Welcome to the BU Exchange Program! This Pre-departure Page is your one-stop-shop for all program related information prior to your arrival in Boston.
prepare for your semester/year at BU.
Check this page regularly!
Information will be updated throughout the semester. To stay on track, use the self-check at the end of each phase. The “Life in Boston” section contains a wealth of information about the place you’ll be calling home for the next semester or year. Be sure to read through that section to learn about everything from cultural customs, to academic differences, to daily life.
PLEASE NOTE: The information on this page applies to exchange students that have been accepted to the exchange program administered by Boston University Study Abroad only. If you are a student participating in other exchange programs, such as those administered by the Boston University School of Law or MET International, you should contact your host school directly for more information.
[— Phase 1: First Things First (Admission – November 15)—]
Create BU Student Account: Due Within 2 Weeks of Admission
BU ID Number
Your BU ID will be sent to you, automatically, as soon as it is available; you do not have to email us to request it. If it is not included in your acceptance letter, it will be sent to you by separate e-mail after you are admitted to the program. It takes time for us to process and create BU IDs for each student, so please allow us time to prepare them.
When you receive your BU ID number it is important to save it in a safe place as you will need it to identify yourself throughout your time at BU.
Create BU Student Account
After you receive your BU ID, you will receive a separate email inviting you to create your BU Student Account. Please make sure you set up your BU student as soon as you receive the email instructions. You can not register for courses until you have your account set up. To set up your account, you will create a BU Kerberos username and password, which will be used to log-in to the BU Student Link and to check your BU email.
Send us your new BU Email Address
To confirm that you’ve created your account please email your Program Manager, Sage Suorsa, from your new BU Email Address. From this point on we will only be contacting you via your BU email address so make sure you check it regularly.
Review Academic Information for Exchange Students: Due NOV 14
Please review the following academic information carefully in order to prepare for your upcoming course registration.
You are not required to submit anything by November 14th. This is just to encourage you to review the important information before registration for Exchange Students opens on November 15th. Do not panic if your BUID has not been assigned and you do not yet have a login. Information will be coming shortly, but also keep an eye on your junk folder just to be sure any e-mails weren’t accidentally filtered out of your Inbox.
Your Academic Status at BU
As an international exchange student at BU, you will be registered as a full-time non-degree student. Your status as a non-degree student means that you are not assigned to one particular BU school or college. You can select your courses from most of the schools and colleges at Boston University and are not required to take all of your classes within the same school; for example, you might register for 2 classes in the College of Arts & Sciences, 1 class in the College of Communication, and 1 class in the Questrom School of Business. When reviewing courses, the classes you select should take place on the Charles River Campus.
Classes and Credits
Most classes at BU are worth 4 credits each. Your home university will be able to explain to you how these 4 BU credits convert to your home university’s credit system. As an exchange student, you must maintain full-time status at BU, which means that you must register for at least 12 credits per semester. You cannot register for more than 18 credits. For most students, this means that you will take 3 or 4 academic classes per semester with room to take an optional PDP class or two (see below).
Class Levels: 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500
At BU, classes are numbered from 100-level (introductory) to 400-level (advanced) for undergraduates. Classes at the 500-level are usually intended for Master’s (graduate) students. You are eligible to take all undergraduate classes for which you are qualified, with the exception of those listed under “Course Restrictions” below. In most cases, if you meet the pre-requisites, you are also eligible to take 500-level classes in most departments, with some exceptions
(again, see “Course Restrictions” below).
Pre-requisites
A pre-requisite is a course you must have already taken in your university career that will have given you the appropriate academic experience in order to succeed in the class. Carefully review all pre-requisites listed for each course, and make sure you have already taken equivalent courses at your university. Even if the course titles are not an exact match, the topics covered should be fairly similar. If pre-requisites are listed, you may have to provide evidence (usually your transcript) to show that you meet these requirements. Students generally are not allowed to take any course for which they do not meet the pre-requisites. Make sure you do not choose any courses listed under Course Restrictions below.
Assessment and Grading
The Office of the University Registrar provides a detailed explanation of BU’s grading system. BU classes involve graded homework, essays, and exams throughout the semester and a large assessment or exam at the end of the semester. Final grades typically represent a weighted average of these components. Many professors also consider class participation when assigning grades. The breakdown of how your final grade will be determined will be explained on the syllabi for each course. All of your classes and grades from BU will be reported to your home university.
Transcripts
After grades have been posted, at the completion of a semester at BU, students can order an official transcript from the Office of the University Registrar for a small fee ($8 in 2022). You can always view your unofficial transcript through the Student Link.
Auditing Classes
You are eligible to audit classes, but can only do so with the permission of the instructor for each course. You should contact the faculty member in advance, or attend class on the first day, to ask permission to audit. You will not earn any credits or grades for classes that you audit at BU. You can read about auditing here.
Textbooks
BU classes typically require that you have a specific textbook. In most cases, you will be able to purchase your textbook before the semester starts. However, for some classes, the textbook may not be announced until the first day of classes. Once you have finalized your class schedule, you can find out which textbooks you’ll need through the Student Link or by visiting the BU Bookstore website.
Course descriptions
Descriptions of BU courses can be found online. Make sure you select the correct semester for your search. Not all courses are offered in every semester. You can use the course descriptions in order to get courses approved at your home university.
Course Schedule
After you create your BU student account, you will be able to access the University course schedule through the Student Link.
Course Components
Some BU classes are made up of multiple components, including a lecture, discussion, and/or lab component. Pay attention to this to make sure you register for all components of each class. If a class is labeled ‘Independent,’ that means that it only has the one stand-alone class component and you don’t have to worry about looking for labs, lectures, or discussion groups to go with it. Commonly used abbreviations and codes can be found here to help you better understand registration.
Course Restrictions for Exchange Students
The following Schools/Colleges at BU are not open to exchange students:
- School of Medicine (GMS)
- School of Dental Medicine
- School of Law
- Kilachand Honors College
- Online courses
Exchange students are not eligible to take the following courses:
- Questrom OM 323
- Questrom School of Business (business classes at 500-level or higher)
- Graduate level Psychology Courses (500-level or higher)
- Directed Study (Thesis or Masters research) in Psychology
The following courses have very limited availability and may not be open to exchange students:
- Graduate-level classes in some programs, including communications
- Fine Arts courses
- 500-level Economics courses (only available for registration after arriving at BU)
- MET Courses:
- The Boston University Metropolitan College is a program separate from the main Boston University, it provides continuing education programs, mainly for part-time students. Exchange students are able to register for Metropolitan College (MET) courses with a limit of one or two per semester. The majority of your courses must be on Boston University’s main Charles River Campus at regular BU colleges (such as QST, CAS, COM, ENG).
