Welcome to the Penn State Harrisburg community! We’ve got a great NSO planned for you and your student. NSO is optional for parents & families, but we encourage you to attend.

During NSO, you’ll explore how to best support your student, meet people from a variety of offices around campus, and learn about academic programs.

Your Next Steps

  • Encourage your student to:
    • Accept their admission offer.
    • Check their email regularly.
      We’ll reach out using the email address provided on their admissions application.
    • Check their NSO Tasklist.
      The NSO Tasklist is a comprehensive list of all the action items students must complete before starting at Penn State Harrisburg. Students should expect an email letting them know when they have access.
    • Make their NSO Reservation.
      All first year students required to complete an NSO prior to starting the semester. Orientation is optional for transfer students. Be sure your student selects a date that works for everyone attending. Your student will be notified via email when its time to make their reservation.
    • Complete their ALEKS Math Assessment prior to your NSO.
      If your student did not take calculus in high school, an ALEKS score is required to take many math and science classes. 
  • Attend NSO with your student.
    Students should check their email weekly for important information and reminders.


For more information, visit Parents and Families Orientation site.