International Student Advising Services

For many of you, this will be your first experience living apart from your families and friends and experiencing a new cultural, social, and academic environment. As you transition to life in Canada and at Western and as you journey through your university experience, we have services in place to support you.

How we can help

Confidential advising service provided by International Student Advisors is available to help you address any questions or concerns that may arise throughout your time at Western.

International students can get assistance on a range of issues including but not limited to:

  • Immigration matters
  • Employment and other government regulations
  • Cultural and academic transitions
  • University policies and procedures
  • Cross-cultural understanding and communications
  • Canadian cultural norms
  • Becoming involved - making new connections and building your new community
  • Health care
  • Student Peer Support
  • Financial concerns
  • Resources for families and children
  • Referrals to campus and community resources

Ways to meet with an International Student Advisor

Our staff are available to meet with you during in-person drop-in hours, virtually during our FAQ Immigration Friday drop-in sessions, or in 30-minute virtual appointments.

Note: Advisors’ schedules are subject to change. If you require support with Permanent Residency (PR) or Visiting Research Only (VRO), you may want to call in advance to confirm that our immigration advisors supporting PR and VRO are available. Please check for any office closures or changes to our advising service times on our  service disruption page. 

In-person 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 – 4:00 p.m. Service during drop-in hours is conducted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Virtual drop-ins

The IESC holds regular, free workshops on immigration topics such as study permits, Temporary Resident visas, post-graduation work permits, pathways after graduation, co-op work permits, and more. Virtual drop-in service is available during FAQ Friday, conducted via Zoom.

Book an appointment

Book a 30-minute appointment when you have a situation that needs more time than a drop-in, or if you have multiple questions about different topics or concerns. For more information on how to book an appointment please visit our Book an Appointment page. 

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Privacy and Confidentiality

Information disclosed by students during individual appointments will be kept confidential. It will not be shared with family, university staff, course instructors, or others without written permission and will not become part of academic records. For more information on privacy and confidentiality, please review the university’s privacy policy.

Accessibility

Western is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Please contact us in advance if you have any specific accommodation requirements.