Guides for New Scholars

Welcome new international scholars! As you prepare to come to Harvard we hope that the following information will help you ease your transition to Harvard and the Cambridge/Boston area. Please take some time to review the information offered on this web site since it provides critical information and helpful guidance on what your next step is in getting ready to come to Harvard.

Preparing for Arrival

• Choose Your Visa
• Pay SEVIS Fee
• Obtain a Visa
• When to Arrive and What to Bring

Upon Arrival

• HIO Registration
• HIO Orientation
• Harvard ID
• Harvard Resources
• Health Insurance
• Housing
• Living in the Community
• Adjusting to a New Culture
• Tax and Social Security Numbers

Pre-Arrival Checklist

As you prepare to leave home please be sure to have the following items with you when traveling to the United States.

• Valid passport
• Visa document (Form I-20 or DS-2019)
• Valid visa in passport (not applicable to Canadian citizens)
• Appointment offer letter
• Medical record including immunization records
• Money for initial expenses