About

University Type

Public

University Type

US News National rank

285

US News National rank

Average Living Expenses

$30,716

Average Living Expenses

Founded in 1903, Western Michigan University (WMU) is a public research university in Kalamazoo, Michigan. WMU has a total undergraduate enrollment of 17,389 students and offers over 150+ programs. The university promotes diversity and is home to 34% of students identified as underrepresented or international. Its acceptance rate is 83%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1.

 

Western Michigan University's international applicants should expect to pay an annual average tuition fee of $33,688. WMU is known for its nationally acclaimed programs in music, business, theatre, engineering, and aviation. The university also has a strong research focus, with over $100 million in annual research expenditures. The university is ranked #1001 by QS World University Rankings in 2023.

Top Reasons to Study in the Western Michigan University

  • BEAUTIFUL CAMPUS: WMU's campus in Kalamazoo, Michigan, is a charming city with tons to offer. The campus is beautiful, with rolling hills, lush greenery, and historic buildings.

 

  • EXCELLENT ACADEMICS: WMU is a top-ranked public university with programs that are nationally recognised for their quality. The university offers over 250 undergraduate and graduate programs taught by faculty who are experts in their fields.

 

  • RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES: Students can participate in research in a laboratory, classroom, field, studio and more. WMU also allows applying for grants to subsidise your engagement in scholarly activities.

 

  • FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY: WMU is committed to reducing its environmental impact and offers several sustainability-focused programs and initiatives for students to participate in and give back.

 

  • STRONG ALUMNI NETWORK: WMU has a strong alumni network, which can provide students with support and guidance after graduation. The alumni network can also help students find jobs and internships.

Courses

Cost of Studying at Western Michigan University

Average tuition fee

Economical

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5000+ Students

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$33,813

Average living expenses (Masters)

$30,716

Admissions at The Western Michigan University

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

82%

Application Fee

$100 - $158


How to Apply at Western Michigan University

  • UNDERGRADUATE


    Here are the steps on how to apply to Western Michigan University for undergraduate programs as an international student:


    • Visit the Western Michigan University website and create an account: You will need this account to apply for admission and to track your application status.

    • Complete the online application: The application includes your personal information, academic history, and test scores.

    • Submit official transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary schools you have attended.

    • Submit proof of English language proficiency: Take the TOEFL, IELTS, or another English language test.

    • Submit two letters of recommendation: Your letters of recommendation should be from teachers or professors who can speak to your academic abilities and potential for success at Western Michigan University.

    • Submit a personal statement: Your statement should be a brief essay telling the admissions committee about your background,  goals, and why you want to attend Western Michigan University.

    • Pay the application fee: The application fee for international students is $100.

    • Submit a copy of the passport identification page.

    • Submit proof of sufficient funds.


    POSTGRADUATE


    Here are the steps on how to apply to Western Michigan University for postgraduate programs as an international student:


    • Visit Western Michigan University’s admissions website page.
    • Click the "Apply to WMU" button and follow the instructions to create an online application.

    Submit the following application materials:


    • Copy of passport identification page.
    • Proof of English language proficiency.
    • Transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary schools attended or are attending.
    • $100 non-refundable application fee.
    • Proof of sufficient funds according to the estimated cost of attendance.
    • A personal statement.
    • Submit two letters of recommendation.

    • Submit your application by the deadline.


    MASTERS AND PhD


    Here are the steps on how to apply to Western Michigan University for a master's and PhD as an international student:


    • Choose a program: Visit the Graduate College website to browse the different graduate programs. Once you have chosen a program, you can find the specific application requirements on the program's website.

    • Complete the online application: Provide your personal information, academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of financial funds.

    • Pay the application fee: The application fee for international students is $100. You can pay the fee online using a credit card.

    • Submit your application. 

Documents Required to Apply to Western Michigan University

  • UNDERGRADUATE


    Enlisted below are the documents needed to apply to Western Michigan University for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:


    • Online application.
    • Official transcripts.
    • English language proficiency test scores.
    • Letters of recommendation.
    • Personal statement.
    • Copy of the passport identification page.
    • Financial records.


