International Admissions

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International Student and Scholar Services
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5246 USA
(269) 387-5865

Before you apply

Review cost of attendance, deadlines, English proficiency requirements and scholarship opportunities.

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International Undergraduate Admissions Information

Varsha Sundareswaran

International Graduate Admissions Information

Students studying

English Language Learning Admissions Information

Students making W hands in front of the Student Center.

Short-Term Exchange

Next Steps

Step 1 - Complete Online Application

  • Create an account on the application portal.
  • Complete the online application form.
Undergraduate Application
Graduate Application

Please note, the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences graduate school hosts its own application. Students interested in graduate-level engineering degrees should apply here:

Graduate Engineering Application - Spring 2026
Graduate Engineering Application - Summer 2026, Fall 2026, Spring 2027

Step 2 - Upload Your Documents

Please upload the following documents as part of your application:

  • Undergraduate applicants: transcripts/mark-sheets from all secondary and post-secondary schools attended or currently attending
  • Graduate applicants: transcripts/mark-sheets from the institution where the Bachelor's degree was (or will be) earned, plus any additional post-secondary schools attended or currently attending
  • Diplomas, examination results, and certificates (as applicable)
  • The official grading scales that correspond to your transcripts.

Unofficial transcripts and other academic documents are acceptable for admission decision-making. Uploaded documents will show as received only AFTER an admissions counselor has completed the evaluation. 

The Office of International Student and Scholar Services (I3S) may accept credential evaluation reports from certain credential evaluation services to make admission decision at Western Michigan University for undergraduate and graduate international admissions. Although it is not required, we strongly encourage submission of evaluation reports to expedite application processing and decision-making. Newly admitted and enrolled students are required to send your official high school or university transcripts and proof of degree before the beginning of the second semester of your studies.

Following are the evaluation agencies that you may use to get your transcripts evaluated:

  • The Evaluation Company - WMU is a proud partner of The Evaluation Company, which offers a partnership discount. Click here to receive your discounted evaluation.
  • World Education Services: www.wes.org
  • Educational Credential Evaluators: www.ece.org
  • Academic Evaluation Services: www.academicevaluations.org
  • Global Credential Evaluators: www.gceus.com

*Official Transcripts

Official transcripts can be sent from the issuing institutions to WMU in the following ways:

  • Electronic: Transcripts can be emailed directly to @email by the issuing institution.
  • Mail: Transcripts can be mailed to Office of International Student and Scholar Services, Western Michigan University, 1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5246.
  • Hand-delivered: Transcripts in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution can be dropped off in the office of International Student and Scholar Services in 3110 Faunce Student Services Building.

Documents sent by the student cannot be accepted as official. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at @email or at (269) 387-5865.

If any document is not issued in English, also provide an official English Translation of each document.

For students from certain countries, your educational system may provide exam results rather than traditional transcripts. Please upload these documents along with any official grading scales. Ensure that all documents are in English or include certified translations if they are issued in another language.

Proof of degree is a crucial component of your graduate application, as it verifies that you have completed the necessary educational requirements for admission. Acceptable forms include a copy of your diploma or official transcripts from your previous institutions, clearly indicating the degree earned and the date of graduation. This documentation helps the admissions committee assess your qualifications and ensures you meet the program prerequisites. 

Official Test Scores

Official test scores can be sent directly from the testing agency to Western Michigan University. For TOEFL, use WMU's Institutional Code 1902.

Score reports generated by a testing agency may be submitted in several ways:

  • Electronic: Test scores can be emailed directly to @email by the issuing agency.
  • Mail: Test scores can be mailed to Office of International Student and Scholar Services, Western Michigan University, 1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5246.
  • Hand-delivered: Official scores in a sealed envelope from the issuing agency can be dropped off in the office of International Student and Scholar Services in 3110 Faunce Student Services Building.

Please note that documents sent by the student cannot be accepted as official. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at @email or at (269) 387-5865.

