The Harvard International Office (HIO) is part of Central Administration of Harvard University and offers services to foreign students and scholars at Harvard College and the ten graduate or professional schools, as well as the numerous research centers and affiliated teaching hospitals. It provides information on a wide range of topics, including visas (work permits, travel), financial questions, social and cultural differences, and personal concerns.

The HIO designs programs to help foreign students, scholars, and their families adjust to life in the United States and to minimize the difficulties they may experience both upon arrival and later during their stay. Students are given the opportunity to participate in Harvard's friendship and hospitality program, which connects them with Americans living in the Boston area. A large number of graduate students and scholars at Harvard are accompanied by family members. The HIO sponsors English classes and discussion groups for spouses, as well as advice on schools for children.

Since its inception, the HIO has acted as a liaison between foreign students and scholars and the U.S. government agencies that have jurisdiction over their stay here. Through the years, the HIO has played an increasingly important role in advocacy with government agencies and legislators on issues concerning foreign students and scholars.