Transitioning to college is a big adjustment, and students who build strong academic habits and social connections early are more likely to thrive. The Learning Edge Academic Program (LEAP) is provides this opportunity to incoming first-year students admitted to the University Park campus. The program, which runs during Summer Session II, combines small, cohort-based courses with out-of-class support to help new students navigate the transition to college.
Each student enrolls in one LEAP pride. Each LEAP pride consists of two courses that fulfill degree requirements and is capped at 24 students. LEAP prides are housed within the residence halls based on the academic discipline of the pride to create learning communities. Peer Success Coaches familiar with that academic discipline provide support within the building community.
How does LEAP support student success?
Small, linked classes help students build connections with faculty and peers while fostering a collaborative environment where they can form study groups, support one another, and strengthen their academic skills together.
LEAP’s learning community housing brings students together with peers from similar academic disciplines, creating opportunities to build connections, share experiences, and extend learning beyond the classroom.
Monday Meetups for Success offer LEAP students a chance to connect with a trained Peer Success Coach (PSC) in their residence hall each week. These sessions provide practical strategies and personalized guidance to help students stay organized, manage their time, and navigate college life with confidence.
Each Monday Meetup covers key topics such as:
- Understanding academic expectations and getting organized
- Managing time effectively and balancing commitments
- Using campus resources and advocating for support
- Getting involved and building a sense of belonging
- Preparing for the fall semester and setting long-term goals
While participation is optional, students who engage in these sessions build strong academic habits, feel more connected, and gain confidence in their college journey. The skills and strategies students develop in Monday Meetups for Success will help them start strong in the fall and beyond. Peer Success Coaches will remain available as a resource throughout the academic year, ensuring students continue to receive support as they transition into their first full semester at Penn State.
Who are the LEAP Peer Success Coaches?
LEAP Peer Success Coaches (PSCs) are trained upper-level Penn State students who live in the residence halls and are dedicated to helping first-year students navigate the transition to college. Selected for their leadership skills and commitment to student success, PSCs receive specialized training from the Chaiken Center for Student Success in areas like time management, study strategies, and campus resource navigation. PSCs offer personalized support and practical guidance, helping new students build confidence, connect with peers, and thrive in their Penn State experience. PSCs remain available beyond the summer, providing ongoing support throughout the academic year.
How do LEAP courses count for degree requirements?
Most LEAP courses help students fulfill General Education requirements. Approximately one-third of the credits students take toward their degree requirements will be from general education. For more information about the General Education curriculum visit the Office for General Education.
What is the cost of LEAP?
There is no additional cost for LEAP. Enrolled students pay the same tuition, fees, and room and board costs as any other summer student who is enrolled in six credits and living on campus. Summer tuition, room, and board rates are finalized in April. The cost for tuition, room, and board for summer session II is approximately $8,500 for Pennsylvania residents and approximately $13,500 for out-of state students. View the tuition schedule and room and board rates for more detailed information.
How do I access financial aid for the summer session?
Student aid is available in the summer for eligible students. Summer session is considered the end of the current aid year, so to be considered for student aid for summer 2025, students should fill out the 2024-2025 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Questions about student aid should be directed to Penn State Student Aid.