**Please take these restrictions into account when planning your course schedule.
Physical Education and Dance Classes
You are welcome to register for any of BU’s physical education and dance classes (called PDP classes). You can register for these through the Student Link.
**Please remember that we cannot guarantee enrollment into any particular course, so you should be flexible when planning your course schedule.
Register for Courses: Open NOV 15
Course Registration
Exchange students may register for Spring 2023 courses beginning Tuesday, November 15th at 9:00 am, EST. At Boston University, most course registration is done online through your Student Link account, however, some departments or classes require the submission of a separate registration form. Please remember that we cannot guarantee enrollment into any particular course, so you should be flexible when planning your course schedule. Register early, and continue to check back for available space if you cannot get a course you want on the first day.
To register for courses for the Spring 2023 semester please follow these steps:
Step 1: Once you’ve reviewed the “Academic Information for Exchange Students” section above carefully, open up the BU Student Link.
Step 2: Click the “Academics” tab, then click the “Registration” tab.
Step 3: After you click the registration tab, you will be asked to login. You must use your BU Kerberos username and password.
Step 4: Once you are successfully logged in, you will see “Fall 2022” under the semesters for the academic school year. Click the link that says “Reg Options.”
Step 5: If you are looking to plan the classes you want to take before you register, click the option that says “Plan.” Here you will have the opportunity to add classes to your planner, but not formally register for them. It is recommended that you plan your schedule before registration, in the case that you don’t get your first pick at a class. To add classes to your planner, click “add additional classes to your planner.”
Step 6: When planning your schedule, you will be able to search for the classes you are interested in, but you will also be able to view all the classes that are offered through a college. To search for all classes offered in a college, enter the name of the college. If you know the specific class you are looking to take, you can enter the specific course number.
Step 7: Once you find a class that you want to take, mark the box on the left column next to the course. At the bottom of the page, click “add to planner.” Repeat this for all course you are interested in. Make sure that you check your planner to make sure you have all necessary classes and also check to make sure you don’t have time conflicts.
Step 8: When it is time to register, you will now be able to add the classes to your schedule. Click the link that says “Register for Class,” next to your given registration time.
Step 9: Because you already have your classes in your planner, you will be able to “search by: planner” which is at the top of the page. Click “Go.”
Step 10: Once you are viewing your planner, mark the classes that you are sure you want to take. Do not mark QST courses – these must be submitted using the .pdf course registration form linked below. When you have all of the rest, click “Add to Class Schedule.” You are now registered for classes! If one of your classes in your planner is no longer available, you can search for an alternative class and add it right to your schedule. If you choose not to plan your schedule ahead of time, you will be able to search for your classes and add them right to your schedule as you find them.
To drop a class, return to the page that offers you planning and registration. Under Register for Class there will be an option to “Drop Class.” Mark the class or classes you no longer want and click “Drop Marked Class” at the bottom of the page.
Please note some BU classes do not offer online registration to exchange students. These include:
- All Questrom Business courses
- 500-level Economics courses
- Any class labeled “permission required”
- Directed Study courses
- Additional COM courses after you’ve already registered for one COM course online
For most of these courses, you must register using the .pdf course registration form. Fill out that form for each class not available for online registration and send it via email to your Program Manager, Sage Suorsa. Please make sure you review the pre-requisites for each course carefully before you list it in your registration form, and explain which courses meet the requirements for which BU courses you wish to register for, in the body of your e-mail. If you are currently taking the pre-requisite course and it did not appear on the transcript you submitted with your application, you should also attach a transcript showing all courses you have taken and are currently enrolled in. Do not list courses that you successfully registered for online using the planner, as described above.
For closed courses, you can e-mail the instructor directly, to request acceptance into the class. Refer to the Course registration e-mail you receive from Sage Suorsa for what to include in your e-mail.
For courses marked “by consent of instructor”, you can e-mail the instructor directly, to introduce yourself and explain why you feel you have the experience required to take the course. Refer to the Course registration e-mail you received from Sage Suorsa for what to include in your e-mail.
Special note: It normally takes several weeks for you to hear back regarding whether you were successfully enrolled in courses submitted via the paper course registration form. If a course is not listed above as requiring the paper course registration form, and you are able to register for it online through the Student Link (process described above), then please do that to avoid the delay in the manual process.
Get to know BU
Before coming to BU, you should learn more about the city of Boston and what to expect as a student here. Go to the City of Boston section of the BU Admissions webpage to get started. You can also take a virtual tour of BU.
Phase 1: Self Check
Have you completed everything in Phase 1?
Here is a self-check to make sure you’re on the right track. Make sure you’re keeping track of any upcoming deadlines and budgeting enough time to complete them on-time. If you missed a deadline, be sure to check in with your Program Manager and complete that task right away.
You should have completed:
- Created BU Student Account – Within 2 Weeks of Admission
- Prepared for Course Registration – NOV 14
- Register for Courses – NOV 15 through start of semester
- Get to know BU
[— Phase 2: Core Preparations (November 15 – December 31)—]
Apply for US Visa - ASAP
Admissions Packet
A packet containing your official admission letter and immigration documents will be sent to your home university by mid-June for fall students and mid-November for spring students. Step-by-step instructions to apply for your J-1 visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate will be included in that packet, it is important that you follow them very carefully. We are aware that Consulates and Embassies are still experiencing delays, so we are processing these and sending them out as quickly as possible. If you will not be able to pick your documents up from your school in December, e-mail Program Manager Sage Suorsa to provide your travel plans. Otherwise, there is no need to e-mail Sage or the ISSO to ask when the documents will arrive. Instead, please check in with your home university’s exchange program representative, as Sage will be in touch with him or her.
