To help you get started on a path to success at Penn State you will need to learn more about the Penn State community, academic and co-curricular expectations and opportunities, and ways to begin meeting your educational goals. New Student Orientation (NSO) will help you develop educational goals, become familiar with campus resources, and schedule courses to put your academic plan into action.
Timeline for Summer & Fall Admits
| Month(s) of the Year | Events |
|---|---|
|
Late March |
After you accept your offer from Penn State and pay your acceptance fee, you will receive instructions (via postcard or e-mail) to complete the steps outlined below. Watch for this communication. It contains critical information about your personalized New Student Orientation timeline! |
|
Starting in Late March |
Complete your Educational Planning Survey and placement tests.
|
|
Starting in April |
After you complete steps 1 and 2, your campus of admission will send you additional information about New Student Orientation. Note: You will only receive information about your orientation program after you have completed your Educational Planning Survey and placement tests. |
|
April - June |
Complete your "Pre-NSO Homework" to prepare for your visit. |
May - August |
You will visit your campus for orientation to meet with campus personnel, discuss academic choices,learn about student life, and schedule courses. For University Park students, New Student Orientation is an overnight program. |