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Why Study at Western University in Canada?

Posted 19 June 2023 Canadian University Guide

Nestled in the heart of London, Ontario, Western University is a renowned public research institution known for its academic excellence, innovative research, and vibrant campus life. With a rich historical legacy that dates back to 1878, Western has become one of Canada's top universities, attracting students from across the world to its diverse and welcoming community. 

Western University currently has over 30,000 students enrolled on its programs from around the world, studying across its 12 faculties and professional schools, which include the Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Science, the Faculty of Health Sciences, the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, and the Richard Ivey School of Business. Western University is also home to a vibrant research community, with over 200 research centres and institutes conducting cutting-edge biotechnology, environmental science, and neuroscience research. Beyond academics, Western University offers a lively campus life with over 200 student-run clubs and organizations and a range of athletics and fitness programs.

Whether you are seeking to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies, Western's exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and supportive environment are sure to provide you with a world-class education and a transformative experience.

If you wish to study at Western University, book a free consultation with SI-Canada to begin your academic journey.

why study western university canada

Nine Reasons to Study at Western University

1. Quality Education

Western University offers a world-class education focusing on research and innovation. The university offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs, including professional law, medicine, and business programs. Students can choose from various majors and specializations, from the arts and humanities to the health sciences and engineering

Western's faculty is renowned for its expertise and dedication to teaching, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for career success. Western University's commitment to experiential learning ensures that students have opportunities to apply their classroom learning to real-world situations. The university has a variety of hands-on learning opportunities, including co-op programs, internships, and research assistantships. The university's high education standards are reflected in its accreditation and affiliations.

2. Innovative Research Opportunities

As a leading research university, Western offers students the opportunity to work alongside world-class researchers in cutting-edge fields. Western University has over 50 research institutes and centres, with research strengths in fields such as neuroscience, sustainability, and biomedical engineering.

At Western University, students can work alongside leading researchers in their respective fields, using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. The university's faculty members are highly regarded experts in their field who have been recognized nationally and internationally for their research contributions. Western University also attracts leading researchers from around the world, who come to collaborate on projects and share their knowledge and expertise. In addition to traditional research opportunities, the university also offers innovative programs that encourage interdisciplinary research and collaboration. For example, the Propel Entrepreneurship Centre is a research and innovation hub that brings together researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners to develop new technologies and business ventures.

3. Campus Life

Campus life at Western University is vibrant and diverse, offering students a multitude of opportunities to get involved and engaged with the campus community. With a wide range of student clubs, societies, and various events that are held, there is something for everyone at Western. Students can get involved in campus life by joining clubs and organizations, volunteering with community organizations, or participating in intramural sports.

The Western campus is home to many state-of-the-art facilities, including the Western Student Recreation Centre, which features a fitness centre, pool, and a variety of sports courts and fields. Students can also enjoy the many green spaces, including the famous "hill", where students gather to relax, socialize, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. In addition to the physical amenities, Western offers several programs and services to support student well-being and personal growth. The Student Success Centre provides resources for academic success, career development, and leadership training, while the Wellness Centre offers counselling services and mental health support. Western also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including concerts, cultural festivals, and sporting events.

4. Career Development

Western University is known for its strong commitment to career development and support for its students. The university offers various programs and resources to help students prepare for their future careers. One of the critical resources available to students is the Student Success Centre. This centre offers various services, including career counselling, job search assistance, and networking opportunities. Students can access these services throughout their academic journey at Western, from their first to final year.

The university also has a Co-operative Education program, which allows students to gain hands-on work experience in their chosen field of study while earning academic credits. This program allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting and gain valuable work experience before graduation. 

5. Vibrant Location

London as a city offers a vibrant and diverse community for students to explore and enjoy. The city is located in southwestern Ontario, just two hours from Toronto, and offers a mix of urban and suburban environments. The Western University campus is situated in the north end of London, which is considered one of the city's most desirable neighbourhoods. The campus itself is quite large and spacious, with plenty of green spaces and outdoor recreational areas for students to enjoy. London is home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with galleries, museums, and theatres for students to explore. The city is also quite well-known for its excellent restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering diverse dining and nightlife options. For outdoor enthusiasts, London offers a range of activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports on the Thames River. The city is also located near several beautiful provincial parks, such as Pinery Provincial Park and Port Burwell Provincial Park. Overall, the city proves to be a great place for students to learn, live and truly enjoy their university life.

6. Ranking

7. Scholarships

Western University offers several scholarships to support its students in making their academic dreams come true. Some of the major scholarships that are provided by the university are listed below:

  1. Western Scholarship of Excellence: This scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement and is awarded to top incoming undergraduate students across various disciplines.
  2. International President's Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are specifically designed for outstanding international students entering their first year of study at Western University.
  3. Admission Scholarships: For incoming undergraduate students based on their academic achievements and specific criteria.
  4. Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at Western University offer particular scholarships to students pursuing specific programs or disciplines.

8. Accommodation

Western University offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to the needs of its students and has several residence halls on campus, providing a convenient living option for students. These halls offer single or double rooms with shared common areas for students, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges. The university also offers apartments and townhouses for students who prefer more independent living, and these options include private bedrooms and shared living spaces, giving students the opportunity to have their own space while still being part of a larger community. Western University has several partnerships with off-campus housing providers, offering a range of options near the campus. 

9. Commute and Transportation Options

Western University enables students to use various transportation options to get to and from the campus. London Transit Commission (LTC) operates bus routes throughout the city, including several routes that serve the Western University campus. The university promotes cycling as a sustainable transportation option, and the campus features bike racks and designated bike lanes, making it easy for students to commute by bicycle. The university also encourages carpooling to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainable transportation. 

Western University FAQ

What is special about Western University?

Western University is a renowned institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and research initiatives leading to groundbreaking innovations. Western's state-of-the-art facilities, a diverse range of programs, and vibrant campus community contribute to a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

What is Western University best at?

Western University is best known for its strong reputation in research excellence, particularly in fields such as health sciences, engineering, and social sciences. The university is renowned for its innovative research programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborative research opportunities. 

Is Western University difficult to get into?

Admission to Western University can be competitive, and the difficulty of getting admission at the university varies depending on the program and the number of applicants. 

What GPA do you need for Western University?

The required GPA varies depending on the program and the level of study. Generally, the university sets minimum GPA requirements for each program, which can range from around 2.7 to 3.7 on a 4.0 scale. 

What is the acceptance rate of Western University for Indian students?

The Western University acceptance rate for Indian students is around 58%, which means that the university has a moderately selective admission process, and several factors go into consideration for the final admission decision at the university. 

Universities featured in this article:

  • Western University
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