Event Registration

Registering social events at Penn

As part of the University’s community care efforts, all student groups must register social events they would like to host on campus, at an off-campus residence, or at a third-party venue. This includes all events where alcohol will be served as well as dry social events. All Penn community members are expected to review the University Alcohol and Other Drug Policy

To help students manage risk, University Life provides professional bartending and security services at social events happening on or near campus that have been registered by undergraduate and graduate/professional student groups. Costs for these services are automatically subsidized for up to four (4) events per semester per student group. There is no separate process to receive funds; University Life will book and pay for these services for events cleared to move forward.

Registering events with alcohol

All members of the Penn student community—undergraduate, graduate, or professional—are expected to follow University policies and local, state, and federal laws always. These expectations extend to social events you may host, whether in on-campus spaces (such as fraternity houses or Houston Hall), off-campus residences, or third-party venues (such as restaurants). 

All student organizations are required to register social events with alcohol, regardless of where the event will be held. Student group leaders should submit their registration form by the specified deadline and await response from University Life and/or an advisor (if applicable). Student groups should not publicize their event until they have received formal confirmation from staff.

Registering events without alcohol

Student organizations wishing to hold social events without alcohol should submit a registration for a dry event. This process does not apply to dry events for which student groups have already reserved space on campus (e.g., for meetings, speakers, grab-n-go events). Ultimately, registering social events without alcohol helps our Event Observer team and Penn Police differentiate between events on the weekends and assist hosts in maintaining a dry environment.

Costs associated with hosting social events

To help students manage risk, University Life provides professional bartending and security services at social events happening on or near campus that have been registered by undergraduate and graduate/professional student groups. Costs for these services are automatically subsidized for up to four (4) events per semester per student group. After those four events, student groups are responsible for the costs of bartender(s) and security. Staffing a registered event with alcohol can range in cost from approximately $500 – $850 (some events could cost less; others might cost more). This depends upon various factors such as the length of the event, the time of day, the number of staff, etc. 

For events at third-party venues, student groups are responsible for any costs agreed upon with venue. Regardless of event location, student groups must also provide food and non-alcoholic beverages for their guests. Per the University AOD policy, at any event at which alcohol will be served, sufficient quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and food must be available to guests without cost.

Questions about funding?

Please contact your organization’s advisor and/or Financial Coordinator if you’d like assistance creating a budget for your event BEFORE any contracts are signed or invitations sent! It is essential to first confirm your group has sufficient funds to host the event you envision.

Register your event

Are you ready to register your social event? That depends! Click through the tabs below to answer key questions before you submit your registration for review.

Submit your registration form

Reminder: Major Event Weekend protocol will be in place for the weekend of March 14-17. If you are registering an event for that weekend, you must adhere to the parameters outlined in the FAQs section, specifically “What is Major Event Weekend protocol?” Any questions can be directed to the Associate Director for Community Care. 

Note: Registered events will not be permitted on Sunday, March 17. 

There is one registration form for all event types. Please click the button below to get started. 

Groups should submit their registration for an event with alcohol at least two weeks prior to the event date. For dry social events, registration should be submitted at least one week before the event date.

Policies & guidelines

All members of the Penn student community—undergraduate, graduate, or professional—are expected to follow University policies and local, state, and federal laws always. These expectations extend to social events you may host, whether in on-campus spaces, off-campus residences, or third-party venues. Please read more about relevant policies and guidelines related to hosting a social event below.

