Eastern Washington University (EWU) is often described as a place where students don’t just study, they belong. Known for its core values of Grit, Grace, Gratitude, and Greatness, EWU fosters a warm and inclusive environment where hard work and big dreams are genuinely celebrated. Located in the friendly town of Cheney, just 20 minutes from Spokane, Washington’s second-largest city, EWU offers a unique blend of small-town community and big-city access. For international students, this means the opportunity to enjoy the full American college experience, in a place that feels both exciting and supportive.
Dynamic University Life and Community
Student life at EWU is more than just academics—it’s an invitation into a vibrant, welcoming community. The campus hosts over 130 student-led clubs and organizations, offering something for nearly every interest, whether that’s outdoor adventure, cultural exchange, sports, arts, or student leadership.
At its core, EWU’s campus culture is one of belonging. Students often speak of it as a place where people are genuinely interested in their stories, where faculty know students by name, and where friendly smiles are part of everyday life. For many international students, this warm, close-knit environment becomes a true home away from home.
The Region’s Polytechnic: Learn by Doing
EWU is recognized as “The Region’s Polytechnic”, meaning its approach to education is grounded in applied, hands-on learning. This makes it especially attractive for students looking to graduate with real industry experience.
The University offers over 100 academic programs across disciplines such as business, STEM, health sciences, arts, and more. Among the most popular majors are Biology, Business, Psychology, Dental Hygiene, and Engineering. No matter the field, EWU’s programs emphasize practical application and innovation, ensuring students graduate with skills employers actively seek.
Classes frequently include real-world projects, lab work, and opportunities for internships—even during undergraduate studies. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 22:1, learners benefit from personalized mentorship and small class sizes where professors take an active role in student development.
For international students, this applied approach can be particularly valuable, providing not only knowledge but also meaningful experience to strengthen job applications and graduate school prospects.
Affordable and Accessible Education
EWU currently offers the lowest in-state tuition among public universities in Washington state without compromising on quality.
The Global Resident Scholarship provides a special tuition discount to incoming international undergraduate students who choose to live on campus. This discount remains locked in for up to four years, offering predictability and long-term savings.
International students on an F-1 visa are also eligible for part-time on-campus employment, up to 20 hours per week. Whether assisting in a research lab, supporting campus services, or helping fellow students in tutoring centers, these jobs are a practical way to earn money, gain experience, and meet people.
Career Preparation
Career development is a key focus at EWU. International students often arrive with goals of finding employment during or after their studies—and the university actively supports them.
The EWU Career Center offers a full range of services, including personalized career counseling, résumé and interview prep, networking events, and workshops tailored to international job seekers. Recognizing the unique challenges international students may face when job hunting in the U.S., EWU also hosts career fairs that include companies open to hiring international graduates or sponsoring work visas.
Upon graduation, international students leave not only with a degree, but also with a growing global network of EWU alumni who are eager to support fellow Eagles, wherever their careers may take them, reinforcing the motto “Once an Eagle, Always an Eagle“.
Eastern Washington University offers more than just a degree; it offers a community. For international students looking for a university where they can feel supported, gain real-world experience, and build lifelong friendships, EWU represents a perfect choice.
With its unique mix of practical education, cultural richness, affordability, and genuine hospitality, EWU has earned a reputation as a place where international students can truly thrive. For those ready to take the next step, Eastern Washington University might just be the place where dreams, and futures, take flight.
Think this sounds like your kind of place? You might be right.