BearPAWS is getting a new look and improved experience.
- BearPAWS is not going away—it’s being upgraded
- The new version uses a card-based dashboard
- Cards give you quick, easy access to what you need
- The goal is a simpler, more modern student experience
Check out the FAQs below to learn more.
General
BearPAWS is getting a new look and improved experience. While the name stays the same, the system is moving to a more modern platform that makes it easier to find what you need.
Wait—wasn’t it already called BearPAWS?
Yes! The system is still called BearPAWS, but you will notice:
- A new dashboard-style layout
- Easier navigation
- Personalized content and shortcuts
Think of it as the same BearPAWS you know, just upgraded.
The new BearPAWS is designed to:
- Be more user-friendly
- Help you find information faster
- Work better on mobile devices
- Bring everything into one central dashboard
Understanding "Cards"
Cards are tiles on your dashboard that give you quick access to information and actions. Instead of clicking through menus, you’ll use cards to get where you need to go.
Examples of student cards
You may see cards such as:
- Registration Tools – Register, add, drop, browse for courses
- Financial Aid – View aid status and requirements
- Student Account / Billing – Check balances and payments
Yes! You can:
- Add new cards
- Remove cards you don’t use
- Rearrange them to fit your preferences
Using the New BearPAWS
You will still log in the same way, by navigating to bearpaws.potsdam.edu and using your CCA.
Some things will look new, but the functions are mostly the same—just easier to find and use.
- You'll use the dashboard and cards instead of menus
- Tasks like registration or checking grades should be quicker
- You’ll have a more personalized experience
Not completely. It’s still BearPAWS—just with:
- A new layout
- More intuitive navigation
Most students pick it up very quickly.
No. The following information will all remain the same:
- Academic records
- Financial information
- Access permissions
Toubleshooting & Support
If you can't find something, try the following:
- Use the search feature in BearPAWS
- Look for a card related to what you need
- Check if the link opens in a new tab (older view)
- Use the ”View All Cards” option
- If you still can’t find it, it may not apply to you or may not be available yet
Email bearpaws@potsdam.edu for assistance.