As a new semester approaches, it may be helpful to take some time to make sure you’ll be ready to start your upcoming classes. Both new and returning students can get a head start by taking some time to prepare.
Use LionPATH to check your class schedule, make registration changes, pay your bill, and more. LionPATH is Penn State’s system for registration, financial aid management, bill payment, personal information updates, and other tasks related to enrollment. You can log in to LionPATH using your Penn State Access Account.
Check your Penn State email. It is important to check your Penn State email regularly, as all Penn State communications will be sent to that account. You can access your Penn State email via Outlook in Office 365. Please contact Penn State World Campus Technical Support if you have any questions about your Penn State email.
Make sure your computer meets our technical requirements. Our technical requirements explain what is needed for the computer you plan to use for your Penn State classes.
Purchase the required materials for your classes. Before your classes begin, you should purchase all required books and materials. Most materials for Penn State World Campus classes are available through Barnes and Noble College (BNC) and can be purchased or rented starting three weeks before classes begin.
Make a note of Academic Calendar dates. The Academic Calendar includes important dates and deadlines for the semester for most classes. Note that some classes do not follow the standard academic calendar. You can find more information about your class dates in LionPATH, and you may also a receive a detailed syllabus for each class when it begins.
Be sure to make a note of the deadlines and financial considerations for dropping a course, so that you will know what to expect if you decide to drop a course after it begins.
On the first day of class, log in to your classes in Canvas. You will be able to access your classes online after 10:00 a.m. (ET) on the first day of class.
Make proctor arrangements if any of your classes require proctored exams. If any of your classes require proctored exams, you should make proctor arrangements early in the semester, before you have an exam.
Learn about important student services and resources. World Campus provides student services including academic advising, career services, tutoring, disability accommodations, and library services.