University of Wisconsin-Madison

Getting in is the hard part. University of Wisconsin-Madison admitted 45.2% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: 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, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of Wisconsin-Madison actually rewards, and 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. These change year to year, so most guides you will 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, but that is not 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.

“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, and 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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $17,354.

Is University of Wisconsin-Madison worth it?

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