  • Code of Student Conduct
  • The University Alcohol and Other Drug Policy – Provides more information about…
    • General rules governing the use of alcohol
    • Rules governing alcohol use at registered undergraduate social events
    • Rules governing alcohol use at registered graduate and professional student social events
    • Relevant federal and state laws
    • Sober host monitors
  • Drinking contests or games of any sort are expressly prohibited.
  • No registered events may be held in basements or on rooftops, whether in on-campus or off-campus residences.
    • Any event—registered or not—at which guests are in the basement, on the roof, and/or at risk of falling (e.g., in windows, on walls) will be shut down.
  • Kegs of any amount of beer are not permitted at student-run events and are not allowed in any University-managed undergraduate residence.
  • When an entity without a liquor license is providing service of alcohol (e.g., at events in off-campus residences or on-campus spaces), the following is prohibited per Pennsylvania law:
    • Sales of alcoholic beverages at a cash bar
    • Sales of tickets or entrance fees to an event where alcohol is served
    • Donations or reimbursements to support the cost of an event where alcohol is served
    • Sales of drink tickets or inclusion of drink tickets in entry fees at events where alcohol is served
  • No University funds may be used to purchase alcohol for any event sponsored by an undergraduate organization.
  • Advertisements/branding of social events should not center around nor promote the availability of alcohol at the event.
  • Organizations such as recognized chapters under the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life (OFSL) may be subject to additional expectations set forth by OFSL staff, advisors, or alumni.
  • Organizations such as athletic teams or performing arts groups may be subject to additional expectations set forth by coaches, advisors, or sponsors.
    • PLEASE NOTE: Additional expectations or guidance implemented by these entities supersede those set forth by the Community Care team when applicable.
  • Many University undergraduate student organizations are subject to policies regarding the possession and consumption of alcohol imposed by a parent organization.
    • If the policies governing an individual organization impose more restrictive regulations regarding alcohol possession and consumption it will be necessary for that organization to follow its parent organization’s policies or risk sanctions. If, however, the parent organization permits the possession or consumption of alcohol where otherwise prohibited by University policy, the organization must comply with the University’s policy, notwithstanding its parent organization’s rules.
  • Organizations that live in, and host events at, private off-campus residences are subject to additional expectations set forth in rental agreements/leases and in personal communications with landlords.
  • Fraternities at Penn belong to the IGC and IFC Councils. All NIC (North American Interfraternity Conference) and/or IFC-member fraternities follow the NIC Standard Operating Procedures to enhance safety measures at events. Some of these include:
    • The presence of alcohol products above 15% alcohol by volume (ABV) (“hard alcohol”) is prohibited on any chapter/organization premises or at any event, except served by a licensed and insured third-party venue
    • Events with alcohol are limited to a 3:1 maximum guest-to-member ratio, meaning the total attendance must not be greater than three times the chapter’s total active membership. For all events, attendance must not exceed the local fire or building code capacity of the host venue.
    • Attendance by non-members at any event where alcohol is present must be by invitation only, and the organization must utilize a guest list system.
  • Registrations for back-to-back events with alcohol (e.g., an event on Friday and Saturday) will not be cleared to move forward. 
  • Bartending staff provided by University Life are responsible for serving the alcohol provided by the event host(s).
    • Items such as cups, napkins, ice, etc. must also be provided by the host(s). 
    • Serving alcohol from glass containers is not recommended. 
    • Service of alcohol at all on-campus registered events must end no later than 1 a.m.; events may continue until 2 a.m.
    • Generally, events with alcohol should not exceed more than four hours.
  • Security staff provided by University Life is responsible for checking guests’ state-issued IDs at the entrance to the event and providing wristbands to those who are 21+ years old (to indicate they are of legal drinking age).
    • If security will not be present, host(s) should discuss with the Program Coordinator for Community Care and/or their advisor an alternative plan to ensure only guests of legal drinking age are consuming alcohol at the event.
  • In partnership with the University of Pennsylvania Police Department (UPPD), University Life’s Event Observers are responsible for working with host(s) to manage risk and promote student safety at events happening on campus or in an off-campus residence.
    • Event host(s) and guests are expected to comply with UPPD and Event Observers’ requests and act respectfully. 
    • Even if your organization has registered your event, UPPD and/or the Event Observers can still shut down the event.

2023-2024 key dates

Please note:

The below dates are subject to change. In collaboration with relevant offices, the Associate Director for Community Care reserves the right to determine a maximum number of registered events that are permitted to take place during a given weekend. Lastly, during Reading Days and Final Exams, undergraduate student programming is restricted to educational events and study breaks only; end-of-year celebrations or formals are not permitted during this time.

