After You've Applied

Admission is granted jointly by the Graduate School and the academic program at Penn State Great Valley. The Admissions Committee reviews applications and makes decisions based on the quality of an applicant's credentials relative to other applicants.

If there are questions regarding an application, either office may contact the student. Each program has its own procedures for evaluating applications. After final review by the Graduate School, applicants will receive formal notification of admission.

Any questions regarding the requirements, process, or status of an application can be directed to the Admissions Office at [email protected] or 610-648-3242.

After You've Been Accepted

Congratulations! Once you have received an offer of admission, your next step is to accept the offer online, which tells the University that you intend to enroll. Your formal letter of admission will include the necessary steps to accept the offer.

Schedule Your Classes

Penn State operates on a semester system. Within the semester system, there are six academic sessions per year: two in the fall semester, two in the spring semesters, and two in the summer. Each session runs for seven weeks. Classes are offered on weeknights from 6-9 p.m. Most seven-week courses are a mix of in-person instruction, offered once a week in the evening, and additional asynchronous online work. Some classes are delivered entirely online or via synchronous video conference classes.

Students should determine which courses to take by reviewing the program requirements, course sequences, and any prerequisites that must be taken first. Per University policy, students are not allowed to take more than 15 credits per semester; some programs may only allow 12 credits. Students should consult with their academic adviser for further guidance. We encourage students to register as early as possible for courses and sign up for both Sessions I and II courses prior to the beginning of the semester. Students can register for classes through LionPATH, in person at the Penn State Great Valley campus, or by telephone at 610-648-3275.

Registration will be complete when all tuition and fees have been paid or when payment has been arranged with our Finance Office.

Attend New Student Orientation

New students participate in a comprehensive orientation program prior to the start of classes of both the fall and spring semesters. The program is designed to help each student adjust to graduate school, meet faculty and other students, and receive a comprehensive overview of his or her program and the many support services available. A separate orientation is held for international students.