Whether you are a parent or family member sending your first student to college or you have been down this road before, there will be times when you have questions. We welcome you to contact the campus anytime, but we encourage you to look at the resources and pages below with frequently asked questions.
Academic FAQ
Is there a timeline for what my child can expect as a Penn State student?
May & August
- Attend New Student Orientation (NSO) to:
- Become acquainted with campus
- Register for fall classes
- Meet faculty and staff
Check your email for more information.
First weekend of fall semester - Move-in/Welcome Weekend
- Move-in for residential students
- Welcome Weekend activities
First 6 days of semester - Drop/Add Period
- Schedules can be changed without using late drop credits
- Schedule changes should be done in consultation with an adviser
Weeks 3-5 of each semester
- Early Progress Reports (Notification flags that alert students of issues in a course)
Weeks 7-9 of each semester
- Mid-semester Progress Reports
- If received, students should consult immediately with their adviser and instructor, as they may need to late drop a class
Late Drop Deadline - Date determined per semester - check University Calendar
- Last chance to late drop a course, which should be done in consultation with an adviser, financial aid, and your instructor
October/November
- Schedule classes for spring semester - date determined by student's credit count, including transfer and AP credits
Early December
- Spring semester tuition due
Last day of classes - date determined per semester
- Withdrawal deadline
My student is struggling academically. What resources are available?
Your student’s academic success is important at Penn State Hazleton, where every student counts. Several opportunities exist for students who are having difficulty with classes to seek help. Students are encouraged to contact their advisers, speak to their professors, or seek services through the Student Success Center in the Butler Teaching and Learning Resource Center and through the Math Dimension in the library.
Students may also have special needs that require different kinds of assistance. Student Disability Resources helps students with documented disabilities on a case-by-case basis. Intake appointments are required for service.
Who is my student’s adviser?
All students can find their adviser’s information in LionPATH. If a specific adviser is not listed on the LionPATH menu, students are encouraged to contact the Advising and Career Center.
What is a degree audit?
A degree audit is a computer-generated analysis that enables the student and his/her adviser to assess the student's academic progress and unfulfilled baccalaureate, associate degree, or minor requirements. The audit is a valuable tool for academic planning and course selection, because it matches the courses that the student has taken with the requirements of his/her degree program or anticipated program. A student may access degree audits via LionPATH.
Is tutoring available for students?
Your student can schedule tutoring sessions through the Student Success Center in Butler TLRC and through the Math Dimension in the library. Services are available for all students to improve or maintain their grades and grade-point averages.
Where can my students buy textbooks?
The Penn State Bookstore is located on the campus mall between the Butler TLRC and the Kostos Building. New, used and e-books are available for purchase, and book rentals are also offered.
Students may also purchase books from other online vendors or bookstores based on their needs.
How do students schedule their classes?
New students who are admitted will attend a New Student Orientation session and will schedule their courses with an adviser’s assistance.
After the first semester, students schedule courses using LionPATH. We encourage your student to speak to their adviser before scheduling each semester. Scheduling courses that do not follow an academic plan towards degree attainment can extend a student’s time in college past the traditional four years.
How much access will my child have to faculty?
With an average class size of just 25 students, students find it easy to keep in touch and develop strong relationships with faculty. All faculty keep office hours equal to the hours they are in the classroom. Information about the faculty member's office hours is included in the course syllabus and students are encouraged to take advantage of this time. Students may also keep in touch with faculty members through email.
Can my child start and finish his/her entire education at Penn State Hazleton?
Yes, the campus offers 13 baccalaureate degrees and five associate degree programs that can be started and finished entirely at Penn State Hazleton. For a list of degrees offered, please visit our Degrees and Majors page.
Your child also has the option to complete the first two years of nearly all of Penn State's 275 degree programs at Penn State Hazleton. The final two years of these programs can be finished at the Penn State University Park campus or at another Penn State campus.
Access to Student Information FAQ
What is FERPA?
