Study abroad at Western Washington University

Learn more about studying at Western Washington University as an international student.

Western Washington University campus view
Western Washington University logo

Key facts

  • Type
    Private
  • International students
    128
  • Nationalities
    35
  • Total programs
    161
  • University ranking
    Not ranked

Study abroad at Western Washington University

Western Washington University is a public university based in Bellingham, Washington state. The University’s International Study Center offers global pathway programs including intensive English, international year, and pre-master’s programs. International students are given an introduction to the academic skills and knowledge needed for a liberal arts style education. The Study Center is part of Western’s campus, meaning you can get to know the university you will complete your full program at. You will be supported and part of university life from day one.

After completing your international year or pre-master’s program, you can progress to your chosen program and undergraduate studies or master’s in business administration. The university campus has over 200 student groups for a variety of interests. There are also excursions you can join to see more of the local area.

Illustration depicting a student navigating the journey of higher education. Elements include a diploma, graduation cap, magnifying glass with a puzzle piece, books, a "Hi!" speech bubble, and a university building in the background.

Why study at Western Washington University

  • Career services

    While gaining hands-on experience in your degree, you will be supported by mentors and have access to career services to seek opportunities and grow your network

  • Expert faculty

    99% of all classes are taught by faculty, 74% of which hold the highest degree in their field

Location

Western Washington University

516 High St, Bellingham, Washington, 98225

Bellingham, Washington sits perfectly between a sheltered bay opening up to the spectacular San Juan islands and Mount Baker, the crown jewel of the Northern Cascades. With Seattle and Vancouver both a short drive away, it’s the ideal place to study, work, recreate, and relax.

Illustration of famous landmarks like a tower, a classical building, and a modern skyscraper; a location marker, interconnected on a map-like layout with trees and clouds.

Scholarships at Western Washington University

  • First-Year International Achievement Award (IAA)

    Official page

    A four-year, merit-based scholarship of up to $10,000 per year for incoming first-year international undergraduate students. It is explicitly designated for new international freshman applicants, awarded automatically based on the admission application (secondary school transcripts, cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, English proficiency evidence, and optional essay/activities list) submitted by the priority deadline through Western's own application (not the Common App). No separate scholarship application is required, and the award renews annually provided a 3.0 GPA is maintained.

  • International Student Scholarship (ISSS Leadership Scholarship)

    Official page

    Awarded by WWU's International Student & Scholar Services to currently enrolled international students on F-1 visa status who have completed at least one year at Western, including undergraduates (as well as graduate students not exchange or externally sponsored). Recipients receive partial tuition-waiver scholarships of roughly $1,500, usable across Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters of the following academic year. Selection is based on a leadership application, essay, academic record, resume, and interview or video submission, and recipients participate in the International Student Leadership Program mentoring incoming international students. A minimum 2.8 GPA is required.

  • Transfer International Achievement Award (IAA)

    Official page

    A two-year, merit-based scholarship of up to $10,000 per year for international undergraduate transfer students. Eligible applicants must have completed at least 45 quarter (30 semester) credits at an accredited post-secondary institution, hold a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, and submit transcripts, an essay, and evidence of English proficiency by the priority deadline. It is awarded automatically through the standard international transfer admission review with no separate scholarship application, and renews annually with continued 3.0 GPA maintenance.

All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official scholarship page for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.

Fees

Western is nationally recognized for providing an excellent education at an affordable cost, with Kiplinger's Personal Finance ranking Western as a top value in education.

Fee information

  • Undergraduate tuition

    US$27,366 per year

  • MBA tuition

    US$36,096 per year

  • Graduate tuition

    US$27,375 per year

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What is the cost of living near Western Washington University?

Local figures aren't available yet — values reflect USA-wide averages.

Category Cost  (in United States Dollar)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre$1,652Range: $1,046 to $4,269
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre$1,349Range: $891 to $2,857
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)$214Range: $130 to $400
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)$73Range: $50 to $110
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)$61Range: $30 to $110
Monthly public transport pass$65Range: $35 to $138
Monthly grocery basket$350Range: $250 to $500
Coffee shop drink$5Range: $3 to $9
Cinema or cultural event ticket$15Range: $11 to $23
Gym membership$45Range: $20 to $135

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from numbeo.com (Crowdsourced).

Visa requirements for Western Washington University

Many international students will require a visa to study in the US, and this is a vital step of your study abroad journey. Make sure you understand the requirements you may need to meet before applying.

Life at Western Washington University

There is a counseling, and wellness services at Western that is dedicated to supporting students and promoting a healthy balance between emotional and physical health while studying. There are additional services for students to assist with their academic progress and general health.

Living on campus at Western is a great way for international students to adjust to student life and be surrounded by other students in the same situation.

Illustration showing aspects of student life, including a student with a book and pencil, various books, a laptop, fast food, and iconic educational symbols like a graduation cap and a university building.

Facilities

  • Healthcare & Medical
    • Travel Vaccinations
    • Emergency Contraception
    • Minor Surgery
    • Counselling & Mental Health Services
    • Campus Doctor
    • Physiotherapy
  • All Weather Sports Pitches
    • 1 Tennis Courts
    • 1 Golf Coursenumber
    • 1 Basketball Courts
    • 1 volleyball courts
  • Fitness Centre
    • Free Weights
    • Machines
    • Personal Trainers
    • Fitness Classes
  • Transport
    • Campus parking
  • Tutoring Support
    • Academic Tutoring & Support
    • Student Tutoring & Support
  • Library
    • Quiet Areas
    • Computer labs
    • Group Study Rooms
    • Individual Study Rooms
  • IT Support
    • Campus Wireless Connectivity
  • Praying Rooms
    • Language Center
    • Pre sessional English Academic skills courses
  • Food & Restaurants
    • Cafe’s
    • Bars
    • Restaurants
  • Sports Facilities
    • Sport facilities
    • 1 Natural Turf Soccer Pitches
    • 1 Natural Turf American Football Pitches
  • Clubs & Organisations
    • 271 Clubs & Organizations

Student reviews for Western Washington University

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