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Get ready to have some fun as you return to campus for the fall semester!

Classes begin August 25, 2025.
By: Morgan Sewack

It’s August – and that means back to school for students at Penn State Scranton.

To the new members of the Class of 2029 – Welcome to Penn State Scranton! We are so glad you’re here and looking forward to having you as part of our Penn State family!

To our returning students – Welcome Back! We missed you and are looking forward to seeing you back on campus in the next few weeks.

As you prepare for the first day of classes on Aug. 25, 2025, we wanted to make you aware of some of the events that will be taking place so that you can take advantage of all we have to offer.

Move-In Day 

For those who will be moving into The Commons at University Drive apartments, across the street from our campus, Move-In Day is Saturday, Aug. 16.

Scranton Welcome

On Friday, Aug. 22, we’ll also be holding our final Scranton Welcome – a student-only invitation event designed to help you become comfortable with the transition to college life. It will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Check-in is held at The Study Learning Center and a student ID is required. 

While there, you’ll get to meet and interact with fellow students, faculty, and staff, and we’ll provide you with important information about the University and the Penn State Scranton campus.

New students should log into VZO and follow their NSO task list to register for Scranton Welcome.

Welcome Back Week 2025

And then, the big day – the first day and week of classes, for which we’ve planned a little something for everyone as part of our annual Welcome Week festivities.

Monday, Aug. 25

  • Welcome Back BBQ: Join us for a classic Penn State Scranton tradition at the Welcome Back BBQ, held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the SLC Patio. Enjoy great food and music sponsored by the Penn State Scranton Alumni Society and the Campus Activities Board.

Tuesday, Aug. 26

  • Target Run Bingo: Get ready to win must-have essentials during Target Run Bingo, starting at noon in The View Cafe. Prizes include school supplies, personal care items, dorm gear, electronics and more!
     
  • RailRiders Baseball Game: Catch a summer game under the lights with fellow Penn Staters at the RailRiders Baseball Game, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at PNC Field. Students from Penn State Hazleton will join us for a fun evening of baseball and networking. Students are required to register in advance to attend this event

Wednesday, Aug. 27

  • Custom License Plates: Make your mark at the custom license plate station, where you'll design your own personal plate. This event will take place on the SLC Patio, with time to be announced.

Thursday, Aug. 28

  • Playlist Bingo: Starting at 12:30 p.m. in The View Café, test your music knowledge and win prizes during this fun twist on traditional bingo. This event is free for all students.

Friday, Aug. 30 

  • Tie-Dye T-Shirts: From 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., get creative and make your own tie-dye T-shirt on the SLC Patio. This event is free for all students.
     
  • Build your own Acai Bowl: Create a refreshing and healthy açaí bowl with your favorite toppings at 10 a.m. in The View Café. It’s a sweet way to wrap up Welcome Week!

For more information about our campus events, contact our staff in the Student Leadership and Involvement Office.