thriving residential community. As a first-year student, you’ll be part of one of 13 Undergraduate College Houses that reflect the spirit of the University and the varied interests of our Quakers.

And if that’s not enough to convince you that our resident life is amazing, our first-year College House offerings each have their own personality and unique programming. And we’re not just talking your *basic* College House activities. Think scenic rooftops, autumn apple picking, exploring Philadelphia, late-night brunches and more. So, when we say your Penn living experience is one you’ll never forget, we really mean it.

## Two is Better Than One!

Penn’s Second-Year Experience program includes a two-year housing and dining requirement. All University of Pennsylvania undergraduate students are required to live in on-campus housing for their first four semesters and participate in a dining plan. For more information, please visit [Residential Services](https://residential-services.business-services.upenn.edu/room-selection) and [Penn Dining](https://dining.business-services.upenn.edu/dining-plans/frequently-asked-questions) websites.

## First-Year College Houses

[## Hill College House

At Hill College House, we care deeply about integrating first-year students into a community that will ultimately launch them into successful careers at Penn, and beyond.

Learn More](https://residential-services.business-services.upenn.edu/house/hill-college-house)

[## Kings Court English House

Drawing some of Penn’s most diverse students, the KCECH Community encourages fun, friendship, peer learning, and leadership.

Learn More](https://residential-services.business-services.upenn.edu/house/kings-court-english-house)

[## Lauder College House

Lauder College House offers a state-of-the-art living experience for its residents. Walk beyond your suite walls and find a multitude of spaces to socialize, study, and relax.

Learn More](https://residential-services.business-services.upenn.edu/house/lauder-college-house)

## Program Communities

Students may choose to enrich their College House experience with one of our themed program communities. Penn’s vibrant program communities include areas related to World Culture and Language, the Arts, Identity and Self, STEM, and Leadership Development. Each program offers the opportunity to live with others who share a common interest, and to enjoy formal and informal discussions, film screenings, meals, site visits throughout Philadelphia, group service work, and more.

## Dining

If you haven’t heard, Philly has a famously good food scene (yes, BEYOND soft pretzels and cheesesteaks). And here at Penn, our dining options right on campus are no exception to mouthwatering meals. Our food is packed with flavor and nutrition, prepared from scratch using authentic, locally sourced ingredients. We're dedicated to plant-forward ingredients, and environmentally friendly and humane farming practices.

From Kosher and Halal to Jain, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-sensitive diets, Penn Dining is committed to delicious dining for all. Our Registered Dietitians and trained chefs ensure every student has access to meals that meet their needs. The result is so good, it’s award-winning! We also have plenty of options to meet all your dietary and religious needs. So, whatever your heart (or stomach) desires, Penn has something for every palate.

Top University Dining

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The Daily Meal

6th Best College Dining Experience

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College Rank

#2 in Sustainable Dining

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AASHE Sustainable Campus Index