Welcome, Western Families!

Welcome to the first edition of the Western Family Newsletter. This newsletter is designed by Student Experience to help you support your student as they prepare to begin their journey at Western.

Throughout the summer and into the academic year, we'll share important reminders, resources, and opportunities to help your student prepare for a successful start and stay connected to the supports available throughout their academic journey.

Preparing for Western with Western Launch

Western Launch is a series of programs designed to help students transition to university, make friends, and prepare for the Western experience. 

The following in-person programs include a parent/supporter stream where you'll hear from our staff while your student participates in separate sessions: 

• Faculty Fridays: The opportunity to visit campus in July, meet future classmates, and learn about faculty and campus supports. 

• Overnight Experience: Students can stay overnight in residence and get a sneak peek of student life (parents/supporter accommodations available separately). 

These programs have limited capacity. Registration closes on July 3 - save your spot today!

Our other summer programs are available online to support your student, including 1-1 course advising appointments and online modules that help students prepare for the transition to university learning and get oriented to navigating life at Western. 

Mandatory Incoming Student Training

Last week, your student received an email about required online training that must be completed before their first day of classes at Western. This training is designed to support a safe, respectful, and successful transition to university life.

All incoming students are expected to complete two short online modules:

• Consent 101 (gender-based and sexual violence prevention) and
• Academic Integrity

Each module takes approximately one hour and must be completed by September 9, 2026. Students who do not complete the training will have an academic seal placed on their records and will not be able to add/drop courses, obtain a transcript, or complete Intent to Register for the following year.

The training is self-paced and provides foundational guidance on respectful relationships, personal boundaries, and Western’s expectations for academic honesty.

Get Involved in Sports & Recreation

If your student is interested in competing for the Western Mustangs, many varsity teams hold open tryouts in August and September and more information will be posted on the Mustangs website in August. Students interested in pursuing varsity sport are also encouraged to connect directly with the coach of their sport to learn more about tryout opportunities and team requirements. Visit the Western Mustangs coaching directory for contact information.

For students looking to stay active, build friendships, and enjoy sport in a more recreational setting, Western Campus Recreation offers a wide range of intramural leagues and recreational sport clubs. Registration for many programs open in September, providing opportunities for participants of all skill levels. Learn more at www.uwo.ca/campusrec.

Did You Know

There’s a lot to do before your student’s first day. Here’s a handy checklist of things they should complete before arriving at Western. 

Important Dates

June 22-26: First-year course enrollment opens for students

Mid-July: Building assignments for first-year students released by email and posted on myHousing Portal.

August 3: Deadline for students to order a Western ONECard to guarantee pick-up at residence move-ins.

August 4: First instalment of residence and tuition fees due for first-year students. Please note that failure to meet this deadline may result in the cancellation of your student's residence space. Payment instructions are available on the Fee Payment Methods page.

Explore Key Resources

Discover important services across campus that support your student.