Overview
University of Wisconsin-Madison is a moderately selective public four-year institution in Madison, Wisconsin. The school accepts 49.1% of applicants and enrolls 35,665 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 49.1%
- Average SAT
- 1,425
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,340–1,510
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 29
- Total Enrollment
- 35,665
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Wisconsin-Madison operates on rolling admissions, so submit your application early in the fall to maximize your chances and avoid the stress of waiting until the February deadline. The university reviews applications completeally, but your essay responses carry significant weight in distinguishing you from other qualified candidates.
Focus your essays on specific experiences rather than broad statements about your goals. If you're interested in the highly regarded engineering programs, discuss a particular project where you solved a technical problem or built something meaningful. For business applicants eyeing the Wisconsin School of Business, detail how you've applied analytical thinking outside the classroom. The admissions committee wants to see how you think through challenges, not just hear that you want to study business or engineering.
Apply directly to the Honors College when you submit your main application. This separate program requires additional essays but offers small seminars, research opportunities, and priority registration. The Honors College specifically looks for students who will contribute to classroom discussions and take academic risks.
Madison's campus culture centers around school spirit and community involvement. Students here balance serious academics with active social lives, often built around football Saturdays at Camp Randall Stadium and involvement in the hundreds of student organizations. You'll fit well if you want both academic challenge and a traditional college experience with strong alumni networks.
Research specific professors or programs you want to work with and mention them in your essays. The university offers undergraduate research opportunities across disciplines, from the Wisconsin Idea connecting academics to public service, to the Center for Dairy Research if you're interested in food science. These specific details show you've done your homework about what makes Madison unique.
Your activities list should highlight leadership roles and sustained commitment rather than a long list of brief involvements. Wisconsin values students who dive deep into their interests and can point to concrete accomplishments or impact in their communities.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $16,928/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $11,205
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $40,603
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 89.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $73,792/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 94.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Wisconsin-Madison require SAT or ACT scores?
UW-Madison is test-optional for fall 2024 and beyond. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for University of Wisconsin-Madison?
The application deadline is February 1 for fall admission. UW-Madison uses a single deadline system and does not offer early decision or early action.
Can I transfer to University of Wisconsin-Madison from another college?
UW-Madison accepts transfer students who have completed at least 12 college credits. Transfer applications are due March 1 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission.
Does University of Wisconsin-Madison consider Wisconsin residents differently in admissions?
Wisconsin residents receive preference in the admissions process. The university aims to enroll approximately two-thirds Wisconsin residents in each incoming class.