Welcome to the Swanson School of Engineering. The resources below are organized to help you prepare for your arrival, get settled during your first weeks on campus, and connect with ongoing support throughout your program.
Before You Arrive
Pitt ID (Panther Card)
Upload your photo online through Panther Central and your card will typically be ready for pickup within 24 hours of receiving your confirmation email. Your Panther Card provides building access, library privileges, and fare-free rides on Pittsburgh Regional Transit throughout Allegheny County. Pickup is at Panther Central in the Litchfield Towers Lobby.
Immunizations
All students must submit proof of immunization against measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) and chickenpox (varicella) through the Student Health portal on my.pitt.edu. An official copy must also be sent by mail or fax (412-383-1846) before the start of the fall semester. Vaccinations are available at the Student Health Center by appointment.
PittPAY
PittPAY is where you view eBills, make payments, and enroll in payment plans. Complete the applicable checklist before your first bill: U.S. students | International students (Chinese | Korean). Questions: Student Payment Center, G-9 Thackeray Hall, 412-624-7520, payments@pitt.edu (include your 7-digit student ID).
Housing
Most graduate students live off campus in neighborhoods near the University. See our Graduate Housing page for neighborhood information, apartment search tools, and links to Pitt's housing resources.
Healthcare
Graduate students with academic appointments (TA, TF, GSA, GSR) are eligible for an individual health insurance package at no cost. Students without an appointment may enroll in the same UPMC Health Plan at a monthly rate. Visit Pitt's student health plans page for details on medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Your First Weeks
Graduate Orientation
Check the orientation page for schedules, key dates, and everything you need to know before your program begins in August.
IT and Computer Resources
For engineering-specific support (SSOE classrooms, software, lab access): submit a web request, email ssoehelp@pitt.edu, or call 412-624-3647. For all other technical support, contact Pitt IT's 24/7 Help Desk.
Tax Information for Academic Appointments
If you hold a TA, TF, GSA, or GSR appointment, the University is required to withhold federal, state, and local taxes from your pay. Review the applicable guidance: U.S. tax information | Foreign nationals | General graduate payroll information. Questions: HR Shared Services, 412-624-8070.
International Student Services
The Office of International Services (OIS) provides immigration advising, visa support, and outreach events. Additional resources: English Language Institute | ITA English Comprehensibility Testing | Health insurance for international students. Contact OIS at ois@pitt.edu or 412-624-7120.
Ongoing Resources
Co-Op and Internships
Both MS and PhD students - including international students - may be eligible for co-op and internship opportunities through the Swanson School's Office of Experiential Learning and Professional Engagement (ELPE).
Student Organizations
The Swanson School is home to a range of graduate student organizations, including the Engineering Graduate Student Organization (EGSO), Graduate Women in Engineering Network, Graduate Biomedical Engineering Society, and the Graduate and Professional Student Government. See the full list on the student organizations page.
Childcare and Family Resources
Graduate students are eligible for childcare support through Pitt's Child and Family Care resources.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Pitt's Innovation Institute supports students with intellectual property protection, commercialization, mentoring, and educational programming.
Campus Support Services
Student Health Services: 412-383-1800, 119 University Place
University Counseling Center: 412-648-7930
Disability Resources and Services: 412-648-7890, 140 William Pitt Union
LGBTQIA+ Resources
Financial Aid: 412-624-7488, 130 Thackeray Hall
University Registrar: 412-624-7600, 220 Thackeray Hall
Graduate Tuition and Fees | Academic Calendar | Campus Map
For additional University-wide graduate student resources, visit Pitt Graduate Studies.