Penn Cares Testing Program

 

The University of Pennsylvania offers on-campus COVID-19 testing for the Penn community through the Penn Cares testing program. All testing is done through an observed, self-administered, nasal swab specimen. These tests are a molecular PCR. Testing is not required, but is available to those who are symptomatic, have been exposed to the virus, or would like to be tested for any other reason. The Penn community is also encouraged to utilize at-home tests, which are available while supplies last at the Penn Cares Testing Site and at most pharmacies, or testing through their primary care provider. 

Schedule Your Test

All University community members must schedule their Penn Cares test online: covidscheduling.upenn.edu/.

Please schedule your appointments and indicate your consent to testing (view copy of the consent form) by visiting the web-based scheduling application. If you need assistance, please consult this tip sheet (PDF).

Appointments are booked at 15-minute intervals on a first-come, first-served basis. Scheduling in advance improves your chance of receiving your desired testing date/time/location. You must make or cancel any appointment at least 24 hours before the desired testing time. 

Getting Test Results

Test results are expected within 24 hours. Individuals will need to check for their results:

  1. Go to the COVID Results log-in page.
  2. Click on the login icon in the upper right-hand corner.
  3. Enter PennKey and Password.

If a test result is positive, the participant will not see their results until a Penn Cares contract tracer reviews and releases your result during contact tracing hours of operation. A contact tracer will then reach out to confirm your positive test via phone or secure message to provide guidance. Learn about testing positive for COVID-19.

Negative test results will appear on the COVID Results page immediately once ready. 

A test result may show inconclusive due to a contaminated or insufficient sample or other processing error. Participants should test again if they receive an inconclusive result. 

Questions about Testing and Results

If you test positive for COVID-19 from an at-home test, you can refer to the most up-to-date public health guidance. If you need additional guidance, assistance with clinical care, or advice about contact tracing and notification of close contacts, you can reach our team via email at covidtesting@upenn.edu or by phone at 215-898-0300.