Visa Instructions
The visa instructions included in your admissions packet can also be found online. If you have questions about your visa or immigration documents you should contact BU International Students & Scholars office at issogac@bu.edu. In addition, your home university exchange coordinator may be able to advise you on the visa process and timeline. Citizens of all countries, except Canada, are required to be in possession of J-1 visas to enter the U.S. as exchange visitors. Canadian citizens are, however, required to be in possession of DS-2019 forms. You must initiate the visa application process with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate as soon as you receive your packet; you cannot apply for a visa appointment before you receive your DS-2019 form. It is strongly recommended that you review the website of that consular post to learn about their specific visa application procedures, documentary requirements and deadlines.
Students may experience significant delays during this process due to COVID-19-related office closures, reduced office hours and international travel restrictions. Please be ready to make an appointment as soon as your local Embassy or Consulate will allow, in order to have the best chance of receiving your visa in time to attend our program and keep Sage Suorsa, at BU, and the Exchange Programs advisor at your home institution apprised of your situation. BU cannot help students get earlier visa appointments. You may ask your consulate or Embassy if they offer emergency visa appointments for exchange students.
Information for U.S. Citizens
Exchange students who are also U.S. citizens (or who are legal U.S. Residents) do not need a visa to study at BU. Any student who has a U.S. passport must enter the U.S. using that passport when they come to study at BU. They must not obtain a visa and/or enter on a foreign passport.
Apply for BU On-Campus Housing: Due JUN 1 (Fall)/NOV 30 (Spring)
As an exchange student on a program administered by Boston University Study Abroad, you are guaranteed housing within the BU system (students on other exchange programs, such as those administered by the Boston University School of Law or MET International, should contact their host school for information about housing). This usually means living in a dormitory or apartment-style residence on campus, though in times of high demand students may be housed further from campus, in a hotel or other accommodation. You also have the option of living off-campus if you prefer to do so. Please review the housing and dining information below very carefully to make sure you understand your options before deciding where to live in Boston.
On-Campus Housing
Most students live in a room with one roommate and shared bathroom facilities. Students can request another style of accommodation on-campus (single room, apartment, or suite style) but these housing options are in high demand and exchange students should be prepared for the probability that they will be assigned to dormitory-style housing with a roommate.
BU Residences
BU has several on-campus housing facilities. You can review the BU Housing website to learn more about BU’s residences.
Applying for On-Campus Housing
Exchange students will be notified by e-mail once the housing application opens – usually sometime during the first week of November. There is no need to e-mail the Housing Office to ask for access to the Housing Portal. If you hear that other students at your school received an e-mail and you did not, first check your Junk folder and then e-mail Sage Suorsa. Housing applications can be submitted online using the housing portal. Incoming exchange students who wish to live on-campus must submit housing applications by June 1 (Fall/November 30 (Spring). As part of the online housing application, you will submit a non-refundable $600 Housing Guarantee Payment (pay by credit card or American bank account). This Housing Guarantee Payment is a deposit towards the total room & board fees. Detailed instructions are available to assist you with the application and payment.
Please note that signing the license agreement in the housing application represents a binding contract, so once you’ve submitted this through the online system, you will not be able to withdraw from BU Housing unless you inform them, in writing, by the December 31, 2022, deadline. You will be assigned a room and charged room & board fees accordingly. The $600 Housing Guarantee Payment is non-refundable, so make sure you intend to live on-campus before applying.
In the case of program cancellation: The Housing Guarantee Payment (HGP) of $600 will automatically be refunded to all paid students if Boston University announces cancellation of the Inbound Exchange Program. If your school announces cancellation of its Outbound Exchange Program after you have paid your $600 HGP, please e-mail your Program Manager, Sage Suorsa at ssuorsa@bu.edu, to request a refund.
Note for Fall Semester Students
Please be aware that Boston University housing is usually very full, and at times overbooked, during the fall semester. This means that in many years the university is not able to accommodate all fall-semester exchange students in on-campus residences. In this case, exchange students who do not receive a room in an on-campus residence will be assigned to a room at a hotel near the BU campus. The hotel is considered to be “on-campus” housing for that fall semester; accommodations are usually double rooms with en suite bathrooms, like a typical hotel room. Students in the hotel will have an RA and access to laundry facilities. The hotel is a 15-25 minute walk from the center of the BU campus, making it about the same distance away as many of the on-campus residences. If you are coming to BU for the fall semester and plan to apply for on-campus housing, please be aware that it is possible you will be assigned to the hotel for the semester. By the time you learn your housing assignment, it will no longer be possible to withdraw from on-campus housing without having to pay the full semester’s accommodation fees. Please take this possibility into consideration when deciding whether or not you plan to apply for University housing.
Receiving Your Housing Assignment
Housing assignments will be announced in your Student Link account as soon as they are available. This is typically in late August for fall semester students and in early January for spring semester students. It is not possible to learn your housing assignments earlier than this.
**Once you receive your housing assignment, you may register for a move-in date and time through the Housing Portal. (See Phase 3.)
Off-Campus Housing
Students can choose to rent an apartment in the city of Boston alone or with a roommate. If you choose to search for private accommodation for your time in Boston, please be prepared to do so independently. Boston University does not find off-campus housing for students and does not have relationships with specific brokers or agencies to find housing for students. Furthermore, the University is not able to comment on the potential validity or safety of off-campus accommodations in the city. If you want to live off-campus, the following are good resources to assist in your housing search:
Though not part of BU Study Abroad Housing Office, the Office of Housing Resources for BU Medical School often posts helpful information about searching for off-campus accommodations in Boston. A recording of a virtual informational session held prior to a previous semester is available.
If you are planning to live off-campus you must send Sage Suorsa your Boston address no later than August 15 for Fall semester and December 31st for Spring semester.
Register for BU Orientation: Due JAN 10
The Boston University Orientation program for Exchange Students is held on-campus and in-person. Orientation is a multi-day event that takes place each semester before the start of classes. Please make sure you arrive in time to check-in and attend Orientation. If you are unable to attend Orientation, please inform your Program Manager, Sage Suorsa.
Orientation Dates
All new incoming students are expected to attend the full Spring 2023 orientation session. The dates are set for January 17-18, 2023 and will be held in-person. Full-year exchange students who attended fall orientation need not attend the winter session.
