Information for International Scholars

According to our latest survey (2022), over 50% of postdoctoral scholars at Tufts are international scholars. In this page, we provide some resources to help international scholars navigate the personal and professional challenges of being a postdoc abroad.

While we provide some resources and links to pages about immigration, we cannot provide international advice and you should always consult with a professional if you have questions about your case.

Disclaimer: The contents of this post are intended to convey general information only and not to provide legal advice or opinions. The contents of this post should not be relied upon for legal advice in any particular circumstance or fact situation.  The information presented may not reflect the most current legal developments. Further, this post may contain technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained in this post and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all the contents of this post.  An attorney should be contacted for advice on specific legal issues.

Before You Arrive

Upon arriving, attend an additional international orientation with the International Office to ensure you understand all of your visa requirements.

International Offices at Tufts Campuses

• School of Medicine International Office (Boston)
• International Center at Tufts School of Arts and Sciences & School of Engineering (Medford)
• Information about immigration and visas 

What you should know when you arrive in the US

• Taxes and How to obtain a social security number
• Banking, Driver’s License, Social Security and more.
• Credit history in the USA
• Health Insurance information
• International Student Clubs

Other Resources

• 1. Tufts University International Center The International Center provides services, programs and resources to support Tufts University’s international student and scholar community across all of Tufts’s campuses. You can schedule personal appointments with officers regarding immigration, visas, and other questions.  

• 2. The National Postdoctoral Association International Resources The International Postdoc Survival Guide is a comprehensive guide to enhance the experience of doing a postdoc in the United States for international postdocs.   

• 3. Grants and Fellowships for non US citizens While international scholars are not eligible for many funding opportunities in the US, here is a directory of funding opportunities open to international scholars.  

• 4. US Government Information for International Scholars In this page, you can find information about the Exchange Visitor Program, how it works, who is eligible, and what requirements or restrictions there are for visa holders and dependents.  

• 5. National PDA Quick Guide to Visas In this brochure created by the National PDA, you can find information regarding different types of visas, government agencies, different requirements based on discipline, country of origin, and type of sponsor, among other things.  

• 6. Boston PDA immigration Q&A   Boston PDA and a Law firm present an informal Q&A on visa and green card options for researchers.