2023 Fall Semester

Monday, August 14 Registration opens for social events beginning on August 31

Friday, August 18  Last day* to submit registrations for events with alcohol happening August 31-September 2

Tuesday, August 29  First day of classes 

Thursday, August 31 First day to host registered social events for undergraduate student community

Monday, September 4 Labor Day (no classes) 

October 12-15  Fall Term Break 

October 12-13 Last days* to submit registrations for events with alcohol happening October 26-28 (Family Weekend + weekend prior to Halloween)

October 19-20 Last days* to submit registrations for events with alcohol happening November 2-4 (Homecoming) 

November 23-26 Thanksgiving Break

December 9-10 Final days to host registered social events for undergraduate student community (Events at third-party venues or reservable spaces on campus are permitted on Sunday, December 10)

Monday, December 11 Last day of classes 

December 12-13 Reading Days 

December 14-21 Final Examinations

Sunday, December 17 Final day to host registered social events for graduate/professional student communities

*When applicable, registration deadlines set forth by other key stakeholders such as a group’s advisor or coach supersede those outlined above (see the stakeholders tab of the Policies & guidelines section).

2024 Spring Semester

Friday, January 5 Last day* to submit registrations for events with alcohol happening January 18-20 

Monday, January 15 MLK, Jr. Day observed (no classes)

Thursday, January 18

  • First day of classes
  • First day to host registered social events for undergraduate & graduate/professional student communities

Thursday, February 29 Final day to host registered social events for the undergraduate student community before Spring Term Break 

Friday, March 1 Last day* to submit registrations for all social events (dry or with alcohol) happening March 14-16 (St. Patrick’s Day weekend) 

March 2-10 → Spring Term Break

March 14-17 Major Event Weekend protocol in place (see FAQs to learn more)

April 18-20 Major Event Weekend protocol in place (see FAQs to learn more)

Saturday, April 27 Final day to host registered social events at residences for undergraduate student community

Wednesday, May 1

  • Last day of classes
  • Final day to host registered social events at third-party venues or reservable spaces on campus for undergraduate student community
  • Last day* to submit registrations for alumni-hosted events with alcohol happening May 16-18 (Alumni Weekend)

May 2-5 Reading Days

May 6-14 Final examinations

Sunday, May 19 Final day to host registered social events for graduate/professional student communities

*When applicable, registration deadlines set forth by other key stakeholders such as a group’s advisor or coach supersede those outlined above (see the stakeholders tab of the Policies & guidelines section).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before a social event...

Social event registration is the process through which all student groups at Penn—whether undergraduate, graduate, or professional—register events they would like to host on campus, at an off-campus residence, or at a third-party venue. Event registration promotes safe social environments within our community; it is a process to help manage risk, reduce harm, and look out for one another. It is a highly collaborative endeavor involving Penn students, staff, and neighbors and a key component of the University’s broader community care efforts.

That depends! If the primary purpose of your event is to socialize, it’s likely you should register the event with University Life. Events with alcohol must always be registered; dry social events happening in off-campus residences or at third-party venues should also be registered. Other dry events on campus such as organizational meetings, grab-n-go-giveaways, speakers, etc. do not need to be registered with University Life. 

Events that are not registered—or, unregistered events—that are visited by UPPD and/or the Event Observers will be shut down and accountability measures will be discussed.

Event registration is chiefly for student-hosted social events, or parties. The process is in place to help ensure compliance with University policies and to promote safe, successful events within the Penn community. Reserving a space on campus is a separate process. After all, student groups can reserve space on campus for a variety of reasons. If you’re looking for a space to host your group, University Life Space & Events is a great place to start. 

If you are looking to host a social event with alcohol in an on-campus space, registering the event with University Life does not guarantee your ability to use the space; approval to use a space for this purpose is up to the building manager or team. The Associate Director for Community Care is always happy to share ideas for spaces, discuss options, and make recommendations for next steps. 

