You’ve moved into your dorm or apartment, purchased your textbooks, and are eagerly awaiting the first day of classes. Now what?
Deciding to pursue graduate school is a big step in life. We’re so glad you’ve found your way to the University of Pittsburgh Department of Computational and Systems Biology! We’re sure you have many questions about life at Pitt, so we’ve assembled a list of frequently asked questions to make your transition to campus a little easier.
How do I get a student ID?
Your Pitt ID is an essential tool needed to access campus resources. Before arriving on campus, please upload your photo to Panther Central so it can be processed for your Pitt ID. Read more about photo submission guidelines. Once you upload your photo, you will receive instructions on where to pick up your ID card. You will need to have the card with you on orientation day.
You will also need to complete this form to access the Fifth and Halket Building. Physical cards are the only thing that will work in our building; mobile ID is not compatible with the building.
How do I ride the bus?
You can ride Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) buses with the Ready2Ride App. All eligible Pitt students may ride PRT buses, light rails and inclines within Allegheny County free of charge. To use the Ready2Ride app, simply follow these instructions to download and use your monthly pass.
How do I get a parking pass?
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time on campus, you may want to consider purchasing a student parking permit. Mobility Services offers a variety of parking permits for resident students, commuter students and evening students. Learn more about how to purchase a parking permit.
Is there a shuttle available?
Yes, the University offers a wide array of shuttle services to safely transport faculty, staff and students. All of Pitt’s shuttles are ADA-accessible and have bicycle racks located on the front of the vehicles. Learn more about shuttle services.
When is the last day to add/drop courses?
You must add or drop courses by September 4th, 2026.
Are all my classes in the Fifth and Halket Building?
Most of your classes will be in the Fifth and Halket Building. Seminar classes are in the Frick Fine Arts Building, and other electives will be in classrooms throughout Pitt’s campus. Your core Computational Biomedicine and Biotechnology classes will be taught in the Fifth and Halket classroom. Students enrolled in the Joint Carnegie Mellon-University of Pittsburgh PhD Program in Computational Biology may have classes at both campuses.
Where can we sit to work on homework or before/after classes?
There are “open seats” along the wall on the 10th floor near the windows that anyone can use. The cubicles are for PhD students only. The cafe also offers a variety of seating options for studying.
What do I need to do to get credit for my directed study (for CoBB students)?
You will need to turn in a form to Amanda Axelson by the end of the add/drop period that is filled out by you and your PI. If this is not filled out and signed by the due date, you will not get credit for it.
What health insurance is available to me, and how do I enroll or waive it?
Students may enroll in medical, dental and vision coverage on the Human Resources website. The 2026-27 Student Annual Enrollment period is now active through Sept. 30, 2026. Learn more about benefit options and eligibility. If you are having trouble, please contact Health Services Directly (833-852-2210).
Is there a health clinic or mental health services on campus?
Yes. Student Health Services and the Counseling Center are both located on campus. Learn more about clinical services.
Are there campus resources for international students?
Yes. The Office of International Services (OIS) provides immigration-related services for international visitors, students, faculty, researchers and staff at the University of Pittsburgh. Learn more about OIS.
Welcome to Pitt!
We hope this answers some of the concerns you have about starting your first semester. Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to a faculty or staff member for assistance.
Good luck this semester, Panthers!