Families of international students sometimes experience difficulty obtaining visas to attend Commencement. Family members who will require US visa stamps must apply to a US embassy or consulate far in advance to complete the process in time. International students who received a November 2007 degree, or who will receive a March or June 2008 degree, may request that the GSAS Administrative Dean’s Office send an invitation letter to their family. This letter may facilitate the granting of a visa. The Dean’s Office will also send a copy of that letter to the appropriate consulate or embassy.

If you think your family might benefit from receiving this invitation letter, call the GSAS Administrative Dean’s Office at 617-495-1814 for information. Details about the visitor’s visa may be found on the US Department of State Website at www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1262.html.

You may also visit the Harvard International Office web page, which outlines the documents needed for the visa application process. Darryl Zeigler, HIO international student advisor, can answer any questions you may have. Contact him at 617-495-2789 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it