International Student and Scholar Services

International Student Orientation

Congratulations on your admission to Western Michigan University! Our International Student Orientation is designed to help you make a smooth transition academically, socially, geographically and professionally to WMU. Orientation consists of two parts: a virtual portion to complete before your arrival in the United States, and an in-person campus event at the beginning of your first semester. There, you will receive a university welcome, meet immigration advisors, make new friends and more. 

Start your academic journey at WMU right by completing mandatory International Student Orientation. You can complete the online tasks at your own pace, so long as you are finished before your arrival in the United States. 

The in-person event on August 27 is a crucial part of your journey at WMU. You should arrive at WMU before August 27, so you are well-rested on orientation day. We will email you regular updates.

A WMU student sitting in front of her laptop while smiling in her apartment.

Virtual Modules for International Student Orientation

Start Today
Two WMU international student walking through the Student Center at International Student Orientation. Other international students converse and browse tables in the background.

Register for International Student Orientation

Reserve Your Spot

Here’s when you can expect to hear from us as you prepare for your global journey this fall. In addition to emails, updates will be posted regularly on our website.

  • June 24 - Welcome. Register for in-person orientation and begin virtual orientation modules.
  • July 8 - Key Information. Learn about class registration, housing, immigration and health insurance.
  • July 16 - Virtual Gathering. Meet the International Student and Scholar Services team.
  • July 22 - Prepare for Your Journey. Join the WhatsApp chat and secure your flight and transportation.
  • July 30 - Virtual Gathering. Get tips on travel and next steps as you prepare for departure.
  • August 12 - Final Check-In. Complete virtual modules and review information from our emails.
  • August 27 - In-Person Orientation in Kalamazoo!

Check back soon for a detailed schedule of events. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact us at oiss-info@wmich.edu with additional questions or concerns. 

Move-In Information from Residential Life for Fall 2026

Residence Halls (multiple buildings)

  • August 25 (Arrive any time after 9 a.m.)
    • Contact housing staff when you arrive. Phone numbers are posted on the main door and at the service desk.

Arcadia Flats Apartments

  • August 14
    • Please arrive between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to pick up your key at the Housing and Residence Life office. The office is on the top floor of Faunce Student Services.

Western View Apartments

  • August 14
    • Please arrive between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to pick up your key at the Housing and Residence Life office. The office is on the top floor of Faunce Student Services.

Spindler Hall

  • August 28
    • Please arrive between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to pick up your key at the Housing and Residence Life office. The office is on the top floor of Faunce Student Services.

Stadium Drive Apartments

  • August 28
    • Please arrive between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to pick up your key at the Housing and Residence Life office. The office is on the top floor of Faunce Student Services.

When you are ready to move in on August 25

When you arrive at your building, call the number posted on the main door of your building to alert staff you arrived and need to move in. Doors will be locked.

Early arrival charges

You will be charged for arriving prior to the start of the housing contract. The charge is billed to your student account.

  • Valley Oaks: Cost is $56.00 per day
  • Western Heights: Cost is $51.00 per day
  • Other residence halls: Cost is $41.00 per day

Fall Welcome

If you are participating in Fall Welcome, please check in with the hall staff on August 27. They will tell you how to join Fall Welcome. Once you begin Fall Welcome activities, your early arrival charges will stop.

If you do not participate in Fall Welcome, or if you do not check in with Fall Welcome, your early arrival charges will continue. These charges will stop on August 30, when the housing contract officially begins.

Building Access

Your WMU student identification card (ID) is needed to enter your building. Doors unlock when you slide your ID in a card reader or hold your ID up to the reader at the main door and inside security doors. Housing staff will let you into the building when you arrive. A temporary ID will be loaned for 24 hours, allowing you time to get your ID card. If you lose the temporary card or do not give it back to staff in 24 hours, your student account will be charged for the temporary card.

