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Application Process
We will be accepting applications each year, commencing October. We will begin reviewing and extending offers late-January.
Important Notices
- Application format: All applications must be submitted online through the School of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies website.
- International applicants: Due to high demand and limited spots, international applicants must apply early—by January 1 for first-round consideration.
- English Language Requirements: Required for applicants whose first language is not English. Tests must be taken within the past two years:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 86 overall, with no section below 20
TOEFL (paper): Minimum score of 550
IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5
Western’s TOEFL ID is 0984
Deadline
The Graduate Affairs Committee begins reviewing files for Fall admission as early as December. Prospective students are encouraged to start preparing their applications in the Fall prior to applying, including contacting potential supervisors and referees. Applicants eligible for Tri-Council funding should also review relevant deadlines and submission requirements early.
Online Application Process
The online application process will provide the program with the following information:
- Biographical information
- Contact information
- Brief statement of academic/research interests
- Academic background - CV
- Electronic transcripts from Ontario universities/ colleges (see below for information on transcripts)
- Referee information - two academic references are required
- Application fee
Applications are not forwarded to the Department of Geography and Environment for review until the application form has been completed and submitted by the applicant, and the application fee has been paid.
Review Process
Applications are reviewed by the faculty member(s) you have identified as a potential Supervisor(s) and by the faculty members of the Graduate Affairs Committee. The admission focuses on three points:
- Applicant quality
- Shared research interests and supervisor support
- Department's capacity to admit, fund, and supervise
- Seek Guidance: Talk to trusted mentors to determine if a graduate degree aligns with your personal and career goals.
- Contact Supervisors: Reach out to potential supervisors for advice on your research interests and suitable courses.
- Gather Insights: Speak with faculty and graduate students at your current institution—many may be familiar with Western’s Department of Geography and Environment.
- Connect with Current Students: Contact graduate students in the department for honest feedback.
- Visit if Possible: A visit to the department is encouraged.
- Stay Informed: Review the application process page for deadlines and additional details.
- Review First: Carefully read the online application instructions before starting.
- Inform Supervisors: Let potential advisors/supervisors know you are applying.
- Choose Referees Wisely: Select reliable academic referees (faculty members).
- Be Thorough: Pay close attention to the quality and accuracy of your application content.
- Include Your ID: Clearly display your online application ID number on all additional materials submitted to the department.
- Visit the Department: If possible, arrange a visit through your potential advisor or the Graduate Administrator.
- Keep Us Informed: Notify the department if you receive offers from other programs or if there are changes to your address or application status.
Please contact the Graduate Administrator with any questions regarding the graduate program.
Phone: 519-661-2111, Ext. 85033
Email: GeoGradAdmin@uwo.ca