10.08 Harvard International Office (HIO)
The Harvard International Office (HIO) serves Harvard’s international community by
providing programs and services for international students, scholars, and their families.
These programs and services include orientation information sessions, arrival booklets,
email newsletters, alerts, and virtual office hours to assist with the adjustment to Harvard
and living in the Boston/Cambridge area; advising and counseling on immigration
regulations, social and cultural differences; referrals to other offices when appropriate; the
Host Program for new graduate students; discussion groups and activities for
accompanying spouses; and information on a wide variety of topics disseminated through
e-newsletters, a website and group information sessions. The International Office hosts a
reception each fall for newly arrived international students, scholars and their families. In
late February/early March, the HIO provides free tax filing software for international
students and scholars to complete their tax returns.
The office also acts as a liaison between Harvard and various public and private agencies
in matters affecting the University’s international students and scholars. The office
supports the activities of the various international clubs whose membership includes
graduate and undergraduate students.
All newly admitted international students must complete online registration with the
International Office before registering at their schools.
Last updated 8/28/26
Reviewed and approved by PME Administration.