uw system application essay

• Faculty & Staff

Freshman writing section

At the UW, we consider the college essay as our opportunity to see the person behind the transcripts and the numbers. Some of the best statements are written as personal stories. In general, concise, straightforward writing is best, and good essays are often 300-400 words in length.

Please note that the UW essay questions must be answered within our application. For the Common App, that means within our UW questions. We do not consider the Common App essay.

Essay prompt [required]

Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

Maximum length : 650 words

Short response [required]

Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW.

Maximum length : 300 words

Tip :  Keep in mind that the UW strives to create a community of students richly diverse in cultural backgrounds, experiences, values and viewpoints.

Additional information about yourself or your circumstances [optional]

You are not required to write anything in this section, but you may include additional information if something has particular significance to you. For example, you may use this space if:

• You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education
• Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations
• You have experienced unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attended

Maximum length : 200 words

Format for the essays

• Content is important, but spelling, grammar and punctuation are also considered.
• We recommend composing in advance, then copying and pasting into the application. Double-spacing, italics and other formatting will be lost, but this will not affect the evaluation of your application.
• We’ve observed most students write a polished formal essay, yet submit a more casual short response. Give every part of the writing responses your best effort, presenting yourself in standard, formal English.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread!

Tip :  Write like it matters, not like you’re texting. This is an application for college, not a message to your friend. Get some hints in the video:

All writing in the application, including your essay/personal statement and short responses, must be your own work.  Do not use another writer’s work and do not use artificial intelligence software (ChatGPT, Bard, etc.) to assist or write your statement.

Per Washington state law and University of Washington policy , all admissions staff are mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect. Any statements in written materials that give admissions staff reasonable cause to believe abuse or neglect of someone under the age of 18 may have occurred must be reported to Child Protective Services or the police. Learn more about University reporting requirements . 

If you or someone you know is a survivor of sexual assault or other sexual misconduct, RAINN is a national hotline that provides support and referrals. Call 800.656.4673 or visit the website for a chat option. For individuals who have experienced domestic violence or intimate partner violence, the National DV Hotline offers phone, chat, and text options for support.

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How To Write The UW System Essay: What You'll Bring to Campus

This guide has been updated and is accurate for the 2024-2025 essay prompts.

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

Before you start writing your essay, it’s essential to fully understand what the UW System is asking of you. The prompt is an opportunity for you to share the distinctive life experiences, talents, commitments, and interests that set you apart. Here’s how you can break down the prompt and prepare to showcase your unique qualities:

1- Read the Prompt Thoroughly: Ensure you understand exactly what the prompt is asking. Read it multiple times to catch all nuances, ensuring you capture the essence of the question.

2- Highlight Key Components: Identify key words like “unique life experiences,” “talents,” “commitments,” and “interests.” These terms will guide your essay and help you focus on what to share.

3- Analyze the Prompt: Consider the broader implications of the question. The admissions committee is interested not just in what you’ve done but in how these experiences have shaped you and how they will continue to influence your time on campus.

4- Research the University: Understand the University of Wisconsin System’s values, mission, and community. Aligning your response with what the university looks for in its students will help demonstrate your fit.

5- Clarify if Necessary: If any part of the prompt is unclear, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from a guidance counselor or the admissions office.

A clear understanding of the prompt will allow you to develop a focused essay that highlights your individuality and how you will contribute to the UW System community.

Identifying Your Unique Attributes

To effectively respond to the UW System essay prompt, you need to identify what makes you unique. This includes your life experiences, talents, commitments, and interests. Here’s how you can identify and articulate these attributes:

1- Brainstorming: Start by listing all the experiences, talents, and interests that have significantly shaped who you are. Consider activities like volunteering, leadership roles, creative pursuits, academic achievements, and personal challenges.

2- Reflect on Impact: Think about how each item on your list has impacted you. What lessons did you learn? How did these experiences shape your perspectives or goals?

3- Select Key Attributes: Narrow down your list to the attributes that best represent who you are and what you’ll bring to the UW System. Choose aspects of your life that are not only significant to you but also demonstrate qualities that will contribute to the university community.

4- Ensure Relevance: Make sure the attributes you choose align with the prompt and can be clearly connected to what the University of Wisconsin values in its students.

By carefully selecting the experiences and qualities that define you, you’ll be able to craft a compelling narrative that showcases your individuality.

Analyzing Your Unique Attributes

Once you’ve identified the key experiences, talents, and interests you want to highlight, it’s important to analyze them in a way that makes your essay impactful. Here’s how to do that:

1- Determine the Nature of Each Attribute: Is each experience or talent something that came naturally to you, or did it require hard work and perseverance? Did these attributes emerge from challenges or successes?

