We’ve organized the following information to help you prepare for your arrival at Boston College. Please feel free to contact our Admissions Office at any time over the coming months with any questions.

Your First Steps...
Please return the Acknowledgement Form enclosed with your acceptance letter to Associate Dean Robert Howe, Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, McGuinn Hall 221, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467.

For Ph.D. Acceptances and Master’s Acceptances with funding, we ask you to reply by April 15, 2008.

For Master’s Acceptances without funding and Non-degree Acceptances, we ask you to reply by May 31, 2008.

You should also contact your department to receive any department specific information.

Over the Coming Months...
Get informed about services around campus.  We have provided links for you to the following offices.

Student Services
After your return your Acknowledgment Form, you should receive a letter containing your BC Username and Eagle ID number.  With this information you can access email and Agora.  In Agora, BC's online community, you can update your student information, check your student account, and register for classes.

The Office of Student Services issues your BC Eagle One Card.  This ID card acts as your campus library card and meal card.

Student Services' website offers a complete listing of courses for the semester, as well as student forms and other important student information.  The Office of Student Services also handles billing and federal financial aid (loans).

Graduate Student Life
Get involved in the Graduate Student Association!  The GSA offers resources and events for graduate students throughout the year. 

Check out the latest Graduate Student Life Newsletter.

Discover what the city of Boston has to offer students.

Individual departments in GSAS may provide orientations for their new students.  Check with your department for details. 

Housing
The Off-Campus Housing Office maintains an extensive database with available rental listings, roommates, and helpful local realtors. Off-Campus Housing Fairs are also held during the year. 

Visit BC Graduate Student Housing to view information on housing options through the University.

For more information on Boston, visit BOSTON.COM.

Health Services
Once you return your Acknowledgment Form, GSAS will send you information from Health Services specifically for graduate students.

Departmental Financial Aid
If you received a departmental financial award with your acceptance, you should receive a letter from the Associate Dean by mid-summer detailing your stipend. 

CLICK HERE for the stipend payment schedule.

Human Resources

For students with assistantships and fellowships requiring service, HR must have hire paperwork on file.

CLICK HERE for the policy regarding submitting your new hire paperwork.

Federal Financial Aid
Government sponsored financial aid is available to U.S. students through the Office of Student Services.
 
On-Campus Funding Options
There are many options for students interested in on-campus funding opportunities.  Many positions provide a stipend and tuition remission.  If you are interested in any of these positions, we recommend that you apply early!

International Students

Admitted international students must fill out the Confidential Declaration and Certification of Finances Form in order to receive an I-20 from Boston College.  If you are currently in the United States on another Visa, you should also fill out the Transfer of Visa Status Form. 

If we can be of any additional help to you, do not hesitate to contact us.  Congratulations again!  We look forward to you joining the University community!