Western University
Built along the banks of the Thames River in the “forest city” of London, Ontario, Western is one of the largest universities in the province. Home to more than 42,000 students from 126 countries and with more than 372,000 alumni worldwide, Western offers 400 majors, minors and specializations at the undergrad level, and more than 200 student clubs. Centres like the Institute for Neuroscience and the Institute for Earth and Space Exploration offer access to research, and summer research internship opportunities allow undergraduates to work alongside faculty mentors. Other experiential learning options include education abroad, entrepreneurship, project-based learning and work-integrated learning. “In today’s competitive job market, employers are looking for graduates with real-world experience and entrepreneurial skills such as problem-solving and innovative thinking,” says president Alan Shepard. “Western’s programs combine hands-on learning with entrepreneurship opportunities across all faculties.” The John M. Thompson Centre for Engineering Leadership and Innovation helps engineering students build prototypes and found startups. Opened in September 2024, the Ronald D. Schmeichel Building for Entrepreneurship and Innovation features a state-of-the-art maker space. Wampum Learning Lodge opened in 2022, providing support and services to Indigenous students as well as engaging with the wider university and local Indigenous communities. Renovated in 2022, Thames Hall is the home for student health and wellness services.
Campus buzz: Western Launch provides support for incoming students as soon as an offer is accepted, including course advice, academic preparation and in-person events. The Overnight Experience allows incoming students to stay on campus, connect with peers and get a feel for campus life before classes begin.
Quick facts
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$7,720 ($8,672 out-of-province students)
Minimum Entering Grades
Arts: 82.5% | Science: 83% | Commerce: 87% | Engineering: 90%
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 33,081 | Part-time: 1,755
Graduates: Full-time: 6,912 | Part-time: 4204
International Students: First-year: 9.3% | Graduate: 30.5%
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 7,396 (6,500 reserved for first-year students)
Cost of double room with meals: $16,510 to $17,860
Cost of single room with meals: $17,230 to $19,140
Cost of apartment-style: $10,100 to $11,860
Standout programs
Biomedical Engineering: This program offers a five-year concurrent degree in conjunction with a degree in a core engineering discipline: chemical, electrical, mechanical or mechatronic systems.
Creative Arts and Production: Students choose courses from three faculties—music, arts and humanities, and information and media studies—balancing theory and practice to explore creativity.
Dual Degree with Ivey Business School: Students can boost their career prospects by combining a business degree with their other studies, including engineering, medical sciences, and arts and humanities.