2- Reflect on the Learning Process: Consider what you’ve learned from these experiences. Have they changed your outlook on life, influenced your goals, or helped you develop specific skills?

3- Assess Their Influence on Your Future: Think about how these attributes will continue to influence you as you enter college. Will they drive your academic and extracurricular pursuits? How will they help you contribute to the campus community?

4- Connect to Broader Themes: Tie your unique attributes to broader themes such as personal growth, leadership, or resilience. This will help convey depth and make your essay resonate with the reader.

Analyzing your unique attributes will enable you to provide a thoughtful and engaging response that captures your essence and demonstrates your potential as a UW System student.

Connecting Your Attributes to Your Future at UW

The next step is to connect your unique attributes to your future college education and life at the University of Wisconsin. This will show the admissions committee how your past experiences will shape your contributions to their campus. Here’s how to do it:

1- Explain the Influence of Your Attributes: Discuss how your unique life experiences, talents, and interests have shaped your values, beliefs, and academic aspirations. Explain how these attributes will influence your approach to your college education.

2- Highlight Relevant Skills and Knowledge: Identify the skills and insights you’ve gained from your experiences that will be relevant to your college education. Discuss how these will help you succeed academically and socially at the UW System.

3- Connect to UW Opportunities: Research specific programs, clubs, or opportunities at the UW System that align with your unique attributes. Discuss how you plan to engage with these opportunities and how your experiences will allow you to contribute to them.

4- Emphasize Your Growth Mindset: Demonstrate your commitment to personal growth by discussing how you plan to build on your unique experiences in college. Show enthusiasm for continuing to develop your talents and exploring new interests.

By connecting your unique attributes to your future at the University of Wisconsin, you’ll create a narrative that shows you’re not only prepared for college but also eager to make a meaningful impact on the campus community.

Writing and Reviewing Your Essay

With your attributes identified and connected to your future goals, it’s time to focus on writing and reviewing your essay. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft and polish your final draft:

Essay Basics According to UW

1- Write your essay in a program like Microsoft Word or Google Docs so you can simply copy and paste it into your online application.

2- Keep your essay between 250 and 650 words (UW–Madison requires all essays to strictly follow these guidelines).

3- Ask a friend or teacher to look for inconsistencies, grammatical mistakes, and typos.

4- Proofread, proofread, proofread. You don’t want some small mistake to accidentally make it look like you don’t care.

5- Proofread again.

Structuring Your Essay

1- Introduction: Start with an engaging opening that introduces your unique attributes and sets the tone for the essay.

2- Body Paragraphs: Organize your essay around the key experiences, talents, and interests you’ve chosen to highlight. Ensure each paragraph flows logically and contributes to the overall narrative.

3- Conclusion: Summarize how your unique attributes have prepared you for success at the UW System and express your excitement about the opportunities ahead.

Writing Your First Draft

1- Start with a clear thesis statement that captures the main idea of your essay.

2- Use vivid descriptions and examples to bring your experiences and talents to life.

3- Be authentic and let your personality shine through your writing.

4- Provide specific evidence to support your claims and demonstrate the impact of your experiences.

Reviewing and Revising Your Essay

1- Take a break before revising your first draft to approach it with fresh eyes.

2- Read your essay aloud to catch awkward phrasing or unclear sections.

3- Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or family members and incorporate their suggestions.

4- Ensure the overall flow of your essay is smooth, with clear connections between paragraphs.

5- Proofread carefully for any remaining errors and make sure your final draft is polished and professional.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to craft a well-structured and compelling essay that effectively communicates your unique experiences and how they will contribute to the UW System. Remember, revising and refining your essay is just as important as writing it, so give yourself plenty of time to perfect your submission.

Final Thoughts

Answering the UW System essay prompt requires introspection and a clear articulation of what makes you unique. Your life experiences, talents, commitments, and interests are key to showcasing your individuality and potential contributions to the UW System community. Focus on authenticity, be thorough in your analysis and connections, and present a narrative that not only highlights your uniqueness but also vividly shows how you’ll make an impact on campus. Best of luck in your application process!

I hope you found this guide useful. Navigating campus life can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Once you're accepted into college, hop onto MeetYourClass – your go-to platform to find roommates, friends, and your community. Connect with like-minded students, find your perfect roommate, and immerse yourself in campus culture. As you embark on your application journey, remember: your next chapter of friendships and experiences is just a click away. Best of luck, and we hope to see you soon on MeetYourClass!

Find Your College Roommate!