To get your ID card, submit a photo online at https://photo.wmupd.wmich.edu at least 24 hours before you arrive. Your ID card will be available to be picked up at the Parking Services building Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Linens

Housing has a small supply of basic linens available to those that need them when arriving: 2 flat sheets, 1 pillow case, 1 bath towel, 1 hand towel. There are no pillows or blankets available. There is no charge for the linens, but they are meant for temporary use. You should be buying your own items once you are able.

Mini-refrigerator

Small refrigerators are available to rent. The units come with a refrigerator, freezer and microwave. If you want one, notify housing staff when you arrive or during your first week. They will help you with the online order form. If a unit is available, they will bring it to your room that day. If not, one will be delivered within 5 days. There is a charge for renting an EcoMax (mini-refrigerator).

Meal Plan

If you have a meal plan as part of your Housing and Dining contract, food service will begin Sunday, August 30, 2026 at campus dining locations. You will need to provide your own food until your meal plan starts.

Contacting staff

If you need assistance, housing staff is available. Phone numbers are posted on the main door and at the service desk.

If you have questions before you arrive, please contact Housing at +1 (269) 387-4735 or @email. You can also find general information on the Housing and Residence Life website: https://wmich.edu/housing/new-students/movein.

Student Identification Card (ID) 

Please go to Parking Services during regular business hours to get your student ID card. Parking Services business hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

To expedite the process, a photo can be submitted online at least 24 hours in advance: https://photo.wmupd.wmich.edu. Your ID card will be available to be picked up at the Parking Services building during regular business hours.

Most buildings require using your student ID to enter, so we recommend getting your ID the day you arrive.

Problems with your room or apartment

  • Residence halls: If you have any concerns with your room upon arrival, please speak with the professional staff in the hall. They can be found in the hall office or by contacting the number posted on the front doors. Custodial is on standby to assist, and maintenance can be contacted.
     
  • Apartments: If you have any custodial concerns with your room/apartment upon arrival, please contact custodial immediately after arriving. Information on how to contact custodial will be available. Any other concerns can go to a resident manager or the housing office. Custodial is on standby to assist, and maintenance can be contacted.

Room/Apartment Inventory 

After you check-in, you will complete the online room/apartment inventory found in the housing portal. This documents the state of your room, furniture, etc. upon arrival. When you move out, housing staff compare the inventory to the room/apartment's move-out condition to determine if damages happened. Room inventories are due a few days after you move in.

Cold or discolored water

Buildings have been unoccupied for the summer. Due to this, the water may be discolored and cold. If the water is cold, run it until it gets warm. If the water is discolored, it is sediment that settled in the pipes. It will go away once the water is run for a few minutes.

Connecting to WiFi and the Internet 

Once you get into your room/apartment, register your computer or phone on the wireless network.

1,050+

international students on campus, representing 95 foreign countries

—2025 Fall Enrollment Data

530+

recent international graduates undergoing optional practical or academic training

—Fall 2025 Open Doors Report

820+

international students in unique programs abroad

—Fall 2025 Enrollment Data

Frequently Asked Questions About International Student Orientation

Yes! Your success at Western Michigan University is our top priority. Orientation starts with virtual online topics and ends with an in-person orientation event. 

International Student Orientation (ISO) is a crucial academic, professional and social introduction to the University. Plus, you will accomplish many important things during ISO, including registering for classes, learning about math placement, registering for housing and making friends. 

International Student Orientation begins virtually approximately two months prior to the first day of classes. In-person orientation will be held on campus within days of your arrival. This event gives you a chance to connect with incoming students and talk with faculty who are here to support your academic journey at Western.

WMU will provide transportation pickup services from the Kalamazoo Battle Creek Airport (AZO) and the Kalamazoo Transit Station on the following dates for Fall 2026:

  • Tuesday, August 25 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Wednesday, August 26 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Thursday, August 27 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

To secure your ride on these days, simply join our WhatsApp chat and message when you arrive using the free Airport or Transit Station Wi-Fi. Our drivers will be close by and on the lookout for your message. The transportation service is meant to assist students with arriving to housing accommodations, WMU's campus, and even local shops and grocery stores!

