UW-Madison
Discover. Grow. Lead. The Wisconsin Experience.
📍 Madison, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #36 in United States · QS World #110 · THE World #53 · ARWU #36
Quick Facts about UW-Madison
- Founded: 1848
- Type: Public
- Students: 48,557
- International: 15%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $42,531 – $42,103/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: September, January
About UW-Madison
Academics
UW-Madison offers a wide array of academic programs across its eight undergraduate schools and colleges, encompassing over 140 undergraduate majors. The university is recognized for its strong research focus and multidisciplinary strengths, with faculty and students engaged in cutting-edge discoveries. The teaching approach emphasizes critical thinking, curiosity, and hands-on learning, preparing students for diverse career paths. Notable programs include those in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Wisconsin School of Business, and the College of Engineering.
International Students
UW-Madison is a popular destination for international students, with 7,957 international students enrolled in the 2024-2025 academic year, making up 15% of the total student body. International Student Services (ISS) provides comprehensive support, including advising on immigration, personal, and cultural matters, along with organizing events to facilitate engagement and development. While most programs are taught in English, the university also offers an English as a Second Language (ESL) program for degree students needing to improve their English proficiency. Various student organizations, such as the Wisconsin International Students Association (WISA) and Madison Friends of International Students (MFIS), help with cultural integration and community building.
Campus & Location
Madison, Wisconsin, offers a unique blend of big-city opportunities and small-town conveniences, often described as the "ultimate college town." The campus itself features iconic locations like the Memorial Union Terrace and is integrated with the city's vibrant streetscapes and lakeside retreats. Transportation around Madison is convenient, with UW students eligible for a bus pass providing unlimited, free access to all city routes, and fare-free campus bus routes. The Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) is about 5 miles from campus, and bus services connect Madison to larger airports like Milwaukee (MKE) and Chicago O'Hare (ORD).
Career Outcomes
UW-Madison boasts a strong career services infrastructure, with a 72% placement rate for graduates securing employment within six months of graduation. Career services offices across campus assist students with career exploration, resume development, job search strategies, and interview preparation. The university has robust industry connections, fostering research partnerships that lead to new technologies and job opportunities. Madison also has a thriving startup culture, with UW-Madison playing a significant role in nurturing entrepreneurial endeavors and helping students develop foundational skills for starting their own companies. Top employers of UW-Madison graduates include UW Health, Epic, Deloitte, and Google.
Information for International Students at UW-Madison
UW-Madison in Madison, United States welcomes international students, with 15% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 15% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for UW-Madison
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to UW-Madison:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $80
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: January 15
Programs at UW-Madison (40 programs)
UW-Madison offers 40 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (34)
- Anthropology (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program explores human societies and cultures, past and present, through archaeological, biological, linguistic, and sociocultural perspectives. Graduates can pursue careers in research, cultural resource management, international development, or further academic study.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Researcher, Cultural Resource Manager, International Development Worker - Art (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program fosters creative expression and critical thinking through various artistic mediums and practices. Students develop a strong portfolio and can pursue careers as artists, designers, art educators, or in related creative industries.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Artist, Designer, Art Educator, Gallery Assistant - Languages (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program offers in-depth study of various world languages and their associated cultures, enhancing communication and cross-cultural understanding. Graduates find opportunities in international relations, translation, education, and global business.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Translator, Interpreter, International Relations Specialist, Educator, Global Business Professional - Economics (BA) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program analyzes how societies allocate scarce resources, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Graduates are prepared for roles in financial services, government, research, and data analysis.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Data Analyst, Policy Advisor - Communication (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program examines how humans communicate across various contexts, from interpersonal to mass media. Graduates are prepared for careers in public relations, journalism, marketing, corporate communications, and media production.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Professional, Media Producer - Music (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program offers comprehensive training in music theory, history, performance, and composition. Graduates can pursue careers as performers, educators, composers, music therapists, or in arts administration.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Music Therapist, Arts Administrator - Management (BBA) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program develops leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills essential for effective management. Graduates are prepared for roles in human resources, project management, operations, and general management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Human Resources Manager, Project Manager, Operations Manager, General Manager - English (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program develops critical reading, writing, and analytical skills through the study of literature, language, and rhetoric. Graduates are well-suited for careers in writing, editing, teaching, law, and various communication-intensive fields.