FERPA is the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and is a federal law that was enacted in 1974. FERPA protects the privacy of student education records. All educational institutions that receive federal funding must comply with FERPA. More information is available at http://registrar.psu.edu/confidentiality/confidentiality_index.cfm.
What are “educational records"?
Educational records are defined as records, files, documents and other materials that contain information directly related to a student and are maintained by Penn State or by a person acting for the University. Education records take many forms, including paper and electronic. Education records include:
Grades
Transcripts
Class lists
Student course schedules
Disciplinary records
Student financial records
Payroll records for employees who are employed as a direct result of their status as a student (such as work study, assistantships, resident assistants, etc.)
Are there any conditions under which student education records may be disclosed without a student’s consent?
Yes, FERPA does contain some exceptions to the written consent rule. Those exceptions allow disclosure without consent:
To university officials with legitimate educational interests
To comply with judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena
To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency in order to protect the student or others
To parents in the cases of drug or alcohol violations when the student is under the age of 21
To the provider or creator of a record to verify the validity of that record
To organizations conducting research studies on behalf of the university, provided there is a written agreement between the university and the research organization
To officials at an institution in which the student seeks or intends to enroll or is currently enrolled
Is there any student information that can be released without the student’s permission?
FERPA permits each institution to define a class of information as “directory information.” FERPA permits public disclosure of directory information without the student’s consent.
Directory information is information contained in the student’s education record that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The list of Penn State’s directory items can be found on the Registrar’s website. This site also includes information about how to withhold directory information if your student wishes to do so.
Admissions FAQ
We're considering Penn State Hazleton as our child's college choice. Do you recommend visiting the campus before applying, and how can we arrange a visit?
We definitely recommend that you and your child visit our campus, either before applying or immediately after submitting an application. A student Lion Ambassador will happily give you a tour of the campus and answer any questions you may have, and an admissions counselor will explain the application and admissions process. A student aid representative is also available to discuss any concerns regarding financing your child's education.
You can contact the Office of Admissions at 570-450-3142 to schedule an appointment or visit our Admissions page to register for scheduled on-campus admission activities.
When should my child submit her/his application for admissions?
Penn State's Early Action deadline is November 1. Students who want maximum consideration for their first choice campus and program should aim to apply for Early Action. By applying early, they will receive a decision by December 24 (this is a non-binding decision). Applications will be accepted after that and will be evaluated in a rolling fashion. Transfer admission applications should be submitted as soon as possible prior to the start of the desired semester, due to the lengthier evaluation of transfer credit process.
How will Penn State Hazleton notify my child of their decision regarding the application for admission?
All students are notified by email and through the mail regarding the outcome of the application evaluation.
Are admission requirements for out-of-state students different than those for in-state students?
No, all students are evaluated in the same manner.
When will my child need to "transfer" to University Park campus?
At Penn State University, every campus location is equal. Every credit earned at a campus is equal to credits offered at University Park, and students who begin their studies at a campus location are on equal footing with their counterparts at University Park when it comes to Entrance to Major in the junior year.
At Penn State, the process of relocating from one campus to another is called Change of Location, and this typically takes place after completing the first two years of full-time study toward a baccalaureate degree. Change of Location requests submitted prior to the completion of two years of study are only granted in extreme cases in which the student would not be able to meet the curricular requirements of the chosen major.
Athletics & Ticketing FAQ
My student wants to participate in athletics at Penn State Hazleton. Is that an option?
Yes. While most Penn State Hazleton student-athletes are recruited to a team specifically for their academic and athletic abilities, there are opportunities for other students to try out for each sport offered at Hazleton. Students who are interested in participating should contact the coach of the sport they wish to play to get more information about the program and when tryouts take place.
Contact Athletics to learn more.
How do students and families get tickets to attend Penn State Hazleton athletic events?
Most Penn State Hazleton athletic events are free to students, parents and other fans. For any events that do charge an admission fee, tickets are available at the door. Generally, Penn State Hazleton sporting events that charge an admission fee benefit athletics directly or a student organization on campus.
Where can I find more information about Penn State Hazleton athletics?