Orientation Registration
You must register for BU Orientation in advance; the BU Orientation office will send you the registration form by email on November 14, 2022 for Spring semester orientation sessions or over the summer (likely in July) for Fall orientation sessions. Do not try to register directly on the Orientation Office’s website. Registration will close on January 10, 2023.
Orientation Cost
Exchange students will not be charged for BU Orientation. When you register for Orientation, using the link provided in the e-mail you are sent, you may notice that an Orientation fee is listed. Please disregard that information, Boston University Study Abroad covers the orientation fee for our exchange students. Do not try to register for orientation until you receive instructions from the Orientation Office.
Orientation Schedule
You will receive your very detailed personal schedule when you check in for Orientation at BU.
Submit Flight Information: Due DEC 31
All students are required to report their international travel plans to the Program Manager; please email a copy of your flight itinerary to Sage Suorsa by December 20. If you have not obtained your visa by this date, contact Sage.
Phase 2: Self Check
Have you completed everything in Phases 1 and 2?
Here is a self-check to make sure you’re on the right track. Make sure you’re keeping track of any upcoming deadlines and budgeting enough time to complete them on-time. If you missed a deadline, be sure to check in with you Program Manager and complete that task right away.
You should have completed:
(From Phase 1)
- Created BU Student Account – Within 2 Weeks of Admission
- Prepared for Course Registration – NOV 14
- Registered for Courses – NOV 15 through start of semester
- Get to know BU
(From Phase 2)
- Applied for Visa – ASAP
- Applied for BU On-Campus Housing – JUN 1 (Fall)/NOV 30 (Spring)
- Registered for Orientation – JAN 10
- Planned Arrival & Submitted your travel plans to Sage Suorsa – DEC 31
[— END Phase 2—]
[— Phase 3: Final Considerations (December 31 – Arrival at BU)—]
Submit Required Health Forms: Due DEC 31
Student Health Services
While you are at BU, you will have full access to Boston University Student Health Services. This facility is fully staffed with doctors and nurses who will treat most common complaints. If you require specialized care, they will provide you with a referral.
Health Forms
Prior to the start of classes at BU, you will be required to submit an Immunization & Physical Form to BU Student Health Services. You will complete the forms with the help of your doctor, and then submit them to Student Health Services online using the Patient Portal or in person after you arrive on campus. Any questions about the content of the health forms or medical issues should be directed to Student Health Services, you can contact them by phone at 617-353-3575.
Proof of most recent COVID-19 immunization should be uploaded by August 1, if available. More information can be found here.
Mandatory Health Insurance Information
Mandatory Health Insurance Enrollment
All exchange students are required to have the BU Student Health Insurance. Details of the coverage can be found at Aetna Student Health. You will automatically be enrolled for the BASIC plan before coming to Boston University. You don’t need to do anything to sign up or confirm your enrollment; it will happen automatically and charges will appear on your student account (visible through the Student Link). If you wish, you can choose to upgrade to the PLUS plan, which is optional.
Cost
The cost for the 2021-22 Standard annual plan was $3,054 (August 21, 2021 – August 20, 2022), broken out as follows: Fall $1,163 (August 21 – December 31, 2021); Spring $1,179 (January 1 – May 21, 2022); Spring + Summer $1,891 (January 1 – August 20, 2022).
Please note:
- Exchange students are automatically enrolled for a full calendar year, or however many semesters remain, of Standard coverage when admitted to the program. A full calendar year is comprised of fall, spring and summer semesters, in that order.
- Students may apply to have the length of coverage amended to match the number of semesters they will be at BU:
- Fall students may apply for Fall Only coverage until December 31, 2022
- Spring students may apply for Spring Only coverage until May 21, 2023
- Students admitted for the full academic year may not opt out of Summer 2022 coverage.
- Students may apply to increase their coverage from Standard to Student Plus by September 20, 2022 (for fall and full year admits) or January 31, 2023 (for spring admits)
- Students may apply to have this coverage waived via the Student Link (deadlines are listed here, but read more below)
- Apply by September 20, 2022 (to waive fall coverage)
- Apply by January 31, 2023 (to waive spring+summer coverage)
The insurance fee will be billed to your BU student account and can be paid via the Student Link. More information on the estimated budget and how to make payments can be found in the “Banking & Payment Information” section below.
Health Insurance Waivers
It is rare that exchange students are allowed to waive the BU Student Health Insurance Plan. To qualify for a waiver, you must already have an insurance plan provided by an American insurance carrier and this plan must meet certain coverage criteria. More information on insurance waivers can be found here and here.
In all other cases, you are required to purchase the BU Student Health Insurance.
Health ID Cards
After arriving at Boston University, you will be able to print your insurance ID card (proof of coverage) by logging in with your BU information at the Aetna webpage (go to “Print ID Card”). You should keep this card with you at all times while in the United States, in case you require unexpected medical treatment.
Purchase Transportation Pass: Due JAN 10 (optional)
MBTA
Boston has a great public transportation system called the MBTA, commonly referred to as “the T”. The MBTA includes buses, trains, and a commuter rail that goes into the Boston suburbs. As a BU student, you will probably use the commuter rail less often, to travel into the suburbs. You are, however, likely to use the bus and the subway (“the T”) to get around town. It is not necessary, but you may purchase a discounted Semester Link pass online through the Student Link before coming to Boston. Buying your pass through BU guarantees you a discount on the regular MBTA price. The Semester Link pass provides unlimited rides on the subway and city buses and lasts for the entire semester. Make sure you purchase your pass by the deadlines (see below). *It is not possible to purchase a discounted pass after the deadline has passed.* Information on the Semester Link Pass can be found here.
Those interested in purchasing Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) Semester Passes must usually apply before 4PM, EST on AUG 10 (Fall Pass) or JAN 10 (Spring Pass). You can purchase the semester pass through your Student Link account. The Office of Parking & Transportation Services has updated information pertaining to all types of transportation and commuting options. It will be important to make note of how much mobility around the city you will need or COVID-19 restrictions will allow before purchasing any non-refundable transportation passes. BlueBikes is another good option to consider (see below).
Recommended Resource
Download the Transit App onto your mobile device to easily figure out how to get from Point A to Point B using public transportation.
Bicycles
Many students at BU use bikes to get around the city. There are lots of places to rent and buy bikes after you arrive in Boston. One convenient and popular bike rental option is BlueBikes. Instructions for how BU students can purchase an annual membership at a discount can be found here.
