.. when you get here
There are a whole lot of things that need to be done after you have arrived on campus.
1) Get a photo id from the ID office
2) Get an email account that will allow you to log in to University domains.
These tasks will be taken care of during the orientation conducted by the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS)
3) Apply for a social security number (SSN).
Traditionally everyone could apply for a SSN through OISS during orientation. However things have changed during the last two years and now only those who have some sort of a job(assistantship or hourly) can apply for one. Once you have a job you need to go to Portsmouth (about 12 miles from UNH) to apply. Frequent buses that stop right outside the concerned office building make things very easy.
4) Attend your department orientation and/or meet your advisor
5) Open a bank account
Almost all students have a bank account with 'Federal Savings Bank' which is just a 5-10 minute walk from almost anywhere on campus. ('Bank of America' is far more widespread but the nearest bank is in Dover, about 6-7 miles away). Be sure to take your passport and I-20 with you when you go to open an account.
6) Pay your fees and/or set up payroll deductions
The deadline for fee payment is normally about two weeks after classes have started. If you have a job you can also arrange to have your fees/living expenses deducted from each pay cheque. The amount of the deduction depends on how much you need to pay.
7) Update your ID number to your SSN
Once you obtain your SSN (normally 2-3 weeks after you have applied for one), you need to inform the International Office, Graduate School (Thompson Hall), ID office and Payroll department of the arrival of your SSN card. They will make a copy for the record, modify your Internation ID number (beginning with 930) to your SSN and return your card to you. Memorize the number on the card.