You can visit the Athletics website for scores, schedules, stats, roster information and game recaps. Follow athletics on Twitter @PSUHNAthletics and on Instagram @psuhazletonsports.
How do students get football tickets for Beaver Stadium?
To learn about the process for students to obtain football tickets, along with current rules and explanations, visit Student Central. If your student cannot find the answer to a ticketing question at Student Central, please direct the inquiry to 1-800-NITTANY (1-800-648-8269) for assistance.
How can parents & family members get football tickets or tickets to other Penn State athletic events at University Park?
You can purchase football tickets through the Athletic Ticket Office by calling 814-863-1000, 1-800-Nittany (1-800-648-8269), or on their website.
Tickets can be purchased online for the following sports: baseball, wrestling, basketball (Nittany Lions & Lady Lions), men’s and women’s gymnastics, men’s and women’s ice hockey, softball, and women’s volleyball. Calls about other sports can be directed to the Athletic Ticket Office or the website.
Where can I get information about concerts and shows at Penn State University Park?
Various venues in State College and University Park host a wealth of diverse shows and artists throughout the year. Tickets can be purchased for shows at the Bryce Jordan Center, Pennsylvania Centre Stage, the School of Theatre, and the Penn State Downtown Theatre.
Financial Aid FAQ
How much does it cost to attend Penn State Hazleton?
Penn State offers an excellent value for a quality education with a worldwide reputation for excellence. Penn State establishes tuition rates and fees for all students each year in July. All cost of attendance elements can be viewed at this webpage after selecting the location "Hazleton."
To calculate the most accurate tuition for your child, consult the online Tuition Calculator.
How can I find out if my child is eligible for financial aid?
To be considered for student aid, all Penn State students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is the only financial aid application Penn State requires.
What is the Penn State Hazleton federal school code number?
003329. This is the same code used for the entire University, and it is described on the application as Penn State University Park. Don't worry, though, this number is correct. All financial aid is processed centrally through the Office of Student Aid at the University Park campus.
What is the deadline for applying for financial aid?
Penn State recommends that first-year students submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15 for maximum consideration of all student aid programs. Returning students should submit a FAFSA renewal by April 15.
If we own a house in Pennsylvania, are we eligible for PA residency?
To qualify for in-state tuition, your family needs to reside in Pennsylvania. Owning a house in Pennsylvania alone does not qualify a student for PA residency tuition. To change your child's status from out-of-state to in-state, you will need proof of residency, including PA income tax and federal income tax forms for the most current year.
What if I cannot pay my child's tuition bill by the due date?
Penn State offers a Deferred Payment Plan that allows you the convenience of splitting your tuition bill into three payments. Instructions for the Deferred Payment Plan appear on the semester bill. A $45 fee per semester is charged.
Graduating Seniors FAQ
Where can I find the date for graduation?
The date for graduation can be found on the academic calendar.
Where does commencement take place at Penn State Hazleton?
Commencement typically takes place on campus in the Dr. Thomas M. Caccese Gymnasium in the Physical Education Building.
How can I get tickets to graduation?
You will not need to present tickets for admission into graduation at Penn State Hazleton. Graduates are permitted to invite whomever they wish to attend their commencement ceremony.
When can I arrive for graduation ceremonies?
The commencement ceremony normally begins at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. for seating. You may arrive earlier to take pictures around campus, if you wish.
How do students confirm that they are graduating?
Your student is responsible for notifying Penn State about their intent to graduate. The process is simple, but requires their attention and action. Before their last semesters, students should consult the academic calendar for the dates to activate their intent to graduate. During the time frame (usually before and during the first month of the semester), students must log onto their LionPATH account. They must activate their intent to graduate online. If students do not activate their intent to graduate during the specified dates, they must contact their colleges directly. Students who fail to confirm their graduation prior to their college’s preparation of commencement materials will not be listed in the commencement program.
Do students who are receiving financial aid have any responsibilities before graduation?
