IUP offers a two-part orientation program for all new freshman and transfer students. Students are expected to participate in both of the programs, as they are intended to provide information and programs which are designed to insure a successful first-year or transfer experience. IUP views this two-part student orientation as unique and extremely important to freshman retention and satisfaction with the university. The freshman year/first year at IUP is critical in regard to academic success. During this time, students must simultaneously develop academic competence in the college curriculum and adjust to the personal decision-making process college life affords. Each of the programs is designed to assist in this important college adjustment process. Freshmen and transfer students are expected to participate fully in this two-part program.

Freshman Spring/Summer Orientation: The preregistration placement testing, advising, and course registration program occurs during the spring or summer immediately preceding students’ matriculation on campus. This orientation is designed to assess academic readiness for courses integral to the IUP curriculum and acquaint students with the IUP collegiate experience. Placement tests are one of the tools used for advising students so that students can better understand their options and register for courses that are appropriate given their selected major and their proficiency in English, mathematics, and foreign languages. Students participate in an overnight, two-day experience which includes testing, academic advising, and orientation to university curricular requirements and cocurricula opportunities. Concurrent parent orientation programs are offered.

Transfer Summer Orientation: Transfer orientation serves to acquaint students with prior college experience with IUP resources to support academic and career success. The program also provides placement testing for students in selected majors. The program concludes with advisement and course registration. A concurrent parent program is offered.

Fall Orientation: Fall Orientation occurs as students move onto campus immediately prior to the beginning of fall classes. Programs and activities are designed to assure a smooth transition from the home (or other college) environment to IUP’s campus community.

CUSP: The Early Entrance Experience, a formal, credit-bearing orientation program, is offered by the Department of Developmental Studies. For more information, see Developmental Studies section of this catalog.

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