We are preparing for a meaningful and robust orientation for new Penn State students. Please visit the University's Orientation site for the latest information. Our orientation is divided into two components: an in-person, on-campus session followed by a virtual academic advising appointment. Attending each component is required for students to schedule classes.

New Student Orientation

  • Step 1: In-person, on-campus experience to learn about academic and campus resources. You will also attend sessions that prepare you for an individual academic advising appointment where you will schedule classes. Course registration will be completed during Step 2. This component of orientation is approximately six hours in length.
  • Step 2: Virtual (Zoom) academic advising appointment and course scheduling occur within one week of your attendance at the in-person, on-campus orientation program. This is your opportunity to meet with an academic adviser who will discuss your intended major and help you choose courses that will help you progress toward achieving a degree in that field. Plan to allow an hour for this meeting.

Visit the Orientation site for additional information

Summer and Fall 2026 New Student Orientation Dates

  • June 15
  • June 16
  • June 22
  • June 23
  • July 6
  • July 7
  • July 27
  • July 28

Ways to get more from your NSO

Reservation

Make your NSO reservation using your NSO tasklist as soon as possible. Dates fill up quickly.

If you’ll be travelling to campus from a distance and need to discuss options for attending NSO, please contact our Advising Office at 814-949-5084 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. EDT.

ALEKS Math Assessment

If you did not complete Calculus in high school, take your ALEKS Math Assessment before attending NSO.

Parking

Parking for the in-person, on-campus event is available in the Ivy parking lot. Use the Juniata Gap entrance to access the lot.

Directions to the Juniata Gap entrance

Upload Your ID Card Photo

More information is available on your NSO Tasklist. If you have an issue with your ID card photo upload, bring a government-issued photo ID card, such as a driver's license or passport, to obtain your ID upon arrival on campus.

Additional Resources

Additional resources available on this site include the following: