Study Abroad

Study abroad is an experience through which students gain major, minor, essential studies and/or elective academic credits while living and learning outside the United States. By studying abroad, you will be equipped with global knowledge, cross-cultural skills, and a broadened perspective—giving you a competitive edge in the job market and fostering lifelong learning and global connections. Programs vary in length, location and academic focus. Whether you're exploring sustainable development in Costa Rica, studying business in Japan, or immersing yourself in art and culture in Italy, you'll return with a broader perspective and deeper understanding of the world around you.

Study Abroad
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5245 USA
(269) 387-5890

julie syler in france
My study abroad experience has been an experience of a lifetime! My favorite part about studying abroad has been getting to try new things and learn from others. This experience has been full of opportunity and I am grateful for the growth I have experienced because of it.
— Julie Syler, France Study Abroad Student, Summer '25

Virtual Information Sessions

We consider Virtual Information Sessions one of the first steps in the study abroad process. During this virtual session, we will discuss frequently asked questions and guide students on how to find study abroad programs that meet their needs.
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1,050+

international students on campus representing 95 foreign countries

—Fall Enrollment Data, 2025

520+

students studying abroad in 30 countries, on average, each year

—Study Abroad Enrollment Data, 2024-2025

11,000 +

globally engaged students on campus

—Global Engagement Program Participation Data, 2024-2025

About the Haenicke Institute for Global Education

Your journey at Western Michigan University is a global one. Through transformative events, immersive classes and Experience-Driven Learning, the Haenicke Institute for Global Education connects Kalamazoo to the world—and the world to Kalamazoo. We assist more than 2,000 international students and alumni at home and abroad with admissions, immigration support, student success and post-graduation job training. We host 80+ study abroad programs and bring students, faculty and staff to 30 countries, on average, each year.  From fostering academic opportunities to showcasing cultural events and providing K-12 outreach, the Haenicke Institute promotes learning that transcends borders and takes you wherever you want to go.  

A young man making the Western W with his hands.

International Student and Scholar Services

International Student and Scholar Services is responsible for international student recruitment, admissions and immigration support.
A student holding a WMU flag at a foreign location.

Study Abroad

WMU Study Abroad supports more than 80 programs around the world, sending students, faculty and staff to 30 countries, on average, each year.
Students talking on campus

Global Engagement Program

The Global Engagement Program provides opportunities for all  students at Western Michigan University to become globally engaged. 
Students studying

English Language Learning

The Center for English Language and Culture for International Students offers short- and long-term intensive English language study.
WMU staff helping young children learn about Asia.

Asian Initiatives

WMU Asian Initiatives enhances scholarship and knowledge of East Asia on campus and throughout southwest Michigan.
A student and teacher in a WMU classroom.

Faculty Enrichment

The Haenicke Institute supports partnerships with more than 100 international institutions, offering options to faculty who are interested in collaboration and exchange.
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More about Global Education at WMU

Global Education News

Ciccantell and Lambert

Western Michigan University faculty gain global perspective through University of Passau exchange program

Dr. Anna and Tania in Puebla

Building global connections through the classroom: WMU’s Global Classrooms Collaborative

A promotional image for International Education Week

Haenicke Institute for Global Education announces International Education Week 2025

Dr. Pnina Ari-Gur, Chef Andrew Francisco

Global Engagement Award recognizes efforts to welcome international scholars

New international students pose with Buster Bronco at orientation.

Western welcomes more than 275 new international students to campus

gilman scholarship

WMU Study Abroad honors eight recipients of the prestigious Gilman Scholarship

germany presley

WMU's Haenicke Institute recognizes 47 faculty, staff and student leaders for transformative study abroad programs

Dr. Rosemary Max 6x4

WMU welcomes new associate vice president of global education

Greg Jasperse, associate professor of applied jazz voice, teaches a voice lesson at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa.

WMU faculty head to South Africa, Thailand this summer on Fulbright Specialist Awards

CAS Magazine Cover

Learning across the globe in WMU's College of Arts and Sciences

Students receiving awards at a Global Engagement Program Awards ceremony in April 2025.

Nearly 180 students recognized for global engagement on WMU’s campus

A group of WMU students studying in Ecuador.

Study abroad at Western yields higher student success

More Global Education News
More WMU Campus News

Global Events

Travel Signature Event for International Students

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025 — 9 a.m. to noon
Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 — 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Faunce Student Services
Are you traveling over Thanksgiving or Winter Break? These events offer international students extra days to obtain a travel signature!

International Health Insurance Webinar

Nov. 18
3 to 4 p.m.
Attend an upcoming international student insurance webinar and learn more about what’s covered and how to use your GeoBlue plan.

Study Abroad Information Session

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025 — 4 to 4:30 p.m.
Virtual with WMU Study Abroad
Discuss frequently asked questions and learn how to find study abroad programs that meet your academic needs.

Conversation Circle

Nov. 19
2 to 3 p.m.
Lee Honors College
Help international students make connections and practice conversational English.

Global Social

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025 — 2 to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025 — 2 to 4 p.m.
WMU Student Center
Global Socials are an opportunity to participate in fun cross-cultural activities, guest speeches and events, while mingling with fellow domestic and international students.

OPT Workshops for International Students

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 — 11 a.m. to noon
Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025 — 10 to 11 a.m.
3110 Faunce Student Services
Students with F-1 visas can learn how to apply for U.S. temporary employment authorization to gain field-related work experience.
More Global Education Events
More WMU Campus Events