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Parents & Supporters of International Students: FAQ
Are you a parent or supporter of an international student at Western University?
This page is designed to help you support your student during their time at Western! Western International offers a wide range of services to international students and serves as a home away from home, fostering a sense of community and belonging for all international and exchange students.
We understand that parents and supporters of international students often have unique questions, so we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to support you. Below, you will find answers to common inquiries and valuable resources to help your student thrive academically, socially, and personally at Western.
How can I support and assist my student during their time studying at Western University?
Every student is unique and may require different types of support. Based on feedback from our students, these approaches have been found to be particularly helpful:
- Establish a schedule for regular communication through phone calls, video chats, or messaging apps to provide emotional support and stay informed about their experiences.
- Encourage them to connect with fellow students, join local clubs, and participate in social events to build a support network. If they’re unsure where to start, Western International offers a variety of programming and events for students to connect!
- Encourage your student to engage in local activities, explore their new environment, and make new friends to immerse themselves in the culture fully. The City of London and Tourism London are great places to find local events.
- Remind your student to utilize the academic support services available at Western University, such as the Writing Support Centre, and Peer Assisted Learning.
My student needs immigration support. Who can they contact?
Students needing immigration support can contact Western International at iss@uwo.ca or book an appointment with an International Student Advisor (ISA). For more information, visit the Visas and Permits page.
My student may need to seek medical attention while in Canada. How can they access their health insurance plan?
All international students are automatically enrolled in the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP), covering basic healthcare services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care. Students need to present their UHIP card when visiting healthcare providers.
In case of an emergency, students should call 911 or visit the nearest hospital emergency room. UHIP covers emergency medical services. For general health concerns, check-ups, prescriptions renewals, and referrals to specialists as needed, students should visit Student Health Services, located in Thames Hall (room 2170). Students can make an appointment by calling the clinic at (519) 661-3030 or visiting in-person. More details can be found on the Student Health Services website.
In addition to UHIP, students are covered by either the USC Health and Dental Plan (undergraduate students) or the SOGS Health and Dental Plan (graduate students). These plans cover additional services such as dental care, prescription drugs, and vision care.
I am concerned about my student’s mental health. Where can they go for support?
Health and Wellness Clinic:
Western's mental health team provides effective, timely, evidence-based, and confidential short-term support through brief, change-oriented psychotherapy. Appointments can be booked virtually through the Health & Wellness Services website.
Residence Counseling:
Students living in residence have access to confidential counseling services provided by residence counsellors. Appointments can be arranged by emailing needtotalk@uwo.ca.
Online Counseling:
Wellness Navigator: This digital tool is a one-stop shop for finding all the support and resources available to students, both on and off campus, to help support their mental health and well-being.
Togetherall: Togetherall is a resource for Western University students, offering free, 24/7 access to anonymous peer-to-peer support.
Good2Talk: This is a free, confidential helpline providing professional counseling, information, and referrals for mental health, addictions, and well-being to post-secondary students in Ontario. Students can call 1-866-925-5454.
My student has a disability and may require extra support to succeed at Western University. Where can they go for support?
Accessible Education (AE):
Accessible Education (AE) at Western University supports students with disabilities by providing a range of services and accommodations to ensure equal access to academic opportunities. The team works collaboratively with students to develop personalized plans that address their unique needs, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Students must register with AE by providing documentation of their disability and meeting with an Accessible Education facilitator to discuss their needs and develop an accommodation plan. Students are encouraged to register as soon as possible, ideally before classes begin.
Accessible Residence Support:
Residence Services provides accessible housing options and can accommodate specific needs related to mobility, hearing, vision, and other disabilities. Students can submit accommodation requests via the myHousing portal and visit Accessibility in Residence for more information.
English is not my student's first language. Where can my student go if they would like to develop their English language skills?
Western offers language support through the English Conversation Program (ECP) to help international students improve their English-speaking skills. They also provide resources to help students adjust to the cultural and academic environment at Western.
