International Student Checklist
Download our comprehensive checklist covering everything from documents and paperwork to housing, money, transportation, and social life in Boston. This detailed guide will help you prepare for your arrival and first months as an international student.
📄 Download Complete Checklist (PDF)Quick Links to Essential Topics
Housing in Greater Boston
Find affordable student housing in Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, and nearby areas. Avoid rental scams and discover the best neighborhoods.
Cost of Living
Monthly cost breakdown, cheap stores, and student discounts throughout the Boston metropolitan area
Visa & Immigration
F-1 visa application, status maintenance, and work regulations for international students
Money & Banking
Open bank accounts, transfer money internationally, and budgeting tips for students
Transportation
MBTA system, commuter rail to suburbs, student discounts, and safe commuting tips
Phone & Internet
Cheap SIM cards, best student plans, and reliable internet options for the Boston area
Health & Insurance
Student health insurance, finding doctors, and emergency contacts in Greater Boston
Scholarships & Jobs
International scholarships, F-1 work options, and resume writing for the US market
Life in Boston
Must-see places, weather preparation, local culture, and exploring the New England region
Winter Survival Guide
Preparing for Boston's harsh winters: clothing, heating, transportation, and mental health tips
Academic Success
Study tips, academic resources, GPA systems, and succeeding in American classroom culture
Emergency & Safety
Emergency contacts, safety tips, campus security, and what to do in various emergency situations
Featured Guides
The Ultimate Guide to Boston's Student Neighborhoods
Complete breakdown of the best areas to live as a student, including Cambridge, Somerville, Allston, and beyond.
Surviving Boston on a Student Budget: $1,200/Month Plan
Detailed monthly budget plan showing exactly how to live comfortably in Boston on a tight student budget.
How to Get Your US Phone Number in One Day
Step-by-step guide to getting a US phone number immediately upon arrival, with carrier comparisons.
Top 10 Culture Shocks for International Students in Boston
Prepare for the biggest cultural differences and social norms you'll encounter as an international student.
Opening a Bank Account in Boston: Step-by-Step Guide for International Students
Complete guide to opening your first US bank account, required documents, and avoiding hidden fees.
Working in Boston as an International Student: Rules, Tips, and Best Jobs
Everything about F-1 visa work rules, on-campus jobs, CPT/OPT, and maximizing your earning potential.
Universities & Colleges in Greater Boston
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
World-renowned Ivy League institution with intense academics and global networking opportunities. Less party-focused, more scholarly atmosphere with stunning historic campus.
Visit Harvard.eduMIT
Cambridge, MA
Cutting-edge technology and engineering school with extremely rigorous academics. Geeky, innovative atmosphere with strong entrepreneurial culture.
Visit MIT.eduBoston University
Boston, MA
Large urban campus with huge international student community. Great balance of academics and social life with active city experience.
Visit BU.eduNortheastern University
Boston, MA
Famous for co-op work-study programs. Career-oriented students with urban campus integrated into Boston streets. Strong job placement rates.
Visit Northeastern.eduBoston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
Beautiful suburban campus with strong sports culture, especially football. Traditional American college experience with Jesuit Catholic background.
Visit BC.eduTufts University
Medford/Somerville, MA
Liberal arts with strong international programs. Quirky, intellectual vibe with politically active and diverse student body.
Visit Tufts.eduBrandeis University
Waltham, MA
Medium-sized research university strong in humanities and social sciences. Progressive, intellectual vibe with diverse international community.
Visit Brandeis.eduBentley University
Waltham, MA
Business-focused private school with career-oriented, practical mindset. Smaller campus with strong connections to Boston business community.
Visit Bentley.eduWellesley College
Wellesley, MA
Top women's liberal arts college with highly academic environment. Beautiful campus with close community feel and strong alumnae network.
Visit Wellesley.eduEmerson College
Boston, MA
Specialized college for communication, journalism, and performing arts. Creative, urban campus in the heart of Boston's theater district.
Visit Emerson.eduSuffolk University
Boston, MA
Downtown urban campus known for business, law, and government programs. Diverse student body with strong professional connections in Boston.
Visit Suffolk.eduBabson College
Wellesley, MA
Top-ranked business school specializing in entrepreneurship and innovation. Small campus with hands-on business education and startup culture.
Visit Babson.eduBerklee College of Music
Boston, MA
World-renowned music college in the heart of Boston. Contemporary music focus with diverse international student body and active performance scene.
Visit Berklee.eduUMass Boston
Boston, MA
Public research university on the harbor with affordable tuition. Very diverse student body with strong programs in health sciences and public policy.
Visit UMass.eduLesley University
Cambridge, MA
Private university known for education, counseling, and creative arts programs. Small classes and progressive approach to learning in historic Cambridge.
Visit Lesley.eduSimmons University
Boston, MA
University with strong focus on women's education and health sciences. Professional programs with excellent job placement rates in healthcare and business.
Visit Simmons.edu