Frequently Asked Questions 

What if I can't make my scheduled New Student Orientation day?  

If there is an unforeseen emergency that prevents you from making your assigned NSO day, please go online and change your date. Be aware that canceling or changing your appointment may result in difficulty in scheduling your courses. 

Can I retake the ALEKS math test if I am unhappy with the result?  

Yes; however, you must spend at least 10 hours in the learning modules and wait 24 hours, before your second attempt. If you want to try a third time, you must spend another 10 hours learning modules. https://advising.psu.edu/aleks/

Will my NSO advisor continue to be my advisor after I start my first year? 

You will be assigned an academic advisor from the Academic Advising Center staff or a faculty adviser, depending on your intended major. Your advisor assignment will be available in LionPATH within the first two weeks of the semester. Until then, you can contact the Berks Academic Advising Center at 610-396-6280 or [email protected] with any questions. 

View the University Policy on Confidentiality of Student Records  

Will I schedule my first-semester courses during NSO? 

You will not be scheduling your courses during our in-person NSO program. However, you will be scheduling an advising appointment with an academic advisor during NSO that will occur within 1-3 business days after your in-person NSO. You must attend NSO to gain access to schedule an advising appointment. The earlier you attend NSO the more course options will be available to you when you meet with an advisor to schedule your courses. This meeting will be an hour-long, individual appointment via zoom. 

I have a question about my bill, where should I call?  

For any questions related to the bill, call The Penn State Berks Bursar Office at (610) 396-6040. 

What do I need to get a parking permit for my vehicle? 

Parking permits will be available when students come to campus at the beginning of the semester. Police Services will have an online Parking Permit form for you to complete, print out, and then return to their office in Luerssen 112 during the first 2 weeks of classes. There is no charge for permits, but vehicles do need to be registered. Check out the Police Services website to view the Parking Permit form and for more information regarding traffic and parking regulations. 

What do I need to get my Penn State photo ID?  

In order to obtain a Penn State id+ Card, students must present one of the following forms of photo IDs:  A state issued driver's license or ID card, a passport, or a U.S. Military Photo ID. 

What food services will be available on-campus at NSO? 

Food will be available for purchase for both breakfast and lunch during the NSO program. Overnight on-campus accommodations are also available at a reasonable cost. Contact 610-396-6353 for more information.

More information on our housing and food services.   

What happens after New Student Orientation? 

  • Attend your NSO advising appointment. You will schedule this meeting during NSO. 
  • Read Berks Bound, a summer newsletter tailored to our new incoming students and families. 
  • Check your PSU email daily- this is how PSU will communicate with you. 
  • Attend Welcome Weekend