Arrival Information
J-1 Visa Dates
Your J-1 visa will officially begin on the first day of classes and end on the last day of final exams. You are allowed to enter the U.S. as a student up to 30 days before the start of the semester (before your visa start date), and to depart the U.S. up to 30 days after the end of the semester (after your visa end date). Please plan your travel carefully to ensure that you are entering and leaving the U.S. within the specific time frame permitted by your visa. For example, students may remain in the US on an expired visa for 30 days, but those traveling outside the country when their visa expires will not be allowed to re-enter the US.
Arrival Dates
Fall 2022 Exchange Students should plan to arrive on campus on August 31. Spring 2023 Exchange Students should plan to move into University housing on or before January 17 to attend Orientation on January 17 + 18. If you arrive in Boston before those dates and will be moving into on-campus housing, you must plan to stay in a hotel. Please plan to arrive at BU and check-in to housing between 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM EST. More information on moving in can be found on the Housing website.
If you plan to live off-campus, you will communicate directly with your landlord to make arrangements for moving in. Please plan your travel and move-in to allow for you to arrive at BU on-time for orientation.
Neither late arrivals nor early departures are permitted.
We urge students to not make any weekend or mid-semester break travel plans until they arrive on site and receive the finalized course and program schedule. During the semester, students must fulfill strict attendance requirements and will be very busy with classes, program activities, and assignments. If family and friends plan to visit, please schedule trips to take place before the start of on-site orientation, during a scheduled program break, or after the semester ends. The first and last weeks of the program are critical to students’ success and require your full attention. By timing visits to coincide with scheduled program breaks, you can meet attendance requirements and take full advantage of your exchange student experience.
ARRIVING AT BOSTON’S LOGAN AIRPORT
As you know, you will have to go through U.S. Immigration when you arrive in Boston (or any other American airport). When you get off your flight, follow the signs for Immigration and Baggage Claim. You’ll probably have to wait in a long line in order to get through immigration, but the lines usually move very quickly so don’t feel discouraged. When you get
to the immigration officer, give him or her your passport open to the page with your J-1 visa. The officer will ask you questions – make sure you are prepared to answer them!
The questions are likely to include:
- Why are you traveling to the United States? (I am an exchange student at Boston University)
- How long will you be here? (Either one semester or the whole academic year – give your month of departure)
- What are you studying?
- What will your address be in the U.S.? (You should know this! If you can’t remember or don’t know your address, you can give the address for the Study Abroad office: 888 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215)
After you get through immigration, you will collect your luggage from the Baggage Claim. If any of your luggage doesn’t appear, go to the Lost Luggage desk at the airport for assistance.
TRAVEL TO BU
To get from Logan Airport into the city of Boston, you have two options: taxicab or public transportation (MBTA). If you are staying overnight in a hotel near the airport, a taxi will probably be easiest. Remember that you have to pay them in U.S. dollars, so be sure to take some money out at the ATM in the airport. Most taxis also allow for you to pay by credit or debit card. If you are traveling to BU or somewhere else that is not close to the airport, it will be much cheaper to take the MBTA. Since you won’t have your (optional) MBTA semester pass yet, you’ll have to pay in cash for your ticket.
While it is cheaper than a taxi, the MBTA can be cumbersome if you are traveling with all your luggage and it is not a 24/7 service. We recommend just taking a cab, but if you want to save money, then read detailed instructions below on how to take the MBTA (bus and subway). You should go to your assigned accommodation first when you arrive. Move into your room and leave your things there. Then you can check in for Orientation at your designated check-in location.
TO GET TO BU FROM LOGAN AIRPORT:
- Follow the signs for ground transportation at the airport. Look for signs directing you to the MBTA Silver Line (which is a bus, not a train).
- You’ll wait outside at a designated location for the Silver Line bus (labeled SL1) to arrive.
- Take the SL1 bus to South Station. The ride is free.
- South Station is one of Boston’s major transportation hubs. Upon exiting the SL1 bus, turn right and walk to the end of the platform. Turn left to see signs pointing downstairs for Red Line trains to Alewife. As long as you don’t exit the terminal (upstairs, through the turn-styles), you get a free transfer from SL1 bus to Red Line subway, and will not need to buy a ticket. However, if you go through an electronic turn-style up in the main lobby, then you cannot enter again without purchasing a fare card for a single ride at one of the MBTA ticket vending machines.
- Take the Red Line subway inbound to Park Street.
- At Park Street, follow signs for the Green Line B subway outbound towards Boston College (Boston College is the last stop on the B line so the line is named after it, but this line also stops at Boston University). If you have questions, just tell someone you’re looking for the B Line towards Boston College. The transfer here is also free if you do not exit through an electronic turn-style! If you do exit, you will need to purchase a single ride ticket to re-enter, as described above.
- The main BU-area stops are: BU East, BU Central, Amory Street, and St. Paul Street. Make sure you know which stop is closest to your accommodation. Let me know if you need help figuring this out.
TO GET TO BU FROM ANYWHERE ELSE IN BOSTON (e.g., from a hotel):
- Find a Green Line station:
http://www.mbta.com/schedules_and_maps/subway/ - Take the Green Line B outbound towards Boston College.
- Get off at one of the BU-area stops. These include: BU East, BU Central, Amory Street, and St. Paul Street.
TO GET TO DOWNTOWN BOSTON (Copley Square area) FROM LOGAN AIRPORT:
- If staying at a downtown hotel before you are permitted to move in, or for families accompanying students, first check to see if your hotel has an airport shuttle.
- If not, follow the signs for ground transportation at the airport, near baggage claim. Look for signs directing you to the Back Bay Express Shuttle (which is a bus, not a train).
- You’ll wait outside at a designated location for the bus to arrive – usually every 30 minutes. Confirm before boarding that the bus is going to the Back Bay neighborhood.
- Take the bus to either of its two stops close to Copley Square, in the Back Bay neighborhood. The ride is free.
Maps of the BU campus can be found here.
