International Student and Scholar Services
CELCIS Admissions- Hero

Study English as a Second Language at Western Michigan University

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 and craft a life well-lived.

Established in 1975, the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students provides high-quality, English-language instruction for non-native speakers who will use English to study at an American college or in the workplace. 

Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5245 USA
(269) 387-5890

Pre-Application Information

Explore deadlines, cost of attendance, and funding opportunities.

Application deadlines vary by semester.

CELCIS Application Deadlines
SemesterDeadlinesTerm Begins
SpringNov. 15Early January
SummerMarch 15Early May
Summer II onlyMay 15Early July
FallJuly 15Late August

For students needing visas, it is recommended to apply 180 days in advance of desired semester start date to allow additional time for application/consular processing as some consulates have long wait times. 

Consular Processing Times

 

If your application deadline has passed, you may email @email. We cannot guarantee late-admission to the desired semester but we will do our best to process the application.

CELCIS students must provide proof of financial resources

Tuition and fees depend on the ESL structure that students will 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/dependents of full-time students at Western Michigan University, students studying online, domestic students and students coming from one of WMU's partner universities. Discounts are subject to change in future semesters. Contact CELCIS 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.

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

Apply to the Center for English Language
Students making W hands in front of the Student Center.

Explore exciting short-term study opportunities available at WMU.

Apply for a Short-Term Program or Exchange
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Pathway is a dual-enrollment program so you can take academic courses while satisfying English proficiency requirements. 

Apply to the Center's Pathway Program
Students studying

Learn about the Center for English Language and Culture

More about the Center for English Language

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