International Student and Scholar Services
Students talking to each other at tables in the WMU Student Center.

Apply to Study English Language at WMU!

At the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students, we focus on your individual well-being so you can better learn the critical skills needed to build a meaningful career.

Pre-Application Information

Explore deadlines, cost of attendance and funding opportunities.

Application deadlines to the Center for English Language and Culture vary by semester.

  • The deadline for Spring Semester is Nov. 15. This term begins in early January.
  • The deadline for Summer One Semester is March 15. This term begins in early May.
  • The deadline for Summer Two Semester is May 15. This term begins in early July.
  • The deadline for Fall Semester is July 15. This term begins late August. 

For students needing visas, it is recommended to apply 180 days in advance of your desired start date to allow additional time for application and consular processing.

Consular Processing Times

If your application deadline has passed, you may email the admissions team at International Student and Scholar Services, @email. While we cannot guarantee late-admission to the desired semester, we will do our best to process the application.

Admission to The Center for English Language and Culture for International Students requires proof of financial resources. Tuition and fees depend on the program you pursue.

Additional Financial Considerations

  • Inflation: Be prepared for potential cost increases due to inflation and other academic factors.
  • Tuition discounts may be available for spouses or dependents of full-time students at Western Michigan University, students studying online, domestic students and students coming from one of WMU's partner universities. Contact the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students to find out if you are eligible. 

Application Requirements

Ready to apply? Here is what you need to complete your application.

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

Upload proof of sufficient funds. 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.

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.

International students and friends posing on camera during graduation season. They wear academic regalia.

Start your application to the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students. 

Apply to the Center for English Language
International students outside the Student Center on WMU's main campus during orientation. They make W symbols with their hands for Western Michigan University.

Explore exciting short-term study opportunities available at WMU.

Apply for a Short-Term Program or Exchange
A WMU student walking in a hallway smiling at a camera. She carries a backpack.

Pathway is a dual-enrollment program so you can take academic courses while satisfying English proficiency requirements. 

Apply to the Center's Pathway Program

Additional Information for Applicants to the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students

Find additional information and resources for applicants to the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students.

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.

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.
More About Accessibility Resources at WMU