Academic Advising for Freshmen
The first year of college presents many challenges and opportunities for students to develop new skills and interests. The advice and information compiled on this page complements the wealth of guidance you will receive first hand from your professors, instructors, faculty adviser, peer adviser, and residential college dean or director of studies. You are encouraged to take the initiative in sharing with your academic advisers your interests, challenges, and concerns. When you contact the offices and programs found on these pages you will undoubtedly find people eager to listen and ready to support you in your studies.
All students are encouraged to refer to the Freshman Academic Guide. This publication includes advice and information on many of the topics crucial to your studies at Princeton, including course selection, academic regulations, and strategies for academic success. Students enrolled, or considering enrollment, in the School of Engineering and Applied Science should refer to the Freshman Year in Engineering page for answers to many commonly asked questions. The Office of Career Services and the Study Abroad Program also provide valuable information and advice that can bring a broader perspective to your work in the classroom.
The Office of the Registrar provides course information and the Undergraduate Student Government compiles a student course guide to assist you in your selection of courses. Once the term begins, be certain to note important dates and deadlines for all of your courses. Most written work, including all term papers, lab reports, and problem sets, is due at the end of reading period; this date is referred to as the “dean’s date.” For a schedule of deadlines and final examinations for each semester refer to the Registrar's publication on academic calendars.