Information for New Students

Welcome to Penn State Scranton!

Congratulations! We are excited to welcome you to the Penn State Scranton family.

Now that you've accepted your admission to Penn State University you probably have a lot of questions about what's next and we're here to help.

What's next?

We want to help you to be successful at Penn State Scranton and make the most of your time with us on campus. Let's get started! 

1. Placement

The ALEKS Math Assessment, used to evaluate your readiness to take college-level math and science courses, is not required for all students. 

Who is required to take ALEKS?

  • If you took calculus as part of your high school course work, you are not required to complete ALEKS. You will place directly into college calculus.
  • If you completed high school calculus but are concerned about your readiness to succeed in college-level mathematics and science courses, we encourage you take the ALEKS Math Assessment to help make an informed decision with your academic adviser.
  • If you did not take calculus as part of your high school course work, you are required to complete ALEKS prior to attending New Student Orientation. Your NSO Task list will provide you with a personalized message stating whether ALEKS is required for you.

2. New Student Orientation

This step is designed to acquaint you with the academic world of Penn State. New Student Orientation (NSO) helps you explore the different academic opportunities available at the University, as well as the requirements of your chosen degree. Your testing results will be interpreted and explained to you.

3. Schedule your classes

All students will meet with an academic adviser in order to prepare a schedule of classes that meets their needs as well as the requirements of their chosen degree. New first-year students schedule classes during NSO, while transfer students make an individual appointment with their academic adviser. Transfer students will be notified by mail with the contact information for their assigned academic adviser.

4. Begin your classes

At this stage, you are ready to get started! Class times, building names, and room numbers are printed on your schedule of classes. Contact the admissions office if you would like a tour before classes begin. The registrar's office can provide you with a complete schedule of important dates for the entire semester.