View English Proficiency Requirements and Exceptions

Upload proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at WMU according to the estimated cost of attendance. This should be a bank statement covering the full cost of attendance. If the bank statement is not in your name, then additionally provide a letter signed by your financial sponsor indicating their commitment to pay your cost of attendance.

Exception: A financial/bank statement is acceptable without a signed sponsorship letter/affidavit of support if it is in the name of either parent as shown on the passport page or other government-issued ID.

If you have received any scholarships, upload the official award letters. These should detail the scholarship amount, duration and any conditions attached.

Scholarships For International Students
Other WMU Scholarships

Upload a clear copy of your passport's identification page. If applicable, also include the passport family information page.

Step 3 - Pay the Application Fee

To complete your application, you must submit a non-refundable application fee of $100. This fee is required for processing your application and securing your place in the admissions queue. Payment can be made online through the application portal using a credit or debit card. Please note that this fee is not refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application. Ensure that you complete this step to avoid any delays in the review of your application.

Please note, the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences requires a $158 application fee for its graduate college. The additional $58 will be reimbursed to students who enroll in and attend the program.

International Undergraduate Application Information

International students must provide proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at Western Michigan University. This proof is essential for immigration purposes and should cover the estimated total cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees and living expenses. 

Estimated Costs for 2025-2026

The following table outlines the estimated costs for one academic year:

Estimated cost chart: 2025-2026 (actual costs will vary)
  Regular AdmissionCollege of Engineering
and Applied Sciences		College of Fine ArtsHaworth College of Business
Dual Enrollment Pathway Program (ESL (CELCIS) + university coursework)Tuition and fees$16,419$17,864$17,165$17,024
Living expenses*$17,614$17,614$17,614$17,614
Total (one academic year)$34,033$35,478$34,779$34,638
Undergraduate 
Lower-level
Up to 55 credits   		Tuition and fees $21,408$23,017 $23,557 $21,408
Living expenses* $17,614 $17,614$17,614 $17,614
Total (one academic year) $39,022 $40,631 $41,171 $39,022
Undergraduate 
Upper-level
56 or more credits   		Tuition and fees $23,328 $24,937 $25,477 $25,069
Living expenses* $17,614 $17,614 $17,614 $17,614
Total (one academic year) $40,942 $42,551 $43,091 $42,683

Note: These figures are estimates for immigration purposes only. Actual costs may vary. For an individual estimate of expected cost of attendance, visit the WMU Registrar's Office. 

*Estimated Living Expenses

  • Books and Supplies - $1,128
  • Room and Board (can vary depending on personal preference) - $12,951
  • Personal Expenses - $2,046
  • Health Insurance -$1,489

Additional Financial Considerations

  • Dependents: Students bringing a dependent must provide an additional $4,000 per year.
  • Inflation: Be prepared for potential cost increases due to inflation and other academic factors.
  • Differential Tuition Rates: The College of Engineering, the College of Fine Arts and the Haworth College of Business have differential tuition rates.

For full admission to the University and for immigration purposes, international students must provide proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at WMU.

To demonstrate sufficient funds, students may submit:

  • A bank statement in the student's name showing adequate funds.
  • If the bank statement is not in the student's name:
    • A letter signed by the financial sponsor indicating their relationship to the student and their commitment to cover the cost of attendance.
    • Financial statements in parents' names are acceptable without a sponsorship letter if their names are shown in the student's passport or government-issued ID.

Important Notes

  • All documents must be in English.
  • If original documents are not in English, certified English translations must be submitted.
  • Proof of sufficient funds must be presented during the visa interview at the United States Consulate.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency to enter a degree-seeking program at Western Michigan University. Students who do not meet the minimum requirements to begin academic coursework may begin in the WMU Center for English Language and Culture for International Students (CELCIS).

See Requirements and Exceptions

 Application deadlines vary by semester. 