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Required Application Materials and Documents

In order for your application to be reviewed for admission, it must be submitted with the non-refundable application fee or fee waiver, and all supporting documents must arrive in our office by our deadline . We highly recommend allowing ample time for materials to arrive.

Any outstanding materials will be noted under “Tasks” on your “To Do List” in your Student Center .

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• Finance Your Education More
• Student Life More
• Plan Your Visit More

First-Year Applicants

A first-year student includes anyone who is currently a student in high school or who has not taken college coursework since graduating from high school.

First-Year Application and Materials Deadlines

Applications and all required application materials must arrive in our office by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the noted deadline dates.

Please note that it may take up to 72 hours for our system to reflect that you have submitted an application; you will receive an email the next business day acknowledging its receipt.

Students who submit their application within 5 days of the deadline will not receive a reminder of materials that are missing from their application.

Early Action is non-binding. You’ll receive your admissions decision earlier but will not be required to commit until the national deadline of May 15.

Transfer Applicants

A transfer student is anyone who has attended another college or university after graduating from high school and wishes to enroll in an undergraduate degree program at UW–Madison.

In order to be eligible for transfer admission, you must have completed or be in the process of completing at least 24 transferable semester hours of college-level work after high school graduation. AP, A-Level, IB, and CLEP cannot be used toward the 24 transferable credit requirement. We do not admit freshman-level transfer students.

Transfer Application and Materials Deadlines

Required First-Year Application Materials

We cannot begin to review your application until all required materials are received. These deadlines and requirements pertain to both domestic and international applicants.

Application requirements for admission to the university are the same for all students, regardless of the academic major/area of interest.*

*Students who wish to be considered for direct entry to a program in the areas of dance or music will also need to complete an additional application and an audition. Learn more about our Direct Entry  process.

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1. Admissions Application

First-year applicants can apply using either the Common Application  or the Universities of Wisconsin Application

UW–Madison does not prefer one application over the other. Please choose only one application and use only that application all the way through to submission.

Please note that we do not start processing fall term applications until September 1.

Applicants will be asked to identify both a first and second choice major when completing the application for admission. If we are unable to offer you admission to your first choice major, your second choice will be considered in our application review to assess interest and preparation. Due to the competitive nature of some of our programs, admissions expectations may be different for students pursuing majors in business, engineering, dance, and music. We encourage you to visit our direct entry page to learn more.

2. Application Fee

The application fee is $70.00 US and is non-refundable.

Electronic payment is preferred. If you apply using the Universities of Wisconsin Application, the fee can be paid by check or money order, drawn on a bank located in the United States and payable to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Send the check or money order to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment . Please include the applicant’s name with payment. Do not send cash.

Application fee waivers are available for applicants with financial hardship. Eligible students can request a fee waiver as part of their application. If you did not request an application fee waiver at the time of application, but are eligible to have your fee waived, you may print the Application Fee Waiver Request Form and have your counselor/advisor submit it to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment. If the College Board or ACT grant you a fee waiver, we will also accept it.

3. Two Essays

As part of our holistic review, we refer to the essays you submit to understand more about you. What you choose to share gives us an idea of who you are and what you want to accomplish as part of our community. Tell us about you and your unique story to help us know you beyond your GPA and test scores. Your essays might also be used for campus program and scholarship review.

If you apply using the Common Application, you will be asked to respond to one of the  first-year Common Application essays . If you apply with the Universities of Wisconsin Application, you will need to answer the following prompt:

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

All applicants will also need to respond to this prompt:

• 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.

Keep these tips in mind as you work on your writing:

• Develop your thoughts before you begin the writing process, and create an outline.
• The maximum word count for each essay is 650, but we recommend planning for 300–500 words.
• Do not type directly into the web form. Instead, work on your draft in word processing software.
• Allow time to develop and revisit your writing.
• Check for spelling mistakes and ask someone to proofread your final version.
• Be genuine and honest in your writing.

4. Course and Grade Information

We require course and grade information from all schools you attended for grades 9–12.

If you apply via the Common Application, you may meet this requirement one of two ways*:

• Self-report your coursework within the application to meet the course and grade information requirement to complete your application for admission

– OR – 

• Have your school submit an official transcript from your school(s).

If you apply via the Universities of Wisconsin Application, you may meet this requirement one of two ways*:

• Submit an unofficial transcript within the Universities of Wisconsin Application at the time you complete it

       – OR – 

*If you have already graduated from high school, an official final transcript with your graduation date is needed to meet this requirement.

How to Send Official Transcripts

Students applying from outside the United States can find  country-specific official transcript requirements here .

If you were or are homeschooled, we will need additional documentation to complete a full, holistic review of your application. Learn more about specific application policies and requirements .

