Information for International Applicants

The MPT Program at Western is committed to facilitating the development of healthcare practitioners prepared to serve the diverse health and functional needs of Canadians and international communities. We acknowledge and embrace an environment of respect, and we value the unique life experiences of international applicants. We deliver on this commitment through equitable admission practices, and our processes for reviewing and evaluating international applicant files reflect these values.

Our Commitment

The MPT Program promotes accessibility and fosters an environment of respect where international applicants can thrive. We are proud to designate 20 seats in the program for international students. We endeavour to elevate applicants who can enrich the program and profession through their life experience and may benefit from a pathway of study in Canada. We accept direct applications to the program. If you would like more information you can email ptinternational@uwo.ca or complete this survey. There is no deadline for applications submitted directly to the program as we review files on an ongoing basis, however submission date of the application may impact program start date.

Why Study Physical Therapy at Western?

  • Our Beautiful Campus: Get a great view of Western's campus and discover our dynamic community of learning .

  • World-Renowned Excellence: Western University among the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide (Center for World University Rankings 2023).
  • Global Campus: Our diverse community of 43,352 students includes over 4,759 international students from 129 different countries.
  • Student Services: Western University among the top 3 universities in Canada for exceptional student services according to Maclean's University Rankings for 2024.
  • Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings: Western University placed #114 overall out of nearly 1,500 institutions for 2024.
  • Outstanding Sustainability Rankings: Western University boasts impressive rankings, standing as the only Canadian institution to place in the top 10 for sustainability in both the QS and THE rankings:
  • Exceptional Career Outcomes: Graduates of the MPT program at Western University enjoy a remarkable 100% employment rate.

Considerations Before Applying

The Master of Physical Therapy program is an intense, full-time program, and applicants should aim to demonstrate through their application and academic background that they can meet the demands of the professional journey. We aim to admit applicants who have demonstrated the academic and personal attributes which will allow for successful completion of the program. Thus, consideration will be given to international applicants with a sub-GPA of 3.4 or higher who also meet the application requirements. If you accept an offer of admission through this stream, you are agreeing to enroll as an international student and to pay international fees for the duration of the program.

How to Apply

International students may apply through ORPAS if they prefer; however, this is not required, and applicants may apply directly to the program. If applying through ORPAS, applicants must self-identify as an international student.  If you have any questions about the application process, please complete this survey or email ptinternational@uwo.ca. To be considered, applicants must fulfill all admission requirements.

Interview Process

Applicants being considered for admission will be invited to participate in an interview. Applicants are required to complete the interview process as part of the admission process. This allows applicants to meet the admissions committee, learn more about the program, and ask questions about the MPT Program and student experience at Western. This interview will make use of video conferencing software like Zoom.

Upon Accepting an Offer

We recommend that students new to Canada arrive by July 1 to prepare for their time in the program. All international students should complete the International Student Orientation for Graduate Students offered through Western’s International & Exchange Student Centre as soon as possible. You must present your Study Permit to the School of Physical Therapy by September 1 of each academic year.

Read more about services available for International Students at the International & Exchange Student Centre.

Co-Op Work Permit for Placements

Master of Physical Therapy program requires students to complete 30 weeks of clinical placements as part of your studies; thus, you will need a co-op work permit alongside your study permit as an international student.

It is very important for international students to understand the rules and regulations when it comes to working as an international student in Canada. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure co-op permit is obtained prior to starting the program.

To avoid delays, the best time to apply for the co-op work permit is at the same time that you apply for your study permit. Upon request, we will supply you with a letter to include with your co-op work permit application stating that the placements are a required part of your studies.

A Co-op permit is a special type of work permit that allows you to work in Canada as part of your academic program. Eligibility for a co-op permit depends on following 4 conditions.

Co-op Permit Conditions

Western MPT Program

Students must have (or be applying to) a valid study permit alongside the co-op permit.

✓ You need a valid study permit to be able to study at Western MPT program.

Employment must be an essential part of your academic program.

✓ Clinical placements are required as part of your studies.

Applicants must have a letter from the school that confirms all the students in your program need to complete work placements to get their degree.

✓ You will be provided with a co-op letter as a part of your acceptance letter upon request.

Co-op or internship totals 50% or less of study program.

✓ Placement totals less than 50% of MPT program.

For more information regarding applying to a co-op work permit. Or you can visit IRCC Website.

To book an appointment with Western University International Student Advisors for assistance and your questions.