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

To the new members of the Class of 2030 – 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. 24, 2026, 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 - Saturday, Aug.15

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. 15.

Scranton Welcome - Friday, Aug. 21

On Friday, Aug. 21, 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 2026

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. 24

  • Welcome Back BBQ: Join us for a classic Penn State Scranton tradition at the Welcome Back BBQ, held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 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. 25

  • Scranton Bingo: Get ready to dive head-first into our surrounding community with this Scranton themed Bingo, starting at noon in The View Café. Prizes include tickets to local attractions, restaurant gift cards and more!

Wednesday, Aug. 26

  • Build your own Acai Bowl: Create a refreshing and healthy açaí bowl with your favorite toppings at 12 p.m. in The View Café. 

Thursday, Aug. 27

  • Pop-Up Coffee Shop: Café Calle will be on campus brewing up tasty beverages. Treat yourself to a free coffee, tea or latte starting at 10:00 a.m. in The View Café. 

Friday, Aug. 28 

  • Stuff-a-Plush: From 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., stuff your own adorable critter in The View Café. This event is free for all students and is a great way to wrap up Welcome Week!

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