If you earned your General Educational Development (GED) certificate or a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) , submit your official score report in addition to all high school or home school transcripts.

Note: official transcripts from all schools and colleges attended (including dual credit) will be required prior to enrollment. Incorrect reporting of courses and/or grades may result in your admission offer being revoked and scholarship awards being forfeited. Official college transcripts are also required to award college credit. Official transcripts should be sent directly from each school attended.

GPA and Class Rank:  Applicants are expected to achieve a high level of performance in the course work they pursue and an increasingly strong academic record. We ask for your GPA and class rank. We also realize that many schools consider GPA on different scales and some do not report GPA or class rank at all. We consider both GPA and rank in the context of your school. We typically see unweighted, academic GPAs between a 3.8 and a 4.0, and a class rank in the 85–97 percentile.

5. One Required Letter of Recommendation

We require you to submit one letter of recommendation written by someone who can attest to your academic ability, such as a teacher, school counselor, or faculty member. If you choose, you can also submit another letter of recommendation from an additional source, such as an employer, coach, research mentor, community leader, or clergy. Students with an interest in engineering are encouraged to obtain a letter of recommendation from a math or science teacher. Remember to have a discussion with your chosen recommender first to see if they are willing and able to provide a letter.

We encourage applicants who have been away from formal classroom teaching for an extended period to request a letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to their academic potential, such as an employer (preferably a supervisor or manager), a program or departmental trainer, or some other individual in an official instructional capacity.

Those who apply using the Common Application should request a recommendation through that system.

If you apply using the Universities of Wisconsin Application, select the link that best describes your situation:

• Invite someone to submit a recommendation  (I have my NetID)
• Invite someone to submit a recommendation  (no NetID)

Recommendations that are mailed to our office: Letters of recommendation must be sent directly from the school and/or recommender, in a sealed envelope. Recommendations  must include the applicant’s full name, birth date, and campus ID number (if known). Additionally, letters of recommendation from a school staff member may also be sent through Naviance. Please note that letters of recommendation expire after one year from the date it is written.

6. TOEFL, IELTS, and DET Scores (English Language Proficiency)

First-year applicants educated in non-English speaking countries must submit an official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test (DET) score, unless English was the primary language of instruction in all four years of secondary school.

All English proficiency exams should be sent electronically, directly from the testing service.

Please note: Sending official test scores from the testing agency does have an additional costs and will add 3-6 weeks to the application completion process. Plan to send your test scores early to ensure your scores arrive before the the materials deadline.

We do not superscore any English Proficiency exam and score reports cannot be older than two years from the time you apply.

How to Send Official Test Scores

Duolingo English Test (DET)

• Minimum accepted score: 115+
• When submitting your score(s): Search category should be “Undergraduate,” then select “University of Wisconsin–Madison”
• Please do not send to offices listed under “Other,” as we are unable to retrieve those scores
• The DET should be sent with sub-scores
• Minimum accepted score: 6.5+.
• IELTS does not require a code.
• Select our account name, “University of Wisconsin, Madison Undergraduate”
• Please do not send paper copies of your IELTS scores.
• We do accept the IELTS Indicator.
• Minimum accepted score: 80+
• When submitting your score(s): TOEFL test code is 1846
• We do not accept “MyBest” score from TOEFL nor any English Proficiency exam
• For each TOEFL you submit, we will require the full score report
• We do not accept the TOEFL iTP Plus for China, but we will accept the iBT Special Home Edition

If you feel that you qualify for an English Proficiency Exam waiver based upon the requirements above, please submit all required transcripts to our office. Other test scores such as ACT, SAT, or AP (Advanced Placement) scores do not meet the requirements for a waiver. Once your transcripts are received in our office (are no longer displayed on your To Do List in your Student Center), we will determine your waiver eligibility. Waivers will not be processed prior to receipt of both the admissions application and transcripts.

Optional First-Year Application Materials

7. act and sat scores (test optional through the spring 2027 term).

Including scores from either the ACT or the SAT with your application is optional for students applying for admission through the spring 2027 term, with an application deadline of October 1, 2026.

You will not be disadvantaged in our evaluation process if you do not include these scores for consideration in your application.

More information on our test optional policy can be found by viewing our  ACT/SAT Test Optional FAQs .

You will indicate your choice regarding including test scores at the time of application. The choice that you indicate on your application is final.

If choosing to include ACT or SAT test scores with your application, submit your official scores directly from the testing site.

Please note sending official test scores from the testing agency does have an additional cost and will add 2–4 weeks to the application completion process.  Our test code is 4656 for the ACT and 1846 for the SAT. Do not send your results rush (SAT) or priority (ACT); we receive all scores electronically on a daily basis so there is not an advantage to rush or priority delivery.

