Preparing to begin your studies at Lasell University is exciting and you have many things to do in preparation. The pre-arrival section contains much of the information you need to know prior to your arrival. 

Applying for a Visa

Obtain your F-1 visa from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. An interview is required so request an appointment early. More information on the application process is available on the Visa Application Guide. 

Completing the Health Form Requirements 

All full-time students must have proof of immunizations against measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus and diphtheria. Undergraduate students will also have to show proof of Hepatitis B immunization. In order to show proof of vaccinations, incoming students must submit health history and immunization forms.

All forms must be received prior to the start of classes! Failure to submit your forms will result in a hold on your register for the next semester. Forms can be completed on the Lasell University Patient Portal. 

Purchasing Health Insurance

All International Undergraduate Students at Lasell University are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance and do not need to take any action. Please contact University Health Plans at 833-251-1714 if you are covered by a US health insurance plan that meets healthcare reform standards and is comparable to the Student Health Insurance Plan. 

Graduate students are not eligible to be covered by the Lasell University Student Health Insurance.  Courses that meet strictly online and courses that meet less than 15 days a semester on campus are not included in the calculation of qualifying credits.  International Graduate Students are strongly encouraged to purchase health insurance coverage prior to arrival in the United States. It is advised to protect against unforeseen health circumstances while studying here at Lasell University. There are a variety of health insurance providers available to assist international students purchase coverage.   University Health Plan (UHP), the Lasell University provider, is available to answer general insurance plan questions and make appropriate referrals. To speak with a representative, please call 833-251-1714 or send an email to info@univhealthplans.com.

Please refer to the Insurance page. 

Arriving at the U.S. Port of Entry

F-1 students may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before the program start date as listed on Form I-20. Upon arrival to the U.S., individuals will be asked by a U.S. Immigration Inspector to present the following:

• Passport with valid F-1 U.S. Entry Visa
• Form I-20
• I-901 SEVIS fee receipt.
• Appropriate Financial Documentation
• Lasell Admission Letter and financial aid letter (if any)

Carry these documents with you.  Do NOT pack them in your checked luggage, as you must show your documents to the CBP officer before you are allowed to claim your luggage.  The CBP officer may ask similar questions to those asked during the visa interview.  The immigration inspector will review your papers and stamp your passport. They should also annotate this stamp with F-1 D/S. The immigration inspector will issue you an electronic I-94 number that corresponds with your admission to the United States. You can look up your I-94 number at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/. You will need to bring at printout of your I-94 record to International Orientation.

Arriving at Lasell University 

Public transportation is available for free from the airport but it might be difficult for a first-time user with lots of luggage.  See the "T" map. Lasell University is located closest to Riverside Station, the last stop on the Green D line. Taxi service, limo service, and ride-sharing applications like Uber and Lyft are available from the airport to Lasell.  

If you arrive to campus after 5:00 PM, call the Office of Public Safety at 617-243-2269 or 617-243-2279 and they can direct you where to go.  

Lasell University
1844 Commonwealth Avenue (in the Auburndale section of Newton)
Newton, MA 02466

The Office of International Services is located in the Arnow Campus Center on the 2nd floor. The GPS address of this building is 131 Woodland Road, Auburndale, MA 02466. 

Lasell campus map and directions