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Lawyer, Communications Specialist - Business Administration (BBA) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program offers a broad understanding of business functions, including management, marketing, finance, and operations. Graduates are equipped for leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and various management positions across industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Operations Manager - Chemistry (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program investigates the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. Graduates work in chemical industries, pharmaceuticals, materials science, and environmental analysis.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst, Materials Scientist - History (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program explores past events, societies, and cultures, fostering critical thinking, research, and analytical skills. Graduates can pursue careers in education, archives, museums, government, or further academic research.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator, Policy Analyst - Finance (BBA) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program focuses on financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and risk management. Graduates pursue careers as financial analysts, portfolio managers, investment bankers, or corporate finance professionals.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Investment Banker, Corporate Finance Manager - Biomedical Engineering (BEng) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program applies engineering principles to biology and medicine, focusing on designing medical devices, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic solutions. Graduates work in medical device companies, research, or healthcare.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Designer, Research Scientist, Clinical Engineer - Electrical Engineering (BEng) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program focuses on the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Graduates work in power systems, telecommunications, control systems, and microelectronics.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Electronics Engineer, Power Systems Engineer, Control Systems Engineer - Mechanical Engineering (BEng) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program deals with the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Graduates find careers in automotive, aerospace, robotics, and energy sectors.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer - Environmental Sciences (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program integrates biology, chemistry, and geology to understand and address environmental issues. Graduates work in environmental consulting, conservation, policy, and sustainable development.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Environmental Consultant, Policy Analyst - Philosophy (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program engages with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. Graduates develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills, valuable in fields like law, ethics, and public policy.
Field: Arts & Humanities
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Ethicist, Policy Analyst, Journalist, Academic - Accounting (BBA) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program provides a strong foundation in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting. Graduates are prepared for careers as accountants, auditors, financial analysts, or tax specialists in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst, Tax Specialist - Marketing (BBA) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program covers market research, consumer behavior, branding, advertising, and digital marketing strategies. Graduates are well-suited for careers in marketing management, brand management, advertising, and sales.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Advertising Specialist, Sales Manager - Civil Engineering (BEng) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program involves the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Graduates work in construction, urban planning, and public works.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Manager, Urban Planner - Computer Science (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program covers the theoretical foundations of information and computation, and their practical application in computer systems. Graduates are highly sought after in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and AI.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, AI Engineer - Mathematics (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program provides a rigorous foundation in mathematical theory, problem-solving, and analytical reasoning. Graduates are prepared for careers in data science, finance, actuarial science, and academia.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Data Scientist, Actuary, Financial Analyst, Educator - Psychology (BA) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program studies the human mind and behavior, covering topics like cognitive processes, social psychology, and developmental psychology. Graduates work in counseling, human resources, research, and education.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher, Social Worker, Educator - Kinesiology (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program studies human movement, physical activity, and their impact on health and performance. Graduates pursue careers in exercise physiology, physical therapy, athletic training, and sports management.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Exercise Physiologist, Physical Therapist Assistant, Athletic Trainer, Sports Coach - Social Work (BSW) — English · Scholarship available