Students who need transportation assistance to arrive at orientation on August 27 should message in the WhatsApp chat the night before orientation. Students who need transportation assistance getting home from orientation will be identified once orientation is over. 

If you are arriving to Kalamazoo Battle Creek Airport (AZO) outside of these dates and times, you can consult the AZO transportation page for regional taxi and bus information. 

If you are arriving to Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) or Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), check out the following resources for travel to Kalamazoo: 

If you have any other questions about transportation, please reach out in the WhatsApp group or email @email.

*The WhatsApp group link is available in the email communications you receive about orientation.

Successfully completing International Student Orientation is easy! You will be expected to: 

  1. Complete new student orientation session topics and gain a certificate of completion, attesting that you have worked your way through the all the modules.
  2. Attend virtual and in-person events.
  3. Upload relevant immigration documents via your Terra Dotta portal.
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • I-20 or DS-2019
  • I-94 (after arrival). 

New international students living in residence halls can move-in on Tuesday, August 25 starting at 9 a.m. Information and move-in dates for those living in campus apartments or in Spindler Hall will be emailed to your student accounts. Find more information at Housing and Residence Life.

Do you have additional questions about orientation or your travel to the United States? You may ask them in the ISO WhatsApp group or contact us at @email. 

You can also connect with our International Student and Scholar Services (I3S) staff for your queries on immigration, enrollment, housing, healthcare and more. A good first step is to review our "Frequently Asked Questions for Admitted International Students" page.

Frequently Asked Questions for Admitted International Students
Contact International Student and Scholar Services

Ongoing Email Updates, Virtual Orientation

Congratulations on your admission to Western Michigan University!

My name is Maddie Christians. I am a two-time Western alumna and the recruitment and outreach specialist here at the Haenicke Institute for Global Education. I’ll be with you on this entire journey as you prepare to join us in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Western and our global community welcome you!

We are thrilled that you will be joining us on campus in just a few months. Here, a degree is a pursuit of purpose where learning empowers you, well-being strengthens you and an experience-driven education leads to a meaningful career. Western is the place to become your best self.

International Student Orientation

Start your academic journey off right by completing mandatory International Student Orientation. Orientation is an essential part of your success at Western, and it has two parts: a series of virtual modules and in-person event on August 27. 

The virtual portion is designed to help you make a smooth academic, social, geographic and professional transition to Western. You can complete the online tasks at your own pace, as long as you finish before you arrive in the United States. We encourage you to start working on your virtual orientation modules today.

The in-person orientation event on August 27 is a crucial and exciting part of becoming part of our Bronco campus family. There, you will meet your peers, learn key immigration information, discover campus resources and much more! Register early to save your space.

Register for in-person orientation

Your Next Steps

Here are the tasks you should complete this week: 

  • Activate your goWMU account and student email address
  • Begin your virtual orientation modules
  • Join the International Student Orientation Group on WhatsApp. This is a place for you to connect with fellow students, orientation leaders and staff. When you join, introduce yourself and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Group standards are listed in the chat. If you’re having trouble joining,, contact us at @email.

Stay tuned for more updates. We look forward to meeting you! 

Maddie Christians
Recruitment and Outreach Specialist
Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Western Michigan University
@email

International Student and Scholar Services
Western Michigan University 
1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5245 USA
Visit our website · WMU Notice of Non-Discrimination

Greetings from Western Michigan University!  

Welcome to virtual International Student Orientation. Please read on for key information about course registration and immigration. 

Remember, orientation contains two parts: a virtual portion, which you complete at your own pace and finish before your arrival in the U.S., and an in-person event on Western's main campus August 27.

If you haven't already, start your virtual orientation modules and register for in-person orientation. 

We also invite you to join the International Student Orientation Group on WhatsApp to connect with fellow international students, orientation leaders and WMU staff.  

