About HIO

Welcome from the Director

On behalf of the entire staff of the Harvard International Office (HIO), I would like to welcome you to our international community. Harvard University has never been more diverse than at the present time with a population of more than 7,000 international students and scholars, many accompanied by their families. We hope that your interactions with each other, as well as with the Americans here, will be stimulating, enjoyable and productive. You will find that the Cambridge/Boston area offers the cultural and educational opportunities of a large city, while still being very accessible. We encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities Harvard offers and to explore the surrounding New England region.

The mission of the HIO is to enhance and support the international dimensions of Harvard University and participate in the creation of a culturally diverse learning environment by assisting persons involved in international educational exchange. We provide services that help international students, scholars and their families achieve their educational, professional, and personal objectives while at Harvard.

Our advisors have had many years of experience in advising students and scholars on immigration matters, social and cultural issues, and personal concerns. Each international student and scholar at Harvard is assigned a particular advisor in the HIO who is knowledgeable about the school and its programs of study and research. We look forward to being a helpful part of your Harvard experience.

Sharon Ladd
Director
Harvard International Office