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International

WWU Welcomes You

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Study and Work in the U.S.

International students come to Western Washington University for an immersive U.S. college experience, a pathway to professional success, and to connect with Bellingham and the greater Puget Sound’s welcoming and supportive communities.

Western is a nationally recognized, dynamic, innovative, and challenging public university. For decades, the U.S. News and World Report has ranked Western the #1 regional public university in the Pacific Northwest.

Apply to Western

If you require a VISA to study in the U.S., Western offers several options to apply. Reach out to an international advisor to discuss which option is the best for you.

Apply for Undergraduate Admission

Apply for Graduate Admission 

Get More Information About Undergraduate Admission WWU

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Scholarships for International Students

Need help paying for your education in the United States? Western Washington University offers a variety of merit-based scholarships for new and continuing international students, up to $10,000 per year. 

Selection for our international students scholarships is based on information in the application for admission, including your essay, secondary school transcripts, cumulative GPA, evidence of English proficiency, and submission of the application by the priority deadline

Learn more about Scholarship Opportunities

3 Paths to a Degree

Direct Admission

For students who have a good grasp on the English language and meet Western's English language requirement.

 

Undergraduate Admissions

Graduate Admissions

Conditional Admission

For students who need more preparation and English language study before entering a degree program. Students complete the Intensive English Program and then begin their undergraduate studies.

 

Conditional Admissions

International Year Pathway

For students who want a jumpstart on their undergraduate studies. Students take a mix of English language courses and academic courses. Pathway students are conditionally admitted to Western, and can earn up to 30 credits towards their degree.

 

International Year Pathway Program

Transfer to Western from a U.S. Community College

Western partners with several Washington State community colleges to provide a clear path for international students who wish to earn a Bachelor’s.

Partnerships with Community Colleges

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Learn English and Get Ahead

Looking to learn English for the purpose of advancing your career, or just for the sake of learning? Western has English-focused, 4-week options that give you the skills you need to study or work in the U.S. and other English-speaking countries.

Intensive English Short Programs

 

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Explore Western’s Majors

Western offers more than 200 academic programs.

 

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Explore Bellingham

Within an hour drive of two international cities, Bellingham is the perfect place to study and network.

 

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Connect with an Advisor

Get your questions answered, and get help starting your application.

Resources for Current Students, Exchange Students, Scholars, and Visiting Faculty and Staff

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)

 

Western welcomes international students from more than 35 countries, and supports students and scholars who journey from around the world to study, work and research at Western and in the U.S. Western’s ISSS works to promote cross-cultural exchange throughout the university, and invites all members of the Western and Bellingham communities with an interest in global issues and identities to get involved.

Learn More About ISSS

Custom International Programs (CIP)

 

Western is proud to offer custom programming opportunities for international groups. Custom international programs can be designed to meet the specific needs of your group, including your timeframe, academic interests, excursions, and more.

Learn More About CIP

Institute for Global Engagement (IGE)

 

IGE engages Western’s communities to think and act globally in an increasingly interconnected world. IGE provides and supports internationally-focused educational experiences that prepare students to be global citizens, and faculty and staff who are engaged inter-culturally. IGE is home to Western’s Education Abroad and celebrates partnerships with institutions in more than 20 countries.

Learn More About IGE

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