Application and Selection Procedures

Applicants must be advanced doctoral candidates from APA-accredited Psychology programs. Applicants should have passed the doctoral comprehensive examination prior to applying to the internship. ***Applicants can only be considered for a single track so please make sure to select the correct track of our program your application.

Our internship program uses a holistic review process in assessing applicants for interview and final ranking.  While we are interested in the standard metrics of academic performance, clinical training, and scholarly activity, we are also looking for well-rounded individuals whose personal experiences have shaped their growth as future psychologists in ways that align with our specific program goals and training environments. 

***In your cover letter, please include any relevant information about the following areas:

• In what ways do you bring a unique perspective based on your background and life experiences?
• Are there barriers that you have had to overcome to get to this point in your education that demonstrate perseverance and grit?
• In what ways have you engaged with and impacted your local community?
• Are there ways in which you have demonstrated leadership or initiative?  

Applicants must be advanced doctoral candidates from APA-accredited Psychology programs. Applicants should have passed their doctoral comprehensive examination prior to applying to the internship.  We require 3 letters of recommendation. For the General Adult, Child/Developmental Disabilities, and Student Health and Counseling Tracks, no supplemental materials such as testing reports are needed and, if you choose to submit them anyway, they will not be considered as part of the evaluation of your application. For the Neuropsychology Track, please submit two de-identified comprehensive neuropsychological reports that best represent your clinical experience.

Our Internship Training Committee reviews all applications to determine fit with our program and invites qualified applicants for interviews. Application deadline is November 1st. Applicants will be notified by December 1st by email as to whether or not they have been invited to interview. We plan to conduct all interviews for the 2026-2027 cycle virtually.  Interview dates will be January 7th, 11th, and 19th.   

For international applicants: If you have a existing student visa that will be valid for the entire duration of the internship year you are eligible to apply. However, we are not able to serve as a sponsor for visa applications.

The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a disabled or Vietnam Era veteran in the administration or its educational policies, programs, scholarship and loan programs, employment, recreational, athletic or other university administered programs. Questions or concerns regarding the University’s equal opportunity and affirmative action programs and activities or accommodations for people with disabilities should be directed to: Director of Affirmative Action, Suite 228, 3600 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-6021. (215) 898-6993 (voice) or (215) 898-7803 (TDD).