Clearances for ABCS

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If you have already completed the clearance process with Penn in the past 5 years, before doing any of these steps, email myetunde@upenn.edu and backgroundchecks@hr.upenn.edu to check that your clearances are on file and valid. In addition to students who have already obtained clearances for another program, all Nursing, Dental, and Medical school students should already have completed clearances.

Review Frequently Asked Questions about clearances HERE.

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FOR DOMESTIC (NON-INTERNATIONAL) STUDENTS

Penn Human Resources has created a comprehensive package that will allow you to complete all three of the required background searches on your own. Please read carefully and complete each step in a timely manner. 

What you need to know 

To work with minors in PA, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, requires you to complete a three-part background check. The required searches are: 

  • PATCH – PA Criminal History Search (click here for directions) 
  • PA Child Abuse Search (click here for directions), and  
  • FBI Criminal History Search 1) Email Yetunde Pinckney at the Netter Center (myetunde@upenn.edu) for a code to pay for your FBI clearance. 2) Follow these instructions to register for an appointment. If there are no slots left at the Penn Bookstore, please walk into the IdentoGo location at 4022 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19104.  

For volunteers that have lived in PA for ten or more consecutive years, you do not need to complete the FBI Criminal History Search. You can sign a Volunteer Affidavit, available here. 

Additionally, if you are working with a School District of Philadelphia school, complete the 3-hour mandated reporter training by following these instructions.

Accountability 

If you plan to work with a minor(s) you must complete these searches and save them. Please send copies of all clearances to myetunde@upenn.edu. 

How to get help 

If you have any problems or questions about this process, email myetunde@upenn.edu or attend one of two Zoom office hours hosted by Penn HR. They are happy to answer any questions. The office hour times and Zoom link are below: https://upenn.zoom.us/j/2153668254 

  • Tues. October 8th 2:00-3:00pm 
  • Wed. October 9th 10:00-11:00am 

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FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ON A (F-1/J-1) VISA WHO HAVE NOT WORKED IN THE UNITED STATES

Per the Department of Human Services, international students who have not worked in the United States before do not need the same three clearances as domestic students. Instead, you will sign an affidavit. Additionally, all students working with School District of Philadelphia schools must complete mandated reporter training. All documents must be on file with the University to be fully cleared. To complete your clearances:

STEP 1: Email myetunde@upenn.edu, cc abcscoordinator@sas.upenn.edu, with subject line: “International Student Volunteer Clearance” to receive an affidavit to sign

STEP 2: If you are working with a School District of Philadelphia school, complete the 3-hour mandated reporter training by following these instructions.

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FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ON A (F-1/J-1) VISA WHO HAVE WORKED IN THE UNITED STATES (INCLUDING ON-CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT)

Follow the same process as domestic students.