FindU
Find Your FitFor CollegesAboutBlog
Sign inGet Started
Home/Colleges/Wisconsin/University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Wisconsin-Madison campus photo 1
University of Wisconsin-Madison campus photo 2
University of Wisconsin-Madison campus photo 3
University of Wisconsin-Madison campus photo 4
University of Wisconsin-Madison campus photo 5
1 / 5
University of Wisconsin-Madison logo

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, Wisconsin · Public

Ranked #36 US News
$17k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
A+Academics
B+Admissions
AStudent Life
AOverall

About

University of Wisconsin-Madison is located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 35,665 students.

wisc.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$17kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$11,205
Out-of-state tuition$40,603
Room & board$13,500
Avg aid package$11,350
Students receiving aid15%
Pell grant recipients15%

UW-Madison offers competitive tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students, with resident undergraduate tuition at approximately $12,166. The university is committed to affordability, as demonstrated by its ranking as a 'Best Value School' by U.S. News & World Report. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help students manage the cost of attendance.

What would you actually pay?FindU estimates your real net price for University of Wisconsin-Madison from your family income.
Calculate my net priceFree · 2 min

Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1360–1510
4001600
ACT · middle 50%28–32
136

Application info

Acceptance rate43%
Average GPA3.90
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$70

UW-Madison is considered a 'more selective' university, with an admit rate of approximately 43%. The university considers factors such as graduation rates, faculty resources, and academic reputation in its admissions process. While test-optional admissions have been in place, applicants are encouraged to highlight their strengths and experiences.

Will you get into University of Wisconsin-Madison?FindU calculates your real admission odds from your stats.
Show me my oddsFree · 2 min

Academics

Graduation rate89%
Retention rate95%
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Full-time faculty84%

UW-Madison is a large, four-year research university with a comprehensive graduate program. The university is known for its strong academic rigor and a wide array of academic disciplines. It is influenced by the 'Wisconsin Idea,' which emphasizes applying research to solve real-world problems and improve the lives of people in the state.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$73,792
Job placement rate72%
Earn more than HS grad87%
Loan default (3 yr)1%
Loan repayment (3 yr)84%

UW-Madison boasts impressive career outcomes for its graduates, reflected in its top 100 global ranking for employability. The university's strong academic reputation and high level of research contribute to its alumni's success. Career services are delivered through individual schools and colleges, providing comprehensive support for students and employer relations.

Student life

Demographics

Large School
35,665Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 53%Male 47%
60% WhiteRacial diversity
White 60%Asian 11%Hispanic 8%Black 3%Other 18%
Campus housingYes

UW-Madison offers a vibrant student life with a wide variety of clubs, organizations, and campus events. Students can choose from two distinct neighborhoods for housing: Lakeshore for nature lovers and Southeast for city souls. The campus is located in Madison, WI, which blends big-city opportunities with small-town conveniences.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Freshman

High academic rigor as well as a large social scene. The campus is beautiful, as well as the city of Madison, which has a lot of things to do.

Alumni

I loved my time at UW-Madison. I was in the marching band, I made friends in classes, and I'm still friends with many of them 30 years later. I'd go back in a flash!

Senior

I have really enjoyed my time at UW-Madison! I really love the location, our campus is right on a lake and is also connected to the main heart of the city of Madison. There are also lots of ways to get involved on campus, we have over 1,000 clubs and organizations and there are always athletic events to go to as well!

Cost and value

Sophomore

I have taken a good mix of small classes and large classes, and I tend to prefer the vibe of the smaller classes. In these smaller classes, you're able to form a relationship with the professor just by showing up to lecture and being involved. One of the hardest things about my university is the cost of everything.

About University of Wisconsin-Madison

Ensuring student health and safety is a top priority at UW-Madison, with various resources available to support students. The university provides critical campus resources to promote a safe and accessible experience for all members of the community.

The Letters & Science Honors Program provides a community for talented and engaged undergraduates. The program offers enriched curriculum, professional advising, research opportunities, and funding. Students can participate in special seminars, research projects, and academic and social opportunities through the Honors Student Organization.

UW-Madison welcomes students from all over the world and offers resources to help international students build community. International Student Services provides support, and international students are eligible for many scholarships at UW-Madison.

Endowment$5,530,156,867
Avg faculty salary$180,900

University of Wisconsin-Madison FAQ

See if University of Wisconsin-Madison is right for you

Answer a few quick questions and FindU shows your match score, your admission chances, and the scholarships you qualify for.

Show me my matchesFree · takes 2 minutes · no account needed to start
FindU Match
Free

Will you get into University of Wisconsin-Madison?

University of Wisconsin-Madison admits about 43% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
Match
Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
See your real result
Show me my chancesFree · takes 2 minutes · no account needed to start

More colleges in Wisconsin

Northland College

Ashland, Wisconsin

B-Overall72% admit

Carthage College

Kenosha, Wisconsin

B+Overall84% admit

Cardinal Stritch University

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

B-Overall93% admit

Wisconsin Lutheran College

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

B+Overall79% admit

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Whitewater, Wisconsin

BOverall83% admit

Western Technical College

La Crosse, Wisconsin

BOverall$12k/yr net
All colleges in Wisconsin
Is University of Wisconsin-Madison your match?Get my match
FindU

Find Your Fit

  • Take college quiz
  • Scholarship search
  • College Search
  • Browse all tools

Company

  • About
  • Blog
  • Careers

For Partners

  • For Colleges
  • For Counselors
  • Contact Us

Legal

  • Privacy
  • Terms

Join our newsletter