    POSTGRADUATE


    Enlisted below are the documents needed to apply to Western Michigan University for postgraduate studies as an international applicant:


    • Online application.
    • Official transcripts.
    • English language proficiency test scores.
    • Letters of recommendation.
    • Personal statement.
    • Copy of the passport identification page.
    • Financial records.

    Additional documents:


    • CV or resume,
    • Work samples, and
    • Portfolio.


    MASTERS AND PhD


    Enlisted below are the documents needed to apply to Western Michigan University for a Master's and PhD as an international applicant:


    • Online application.
    • Official transcripts.
    • English language proficiency test scores.
    • Letters of recommendation.
    • Personal statement.
    • Copy of the passport identification page.
    • Financial records.

    Additional documents:

    • CV or resume,
    • Work samples, and
    • Portfolio.

Exams Accepted By Western Michigan University

Minimum English proficiency test scores required by Western Michigan University are:

 

  • TOEFL: 71 iBT undergraduate, 80 iBT graduate.
  • IELTS Academic: 6.0 undergraduate, 6.5 graduate.
  • PTE: 48 undergraduate, 54 graduate.
  • Duolingo: 100 undergraduate, 115 graduate.




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Rankings for The Western Michigan University

US News Ranking

#285

US News National rank

The World University Rankings

#1201-1500

The World University Rankings

QS World University Rankings

#1201-1400

QS World University Rankings


More rankings for this university

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Students Western Michigan University

580

Yocketers applied

491

Yocketers admitted

1,604

Yocketers interested


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International Students

% of international students in the university

12.2

Total International Students in the university

2176


Alumni at Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University has a long and distinguished history of producing 2,50,000 successful alumni. Here are just a few of the many notable alumni from WMU:

 

  • Tim Allen, actor and comedian, is best known for his roles in Home Improvement and Last Man Standing.

 

  • Carey Salerno, poet.

 

  • Jim Bouton, MLB baseball player, World Series pitcher for the New York Yankees, actor, and author of Ball Four.

 

  • Merze Tate, first African American graduate of WMU; first African American woman to attend Oxford; Harvard PhD.

 

  • Gerrard Wendell Haworth, businessman, and founder of Haworth, Inc.

 

  • Karla Gray, Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court.

 

  • Dylan Schmorrow, Commander, U.S. Navy and Aerospace Experimental Psychologist.

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Related Discussion for the Universities

Ask, post and discuss!

Have a question? Ask and discuss with your fellow aspirants!

Vinitha Budagam
Vinitha Budagam

2 years ago

Can you guys give me a suggestion in what university to pick
George Mason University - MS Data Analytics Engineering
Western Michigan University - MS Data Science
University of Massachusets, Dartmouth - MS Data Science
Central Michigan University...
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Saikumar Reddy Mallela
Saikumar Reddy Mallela

2 years ago

Anybody looking for accommodation near wmu, ping me.
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Tabitha Pandy
Tabitha Pandy

2 years ago

Can someone suggest me which one to choose NAU / WMU?! 😕
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MANMOHAN REDDY
MANMOHAN REDDY

2 years ago

Western Michigan University MSCS
Anyone attending WMU in fall 2022 for MS Computer Science please connect #wmu #ComputerScience
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MANMOHAN REDDY
MANMOHAN REDDY

2 years ago

Western Michigan University MSCS
Can anyone tell how difficult is the coursework in Western Michigan University for Computer Science? Is it worth it? Please let me know your experience and scope for job opportunities. #ComputerScienc...
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Reviews for Western Michigan University

Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
5

Campus locations
Michigan

View on Google Earth


Transportation in the city

Kalamazoo offers several modes of transportation for its residents and visitors, some are:

 

  • Public Transportation: The primary public transportation provider in Kalamazoo is Metro Transit, which operates a fleet of buses that serve over 30 routes throughout the city and county. Bus fares are $1.25 for a single ride or $35 for a monthly pass.

 

  • Amtrak: Amtrak offers train service to Kalamazoo, with connections to major cities throughout the Midwest, including Chicago, Detroit, and Grand Rapids.

 

  • Taxis: Several taxi companies operate in Kalamazoo, whose fares are around $2 per mile, plus a $2.50 base fare.

 

  • Ride-sharing services: Services such as Uber and Lyft are also available, whose fares are typically lower than taxi fares, but they can vary depending on the time of day and demand.

