If you are coming to MIT as a grad student or postdoc, your MIT ID card and number are the keys to almost all of MIT's services. Visiting scholars and postdoctoral associates need to have their appointments processed through the Chemistry Department Headquarters office before a card can be issued. Once the paperwork has been completed you can receive a card by bringing a valid picture ID to the MIT Card Office, located in W20. For those who are arriving from outside the United States, the MIT International Scholars Office (ISO) issues visa documents and provides support on immigration matters.

Graduate students and postdoctoral associates who are supported through MIT are paid on the last working day of each month. Paychecks can be picked up from the Cashier's Office, 10-180. You may also have checks deposited directly into your bank account. Forms to arrange direct deposit are available in the Payroll Office E19-510.

Finding affordable housing in the Boston area can be difficult and we recommend that you plan to locate housing well in advance of your arrival.

On Campus Housing
On campus housing is available for MIT graduate students and their families. Accommodations are popular and assignments are made through a lottery.

Off Campus Housing
MIT's Off-Campus Housing Office provides bus schedules, furniture resources, rental listings, legal information, and other related services. The office does not mail or provide listings over the phone due to continuous updates to listings. The office does provide an excellent on-line resource in its Guide to Neighborhoods & The Rental Housing Market.

For classified rental listings online see Boston.com.

Life at the institute can be thrilling but at times overwhelming. The spouses & partners @ MIT, a group sponsored through MIT Medical has a very good resource on their Newcomer's FAQ page.

Other helpful sites:

• Association of Postdoctoral Scholars
• Information for international scholars through the ISO includes how to get a J-1 Visa Stamp
• Cost of Living Information for Scholars coming to MIT from the ISO
• Center for Work, Family & Personal Life
• New to MIT from MIT Lifesites information for new students, faculty, and staff
• About MIT
• MIT Facts
• Newcomers' Frequently Asked Questions from spouses & partners@MIT