Save the Date

Mark your calendars now for our first virtual event!

Event details:

Meet Your I3S Advisors
Thursday, July 16
9 a.m. EDT (time zone converter)

No pre-registration is required. When the event begins, simply click the Webex virtual event link to join!

Discussion topics will include: 

  • Immigration requirements
  • Document submission
  • Academic advising
  • Travel and housing tips
  • Next steps

Join the virtual event

Course Registration

Undergraduate international students must schedule an appointment with their academic advisor to enroll in courses. This is to ensure that you are taking the right classes and that you maintain good academic standing with the University. Check out the Academic Advising for Undergraduate Students virtual module to learn how to schedule an appointment. 

Graduate international students will self-register via goWMU. Before you register, we highly recommend that that you connect with your advisor. Check out the Registration and Advising for Graduate Students virtual module for more information. Remember, at the graduate level, 3.0 credit hours is considered part-time and 6.0 credit hours is considered full-time.  

ESL students at the Center for English Language and Culture (CELCIS) must attend English language placement testing before registering for classes. CELCIS staff will contact you about online placement testing a few weeks before your arrival.

Immigration

There are two primary immigration requirements for all incoming international students:

  1. Prior to your arrival, you must log into the Terra Dotta portal to access the Immigration Responsibilities Assessment request and review important information related to the maintenance of your immigration status.  
     
  2. Upon your arrival, you must complete a Check-In Request on the Terra Dotta portal. This request will ask you to acknowledge your obligation to maintain your immigration status and walk you through uploading your immigration documents (signed Form I-20 or DS-2019, most recent I-94, visa stamp and passport). International Student and Scholar Services will use this information to register your SEVIS record. 

Good luck as you continue working on your virtual orientation modules and Terra Dotta assignments! Stay on track to make your arrival as smooth and easy as possible.

If this is your first orientation email, please catch up on these important tasks: 

Stay tuned for more updates. We look forward to meeting you!

Maddie Christians
Recruitment and Outreach Specialist
Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Western Michigan University
@email

International Student and Scholar Services
Western Michigan University 
1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5245 USA
Visit our website · WMU Notice of Non-Discrimination

Greetings from Western Michigan University!

We can't wait to see you at our virtual event tomorrow!

Event details:

Meet Your I3S Advisors
Thursday, July 16
9 a.m. EDT (time zone converter)

No pre-registration is required. When the event begins, simply click the Webex virtual event link to join.

Discussion topics will include: 

  • Immigration requirements
  • Document submission
  • Academic advising
  • Travel and housing tips
  • Next steps

Join the virtual event

Remember, you are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the following topics:

  • Course registration and how to register for classes
  • Immigration and how to upload your immigration documents

For more information on these topics, please refer to our second email. Emails are regularly archived on our orientation website. 

Good luck as you continue working on your virtual orientation modules and Terra Dotta assignments! Stay on track to make your arrival as smooth and easy as possible.

If this is your first orientation email, please catch up on these important tasks:

Stay tuned for more updates. We look forward to meeting you!

Maddie Christians
Recruitment and Outreach Specialist
Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Western Michigan University
@email

International Student and Scholar Services
Western Michigan University 
1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5245 USA
Visit our website · WMU Notice of Non-Discrimination

Greetings from Western Michigan University!  

Thank you to everyone who made it to our first virtual gathering! It was a pleasure to meet you and answer your questions. Our International Student Orientation team is committed to helping you succeed at WMU.

For any questions, please contact us at @email or +1 (269) 387-5865. You can also join our WhatsApp chat to connect with incoming and current students at WMU! This is a key resource for your success. 

Reminder to Register

Make sure to register for in-person orientation on August 27, 2026. Orientation is a key part of your transition to WMU and it is a great opportunity to make friends, connect with WMU staff and learn more about Kalamazoo!

Those who attend orientation will get the following perks: 

Register for in-person orientation

Save the Date

Mark your calendars for our second virtual event!

