WMU was my first step in my graduate studies journey. I learned a lot while completing my master's and working as a graduate assistant. All my professors encouraged me to continue my studies through a Ph.D. program. Someday, I want to be a professor and impact students' lives just like my professors at WMU impacted mine.
1,050+
international students on campus, representing 95 foreign countries
530+
recent international graduates undergoing optional practical or academic training
820+
international students in unique programs abroad
Prospective International Student Information
Current Student Resources
WMU International
The people and places making up WMU's diverse international community.
Finding community and confidence: Manavi Trivedi’s journey from India to Kalamazoo for an MBA
Raiyan Wasi turns classroom knowledge into real-world impact
True belonging and troubleshooting: cybersecurity student finds joy in ever-evolving field
Experience-Driven Learning Spans Borders: International alumnus reflects on journey home
Evaluation student's data collection is driving nonprofit's impact in South Sudan
Malaysian student comes ‘full circle’ in his study of American politics
Frequently Asked Questions for Prospective International Students
9 of 10
Broncos are employed quickly, working in their field in jobs they like
98%
of Broncos had instructors who made them excited about learning
94%
of graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
Other International Student Programs
Study Intensive English
Explore the offerings of the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students to build your language skills and connect with a global community. Your pathway to success starts here.
Short-Term Programs
Explore our short-term, nondegree options to gain skills, explore new interests and expand your global network. Start your journey with us today!
Western Michigan Institute
Learn about the Western Michigan Institute, which offers students in China a unique opportunity to earn a business degree abroad.
Global Innovation MBA Program in Taiwan
This MBA program is designed for professionals in Taiwan and offers maximum flexibility, in-demand coursework and a valuable network of professional contacts.
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.
Global Education News
A celebration of Asian arts and community coming to Miller Auditorium
Experience the world’s food, music and culture at WMU’s International Bazaar
New study abroad experience for first-year students launches a WMU education in the Dominican Republic
Three WMU faculty earn prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar awards
Light Center for Chinese Studies funds a documentary, a biography and a multimedia online language studies platform in 2025
Celebrating five decades of English language learning at Western Michigan University
Western Michigan University faculty gain global perspective through University of Passau exchange program
Building global connections through the classroom: WMU’s Global Classrooms Collaborative
Haenicke Institute for Global Education announces International Education Week 2025
Global Engagement Award recognizes efforts to welcome international scholars
Western welcomes more than 275 new international students to campus
WMU Study Abroad honors eight recipients of the prestigious Gilman Scholarship
Global Events
Global Social
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 — 2 to 4 p.m.
Understanding China: A WMU Asian Initiatives Lecture Series
Study Abroad Virtual Information Session
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 — 4 to 4:30 p.m.
OPT Workshops for International Students
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 — 10 to 11 a.m.
Conversation Circle
Thursday, April 9, 2026 — 2 to 3 p.m.
Light Center for Chinese Studies Guest Lecture Series
Global Engagement Program Awards Ceremony
Study Abroad and Global Engagement Table
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.