Yes! Groups should submit their registration for an event with alcohol at least two weeks prior to the event date. For dry social events, registrations should be submitted at least one week before the event date. Registrations submitted after these deadlines may result in the event being cancelled or rescheduled. For key dates to keep in mind as you’re planning events, check out the 2023-2024 key dates section

That’s okay! While it’s important to have answers to the Who, What, When, Where, and How of your event before you register, we understand some details may still be taking shape. If you’re unable or unsure how to answer certain questions on the event registration form, simply make note of that, and the Associate Director for Community Care will follow up with any questions or concerns. It’s most important to make sure your form is submitted by the appropriate deadline for your event date.

No; submitting the appropriate registration form for your event is just the first step. Student groups should not publicize their event until they have received formal confirmation from staff that the event can move forward.

Next, that form is reviewed by the Associate Director for Community Care—often in consultation with other offices such as OFSL or OSA—with an eye toward abiding by the University AOD Policy and other risk management best practices. The Community Care team reaches out to the event host with any questions or concerns and/or sets up a meeting to further discuss the details. The Community Care team or your group’s advisor will soon confirm if the event can move forward, and, if applicable, bartending and security arrangements will be made on your group’s behalf.

Before your event gets underway, you’ll receive one final email with important information and resources to help ensure your event is a success.

It happens! However, some details are easier to change than others, especially if various staff members have already been made aware of your group’s original plans. As soon as a change comes up, please reach out to the Associate Director for Community Care by email/phone. They will advise on next steps, which could include submitting a new registration form. 

Great question! Check out the Policies and guidelines section of this page to learn more. You’re also welcome to set up a meeting with the Associate Director for Community Care for further discussion.

There are a few weekends at Penn during which we’ve historically seen a significant increase in events and social activity; we call these Major Event Weekends. During these designated weekends (see Key Dates), the Community Care team implements additional parameters for event registration that help to ensure the safety of all Penn community members amidst a potential increase in risky behavior. Major Event Weekend protocol includes*: 

  • All student groups are permitted to host only one (1) event during the weekend—dry or with alcohol. 
  • The Community Care team, in partnership with the Division of Public Safety, will determine a maximum number of large-scale events—dry or with alcohol—that can occur at the same time or on the same day. Once that number is reached, any remaining registered events will need to be adjusted or placed on a waitlist. (Hint: Register your events early!)
  • Undergraduate social events will need to take place during designated time blocks to ensure sufficient support and safety staff is available. 
  • Like events with alcohol, all dry undergraduate social events (no alcohol being served) will be required to have security during Major Event Weekends to assist with crowd control. 

*Additional Major Event Weekend parameters set forth by other key stakeholders such as a group’s advisor or coach also apply. 

During a social event...

From the University Alcohol and Other Drug Policy

Each member of our intellectual community is responsible for his or her own actions and is expected to contribute to the Penn community and to respect the rights of others to participate in the academic and social life of the University. The following Alcohol and Other Drug Policy, with its emphasis on individual and shared responsibility, healthy and informed decision-making, maintaining a caring environment, and the promotion of genuine dialogue, is adopted in this spirit.

Put simply: Event hosts are responsible for hosting a safe event. This includes compliance with fire and life safety codes, having safe entrances and exits to the event, ensuring alcohol is responsibly consumed only by guests of legal drinking age, and more. Fortunately, by registering your event, you are engaging in thoughtful planning toward this goal with the help of Penn staff who are committed to students’ safety and wellbeing.

We understand events don’t always go as planned, and, if that happens, the important thing to do is reach out for help. University Life’s Event Observers are a great support resource and will be checking in with lead event contacts throughout the event. Don’t hesitate to ask for their help with troubleshooting any issues that may arise. For emergencies, save this number (do it now!): 

Yes. Medical Amnesty protects you from getting in trouble when you seek medical help for yourself or a friend due to alcohol or other drug use. 

University Alcohol and Other Drug Policy, Section II, paragraph A3:

In cases of intoxication and/or alcohol poisoning, the primary concern is the health and safety of the individual(s) involved. Individuals are strongly encouraged to call for medical assistance for themselves or for a friend/acquaintance who is dangerously intoxicated. No student seeking medical treatment for an alcohol or other drug-related overdose will be subject to University discipline for the sole violation of using or possessing alcohol or drugs. This policy shall extend to another student seeking help for the intoxicated student.

