Are you provided with detailed information on the research programme at the outset and the rules and regulations that apply?
Are you offered an interview with the programme director or a potential supervisor to explore the match between your research interests and the research activities and abilities of the supervisor?
Is there a research training programme or, at the very least, a series of seminars on research methods, to provide you with knowledge and opportunities to meet other researchers?
Is there a culture of conference attendance by supervisors and research students that will give you the opportunity to present papers and discuss your research with others?
Are the library services, photocopying, printing, computer and other facilities adequate?
Will you have access to common rooms where you can meet fellow researchers?
Will you have access to facilities at evenings and weekends?
If the institution is fairly large, is there a regular newsletter to help you keep in touch?