The CISS staff understand that transitioning to a new country can be full of both adventures and challenges. We are here to support you.  This page of our website focuses on the information and links to resources that you may need to make the transition to the U.S. and cultivate a sense of belonging in the Bentley community.  

	Banking Learn how to choose a bank and open a bank account in the U.S.
	Campus Safety and Emergency Information Learn how you can help minimize the effects of an emergency by becoming familiar with our procedures and response protocols.
	Driver's License/Buying a Car Learn how to apply for a Massachusetts driver’s license and buy a car.
	Housing Learn about student housing options, including on-campus residence halls and off-campus living resources.
	Phones Learn about how to choose a phone plan and tips for staying connected while studying in the U.S.
	Taxes Learn about international student and scholar tax requirements and available resources.

Use this Document Checklist to review the documents you will need to take to the DMV.  In most cases, you will need the completed application and the following documents:

• Passport
• Form I-20/DS-2019
• Form I-94 (you can print it from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website).
• Social Security card or denial letter
  • If you do not have a Social Security Number, you must obtain a "Denial Letter". A "Denial Letter" can be obtained by visiting any Social Security Office with your passport, I-94 card, and I-20 (or DS-2019) and submitting an application. A representative should issue your "Denial Letter" immediately. You must apply for a driver's license within 10 days of receiving this letter. 

  • The closest Social Security Office is located at:

135 Beaver Street, Suite 120
Waltham, Massachusetts 02452
(800) 772-1213

• Proof of Residence Address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement received in the mail with your address printed on it).
  • If you live on campus the Residence Life Office can issue you a letter stating your address.

The purchase and maintenance of a car in Massachusetts can be quite expensive. In addition to the cost of the car, you are required to pay insurance, as well as sales and excise taxes. Used cars are sold through dealers and privately through the classified section of newspapers. One great online source for car reviews and average prices is Edmunds.com. We recommend that you have the cars examined by a mechanic before you buy them, and ensure that you receive a certificate of ownership along with the bill of sale. A good way to decrease the price of insurance is to bring a letter of recommendation from your insurance back home. Some insurance companies will even give you a discount if you provide them with a transcript of good grades. 

Available parking can also be scarce and/or expensive, depending on where you live. To be able to park your car at Bentley, you will need a parking sticker from University Police. For more information, call the Bentley Card Office at (781) 781-2292. 

Popular apartment complexes close to campus include:

Finding a place to live off-campus can be challenging for any new student. Make sure to be a smart consumer!  When renting a room or apartment, we recommend you: 

• Let landlords and real estate agents know what type of rental units you are looking for (such as studio or one-bedroom; furnished or unfurnished).
• Do not rent a place that you have not seen.
• Have any repairs or maintenance work agreed to in writing by the landlord before you sign a lease.
• Be prepared to sign a lease (binding rental agreement) for one year.
• Be prepared to pay the first month’s rent, last month’s rent, and a security deposit for your room or apartment before you are permitted to move in. 

Students are advised to use all resources available to them when choosing a place to live.  

When you arrive in the U.S., you will need a local phone number for communication, banking, and daily life.  

You have two main options: 

Tips: 

• Make sure to research the different cellphone providers and plans before deciding.
• Prepaid plans are flexible and don’t require a long-term contract or credit history.
• Monthly costs vary, usually $25–$60, depending on data and features.
• Free Wi-Fi is widely available on campus and in public spaces, which helps reduce data usage.
• Make sure your phone supports U.S. network bands before arrival.