ARRIVING AT BU (HOUSING and BU TERRIER CARDS)
Students who have been assigned University housing for Spring 2023 must make an appointment to move in; times are available from January 13-18, 2023. International students who cannot get an appointment on January 17 should take any appointment they can get as a placeholder; they can still move in on the 17th. More information can be found about the reservation process here. Please be aware that in-person Fall Orientation begins on August 31, 2022 and Spring Orientation begins on January 17, 2023. Students planning to live off-campus must e-mail their complete address and local phone number, if available, to Program Manager, Sage Suorsa as soon as they know it.
Prior to your move-in appointment time, you should upload a photo for your BU Terrier Card so that it will be ready for you to pick-up upon check-in. We suggest selecting pick-up at a public location, like the Terrier Card Office, rather than having the card mailed to you. Students often enter the wrong BU mailing address, which can delay delivery. Instructions can be found here. Students living off-campus can contact the Terrier Card Office in advance of their arrival, to ask how to pick up their Terrier Card.
Estimated Expenses
Studying in Boston is both an exciting academic opportunity and a significant financial commitment. The information below will help you to plan your finances for your time at BU. Student Accounting Services will be your primary point of contact for all questions about Boston University charges and payments. Exchange students are not required to pay tuition at BU, but you will have to pay for housing, dining, health insurance, and other expenses. Estimate your total cost using the resources below:
- Housing: approximately $5,000-$9,000 per semester, depending on your accommodation. Please review current BU housing rates.
- Dining: approximately $2,000-$2,600 per semester, depending on your plan. Please review current dining plan rates.
- Health insurance: Students are required to purchase BU health insurance. For more information on student health insurance please review the Mandatory Health Insurance Enrollment section above. We will update this section as soon as 2022/23 rates are provided.
- Transporation: MBTA Student semester pass, if purchased through BU, costs about $267 per semester.
- Personal spending: many exchange students report spending $100-150 per week on entertainment, travel, and other personal expenses. This amount varies widely depending on individual students’ spending habits.
The Academic Year estimated budget sheet includes current costs for housing, dining and health insurance. We will link a more recent budget sheet shortly.
Banking & Payment Information
BU Payment Deadlines
Your Housing Guarantee Payment must be received before you come to Boston. All other payments can be made after you arrive and will be billed to your student account.
Wire Transfer
If you do not have an American bank account, you must pay your fees to BU by international wire transfer. Please follow the instructions from Student Accounting Services.
Payments through the Student Link
If you have an American bank account (or if you set one up when you arrive in the U.S.) then you can make electronic payments from that American bank account directly to the Student Link. This is the easiest method of payment to BU. Please follow these instructions to make your payments.
Other Forms of Payment
Payments from an American bank account (electronic payment or personal check) and international wire transfers are the only acceptable methods of payment to BU. Students are not allowed to pay BU by credit card.
American ATMs
Some students have reported having trouble using their Italian bank cards in American ATMs (Automated Teller Machines), despite being assured by their banks that they will work. If this happens to you, please try the ATM at the George Sherman Union. This machine seems to be the friendliest to foreign bank cards. If it still does not work, please contact the Dean of Students’ Office.
American Bank Accounts
Most exchange students set up an American bank account when they arrive in Boston. There are several banks on campus that can help you with that. Having an American bank account is not mandatory, but you may find it to be convenient. If you choose to open an American bank account, you will find the process to be quite simple and quick. When you arrive on campus, go to one of the local banks and they will help you to open a basic account. You should bring a photo ID and your acceptance letter from BU when you go to open your account. Normal banking hours in the U.S. are Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9am to noon. Most banks are closed on Sundays.
Mobile Phones & Internet Access
Mobile Phones
Most students purchase either a SIM card or a pre-paid mobile phone when they arrive in Boston. As you’ll see, there are lots of places to do this right near campus, including Super 88. You can also go to Best Buy at the Cambridgeside Galleria (Green Line – Lechmere T stop). When choosing which phone and plan to purchase, you’ll probably find it most helpful to talk with other BU exchange students to see what deals they’ve found.
Internet Access
Wireless internet access is available throughout the BU campus. If you have trouble connecting to the internet, you should contact Information Services & Technology or visit the IT Help Desk in Mugar Library.
Packing List and Tips
In your on-campus residence, each resident will be provided with:
- A bed and mattress
- A dresser for clothing
- A desk and chair
- A closet or wardrobe
- Shades, curtains, or mini-blinds for your windows
You should bring with you from home:
- Any medications or medical devices you will need for your entire time in Boston. Please discuss this with your doctor before coming to Boston to ensure that you will be prepared. Make sure that your medications will be allowed into the United States. In addition, it is a good idea to bring a copy of your original prescription as well as a letter from your doctor describing your condition, the treatment plan and a list of your prescribed medications.
- Laptop computer and power cord
- Electrical adapters and converters to plug in your computer and any other electronics
- Headphones
- Clothing for both cold and warm weather, items you can layer
- Warm jacket for cold winter weather, rain jacket and rain or snow boots
- Hat, gloves, scarf for cold weather
- Comfortable shoes (you will do a lot of walking)
- Gym clothes/sneakers (all students have free access to BU fitness center)
You should bring with you OR buy in Boston (there will be plenty of time to shop for these items after arriving in Boston during orientation; there are affordable stores nearby campus):
- Bed sheets (size extra-long twin; mattresses are 80 inches long)
- Pillow, pillowcase, blankets
- Bath towels; washcloths
- Laundry bag or basket
- Small plastic basket to carry your supplies to and from the bathroom/shower
- Shower shoes/sandals
- Anything you need for in-room snacks (cup, plate, bowl, fork, spoon)
- Decorations for your room
- Mobile phone and charger
- Laundry detergent
- Hangers
Optional items to consider bringing or buying:
- Wastebasket
- Desk lamp
- Alarm clock
- Hairdryer, if you need one
- An iron and small ironing board, if you need them
- Small fan
Do not bring (not allowed in on-campus housing):
- Candles, incense
- Extension cords
- Microwave oven, rice cooker, hotpot, coffee maker, or any other heating or food appliances
- Air conditioner
- Sun lamp
- Hibachi or barbeque grill
- Printer (allowed, but there are plenty of printers on campus for you to use)
Remember that you can share many things with your roommate, like a wastepaper basket, hairdryer, decorations, and an iron. Contact your roommate in advance to coordinate this, or wait until you meet to purchase things.