If students have been awarded a Federal Stafford Loan, Federal Perkins Loan or University Loan and are leaving Penn State (i.e., graduating or withdrawing for even one semester), they need to complete an online interactive loan exit interview on LionPATH. If they do not, a hold may be placed on their academic records.
Housing & Food Services FAQ
Can students receive packages and special deliveries?
Your student can receive and pick up packages at the Housing and Food Services Office by showing their Penn State id+ Card. They will receive an email to let them know that they have received a package. Special deliveries, such as flowers, will be processed the same way through the HFS Office. Direct deliveries to rooms and inside halls are prohibited. Packages should not be shipped more than two weeks prior to the beginning of the semester. We recommend packages are insured and tracked to ensure proper delivery. All packages and deliveries should be addressed to the student’s official name using this campus address:
Student’s Full Name
Room & Hall
17 University Drive
Hazleton, PA 18202
Is housing available on campus for four years?
On-campus housing is not guaranteed. Students interested in living on campus must participate in the eLiving Housing Contract process by submitting a request for a Housing Contract during the established timeline. If there are more requests for contracts than there are spaces, students who do not receive a random offer will automatically be added to the waitlist. Information sessions are conducted during the fall semester to help students navigate the process.
For additional information about the process, visit the Housing website.
Are my student’s items in the room insured?
Please consult your homeowners or renter’s insurance to see what is covered under your policy. The university does not take responsibility for damage of personal belongings. It is strongly encouraged that your student purchase renter’s insurance.
Are there any restrictions on what a student brings to his/her room?
Please see the terms and conditions of the student’s contract for a complete list of prohibited items.
Can a student decorate his/her room?
Yes, a student is permitted to decorate his/her room according to the policies and guidelines listed in the terms and conditions of the student’s housing contract. Please be sure to consult that list. Damage caused by failure to follow the guidelines may result in a damage charge on the student’s bursar account.
What if my student has a roommate problem?
The first person students should talk with is their roommate, who may not even realize that there is a concern. If that approach is uncomfortable or awkward, students should go directly to their RA for assistance in identifying the best approach. The RA can also be helpful in facilitating a discussion between roommates.
Can students have guests in their room?
Students are permitted to have guests in their room only if there is no objection from their roommate. At the beginning of the semester, the roommates should discuss how they each feel about having guests in the room. If there are any concerns about having guests of the opposite gender or overnight guests, it’s important to share those preferences with their roommate. It’s also a good idea to come to an agreement on times when guests will or will not be allowed in the room. Overnight guests can stay for a maximum of three consecutive nights. Guests must be escorted at all times. Residents are not permitted to have overnight guests in the room prior to the first day of classes.
Can the dining commons provide food for special diets or for students with food allergies?
Campus dining is happy to accommodate students with special dietary needs, including food allergies, intolerances, conditions necessitating specialized diets, etc. We offer multiple resources to ensure guests with food allergies and intolerances dine safely. When in doubt, students are advised to ask a manager if an item contains a particular ingredient. If your student has a food allergy, please call Food Services at 570-450-3120 prior to your student’s arrival for assistance.
View complete details on allergies and special diets.
Are vegetarian or vegan choices available?
Yes, items are served at every meal in Highacres Café.
Health & Wellness FAQ
What do I do if my student becomes ill while at school?
Your student is encouraged to use the resources at the health center between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. The campus nurse can provide general advice for colds and influenzas that affect the students and administer basic first aid.
If the student requires further medical attention or requires assistance when the health center is unavailable, students are encouraged to use local resources:
Geisinger Careworks Urgent Care
18 Diana Lane
West Hazleton, PA 18202
570-501-3760
Hazleton Urgent Care
101 S. Church St.
Hazleton, PA 18201
570-501-1017
Lehigh Valley Hospital—Hazleton
700 E. Broad St.
Hazleton, PA 18201
570-501-4000
Will parents be notified if a student is ill?
Our standard protocol does not include a call to parents or family when a student becomes ill, unless the student requests that the family member be notified.
If a student’s illness or injury is life threatening, emergency notification protocols will be followed. Please encourage your student to make sure their emergency contact information is current and accurate.
