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Academic Advising and Course Selection for Incoming Students

Brief Overview & Key Dates for New Student Advising 

Students begin their Dickinson educations with different priorities and plans. Some students arrive with clear ideas about what they want to study and are already considering “declaring a major” in a particular field. This is just fine. Other students arrive knowing that they want to take some time to explore their academic interests as widely as possible. This is just fine, too. Still, others find themselves somewhere in between, curious about a handful of possibilities. You guessed it: also just fine! 

New Student Advising

  • By appointment, mid-December

**Please watch your Dickinson email for additional information about New Student Advising and request the appointment time that fits your schedule best

You'll find clear guidance here, no matter what group you fall into. After preparing, you’ll consult directly with a Dickinson advising staff member about your questions, options, and decisions during your “new student advising session.”  These sessions will take place in mid-December.  Making thoughtful decisions about your courses and programs is an important first step in making the best fit for yourself here on campus.

Start Here: Know the Goals of New Student Advising

Key Dates and Milestones

Before December 10

Request your First-Year Seminar

Before December 10

Complete online Placement Tests
Do I need to take placement tests?

Before December 10

Develop a possible course schedule and questions for your new student advisor

Mid-December

Speak with an advising staff member during your "New Student Advising session" to get guidance and to receive the "Alternate PIN" code you will need to submit your courses

Mid-December

Submit your course requests using the online Banner system (Course Request is not first-come, first-served however it is recommended to submit your requests earlier in the week in case any issues arise)

Until January 19

Make changes during Schedule Adjustment, if necessary

First week of classes

Make changes during Add/Drop, if necessary

Additional Information

If you have questions about any of this information or are unable to receive your advising call at the assigned time, someone is available to help by contacting:

New Student Advising Office
Phone: 717-245-1997
newstudentadvising@dickinson.edu

Registrar's Office
Phone: 717-245-1315
reg@dickinson.edu