Transfer Student Tips

 

You're a Bronco! What's Next?

Transfer Transition To-Do

  • Set up your GoWMU Portal: You should have received a Bronco Net ID and a Temporary Password in the mail from Admissions. Your Bronco Net ID is different than your WIN (Western Identification Number). If you don’t have your Bronco Net ID and Temporary Password, you can get it by contacting the Help Desk at (269) 387-HELP (4357) or by e-mailing them at helpdesk@wmich.edu.  
  • Use your GoWMU Portal: At the top of most WMU web pages is a small link called GoWMU. Click there and it will take you to the sign-in page for your personal portal. Click First Time Logging In. Enter your Bronco Net ID and Temporary Password. Create your personal password. Then log into your portal.
  • Across the top you will see helpful links. Catalog links you to the WMU Academic Catalog. Elearning links you to the Blackboard Learning System for online learning. W Exchange links you to your WMU email account. Remember to check your email daily to receive important information from financial aid, your academic advisor(s), your instructors, etc.
  • Click on First-Year Student Tab. Review the information found under the heading, “Congratulations – You’re in!” for helpful first-year information.
  • Click on Student Home Tab. From here you can check your financial aid status and view your award, add and drop classes, check your account balance and pay your bill, and take care of many aspects of your WMU business.
  • Register for Classes: After setting up your Portal, follow the directions in your advising handbook to register for classes.
  • Purchase your Books: WMU Bookstore is located on the second floor of the Bernhard Center. Their number is (269) 387-3930 and their website is www.wmubookstore.com.
  • Determine your technology needs by reviewing WMU's laptop recommendations.

Note:  Visit the bookstore website for online ordering options. The earlier you buy, the greater the opportunity for used books which are usually less expensive than new.

  • Get your Western Student ID: Your ID picture can be taken in the Bernhard Center in the room across from the WMU bookstore on the main floor after you are registered for courses. 
  • Take Care of Financial Aid: Visit Bronco Express located on the lower level of the Bernhard Center by the food court. Make sure WMU has received your FAFSA. Ask about scholarships. Find out what else you need to do. No appointment is needed. You can also call them at (269) 387-6000. Check out their web page: www.wmich.edu/broncoexpress.
  • Figure out the Bottom Line: There is a cost of attendance calculator on the Registrar’s website, under Tuition and Fees: www.wmich.edu/registrar. Enter your information and choose your options to figure your cost of attendance. Western charges a flat rate for full-time on-campus tuition (12-15 credits) in the fall and spring semesters. Contact Bronco Express for details: (269) 387-6000.
  • Get your Parking Pass: If you plan to have a vehicle on campus, you must purchase a permit online from Parking Services. To purchase a parking permit, visit the Get a Permit page and follow the prompts. Any questions or concerns can be answered by emailing parking@wmich.edu or by calling the office at (269) 387-4609. Check out their website: www.parking.wmich.edu.
  • Figure out Housing: Check out WMU housing options for transfer students here: www.wmich.edu/housing/transfer. The number for Residence Life is (269) 387-4735.
  • Purchase your Meal Plan: There are commuter meal plans available. Read about them here: https://wmich.edu/dining. The number for Dining Services is (269) 387-3463.

  • Send your Final Transcripts: If you are currently taking non-WMU courses, request that your final transcripts (after grades are posted) be sent to WMU Admissions, 1903 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI  49008-5211.

  • Stay In the Know: Come to the college of business for advising right after the add/drop period (in September and January) to update your progress with an academic advisor and to get your course recommendations for the next semester. Book an appointment on our website: www.wmich.edu/business/advising.

Welcome to Western and Go Broncos!