First Days

We all know that the first day on the job can be exciting but can also be overwhelming. You will be introduced to new people, new policies and procedures, new responsibilities and a new culture. This portal was designed to help equip you with the tools and resources you need to help ease your transition. Please note: Many of the links, services and documents may only be accessible with a Harvard email.

Email Account Access

Before logging into your Harvard email, we need to confirm that your Office 365 account is active.

Return to key.harvard.edu. Select the hyperlink "Manage Your Account & Services". Log in using your Harvard email and password. In the "Manage Your Service" box (image below), it should say "active" for both items. If one says "activate", click that link and follow the steps to activate.

Once activated, visit mso.harvard.edu. On the right column (image below), select Login Type "Office 365 for Harvard" and then click on "O365 Outlook Web App". Log in using your Harvard email and password . If you receive an error message, please send a screenshot to Amy Mendez.

Harvard ID Card

A Harvard ID card can be obtained after being hired into the Harvard payroll system and no earlier than your first day. There are two ID office locations.

Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center 8th floor (1350 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge, MA 02138-3846)
- Hours: Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  Sat – Sun and University Holidays: closed
- Walk-ins welcome. The photo will be taken on site. Be sure to bring a photo ID, such as a driver's license, state issued ID card, or passport.
Harvard Longwood ID Office; New Research Building - NRB (77 Avenue Louis Pasteur; Room 133, Boston, MA 02115)
- Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
  Sat – Sun and University Holidays: closed
- Walk-ins welcome. The photo will be taken on site. Be sure to bring a photo ID, such as a driver's license, state issued ID card, or passport.

PeopleSoft Time Reporting and Absence Management

PeopleSoft is Harvard’s HR management tool, and you will use it for many aspects of your employment including timesheet entry and absence management. By the end of your first day, log into PeopleSoft to input your direct deposit information as well as updating your state/federal tax information, if appropriate.

Timesheet/Absence Deadlines:

- Timesheets for the week are submitted by 5:00 pm each Friday. Managers approve timesheets by 4:00 pm the following Monday.
- Absences are submitted and approved by 4:00 pm every Friday.

PeopleSoft Absence & Time Reporting Resources

Sign Up for Direct Deposit

Through the PeopleSoft portal, paid employees enter their direct deposit information. The University takes 5-8 business to process the request so it is strongly encouraged to complete this information on your first day. You have the option to split your check across multiple accounts, by percentage or dollar value. Details instructions can be found here.

Benefits Enrollment

Through the PeopleSoft portal, benefits-eligible employees have 30 days to elect/opt out of benefits coverage. If you have any questions regarding benefits enrollment, please contact the benefits office at 617-496-4001.

Transportation Resources

There are many resources available related to commuting and transportation. If using MBTA, order your pass by the 4th of the month. For example, if you would like an April pass, you must order it by 11:59 PM on March 4th. If driving, parking is free. Those working in Hunnewell need to receive a parking sticker.

Harvard Athletic Facilities

Harvard’s athletics facilities offers membership to staff, faculty, students, alumni and eligible family members. In addition to personal trainers and fitness classes, facilities include gyms in several locations with cardio and weight rooms. Depending on the facility, there are also basketball and squash courts, pools, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, and more.

Harvard Policies & Procedures

The following policies are natural outgrowths of the Arboretum's position as a global citizen and leader in the field:

All Harvard University Wide Policies can be found at hr.harvard.edu

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