Frequently Asked Questions
If after reviewing the commonly asked questions below, you still need assistance, please reach out to gsbsstudentsuccess@umassmed.edu.
I am an international student and will not be coming to the U.S. until just before orientation starts. I am unable to set up direct deposit and upload a copy of my social security number (SSN) until I arrive.
We understand that international students may not be able to complete certain tasks until after arriving in the U.S. To accommodate this, we can extend the due date to 3 days after the start of orientation, providing additional time for you to complete these tasks. Please send a brief email to gsbsstudentsuccess@umassmed.edu to inform us, so we can update the due date and pause any overdue notifications.
As part of the pre-matriculation requirements, I must take the online course “Biomedical Responsible Conduct of Research Course 1” on the CITI Training platform. However, on the CITI course page, I see options for “Responsible Conduct of Research” and “Biomedical Research Investigators and Key Personnel”. I would like to clarify if these two courses are the same with different wording or if they are entirely different courses. Could you please advise me on which course I should select to fulfill the requirement?
These are indeed two separate courses. When you register, you will be asked a series of questions as you are setting up your account.
Respond “Yes” to Question 2 (Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR)). You can answer “No” or “Not at this time” to all other questions.
The “yes” on Q2 should open the modules needed to locate Biomedical Responsible Conduct of Research Course 1.
I have questions about the required forms for Student Health. Who should I contact for assistance?
We take the security of your health information seriously. Please use the PSCS Matriculation tile to provide information or ask your questions. (Please do not use email as it is not secure and also delays efficiency of response from Student Health staff). You will see a box labeled “Explanation” and can input your questions/information and then click “Submit for Review.” Student Health Services will respond.
When will I start receiving my stipend?
Students can expect to receive their stipends approximately 2-3 weeks after their start date. We advise all students to be prepared that their first paycheck may be delayed. The institution cannot guarantee receipt of the first paycheck on a specific date since the timing is impacted by when onboarding information is submitted (please take care of all onboarding tasks to avoid delays), and variability between individuals’ financial institutions.
I would like to purchase a laptop – are there any system requirements I should keep in mind?
The following system requirements are recommended to ensure that your computer can successfully utilize all UMass Chan digital resources while meeting security standards. Explore the system requirements here.