Event details:

Travel Talk and Preparation 
Thursday, July 30
9 a.m. EDT (time zone converter)

No pre-registration is required. When the event begins, simply click the Webex virtual event link to join!

Discussion topics will include: 

  • The weather in Kalamazoo
  • What to pack
  • Important travel documents
  • In-person International Student Orientation
  • Common questions and answers

Join the virtual event

Transportation

As you prepare for your journey to the United States, it is recommended that you fly directly to Kalamazoo. However, if you are arriving to Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) or Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), check out these transportation resources:

Housing at WMU

Information about your move to campus is in the On Campus Living and Dining module. Additional housing information, including a glossary of key terms, can be found in the Housing Options module.  

Residence hall move-in for new international students is August 25. Information and move-in dates for those living in campus apartments or in Spindler Hall will be emailed to your student account.  

Visit the Housing and Residence Life website for additional information. For temporary accommodations, you can find a list of hotels in the Kalamazoo area. Students who are having trouble finding accommodations can ask for help in the WhatsApp chat.

International Student Health Insurance

Health insurance coverage in the U.S. is often complex and specific to your situation. Western Michigan University automatically enrolls all international students in the international student health insurance plan.

The plan is specifically designed to meet the health care needs of international students. Insurance premium costs will be incorporated into your WMU tuition and fees.

To better understand your plan and how to use your health insurance effectively, visit our International Student Health Insurance and Services webpage.  

Finances

Having a local bank account will make managing your finances more convenient. Research your options and choose a bank that best meets your needs in terms of services, fees and accessibility.

There is a PNC Bank conveniently located on campus, which provides easy access to banking services!

Information about opening a U.S. bank account, banking on campus, paying tuition and more can be found in the Finances virtual orientation module.

Good luck as you continue working on your virtual orientation modules and Terra Dotta assignments! Stay on track to make your arrival as smooth and easy as possible.

If this is your first orientation email, please catch up on these important tasks:

Stay tuned for more updates. We look forward to meeting you!

Maddie Christians
Recruitment and Outreach Specialist
Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Western Michigan University
@email

International Student and Scholar Services
Western Michigan University 
1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5245 USA
Visit our website · WMU Notice of Non-Discrimination

Greetings from Western Michigan University!  

We can’t wait to see you at our virtual event tomorrow!

Event details:

Travel Talk and Preparation 
Thursday, July 30
9 a.m. EDT (timezone converter)

No pre-registration is required. When the event begins, simply click the Webex virtual event link to join!

Discussion topics will include: 

  • The weather in Kalamazoo
  • What to pack
  • Important travel documents
  • In-person International Student Orientation
  • Common questions and answers 

Join the virtual event

Reminder to Register

International Student Orientation is August 27. Make sure to register today. Orientation is a key part of your transition to WMU and a great opportunity to make friends, connect with WMU staff and faculty, and learn more about Kalamazoo!

Those who attend orientation will get the following perks: 

  • Free breakfast and lunch
  • A campus tour
  • A U.S. SIM card with one free month of cell phone data

Register for in-person orientation

Also, make sure to join our WhatsApp chat and connect with incoming and current students at WMU! This is a key resource for your success. 

Remember, you are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the following topics:

  • Course registration and how to register for classes
  • Immigration and how to upload your immigration documents
  • Housing at WMU
  • International student health insurance

For more information on these topics, please refer to our second and fourth emails. Emails are regularly archived on our orientation website. 

Good luck as you continue working on your virtual orientation modules and Terra Dotta assignments! Stay on track to make your arrival as smooth and easy as possible.

If this is your first orientation email, please catch up on these important tasks:

Stay tuned for more updates. We look forward to meeting you! 

Maddie Christians
Recruitment and Outreach Specialist
Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Western Michigan University
@email

International Student and Scholar Services
Western Michigan University 
1903 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5245 USA
Visit our website · WMU Notice of Non-Discrimination