University of Wisconsin-Madison

University of Wisconsin-Madison admitted 45.2% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1380–1520 on the SAT and 29–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what University of Wisconsin-Madison actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

I feel like the faculty here really care about my future success... Everybody is willing to introduce me to their colleagues and brag about my accomplishments for me.

A major is a specialized area of study with defined core classes and electives, while a certificate offers students the ability to develop additional expertise in an area of study outside of a major.

• Undergraduate majors and certificates332 undergraduate majors and certificates, 279 advanced degree programs
• Extensive Course CatalogMore than 9,000 courses, 8,856 courses (Fall 2025)
• Groundbreaking ExplorationOne of the 10 largest research institutions, $1 billion+ annually to research

Verified from wisc.edu and wisc.edu and wisc.edu and wisc.edu and international.wisc.edu and wisc.edu and wisc.edu and secfac.wisc.edu and wisc.edu.

• TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from wisc.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

• Each student is unique. Please tell us about the particular life experiences, talents, commitments, and/or interests you will bring to our campus.

  Up to 650 words

• Tell us why you would like to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided, please describe your areas of possible academic interest.

  Up to 650 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from wisc.edu.

The sticker price is about $28,679. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $17,354.

UW, Madison is dedicated to making the college experience attainable and affordable, with nearly two-thirds of students leaving debt-free through various tuition-free initiatives and financial aid.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $73,792.

Verified from wisc.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

• Computer and Information Sciences, General8% of degrees
• Psychology, General6% of degrees
• Economics6% of degrees
• Finance and Financial Management Services5% of degrees
• Biology, General4% of degrees
• Political Science and Government4% of degrees

“UW stood out to me because it’s such a well-rounded university. There’s a balance between nature and city life, and though it’s a large school, there are pockets of eclectic communities everywhere.”

Vibrant streetscapes lead to lakeside retreats, where a Big Ten college and capital city blend together, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

Is University of Wisconsin-Madison test-optional?

For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at University of Wisconsin-Madison is optional.

How hard is it to get into University of Wisconsin-Madison?

Very hard. University of Wisconsin-Madison admits 45.2% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1380 to 1520 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.

How much does University of Wisconsin-Madison cost?

The list price is about $28,679. After aid, families pay $17,354 on average.

Is University of Wisconsin-Madison worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $73,792 ten years after enrolling. 89% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.