We look forward to welcoming you to Boston College. Whether you are joining us for move-in, Orientation, Family Weekend, or another campus event, visiting is a great way to experience our vibrant community. Boston College is easily accessible by car or public transportation.
The Essentials
A three-day Parent and Family Orientation runs concurrently with the Student Orientation program. This program is designed to support the adjustment process that occurs when a student leaves home for college and to familiarize parents and guardians with the resources that are available within the Boston College community. Parents and guardians will hear from Boston College students, faculty, and administrators about this exciting and challenging transition.
Through panels, discussions, and informal conversations you will have the opportunity to learn more about academic expectations and community standards. During this time, offices and services across campus will be open for consultation. The Parent/Family Program is not required, and you are welcome to come and go from the program as you wish or require.
Boston College asks that students and their families arrive and depart on the designated dates. Following the assigned move-in and move-out schedule helps reduce traffic, speeds up the process for everyone, and ensures our administrative and facilities teams have the time they need to prepare the residence halls. During drop-off and pick-up, it鈥檚 especially helpful for families to follow the instructions of on-site staff. There may be specific directions regarding where to unload, park, or wait to maintain a smooth traffic flow and ensure accessibility for all. Your cooperation helps make the experience easier and more efficient for all members of the Boston College community.
Family Weekend at Boston College is typically held in late September and offers a wonderful opportunity for families to reconnect with their students and engage with the campus community. The weekend includes an open house highlighting campus programs and services, a keynote address from the University President and other senior leaders, and, of course, the excitement of football and tailgating. Families are also invited to conclude their visit by attending the Family Liturgy on Sunday morning. This is an ideal time to check in with your student about their transition to college or any new experiences they may be navigating.
Game Day & Tailgating Info
- Tailgating is permitted starting 4 hours before kickoff and for 1 hour after the game ends (only if tailgating started before 3 pm. Please note: Tailgating is not permitted outside of these hours and expressly prohibited during the game.
- Tailgating areas include designated campus lots. Alcohol use is restricted to those 21 and over, and respectful behavior is expected at all times.
- FanFest begins 4 hours before kickoff outside the Margot Connell Recreation Center, with music, games, and performances by the 吃瓜网 Marching Band and Spirit Squads.
- The Eagle Walk鈥攁 campus tradition鈥攖akes place approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes before kickoff. Head toward the path between Robsham and Alumni Stadium to welcome the team!
For complete details, including parking, stadium policies, bag rules, and more, please visit the Football Gameday Information page.
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Visiting the Mods (for Guests 21+ Only)
If you're planning to visit the Modular Apartments (Mods) during your time on campus, please be aware of the following:
- The Mods are restricted to individuals 21+. Anyone under 21 should not enter the area. Parents accompanying their underage students are permitted but must be with their children at all times.
- To enter, individuals must present a valid government-issued ID (no photos accepted).
- Tailgating in the Mods is only allowed during designated hours鈥攏ot during the game or outside permitted times. We appreciate your cooperation of going inside or to the game at the request of staff. 30 minutes before kick-off, the Mods become "exit only," except for students who live in the Mods, to facilitate clearing the Mods for the game. For safety purposes, glass bottles are not allowed outside the Mods.
Be respectful of student residents. Noise, trash, and policy violations negatively impact this student community.
General Reminders for All Attendees
To ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, Boston College policies remain in effect throughout the weekend, including:
- Alcohol Policy: No one under 21 should be consuming or in the presence of alcohol. Providing alcohol to minors is strictly prohibited. Drinking games are not allowed.
- Smoking Policy: 吃瓜网 is a smoke-free campus鈥攏o smoking is permitted anywhere, including the Mods.
- Help-Seeking Policy: If anyone is experiencing intoxication or medical distress, call emergency services immediately. Students who seek help will not face disciplinary follow-up but will be connected to supportive resources.
For more information, visit the
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Commencement is a proud and joyful milestone for students and their families, marking the culmination of years of hard work, growth, and transformation. Held each on the third Monday in May, Boston College鈥檚 Commencement includes a University-wide ceremony in Alumni Stadium, followed by individual diploma ceremonies across campus for each school and college. The day features addresses from the University President, distinguished guests, and student speakers, all celebrating the academic and personal achievements of the graduating class. It is a time of reflection, gratitude, and excitement for what lies ahead.
Three Things to Know听
Nearby Accommodations
Boston College is located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, approximately 6 miles west of downtown Boston. There are many accommodation options in the area. While Boston College keeps a list of area hotels, we strongly recommend that visitors consult with each hotel regarding rates and discounts. We also suggest the use of mapping services, such as Google Maps, to understand hotel locations better.
Some of the hotels near Boston College will offer discounts to Boston College visitors. These rates may change throughout the year. We recommend asking about discounts when making your reservation.
Parking and Transportation
Visitor Parking: Parking is available in the University's two central garages鈥搕he Commonwealth Avenue Garage and the Beacon Street Garage. Upon entry to the garage, all visitors must take a ticket. A paid or validated ticket is required to exit the garage. Parking is free for special events such as orientation, residence hall move-in, family weekend, and commencement.听
Football Parking:听Parking on campus for the game is only available with a 吃瓜网 Athletics permit. Visit the听吃瓜网 Eagles 听for more details on game day parking and transportation.
Getting to Campus Using Public Transportation:听The Massachusetts Bay Transit System (MBTA), called the T, is a trolley system that travels above and below ground. The different lines of the T are color-coded. Boston College is located at the end of the "B" line branch of the T's听Green Line. Travel time from downtown Boston outbound to Boston College is approximately 45 minutes.听
Campus Accessibility听
Boston College is committed to providing an accessible and welcoming experience for all visitors. Accessible parking is available in designated areas across campus, and most campus buildings and event spaces are equipped with ramps, elevators, and automatic doors. If you or a member of your party requires accommodations during your visit, we encourage you to contact the appropriate office in advance so we can best support your needs.