Incoming Exchange Students

If you are a student at one of our Exchange Partner Universities then you have the opportunity to attend Western as an exchange student. Please contact your International Office for information on the application process and selection requirements. If your university does not appear on the list of exchange partners, you may wish to consider attending Western as a Visiting Student or even as a full-time degree student provided you meet Admission Criteria.

Some study areas at Western have their own exchange programs:

• Ivey Business School 
• Western Law 

1. Consult your home university exchange office to find out if you are eligible to apply to Western as an exchange student.
2. The application for incoming exchange students opens in February each year. The application link will be emailed to you after your home university has nominated you. The deadline is mid-April for both fall and winter terms.

Note: Late applications for the Winter term may be accepted after the deadline. Late applicants should be aware of potential issues regarding course availability and Canadian immigration timelines related to visa or study permit processing.

Western offers more than 400 combinations of majors, minors, and specializations in 12 faculties and more than 90 undergraduate programs.

While Western attempts to accommodate as many requests for courses as possible, certain programs at Western have limited enrollment. Please review the Academics page for more details on program restrictions, course descriptions, timetable, and course load.

As an exchange student, you pay tuition to your home university.  However, exchange students are required to pay the following fees to Western University. Students are also required to cover their own housing, travel and related costs of the exchange.

University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP):

UHIP provides affordable insurance to pay the cost of the hospital and medical services that International students in Ontario and their families might need to maintain their health while in Canada. The plan provides coverage comparable to that of Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for Ontario residents. Learn More.

Western One Card:

This identification card allows you access to the libraries, campus recreation facilities and serves as your meal card and bus pass. Learn More.

Bus Pass:

All Western students are required to purchase a bus pass. This student pass is for all regularly scheduled London Transit Commission (LTC) bus routes. It is valid for 12 months of the year. Learn More.

The International Student Services website offers helpful assistance in planning your trip, checklists, etc. Please review this information as you plan for your arrival at Western.

Once you settle in, please report to Western International (2nd floor, International and Graduate Affairs Building) to meet with your International Learning Coordinator. Western International is open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To pay your fees, obtain your student card, and complete the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) form, please go to “Student Central” on the main floor of the Western Student Services Building. 

Please note that Western University is closed on statutory and university-wide holidays.

More pre-arrival information

At the beginning of each term, Western International provides a comprehensive orientation for newly arrived international and exchange students. The details of the orientation will be sent to you via e-mail prior to your arrival. At the orientation you will have the opportunity to meet fellow students and learn more about the academic and social experience on campus. We look forward to welcoming you to Western!

Note: Please note that these dates may change each year. Please check out Important Dates and Deadlines from the Office of the Registrar for specific dates for each academic year.