Student summer housing is the best option for J1 students, while these may seem expensive they do come furnished, pricing and applications are available at the below links:

• UMass Boston Summer Housing

• MassArt Summer Housing

• J1 Accom

If you decide not to pursue the College Summer Housing route: beware of SCAMS! It can be quite hard to detect scams. We would NOT recommend sending money ‘site unseen’.

Please reach out the IPC directly at J1@ipcboston.org or (617) 265-5300 for more information on housing. Our J1 guide is available to download from our website.

Within one week of arrival, please contact your sponsor to activate your visa on SEVIS. If your sponsor does not receive this information within the first few weeks of your arrival, your visa will automatically end.

Once your sponsor validates your visa, it can take 2 - 4 days to become active on SEVIS, so please allow sufficient time before visiting your local Social Security Office, if you need to obtain a Social Security number, or need your card replaced. Note: your SEVIS record must be updated prior to applying for a Social Security number.

Applying for a Social Security Number:

• You will need to bring your passport, DS-2019, and I-94 record. To obtain your I-94 record: click here & choose the option "Get Most Recent I-94."

• You must apply for a Social Security number, or replacement card, in person. Please expect to wait 4-6 weeks for the card.

Apply Online: https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/request-number-first-time

Rian Immigrant Center (formerly Irish International Immigrant Center/IIIC), have helped over 3,000 Irish students and graduates start their careers through our program. Rian J-1 will support you throughout the entire process, including assisting you as you seek a suitable paid placement in your area of study.

One State Street, Boston, MA 02109

(617) 542-7654

Website: https://www.rianj1.org

If you have any other questions, you can reach out to IPC J1 coordinator at J1@ipcboston.org