 

  • Bike-share: Kalamazoo also has a bike-share program called Zagster, offering a fleet of bicycles that can be rented by the hour or day and is a great option to get some exercise and save money on transportation.

Services offered by the university

  • Western Michigan University offers a wide range of services to students, faculty, and staff. Some of the most popular services include:


    • Career and Student Employment Services: This office provides students with career counselling, resume and cover letter writing assistance, interview practice, and job search resources. They also help students find on-campus jobs and internships.

    • Service Learning: This program provides students with opportunities to engage in community service while earning academic credit. Students can choose from a variety of projects, like tutoring elementary school students, working with Habitat for Humanity, or volunteering at a local soup kitchen.

    • Student Services: This office provides students with a variety of services, such as financial aid assistance, disability services, LGBTQ+ services, housing, and dining. They also offer workshops and presentations on topics like time management, stress management, and study skills.

    • International Admissions and Services: This office provides services to international students, including visa assistance, English language support, and cultural orientation.

    • Health and Wellness: This office provides students with services like medical care, mental health counselling, and physical fitness programs. They also offer many educational resources on topics like healthy eating, stress management, and sexual health.

Student life at Western Michigan University

Here are some of the things you can do to enjoy student life at Western Michigan University:

 

  • Get Involved In Student Organisations: There are over 300 Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) at WMU, dedicated to Greek life, sports, the arts, community service, and much more. This way, irrespective of your interests, you can find your fit and even explore other hobbies.

 

  • Attend Campus Events: The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student organization that plans and hosts several events on campus including concerts, dances, speakers, and more.

 

  • Participate In Intramural Sports: WMU offers a variety of intramural sports for students to participate in, and is a great way to stay active and meet new people. Also, WMU is home to 16 NCAA Division I athletic teams, so you can always catch a game on campus, and cheer the Broncos.

 

  • Go Outdoors: Western Michigan is located in the beautiful city of Kalamazoo, so you are never far from the great outdoors. Go hiking, biking, swimming, or skiing in one of the many parks and recreation places to relax and have fun.

On campus accomodation at Western Michigan University

The Bronco Mall, which is a one-stop shop for students and houses a sizable 24-hour computer lab, a food court with Subway, Biggby Coffee, and The Burger Bros, numerous tables and chairs for eating and socialising, a PNC Bank, and one of the school's two bookstores, is situated inside the Bernhard Center. The Dalton Musical Center, the Waldo Library, and the University Computing Center are all located on West Campus. The Western Heights residence hall and the Chemistry Building, which replaces McCracken Hall, are recent additions to West Campus.

  • There are 13 different halls available to you, ranging from suites to conventional halls. On-campus housing There are 1-4 bedroom furnished and unfurnished apartments available.
  • Off-campus housing—Students in Kalamazoo have access to resources for off-campus accommodation.
  • There are suites in the Valley neighbourhood where two dorm rooms for students share a bathroom.
  • These spacious, coed halls are situated in a lovely, quiet area adjacent to Intramural Fields, the Goldsworth Valley pond, and the Haworth College of Business.
  • WMU Board and Room Charges The cost of accommodation and dining at WMU is combined. The average student had to pay roughly 10,567 USD(838,655INR) in living expenses in 2020.
  • Although it is not required, students are allowed to bring cars.

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Faculty Information

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FAQ

1. What accreditations does Western Michigan University have?

Since 1915, Western Michigan University has maintained its Higher Learning Commission accreditation.

2. What is the average  Western Michigan University tuition fee?

The average  Western Michigan University tuition fee For UG students, the average annual tuition costs 16,041USD (or 1,273,101 INR) 

3. What is  Western Michigan University's acceptance rate?

West Chester University of Pennsylvania Acceptance rate is 84.9%.

4. What is  Western Michigan University  GPA requirement?

The minimum  Western Michigan University GPA requirement is achieved by a cumulative GPA of 2.0 for various programmes 

5. What are some popular Western Michigan University courses?

Engineering, visual and performing arts, health professions and related programmes, marketing and related support services, business, management, and multi/interdisciplinary studies are among Western Michigan University's most well-liked majors. WMU presently has seven colleges and roughly 250 degree programmes.