Guide to Getting Things Done with the International Center

Updated 12/23/2022 for Spring 2022. Many of the International Center's most commonly used services can be started and completed online (or by email), without needing an in-person visit to the office. If you are unsure about any of the services below, or if you do not see your need or question listed, make an appointment with your International Center advisor or email us at internationalcenter@tufts.edu.

• Schedule an online appointment with an International Center advisor about almost any matter
  • You can find your International Center advisor on our appointment page. If your advisor is not available, send them an email to schedule a special appointment, or contact the International Center's main line at internationalcenter@tufts.edu or (617) 627-3459

• Get a updated travel signature I-20
• Apply for a F-1 reduced course load or J-1 student reduced course load
• Request an I-20 extension
• Request an I-20 for F-2 dependent family members
• Attend an OPT or CPT Workshop
• Start a CPT application
• Start an OPT or STEM OPT Extension application
• Update your OPT employment, STEM employment, and US address information
• Get a signature on your employment letter to start the Social Security Number application process

Scholar and Employee Services (J-1 Scholar / H-1B Employee)

• All scholar and employee services - including advising appointments, workshops, and document requests, are done online. Contact your scholar advisor by email or schedule an online appointment.

Processing and Response Times

In most cases, we are able to respond to online submissions in less than 5 business days, although certain requests may take longer depending on the time of year and the total volume of requests we are receiving. If you do not receive an update within 1-2 weeks, please contact the International Center.

Updated: December 23, 2021

Due to ongoing concerns with the COVID-19 pandemic, the International Center will have only limited walk-in availability for the foreseeable future. Walk-in hours are for document drop-off, pick-up, and quick signatures and questions only. Extended advising appointments and other services must be done online. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Spring 2022 (updated 12/23/21): International Center locations will re-open on Monday, January 3, 2022. However, due to public safety concerns relating to COVID-19, the Medford / Somerville office will provide only virtual (remote) service the week of January 3 - January 7. Please look for announcements of other possible changes, which may be affected by University decisions regarding campus safety and COVID-19.

All visitors to International Center offices must wear face masks and observe social distancing requirements regardless of vaccination status. Due to space constraints and limitations, visitors are limited to one at a time in meeting spaces.

Medford Office

20 Sawyer Avenue, (617) 627-3458

Walk-in hours: 2pm - 4pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays

Fletcher School Office

Room 232b, Mugar Hall (160 Packard Ave.) (617) 627-2815

In-Person Office hours/ Tuesdays^* and Thursdays: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm (lunch break: 1:00 – 2:00 pm) - appointment required
*Between 10:00 – 11:30 am on Tuesdays, no appointment available due to the International Center staff meeting

Virtual walk-in hours/Mondays: 10:00 am – 12:45 pm, Wednesdays, 2:00 – 4:30 pm at Zoom ID: 617 627 2815 - no appointment required

Boston Health Sciences Office

200 Harrison Avenue, Basement Level, (617) 636-0391
ID card required to enter building and basement level

Walk-in hours: 11am - 2pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays

*Tufts Medical Center scholars and employees must call the office in advance to get access to Posner Hall.