Practical Information

 

Practical Information for Other Visiting Scholars
We encourage scholars from abroad to engage with our faculty and students, and with the Pittsburgh community. Because we receive a large number of requests from potential visiting scholars, we are unable to accept all opportunities. While the ESC often facilitates visits of scholars from Europe or working on topics related to Europe, the decision process is often decentralized to a departmental level (or other relevant units). Nevertheless, there are some common elements of consideration:

  • The prospective visitor’s educational and experiential background, scholarly achievements, area of academic interest, and English language skills (a minimum level of competency is required for some visas)
     
  • The specific research proposal
     
  • Institutional affiliations (possibilities for longer-term collaboration)
     
  • Most importantly, the availability and interest of a Pitt faculty member to supervise or collaborate in the proposed research project or otherwise mentor the prospective visitor


Airport
The nearest airport to the University of Pittsburgh is the Pittsburgh International Airport. It is a 30-40-minute drive to the University from the airport. Rental cars, taxis, and public transportation are readily available at the airport. The cost of a taxi from Pittsburgh International Airport to the University of Pittsburgh is approximately $60. Both Uber and Lyft also operate in Pittsburgh.

The 28X Airport Express (Port Authority Transit bus) (412-442-2000) is very reliable and inexpensive, just several dollars. The bus runs every 30 minutes from the ground transportation area of the airport. The driver does not carry change, so have small bills and change on hand. The bus stops in Oakland at the Corner of Fifth Ave. and Bigelow Blvd, directly opposite the Cathedral of Learning.
 

Housing
Prospective visitors should realize that, unless their visits coincide with the academic year, securing reasonably affordable short-term housing in the Pittsburgh area may be difficult. The European Studies Center can assist you in your search but cannot act as a housing office for long term visitors. 

University of Pittsburgh Housing Services offers a wide-range of housing types to suit your lifestyle during your tenure as an undergraduate on-campus resident. Pitt’s on-campus housing options range from the rich diversity of the residence halls to the more self-reliant environment of apartment-style accommodations. 

Off-Campus Living is dedicated to providing Pitt students with the necessary information and tools to successfully reside in off-campus accommodations, including an informative Renter’s Guide, apartment listings, neighborhood descriptions, and a roommate and subletting service.