Does Western accept African national curricula such as WAEC, NECO and KCSE?
Yes. Western considers a range of international secondary school qualifications, including qualifications from countries across Africa. Admission requirements vary depending on your country, curriculum, programme and intended faculty.
Students should review the admission requirements for their specific country and programme.
Are there religious and faith-based clubs at Western?
Yes. Western has a diverse student community and offers opportunities for students to connect with faith-based and religious student groups representing a variety of traditions. Students can get involved in campus clubs, communities and activities that support their faith and help them build connections.
Western has the Muslim Students’ Association (Western MSA), Western Christian Students Fellowship, Newman Catholic Students’ Association and many more other faith-based groups. There are also several multifaith spaces available on campus for both booking and drop-in use. Explore Western's spiritual rescources and supports here.
Is there support if I need a study permit?
Yes. We know there can be a lot to navigate when planning to study in another country, and it's natural to have questions about study permits early in the process. If you need a study permit, Western's immigration support becomes available once you receive an offer of admission, since this is when the study permit process for coming to Western can begin.
Until then, there isn't anything you need to do with Western related to your study permit. Once you're admitted, you'll have access to resources and support to help you understand the study permit process and prepare for your journey to Western.
Are there African stores and restaurants in London, Ontario?
Yes. London has a growing African community, with a number of African restaurants, food businesses and grocery stores where students can find familiar foods and products.
Some local restaurants include Vas Cuisine, Yaya Kitchen, Unik Afri Foods, Lounge & Restaurant de Buga and TGs Addis Ababa Restaurant. There are also African grocery stores, including Feliza African Grocery and Beauty Store, Best Bargain Africa Grocery Store, Unik Afri Foods and Bos African Store.
I have already graduated from high school. Do I need to enrol in an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) program before I can attend Western?
No. If you have already completed a recognised secondary school qualification, you may be eligible to apply directly to Western without enrolling in an OSSD program. Western assesses applicants based on their completed high school curriculum and academic credentials.
However, students may need additional courses or upgrading if:
- Their credential is not considered equivalent to Canadian secondary school graduation.
- They are missing prerequisite courses required for their chosen program.
- Their academic results do not meet the competitive admission requirements.
Students who have completed qualifications such as WAEC, NECO, KCSE, A Levels, IB or other recognised international curricula are generally assessed based on those credentials rather than being required to obtain an OSSD.
We recommend that students review the admission requirements for their specific programme or speak with an admissions advisor to determine whether any additional credential is required.
Are there scholarships for Black or African students?
Western’s Admission Scholarship Program for Black and Indigenous students offers scholarships that can continue for up to four years. The scholarships recognise outstanding secondary school students entering the first year of any undergraduate program at Western directly from high school.
Can I submit my application through an agent?
Western welcomes international students to independently submit their application to the university or work with a third-party recruiter, such as an educational agent. If you choose to work with an agent, be sure to check for official parternships with Western.