The Learning Edge Academic Program (LEAP) is for 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 transition support to help new students navigate the transition to college.
Each student enrolls in one LEAP pride. Each LEAP pride is comprised to two courses that fulfill degree requirements and is capped at 24 students. LEAP prides are housed in buildings based on the academic discipline of the pride and peer success coaches familiar with that academic discipline provide support within the building community.
Benefits of LEAP
- Small, linked classes that help you get to know faculty members
- Peer Success Coaches to provide academic and transition support
- LEAP housing
- Out-of-class programming
LEAP Terms:
LEAP Pride
The two courses you enroll in are linked together to form a LEAP pride. Each student selects one LEAP pride and is enrolled in the two courses that make up that pride. Each pride will have no more than 24 students. LEAP students earn 6- or 7-credits toward their degree.
LEAP Peer Success Coach
A LEAP Peer Success Coach is a current Penn State student who serves as resource and support for LEAP students. The Peer Success Coaches maintain daily drop-in hours within the Residence Hall buildings throughout the summer. They are available to help students with the transition to college including study skills, time-management, connecting with campus and community resources, and navigating independence.
General Education
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.
LEAP Cost
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.
Summer Student Aid
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.
