If you are unable to view images or wish to view this on our website, please visit iesc.uwo.ca/new_students/welcome_newsletters.
Welcome from the International & Exchange Student Centre (IESC)
Whether you are here in Canada or arriving from abroad, the IESC team is planning an amazing experience for you as you join the Western family. Our advisors are available to meet in person, via Teams or by phone to help you prepare for your academic journey and answer any questions you may have. Please visit us in the International & Graudate Affairs Building, second floor, contact us by email or arrange to meet online if you need assistance.
Advisors are available to meet with you during in-person drop-in hours, virtually at our FAQ Immigration Friday drop-in sessions, or in 30-minute virtual appointments.
IESC In-person Advising Drop-ins
Drop-ins are for quick 10-15 minute conversations. If your situation needs more attention and time, please book an appointment with an International Student Advisor. In-person drop-in service is available in Western International, 2nd floor International and Graduate Affairs Building (IGAB) Monday to Friday between 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm. Service during drop-in hours is conducted on a first-come first-serve basis.
Immigration FAQs Friday
With a quick registration, you can “walk in” to this virtual session and have your questions answered by one of our helpful and informative International Student Advisors. We are ready to answer your questions on:
- Working on or off campus and how many hours can I work?
- How do I apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?
- What are the current travel restrictions for international students?
- And many more!
Virtual Immigration FAQ Fridays 9:00 am to 10:00 am on Zoom
International Student Orientation
Complete our online International Student Orientation program before your arrival, and access it throughout your time at Western to learn about key resources that are here for you as an international student.
The online modules are a great way to ensure you have a successful transition to Canada and to campus with topics such as unwritten rules and expectations of the Canadian classroom, academic values in Canada, the language and culture of Western, tips for dealing with culture shock, finding a place to live, and so much more!
Be sure to check your email in the coming weeks to learn about additional orientation programming offered by the International & Exchange Student Centre and other campus partners. Orientation programs will be made available to you via virtual information sessions, online modules, and opportunities to connect with fellow students remotely and in-person.
Welcome Party
All new undergraduate and graduate international students are invited to attend our virtual #GlobalWesternU New Student Party on May 5, 2022, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, to meet other students and staff in a casual and relaxed setting!
No matter where you are in the world, join us for this two-hour virtual event to make new friends, have some fun, and celebrate the start of the Summer 2022 term! Join us for special games and activities, some friendly competition, and a few other surprises!
Travel Updates
Be sure to check all the updated criteria and other steps to take before travelling on the International Arrival website. Read about quarantine, navigating federal and provincial vaccine requirements, important considerations for planning when to arrive, and what you need to know before you travel.
Apply for a Peer Guide
The International Peer Guide Program matches new undergraduate and graduate international students with friendly upper-year students who connect new students to the Western community, answer questions and provide other support. Peer guides are:
- familiar with the Western campus and resources
- interested in cultural exchange and learning about you and your culture
- dedicated volunteers who are carefully selected and trained
- ready to help with your transition to Western!
Join the English Conversation Program
The English Conversation Program provides the opportunity to practice conversational English outside the formal classroom or work setting and meet people from many different areas of the university community.
English Conversation sessions are facilitated by trained student volunteers (called facilitators) in an informal and friendly atmosphere. Facilitators prepare conversation topics, activities, or games based on your interests.
Explore IESC Programs & Services
IESC helps you transition to life at Western and supports you during your academic career with a number of programs and services designed to meet your needs.
Our International Student Advisors are available to help with immigration questions, personal or financial matters, or other support needs.
Graduate Student Information
There are many resources specifically for you as a graduate student. We encourage you to explore the resources below:
Western's COVID-19 Vaccination Policy
Reminder: All Western students are required to submit proof of vaccination in compliance with Western's COVID-19 mandatory vaccination policy. Please note that you may be required to obtain additional vaccines upon arrival to Canada to comply with Western’s vaccination policy, even if you are declared exempt from quarantine requirements. Ensure you explore the websites below for more information
Follow Western International online!
International Student Network Email
As a new international student, you'll automatically be added to our mailing list for the International Student Network Email. We'll regularly communicate programming information, immigration updates, volunteer and job opportunities, resources for academic success, events where you can meet other students, and more!
You can also stay up to date, participate in contests and connect with other students through our social media channels below!
Other Resources
Some additional links and resources are below for your reference:
- COVID-19 FAQs for International Students
- Western's COVID-19 Website
- Western Student Experience
- School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
- Centre for Teaching and Learning (teaching programs for Graduate Students)
Contact Us
The International and Exchange Student Centre is here to support all students - whether you are in Canada, planning to travel to Canada, or studying remotely. Please contact us by email to iesc@uwo.ca, by phone at 1-519-661-2111 ext. 89309 or arrange to meet online.
Explore all of our services on our website: International & Exchange Student Centre
