Know Before You Go – January 2022 Arrival

As your student prepares to embark on their first year at Boston University, it’s common to have questions about the process. We have answers. Below is a list of helpful reminders about the move-in process, from packing recommendations to what to expect when your student arrives on campus.

Before Arrival: Scheduling Move-In, Packing Recommendations, and More

  • The University and the College of General Studies (CGS) are in direct communication with your student via their BU email address regarding move-in procedure, Covid-19 protocols, and other detailed information to get them started on their journey at Boston University.
  • Your student will receive two addresses in their Boston University Housing Portal. The first is their mailing address where packages may be sent and the second address is where they reside. Packages may be sent prior to your student’s arrival on campus to coincide with their move-in date. Proper format for addressing packages can be found in the following link (Note: Do not use “PO Box,” use the word “Box” followed by your student’s specific box number): https://www.bu.edu/housing/services/mail/
  • Packages can also be sent to the Amazon Hub Locker located at 870 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston.
  • When packing, “less is more.”
  • Students will choose a specific move-in date online via their BU Housing Portal. Students have received this information in their BU email. Students will choose from two daily time slots, a morning slot from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and an afternoon spot from 1 to 5 p.m. Students arriving after 5 p.m. can make arrangements to get their key from the on-call RA (Resident Assistant).
  • There are parent volunteers available to answer parent-to-parent questions regarding move-in and the transition to BU. You may reach out to them directly.

During Move-In: Picking Up Keys, Covid-19 Protocols, Parking, and More

  • Upon arrival at their designated check-in location, students will pick up their residence key. New students will also receive their Terrier ID Card at this time. Students have already been invited to upload their photo for their Terrier Card. It costs $40 to replace a lost or damaged card.
  • All students are required to schedule a Boston University administered Covid-19 test online to coincide with their arrival. This should be done prior to their arrival on campus.
  • After a student receives their first BU administered Covid-19 test, they are asked to limit their interactions with others until they receive a negative test result. This includes limiting their interaction with parents, guardians, families, and friends.
  • Students will be allowed up to two helpers for unloading their belongings in their new residence. No other family members, or friends, may enter the residence halls. All helpers must wear masks during the move-in time slot. Visitors, parents, families, and guardians will not be permitted in the dormitories after the four hour move-in window.
  • Large rolling bins will be available curbside to move belongings into the dorms.
  • Parking in BU lots during move-in is free. Download and print the Move-In Parking Permit pass prior to arrival in Boston. The permit should be displayed on the dashboard of your vehicle when parked in approved BU parking locations. The Move-In Parking Permit pass can be found online after the first week in January: https://www.bu.edu/housing/living/moving/spring-2022-move-in/

After Move-In: Welcome Events and Adjusting to Life on Campus 

  • There will be social events on campus for CGS students. Each student will be emailed details for these events in January.
  • If your student needs to transfer a prescription to a pharmacy in Boston, there are two CVS locations near campus:
    • 900 Commonwealth Avenue @ St. Paul Street
    • Inside the Target Fenway, 1341 Boylston Street
  • After students move in, they will be busy with activities and meeting their new friends in their home away from home. Plan accordingly for your departure from Boston to allow your student the opportunity to participate and engage.