Phase 3: Self Check
Have you completed everything in Phases 1, 2 and 3?
Here is a self-check to make sure you’re on the right track. Make sure you’re keeping track of any upcoming deadlines and budgeting enough time to complete them on-time. If you missed a deadline, be sure to check in with you Program Manager and complete that task right away.
You should have completed:
(From Phase 1)
- Created BU Student Account – Within 2 Weeks of Admission
- Prepared for Course Registration – APR 12/NOV 14
- Registered for Courses – APR 12/NOV 15 through start of semester
- Get to know BU
(From Phase 2)
- Applied for Visa – by mid-June (for Fall) or early/mid November (for Spring)
- Applied for BU On-Campus Housing – JUN 1 (Fall)/NOV 30 (Spring)
- Registered for Orientation – NOV 14 – JAN 10
- Planned Arrival & Submitted your travel plans to Sage Suorsa– AUG 15 (Fall)/DEC 31 (Spring)
(From Phase 3)
- Purchase Semester Student Link Transportation Pass – AUG 10 (Fall)/JAN 10 (Spring) – Optional
- Submitted Required Health Forms – DEC 1
- Made Housing Move-In Reservation and Uploaded Terrier Card Photo – TBD
- Called your bank and credit card companies to let them know you’ll be studying abroad. Asked about any banking reciprocity agreements they may have, as well as any fees you may incur.
- Decided if you’re going to use your current mobile phone abroad, or get a new phone after you arrive in Boston. If you’re going to use your own phone, be sure to get it unlocked at least a week ahead of departure.
- Reviewed your packing list and purchased any essentials
- Read the “Life in Boston” section
[— END Phase 3 —]
[— Life in Boston—]
1. Get To Know Boston
History, Geography and Politics
things to do. Make sure you get to know Boston during your time at BU:
Local news, readings and culture
2. Daily Life
Food & Dining
BU Dining Plans
All students living on campus at BU must purchase a BU dining plan. The charges for your dining plan will be added to your BU student account. You can pay these charges after you arrive at BU. Students living off-campus have the option of purchasing a dining plan, but it is not required.
On-Campus Dining
BU maintains several on-campus dining facilities which range from large cafeteria-style spaces with a broad variety of offerings, to small restaurant-style options including Starbucks. Dining points or convenience points may be used at these venues.
Convenience Points
In addition to a dining plan, students can purchase BU Convenience Points. These points are loaded onto the students’ ID cards (“Terrier Cards”) and can be used to purchase food and supplies at on-campus venues.
Housing
For those living on-campus, information on the housing office and policies can be found on their website. If you have any questions or concerns about your housing you can contact BU Housing directly. In addition, Residence Life is available to support you throughout your semester living on campus. Whether you live on campus or find your own off-campus apartment, getting to know your neighborhood and exploring other Boston neighborhoods will help you make the most out of your time here.
Shopping
3. Student Life
Student Clubs & Activities
As an exchange student, you are eligible and encouraged to participate in on-campus clubs, sports, and activities. With over 400 student organizations on campus, you are sure to find something that fits your interests. The Student Activities Office is the best place to start to explore all the great opportunities and activities available to you on campus. You are welcome to register for any of BU’s physical education and dance classes (called PDP classes). You can register for these through the Student Link.
Facilities
- Take a virtual tour of BU to explore all that our campus has to offer.
- Fitness & Recreation Center – FitRec is open to all BU students
- Printing & Copying – BU students have access to printing on campus through MyPrint. Printers are located in all on-campus libraries and in many academic buildings and residence halls. You can find full-service copy centers in Mugar Library and many other libraries on campus, which you can use to print, photocopy, scan, and fax documents.
Academic Resources
There are many academic resources available to international students at BU to help you succeed in a new academic system. Explore the available resources by using the International Students & Scholars Hub.
Textbooks
Textbooks
BU classes typically require that you have a specific textbook. In most cases, you will be able to purchase your textbook before the semester starts. However, for some classes, the textbook may not be announced until the first day of classes. Once you have finalized your class schedule, you can find out which textbooks you’ll need through the Student Link or by visiting the BU Bookstore website.
4. Money Matters
Banking and Currency
American Bank Accounts
Most exchange students set up an American bank account when they arrive in Boston. There are several banks on campus that can help you with that. Having an American bank account is not mandatory, but you may find it to be convenient. If you choose to open an American bank account, you will find the process to be quite simple and quick. When you arrive on campus, go to one of the local banks and they will help you to open a basic account. You should bring a photo ID and your acceptance letter from BU when you go to open your account. Normal banking hours in the U.S. are Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9am to noon. Banks are closed on Sundays.
Resources:
Tipping
Tipping customs and expectations vary across the world. In the US it is custom to tip in many circumstances for service, especially at sit-down restaurants.
Boston On a Budget
Working in the U.S. & Academic Training
It is BU Policy the non-degree exchange students are not able to work on campus. The only way for J-1 Exchange students at BU to work is to apply for Academic Training. Academic Training positions must directly related to your major field of study, and must be approved by both your academic advisor and ISSO before beginning work. More information on the eligibility and requirements for Academic Training can be found on the ISSO website.
Your Program Manager, Sage Suorsa, serves as the academic advisor for all exchange students. When applying for Academic Training please drop the letter from your employer and your completed academic training application off at the Study Abroad office front desk. Please allow 3-5 business days for your application to be reviewed; Sage will email you when your application is ready for pick-up.
5. Traveling
Local Transportation
Boston has a compact downtown area, making it easy to get around by foot or via public transportation. More information can be found here.
MBTA
Boston has a great public transportation system called the MBTA, commonly referred to as “the T”. The MBTA includes buses, trains, and a commuter rail that goes into the Boston suburbs. As a BU student, you probably will not use the commuter rail, which goes into the suburbs. You are likely to use the bus and the subway (“the T”) to get around town.
If you do not pre-order your Semester Link pass through BU, then you can purchase an MBTA pass when you arrive in Boston (at the regular MBTA price). You should get a Charlie Card, which you can purchase from any underground subway station in the city. You can add money, weekly passes, or monthly passes onto your Charlie Card at any ticket machine or online.
The BU Shuttle (B.U.S.)
Boston University offers a free bus shuttle down Commonwealth Avenue between the Charles River Campus and the BU Medical Center Campus. The shuttle offers service during weekdays and the weekend. Get more information on the BU Bus schedule.
