The approaches of foreign and domestic authors to the concept of adaptation in the psychological and pedagogical context are considered and analyzed. The concept of adaptation in different aspects is considered. The article considers the adaptation of cadets to educational and professional activities, taking into  account the specifics of educational institutions of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia. The adaptation process is greatly influenced by such conditions as social maturity, psychological readiness to learn, and a sense of comfort in a new team.