Undergraduate Application Deadlines
SemesterDeadlineTerm Begins
FallMay 1Late August
SpringSeptember 1Early January
Summer IFebruary 1Early May

The WMU application system will not accept late submissions. If your application deadline has passed but you would still like to be considered, please email @email. We cannot guarantee late-admission to the desired semester but we will do our best to process the application.

For students needing visas, it is recommended to apply early. The U.S. government will allow admitted students to apply for their F visas up to 365 days in advance. Please note that students with visas are allowed to enter the United States only within 30 days of their program start date.

Consular Processing Times

Global Education Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

WMU is proud of its deep and historic commitment to international student success and well-being. We are among only 50% of public universities to offer a scholarship designed for international students.

  • Our Global Education Undergraduate Merit Scholarship, valued up to $10,000 per academic year, can be applied to your WMU tuition throughout the duration of your program.  
  • Read the full terms and conditions.

Other Scholarship Opportunities

  • Academic colleges and departments offer scholarships.
  • Deadlines and eligibility criteria vary by colleges and departments.
  • Students are encouraged to explore WMU Scholarship Universe for additional opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria for Forms DS-2019 for J-1 academic student category 

  • Program is carried out under a written agreement between WMU and a foreign academic institution or foreign government;
  • Program or student is financed by the US government, student's home country government or qualifying international organization; or
  • Student is supported substantially by funding from any source other than personal or family funds, which must be at least 50 percent of funding for the entire program at the time of application.

For current enrolled WMU J-1 students who are matriculating between levels:

  • May be eligible for a Form DS-2019 to continue studies with proof of full WMU assistantship/associateship for at least one year of funding with possibility of renewal, provided all other eligibility requirements are met.  The Form DS-2019 will be noted accordingly.
  • Additional proof of funding required for dependents.
Application Step by Step Guide

International Graduate Application Information

International students must provide proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at Western Michigan University. This proof is essential for immigration purposes and should cover the estimated total cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees and living expenses. 

Estimated cost chart: 2025-2026 (actual costs will vary)
Dual Enrollment Pathway Program (ESL (CELCIS) + graduate coursework)Tuition and fees$16,516
Living Expenses*$17,162
Total (one academic year)$33,678
Graduate Study (12 credits per year)Tuition and fees $17,482
Living expenses* $17,162
Total (one academic year) $34,644

Note: These figures are estimates for immigration purposes only. Actual costs may vary. For an individual estimate of expected cost of attendance, visit the WMU Registrar's Office. 

*Estimated Living Expenses

  • Books and Supplies - $676
  • Room and Board (can vary depending on personal preference) - $12,951
  • Personal Expenses - $2,046
  • Health Insurance -$1,489

Additional Financial Considerations

  • Dependents: Students bringing a dependent must provide an additional $4,000 per year.
  • Inflation: Be prepared for potential cost increases due to inflation and other academic factors.

For full admission to the University and for immigration purposes, international students must provide proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at WMU.

To demonstrate sufficient funds, students may submit:

  • A bank statement in the student's name showing adequate funds.
  • If the bank statement is not in the student's name:
    • A letter signed by the financial sponsor indicating their relationship to the student and their commitment to cover the cost of attendance.
    • Financial statements in parents' names are acceptable without a sponsorship letter if their names are shown in the student's passport or government-issued ID.

Important Notes

  • All documents must be in English.
  • If original documents are not in English, certified English translations must be submitted.
  • Proof of sufficient funds must be presented during the visa interview at the United States Consulate.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency to enter a degree-seeking program at Western Michigan University. Students who do not meet the minimum requirements to begin academic coursework may begin in the WMU Center for English Language and Culture for International Students (CELCIS).

Read Requirements and Exceptions

Application deadlines vary by semester. Graduate applicants should follow deadlines outlined by the department to which they are applying; if a department deadline is not specified, follow the general graduation application deadlines below.

It is recommended to apply in December or earlier for the fall semester to maximize your eligibility for funding awards as most assistantships are reviewed between January and March.