This program prepares students for professional social work practice, focusing on helping individuals, families, and communities address social challenges. Graduates work in child welfare, mental health, healthcare, and advocacy.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Counselor, Advocate, Community Program Manager - Chemical Engineering (BEng) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program focuses on the design, operation, and optimization of chemical processes and plants. Graduates find careers in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, materials, and environmental protection.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Materials Scientist, Environmental Engineer - Biology (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program explores the science of life, from molecular to ecosystem levels, covering genetics, ecology, and physiology. Graduates pursue careers in research, healthcare, environmental science, or biotechnology.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Environmental Scientist, Biotechnologist - Statistics (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program focuses on the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data. Graduates are in high demand for roles in data science, business analytics, biostatistics, and market research.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Statistician, Data Scientist, Business Analyst, Biostatistician, Market Researcher - Computer Engineering (BEng) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program combines electrical engineering and computer science to design and develop computer hardware and software systems. Graduates work in embedded systems, computer architecture, and software development.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Computer Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Software Developer, Embedded Systems Engineer - Industrial Engineering (BEng) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program optimizes complex processes, systems, and organizations to improve efficiency and productivity. Graduates work in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and consulting.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Industrial Engineer, Operations Analyst, Logistics Manager, Management Consultant - Nursing (BSN) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse, providing comprehensive patient care across various healthcare settings. Graduates work in hospitals, clinics, community health, and specialized care facilities.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, Public Health Nurse - Geology (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program studies the Earth's physical structure, processes, and history, including rocks, minerals, and natural resources. Graduates find careers in geological surveying, environmental protection, and resource exploration.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Geologist, Hydrogeologist, Environmental Geologist, Resource Explorer - Physics (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program explores the fundamental laws of the universe, from subatomic particles to cosmology, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Graduates pursue careers in research, engineering, and technology.
Field: Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Researcher, Data Scientist, Educator - Political Science (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, both domestically and internationally. Graduates pursue careers in government, law, public policy, journalism, and international relations.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager, Journalist, Diplomat
Master Programs (5)
- Higher Education (MA) — English · Scholarship available
This program examines the administration, policy, and student affairs within colleges and universities. Graduates pursue careers in university administration, student services, and institutional research.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Administrator, Student Affairs Professional, Institutional Researcher, Academic Advisor - Educational Leadership (MA) — English · Scholarship available
This program prepares educators for leadership roles in schools and educational organizations, focusing on policy, administration, and instructional improvement. Graduates become principals, superintendents, or educational consultants.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Principal, Superintendent, Educational Consultant, School Administrator - Curriculum & Instruction (MA) — English · Scholarship available
This program focuses on designing, implementing, and evaluating educational curricula and instructional strategies. Graduates work as curriculum developers, instructional designers, or master teachers.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Curriculum Developer, Instructional Designer, Master Teacher, Educational Specialist - Public Health (MPH) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program addresses health issues at a population level, focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and policy development. Graduates work in government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare organizations.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator, Policy Analyst - Rehabilitation Psychology (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program focuses on helping individuals with disabilities achieve personal, social, and vocational independence. Graduates work as rehabilitation counselors, case managers, or in disability services.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Rehabilitation Counselor, Case Manager, Disability Specialist, Vocational Counselor
Scholarships & Tuition at UW-Madison
Annual tuition for international students: $42,531 – $42,103/year
✅ UW-Madison offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of UW-Madison
- National Ranking: #36 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #110
- Times Higher Education (THE): #53
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #36
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at UW-Madison
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Top-ranked public research university
- Vibrant academic and social environment
- Strong research focus, cutting-edge discoveries
- "Wisconsin Experience" for holistic growth
- Diverse, supportive international community
- Madison: "ultimate college town"
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
Notable Alumni
- Dick Cheney
- Russell Wilson
- Willem Dafoe
- Frank Caliendo
- Henry "Al" Engler
Frequently Asked Questions about UW-Madison
What is UW-Madison?
UW-Madison is a public university located in Madison, United States, founded in 1848. It has approximately 48,557 students, with 15% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at UW-Madison?
Tuition fees at UW-Madison for international students range from $42,531 – $42,103/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for UW-Madison?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $80. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: January 15.
What language are courses taught in at UW-Madison?
Courses at UW-Madison are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does UW-Madison offer?
UW-Madison offers 40 programs: 34 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is UW-Madison ranked?
#36 in United States · QS World #110 · THE World #53 · ARWU #36.
Does UW-Madison offer scholarships?
Yes, UW-Madison offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does UW-Madison provide visa support?
Yes, UW-Madison provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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