Welcome to Boston
Moving across the world for college is brave. Here's everything you need to know - from visas to surviving your first Boston winter.
Before You Arrive
Your pre-departure checklist
The Culture Shock Is Real
What to expect (and how to handle it)
Americans Are Very... Direct
Small talk is constant. "How are you?" isn't a real question. People will tell you their opinions immediately.
Don't take directness as rudeness. Americans appreciate honesty too.
Everything Is Expensive
Food, transit, phone plans - costs add up fast. Tipping is expected (15-20%).
Budget carefully. Use student discounts everywhere. Cook some meals.
Making Friends Takes Time
Americans are friendly but forming deep friendships takes longer than you expect.
Join clubs, find your cultural community, but also push yourself to meet Americans.
Classes Work Differently
Participation matters. Professors want you to speak up. Office hours are for everyone.
Force yourself to participate early. It gets easier.
Boston Winter Is Real
It's cold from November to March. Snow, ice, and wind are constant.
Invest in a real winter coat, waterproof boots, and layers. No shortcuts.
Visa & Immigration Essentials
Don't mess this up - seriously
Keep your I-20 updated
Any major changes (major, address, program dates) must be reported to ISSO
Maintain full-time status
Usually 12 credits for undergrad, 9 for grad. Dropping below requires approval.
Work authorization is strict
Never work off-campus without proper authorization. It can end your visa.
Travel requires signatures
Get your I-20 signed by ISSO before leaving the US.
Grace period is 60 days
After program completion, you have 60 days to leave or change status.
When in doubt, ask ISSO first. Immigration mistakes can have serious consequences.
Your Essential Resources
International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO)
Your home base for visa issues, work authorization, and immigration questions.
Global Programs
Cultural events, conversation partners, and community building.
Educational Resource Center
Writing help, tutoring, and academic support.
Money & Work
Navigate US finances as an international student
Open a bank account ASAP
Bank of America has a BU partnership. Bring passport and I-20.
Get a credit card (carefully)
Discover and some others offer cards for students with no US credit history.
Understand work restrictions
F-1 allows 20 hrs/week on-campus during school, full-time during breaks.
Apply for CPT/OPT early
Work authorization takes time. Start the process early through ISSO.
Use student discounts
Amazon Prime Student, Spotify, Apple Music, museums - always ask.
Finding Your Community
Cultural Organizations
BU has 50+ cultural student organizations. Find students from your country or region - they know what you're going through.
Look for your country's student association at Splash!
Conversation Partners
Global Programs matches you with American students for language and cultural exchange. Great way to make friends outside your bubble.
Sign up through Global Programs
International Coffee Hours
Weekly casual gatherings to meet other international students. Low pressure, free coffee, and people who get it.
Fridays at the GSU
Push Outside Your Comfort Zone
Your cultural community is important, but also join clubs with Americans. It's harder but worth it for the full experience.
Try one "uncomfortable" club
You Belong Here
Over 10,000 international students call BU home. You're joining an incredible global community.