Recommended Resource
Download the Transit App onto your mobile device to easily figure out how to get from Point A to Point B using public transportation.
Bicycles
Many students at BU use bikes to get around the city. There are lots of places to rent and buy bikes after you arrive in Boston. One convenient and popular bike rental option is BlueBikes.
6. Staying Healthy
What To Do If You Get Sick
Student Health Services (SHS) is a center designed to help meet your health care needs while at Boston University. SHS is available to all BU students and offers primary care appointments, behavioral health, and wellness services.
In case of a medical emergency, Student Health Services and/or the University Police will help in managing the emergency quickly and effectively. Call the Boston University Police at 617-353-2121 (3-2121 on a campus phone) or 911 if you have a life-threatening emergency. More information on emergency services can be found here.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Even if you may be excited about new opportunities, stress or anxiety may increase while living abroad. Set aside time to continue your own stress-management activities (e.g. exercise, join a club, get plenty of rest, spend time with new friends) If your regular activities are not available at BU, try something new! Take advantage the Wellness & Prevention Services available through Student Health Services, and FitRec.
7. Staying Safe
Keeping Yourself Safe In Boston
The Boston University Police Department responds to all emergencies on campus, including reports of crime, medical emergencies, suspicious activities, fires, or other hazards.
For fire emergencies: Call 911 first and then call BUPD at 617-353-2121.
Charles River Campus
Boston University Police Department: 617-353-2121 Please review the
BU Campus Safety information, and
Crime Prevention & Safety tips.
[— END Life in Boston —]
[— Immigration and Visas—]
The Boston University International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) administers visa documentation. The information below provides an overview of some visa information, but you should contact the ISSO directly with any specific questions. Boston University International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) 888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2nd Floor Boston, MA 02215 Phone: 617-353-3565 www.bu.edu/isso
J-1 Visas
Exchange students who are not U.S. citizens must have a J-1 visa to study at BU. Detailed instructions and the necessary form (SEVIS Form DS-2019) for your visa application will be sent to you by mail after your official acceptance by BU. You can also find these instructions online.
Visa Dates and Travel Plans
Your visa start and end dates will roughly coincide with BU’s semester dates. You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your visa start date and leave the U.S. up to 30 days after your visa end date. Please plan your travel accordingly. If you plan to come to the U.S. more than 30 days before the visa start date, then generally you must enter as a tourist, then leave the country and re-enter on your visa within the 30-day window. Please contact the ISSO for further guidance if you plan to come to the U.S. early. If you plan to leave the country near the end of the semester, be aware of your visa expiration date; though students may remain in the country for up to 30 days on an expired visa, they will never be allowed to re-enter the country on one. Students who wish to travel internationally require a travel signature from the ISSO on their physical DS-2019 form before they leave the US for the first time after entering as a J-1 exchange student.
Separate information may apply to students coming to the U.S. early for a CELOP or summer program.
ISSO Check-In
When you arrive at BU, you must check in with the International Students and Scholars Office. This check-in is a mandatory part of your legal immigration procedure. The ISSO will let you know if check-in is being done online or in-person. If check-in is being done in-person at 888 Commonwealth Ave. 2nd floor, you will be told what times you may show up.
Working in the U.S.
If you are interested in working or interning while you are in the U.S., please review the employment information from the ISSO.
Information for American Citizens
Exchange students who are also U.S. citizens do not need a visa to study at BU. Any student who has a U.S. passport must enter the U.S. using that passport when they come to study at BU. They must not obtain a visa and/or enter on a foreign passport.
[— END Immigration and Visas —]
[— Calendar—]
Program Dates
Current Semester: Fall 2022
- Aug 31 – Arrive at BU and check in to housing (at your designated time)
- Aug 31-Sept 2 – Mandatory Orientation
- September 5 – Labor Day Holiday, Classes Suspended
- September 6 – Classes Begin
- October 10 – Indigenous Peoples Day, Classes Suspended
- October 22-23 – Family & Friends Weekend
- November 23 – November 27 – Thanksgiving Recess
- December 12 – Last Day of Classes
- December 13-14 – Study Period
- December 15 – 21 Final Exams
Spring 2023
- January 17 – Arrive at BU & check-in to housing (reservation required)
- January 17-18 – Mandatory In-Person Orientation (not for students who attended in the Fall)
- January 19 – Classes Begin
- February 20 – Presidents’ Day Holiday, Classes Suspended
- March 4-12 – Spring Recess
- April 17- Patriot’s Day, Classes Suspended
- May 3 – Last Day of Classes
- May 4-7 – Study Period
- May 8-12 – Final Exams Week
The complete academic calendar can be found here.
Neither late arrivals nor early departures are permitted.
We urge students to not make any weekend or mid-semester break travel plans until they arrive on site and receive the finalized course and program schedule. During the semester, students must fulfill strict attendance requirements and will be very busy with classes, program activities, and assignments. If family and friends plan to visit, please schedule trips to take place before the start of on-site orientation, during a scheduled program break, or after the semester ends. The first and last weeks of the program are critical to students’ success and require your full attention. By timing visits to coincide with scheduled program breaks, you can meet attendance requirements and take full advantage of your exchange student experience.
[— END Calendar —]
[— Contacts—]
Program Contacts
As you prepare for and embark on your study abroad experience, you will be in contact with various staff members from BU Study Abroad, both in Boston and abroad. To avoid missing important information, please add “@bu.edu” to your address book. Please keep all emails in a folder for your reference as you prepare for your semester abroad. Here are the names and email addresses of some people who will be in touch with you this semester, and/or whom you may want to contact with questions.
Boston-Based Staff
- Sage Suorsa, Program Manager Sage will be your primary contact during the pre-departure process and throughout your time at BU. All questions and concerns you may have should be directed to her
- International Students & Scholars, will be your primary contact for any visa or immigration related concerns.
- BU Housing, If you are planning to live on-campus you can contact the BU Housing Office directly with any questions regarding the housing application process or housing assignments.
- Student Accounting Services, will be your primary point of contact for all questions about Boston University charges and payments.
- Student Health Services, will be your primary contact for any health related concerns or questions about your health form compliance.
[— END Phase 1 —]