What should my student do if their illness or injury is affecting their ability to study?
Please encourage your student to contact their professors regarding any absences, missed assignments, etc. If the student is having trouble communicating with a professor, the student can speak with their academic adviser.
If my student is sent to the hospital in an emergency situation, which hospital will be used?
If students are transported to the hospital from the campus, most students will be transported to Lehigh Valley Hospital in Hazleton:
Lehigh Valley Hospital—Hazleton
700 E. Broad St.
Hazleton, PA 18201
570-501-4000
Involvement FAQ
What options does my student have for staying busy and getting involved?
Penn State Hazleton offers a variety of clubs and organizations in which your student can be involved, ranging from academic-focused groups like the Psychology Club to charitable organizations like THON. A number of intramural and recreational sports and fitness classes are also offered for students. Students can stop by 105 Butler to learn more about the opportunities!
My student doesn’t know when things are happening and seems to be missing the big events. Where can students find out what’s happening on campus?
The Student Affairs Office shares upcoming activities and events regularly through Engage, on the campus blue screens as well as in most campus buildings, on the campus’ social media accounts and website, and on flyers and posters throughout campus. Students can also view upcoming activities and events on their mobile devices by downloading the Penn State Go and Penn State Engagement mobile apps.
My student isn’t making friends. How does the campus help students interact?
There are some great opportunities to interact with other students on campus throughout the semester. A campus-wide club fair, where students can see what clubs and organizations exist, is held early in the fall and spring semesters to allow students to meet other students with similar interests.
The Student Affairs Office publishes a monthly calendar detailing all the activities happening on campus every day. Calendars are available at the beginning of the month in Butler, the residence halls and 105 Butler. If your student lives in a residence hall, there are many opportunities to meet new students and to participate in activities and events geared towards our residential students. Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and make some new friends!
Technology at Penn State FAQ
Do the residence halls have wireless Internet connections?
Yes, the residence halls have a wireless connection. However, personal routers are not permitted and certain devices (Apple TV, Roku, etc.) do not connect to the wireless network. You can request a wired connection for these devices.
What are the minimum requirements for a computer?
Our courses are designed for use on one of the following well-known operating systems:
- Windows 10
- Mac OS X 10.5 or higher
Laptops:
- Processor – Intel Core m5 or i5
- RAM – 16 GB
- Hard Drive – 256 GB+ SSD
- Video Card – Integrated
- Display Resolution – 1920 × 1080
Additional recommendations:
- Camera
- Microphone
Desktop:
- Processor – Intel Core i5
- RAM – 16 GB
- Hard Drive – 256 GB+
- Video RAM – Integrated
Tablets:
- Capacity – 32 GB+ Flash Storage
- Resolution – 1200 × 800
Note: Tablets and Chromebooks are not recommended as primary devices.
Can I connect to the wireless network when I visit my student?
You can access the visitors’ wireless network by connecting your wireless device to “psu-guest”. Open your device browser and attempt to connect to the website you wish to visit. Click the “Get Connected” button to agree to the terms of service.
Technology resources for students
- Penn State Information Technology
- Information Technology for students
- Technology Resources (Includes links to user account information, free software downloads, access to storage, campus-specific resources and learning resources)
- Student Technology Guide
Transportation & Lodging FAQ
Can my child live on campus, and if so, can he/she bring a car?
Approximately half of Penn State Hazleton students live on-campus in residence halls, while the other half is a mix of off-campus and commuting students.
Designated parking areas for on-campus and off-campus registered student vehicles are free and plentiful.
How can my student get around without a car?
There is a shuttle service that runs regularly throughout the day to bring students from the residential area at the bottom of the campus to the academic area at the top of the campus. This service is free to Penn State students.
There is also a free bus service provided to students to navigate around the local area. The stops include Walmart and the Laurel Mall, among other Hazleton stops. The route and complete schedule can be found online.
Where can I stay when I visit the area?
There are a number of accommodations near Penn State Hazleton..