Review Deadlines by Graduate Program

 

Graduate Application Deadlines
SemesterDeadlineTerm Begins
FallMarch 1Late August
SpringJuly 1Early January
SummerDecember 1Early May

The WMU application system will not accept late submissions. If your application deadline has passed but you would still like to be considered, please email @email. We cannot guarantee late-admission to the desired semester but we will do our best to process the application.

For students needing visas, it is recommended to apply early. The U.S. government will allow admitted students to apply for their F visas up to 365 days in advance. Please note that students with visas are allowed to enter the United States only within 30 days of their program start date.

Consular Processing Times

Global Education Graduate Merit Scholarship

WMU is proud of its deep and historic commitment to international student success and well-being. We are among only 50% of public universities to offer a scholarship designed for international students.

  • Our Global Education Graduate Merit Scholarship, valued up to $10,000 per academic year, can be applied to your WMU tuition throughout the duration of your program.  
  • Read the full terms and conditions.

Graduate Appointments

Graduate students can apply for various assistantships and fellowships that provide financial support while gaining valuable experience. Students should contact their academic departments for specific opportunities.

Other Scholarship Opportunities

  • Academic colleges and departments offer scholarships.
  • Deadlines and eligibility criteria vary by colleges and departments.
  • Students are encouraged to explore WMU Scholarship Universe for additional opportunities.

Many graduate programs require various supporting materials, including written narrative statements, specific standardized tests, letters of reference and online recommendations. Applicants should carefully review the application requirements for their program of interest to ensure they submit all the necessary documentation.

Check Program Requirements

Eligibility Criteria for Forms DS-2019 for J-1 academic student category 

  • Program is carried out under a written agreement between WMU and a foreign academic institution or foreign government;
  • Program or student is financed by the US government, student's home country government or qualifying international organization; or
  • Student is supported substantially by funding from any source other than personal or family funds, which must be at least 50 percent of funding for the entire program at the time of application.

For current enrolled WMU J-1 students who are matriculating between levels:

  • May be eligible for a Form DS-2019 to continue studies with proof of full WMU assistantship/associateship for at least one year of funding with possibility of renewal, provided all other eligibility requirements are met.  The Form DS-2019 will be noted accordingly.
  • Additional proof of funding required for dependent
Application Step by Step Guide

Additional Information

In the event you experience problems with your application, do not submit a second application. Contact International Student and Scholar Services at @email or call (269) 387-5865, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.

Western Michigan University students who have completed university-level academic credit at another institution may be able to apply some of those credits toward a WMU degree. Credit equivalencies for select partner institutions are available. 

The following guidelines outline WMU's policies regarding the transfer of credits:

  1. Admission Status: Credit evaluations will only be processed after a student has been admitted to Western Michigan University (WMU).
  2. Eligible Institutions: Transfer credits will be considered only from institutions listed on your application.
  3. Undergraduate Students: Credit evaluations are conducted exclusively for undergraduate students. Graduate students must consult with their academic advisors to request transfer credits.
  4. Official Transcripts:
    • An official transcript (original document) must be submitted to the International Student and Scholar Services office before a credit evaluation can be requested.
    • Note that photocopies, faxed copies or scanned versions of official transcripts are not accepted as official documents.
  5. International Transcripts:
    • Transcripts from institutions outside the United States must include an English translation.
    • The international institution must be recognized by the relevant government agency, such as the Ministry of Higher Education in the respective country.
  6. Processing Time: The typical processing time for a credit evaluation is at least 10 business days.
  7. Additional Documentation: For some transfer courses, students may need to provide detailed course descriptions and syllabi for evaluation.
  8. International Transfer Credit Guide: For additional information, please see the International Transfer Credit Guide.
Credit Equivalencies

Disability Services for Students at Western Michigan University strives to make education accessible and remove barriers to student success.

Reasonable academic adjustments and accommodations include but are not limited to:

  • Testing accommodations.
  • Visual interpreting.
  • Textbooks in alternate formats.
Learn More About Available Resources
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. 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.
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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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