The Event Observer (EO) team is comprised of part-time, temporary staff within University Life. Event Observers play an important role in our collective effort to manage risk, reduce harm, and foster a sense of belonging among all members of our community. They provide on-the-ground support during student social events—even in the late-night hours—which consists of checking in/communicating with the lead event contact(s), troubleshooting any issues, and helping to ensure guests’ safety in partnership with Penn Police.

EOs are not there to shut down any and all events; they will, however, address and shut down social events that are escalating in risk and/or events that were not registered with University Life.

Sober host monitors are members of the host organization who volunteer to serve in this role and, therefore, may not consume any alcoholic beverages during or immediately prior to the event. Per the University AOD policy, sober host monitors “have participated in training or taken other steps to develop the ability to, wherever possible (l) handle emergency situations, (2) respond to alcohol-related medical concerns, (3) identify and intervene with overly intoxicated guests, whether or not they require medical treatment, (4) and take any necessary steps to protect the health and safety of guests.”

There should be at least one sober host monitor for every 30 guests at events happening on campus or at an off-campus residence, or one monitor for every 50 guests at an off-campus third-party venue. Sober host monitors must be designated in advance of each event during the event registration process. Sober hosts must remain sober for the duration of the event.

It’s important to make sure your event ends at the time indicated on your registration form. Event Observers will know the timing of the event and expect host(s) to take steps to end the party on time. Also, service of alcohol at all on-campus registered events must end no later than 1 a.m., though events may continue until 2 a.m. Event Observers will confirm that any alcohol has been locked away at 1 a.m. Lastly, what’s your plan for cleaning up, especially as it relates to any trash that ended up outside and could negatively impact neighbors?

After a social event...

Should a group host an unregistered event, the Associate Director for Community Care shares that with the organization’s advisor and other relevant partners to create an accountability plan, identify opportunities for learning, and get future events registered. If warranted, Penn’s Center for Community Standards and Accountability (CSA) may become involved. The group may also be put on pause, meaning they wouldn’t be allowed to host registered events for a certain amount of time.

Please reach out and share that with Associate Director for Community Care Emily Giffin. Thank you in advance for helping us grow and continuously improve as a community!

Still have questions?

Please reach out to the Associate Director for Community Care for additional support.

Attending social events

Red button that reads i [heart] registered events

Penn’s community care efforts focus upon creating safe social environments on and around campus. One of the key ways we do this is through event registration. Penn student groups register social events (or, parties) they would like to host on or off campus, with or without alcohol. By doing this, we can more effectively manage risk, reduce harm, and take care of ourselves, our peers, and our neighbors. AND have a great time!

Student groups who register their events work in partnership with various members of the Penn community to implement risk management and harm reduction measures that make for a fun, safe event. These include, but are not limited to, professional bartending and crowd control services, providing food and non-alcoholic drinks for guests, and designating org members to serve as sober host monitors. Students who attend social events also play an important role in keeping our community safe, so we hope you <3 registered events too. 

Staff/faculty events

The social event registration process is chiefly for student-hosted events. University Life does not subsidize the cost of bartenders and/or security at social events hosted by Penn staff or faculty. However, you are welcome to reach out to the Associate Director for Community Care if you would like assistance making staff arrangements, and she will connect your directly with someone who can help.

Resources & additional considerations

  • Looking for a supplier for event-related services? Visit Penn Procurement Services for more information. You can use the Supplier Search tool to find approved/preferred contract suppliers by name, type, commodity (e.g., catering), postal code, or classification (e.g., woman-owned).
  • Learn more about the University Alcohol and Other Drug Policy, including the requirement that sufficient quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and food must be available to guests without cost at any event at which alcohol will be served.
  • If most of your attendees will be Penn students under the age of 21, please reach out to Emily to discuss options for security that will help ensure safe, legal consumption of alcohol.

Our team

Emily Giffin

Emily Giffin

Associate Director for Community Care

Iman Hassan

Graduate Assistant for Community Care