The London Public Library offers various language learning programs, including ESL (English as a Second Language) conversation circles and language learning resources. They also provide access to books, audiobooks, and online resources to help improve English language skills.
The London Cross-Cultural Learner Centre conducts initial language assessments for newcomers to determine their current proficiency level. Based on the results, they provide information and referral services to the English as a Second Language (ESL) program.
Students are also encouraged to develop their language skills outside the classroom by participating in social events. International students are encouraged to attend weekly Global Cafés and join our Peer Guide program. Engaging in social settings helps students develop oral fluency, enhance comprehension, and expand their vocabulary. Students can learn more about the programming we offer by visiting the Western International website and reading our weekly network email.
I’m worried my student might have difficulty meeting new people and making friends. Are there opportunities for my students to get involved on campus?
Western University offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved and meet new people. With over 200 clubs and organizations to choose from, your student is sure to find something that interests them! They can join cultural groups and clubs on campus for a sense of familiarity and belonging. Additionally, there are numerous sports, spiritual, music, faculty-specific, arts, and professional interest groups available. For more information on how to get involved on campus, students can view the opportunities on our website.
My student wants to explore the City of London. What opportunities are there in and around London?
London is known for its rich cultural scene with various festivals, theaters, museums, and galleries. Key attractions include the Grand Theatre, Museum London, and the London Music Hall. The city also boasts numerous parks and green spaces, such as Victoria Park and Spring bank Park, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. For a more detailed guide to living in London, visit the London Tourism and City of London websites!
London is conveniently close to major cities like Toronto, Windsor, and Niagara Falls, which are accessible by rail, bus, or air.
What housing/accommodation options are available for my student while studying at Western University?
Western offers various dormitory or residence hall options, providing a convenient and immersive campus experience, all within a 10–15-minute walk to campus. For more information, visit the Residence Website. Students can also rent apartments or shared houses off-campus, with support from the Off-Campus Housing Service, who provides rental listings and advice. They also offer specialized support to international and exchange students.
My student has never lived away from home. What safety precautions and services does Western University have in place?
Western University offers numerous safety measures to ensure students are as safe as possible on campus.
- The Campus Community Police Service provides 24/7 security patrols, emergency response, crime prevention programs, and safety education.
- Foot Patrol offers a safe-walk service where trained volunteers escort students to their destinations on campus during evening and nighttime hours.
- Western's Safe Campus commitment includes initiatives like the Western Alert System for real-time emergency notifications and the Student Emergency Response Team (SERT) for emergency first aid.
- All residence buildings have controlled access and security staff to ensure safety and respond to incidents. Each residence has a front desk, on-floor staff, and weekend guest registration, so someone is always available to help.
My student is concerned about what they want to do after they graduate. Where can they go for support?
Encourage your student to visit Career Services on campus. They offer a range of resources to help students explore career options, develop job search strategies, and connect with potential employers. The services include career counselling, resume and cover letter workshops, and networking events.
University will be a big transition for my student. What can they do if they are struggling in their classes?
Adjusting to post-secondary education can be challenging, but Western University offers numerous academic support services to support your student academically. Encourage your students to take advantage of these services, such as the Writing Support Centre and Peer Assisted Learning sessions, to enhance their academic performance and overall experience at Western. Additionally, the Learning Development & Success team provides resources and support to all students, helping them cope with the demands of university life.
My student may get homesick. Where can they go for support?
Studying abroad is a significant transition, and we understand the challenges international students may face. To help your students adjust and feel more at home, we encourage them to get involved in campus activities and programs. Western International offers various opportunities for international students to connect and build a community, such as Global Café and the Peer Guide program. These events are excellent for meeting new people and easing the transition. Additionally, if your student is struggling with homesickness or any other aspect of their adjustment to Canada, they can book an appointment with an International Student Advisor for personalized support.
