Welcome to University Park! We’re glad that you’re continuing your education with us. The information on this page will provide you with an overview of what to expect during Transfer Student Orientation.

If you are a current Penn State student changing to Penn State's University Park campus in fall 2026, please visit our Change-of-Campus page for more information about programs available to you.

Adult learner students and veteran students can complete their NSO requirement by participating in New Student Orientation for transfer students. Because of the life experience you bring with you to Penn State, we would like to offer you the opportunity to attend our virtual orientation program, offered in conjunction with NSO for Transfer Students. We use the information provided on your application to Penn State to determine if you are an adult learner or a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. If you are a first-year student who is an adult learner or a veteran student and would like to attend a two-day, overnight New Student Orientation program please contact our office for assistance.

Overview of New Student Orientation for transfer students at University Park

New Student Orientation for transfer students will welcome you to Penn State. We will introduce University and community expectations. You will meet with Penn State staff. 

Orientation is optional for transfer students, and we strongly recommend your participation. At Penn State, we define a transfer student as someone who has attempted or completed 18 or more credits at another college or university after high school graduation. Transfer students who participate in orientation will receive an introduction to resources, connections with other transfer and upper-class students, and an introduction to key Penn State staff (e.g., academic advisers, orientation leaders, and student aid) who will assist you during your transition.

Transfer students are able to schedule classes on a unique timeline (enrollment appointment timeline found within their LionPATH account), as orientation is not required for transfer students. Many transfer students will meet with an adviser before they do orientation. If you have not yet met with an academic adviser by your scheduled orientation, we strongly encourage you to make an appointment.  

If you do not wish to attend orientation, please select “I’m not attending New Student Orientation for transfer students” from the list of events available to you.  
 

In-Person Welcome Program for Transfer Students

University Park offers an in‑person welcome program for incoming transfer students on the Sunday before the fall semester begins. This event is a great opportunity to meet other new students, get just‑in‑time updates to help you start the semester confidently, and receive a meal coupon for an on‑campus dining hall. If you plan to attend, please indicate your participation on your NSO Tasklist.