Statement on Score Choice:  Students choosing to include test scores with their application are encouraged to submit all exam scores. It can be a benefit to see your complete testing history as part of our comprehensive review, and since we will only consider your highest score (by test date), there is nothing to be gained by suppressing scores through Score Choice. However, applicants are free to use the College Board’s Score Choice option for the SAT and/or the similar option offered by ACT. Superscores are not considered in our review.

Required Transfer Application Materials

Transfer students can apply using the  Universities of Wisconsin Application .

You will be asked to identify both a first and second choice major when completing the application for admission. If selecting a major in the School of Business or College of Engineering as your first choice major, you must select a second choice major outside of the School of Business or the College of Engineering. If we are unable to offer you admission to your first choice major, your second choice will be considered in our application review. Due to the competitive nature of some of our programs, admission expectations may be different for students pursuing majors in business, engineering, dance, and music. We encourage you to visit our direct entry page  to learn more.

Application fee waivers are available for applicants with financial hardship. Eligible students can request a fee waiver as part of their application. If you did not request an application fee waiver at the time of application, but are eligible to have your fee waived, you may print the Application Fee Waiver Request Form and have your counselor/advisor submit it to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

The application fee is not required if your last school attended is a UW System institution and it is within one year of enrollment as a degree seeking student at that institution.

You will need to answer the following prompts:

If you are applying to transfer from another Universities of Wisconsin institution, you will only be required to submit the second essay.

College Transcripts:

We require course and grade information from your enrollment in any and all colleges and universities. This should include all college-level coursework completed to date, including your current term in progress, and (if applicable) college classes taken while in high school.

You must submit an official transcript from all institutions(s) in which you were enrolled to meet the course and grade information requirement to complete your application for admission.

Official transcripts should be sent directly from each school attended.

Applicants that are currently or were previously enrolled at a UW College, a UW System branch campus, or UW Colleges Online must submit their transcripts according to the UW System guidelines .

High School Transcripts:

We require official high school transcript(s), sent to us by your school. We review your high school record to check for proof of graduation, the completion of core preparation requirements, and to learn more about your educational background. High school grades will play a more important role in the admission review for applicants who have completed fewer transferable college credits. If you earned your General Educational Development (GED) certificate or a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED), submit your official score report in addition to all high school or home school transcripts. If you were or are homeschooled, we will need additional documentation to complete a full, holistic review of your application. Learn more about specific application policies and requirements .

We require you to submit one letter of recommendation written by someone who can attest to your academic ability, such as a teacher, school counselor, or faculty member. Students with an interest in engineering are encouraged to obtain a letter of recommendation from a math or science teacher. Remember to have a discussion with your chosen recommender first to see if they are willing and able to provide a letter. *

* While we would prefer to receive a letter from the most recent year/semester, many students are taking courses virtually due to COVID-19 and making connections virtually may be challenging for some students. If you think a letter from a past high school teacher, high school counselor, college teacher, or academic advisor can speak to your current strengths as a student, we will accept those letters to make admission decisions.

Transfer applicants educated in non-English speaking countries must submit a official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test (DET) score, unless English was the primary language of instruction in all four years of secondary school or a college level English composition course was successfully completed at an accredited US institution. This requirement will not be waived for English composition taken at U.S. branch campuses abroad.

We do not superscore any English Proficiency exam and score reports cannot be older than 2 years from the time you apply.

Optional Transfer Application Materials

7. act and sat scores (optional).

Scores from either the ACT or the SAT are not required of transfer applicants. However, you are welcome to provide us your scores. Your results will be considered as supplemental academic information and may help strengthen your application. Test scores can be sent directly from the testing service. Our test code is 4656 for the ACT and 1846 for the SAT. Do not send your results rush (SAT) or priority (ACT); we receive all scores electronically on a daily basis so there is not an advantage to rush or priority delivery.

Additional Required Materials for International Students

Application materials and process for reentry students, application materials and process for second degree students.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

UW-Madison Essay Example from an Accepted Student

With over 30,000 undergraduates, the flagship university of the Wisconsin public system is known for its top-tier academics, high-achieving sports teams, party life. The University of Wisconsin Madison is considered one of the best 50 schools in the nation, thus making gaining admission a difficult task. You’ll need more than good grades to get into this school—your essays will have to shine as well. 

In this post, we will share a real essay an accepted UW Madison student submitted. We will also go over what this essay did well, and where there is room for improvement.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our UW Madison essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Essay Example – Why UW Madison, and Why This Major? 

As a student from Wisconsin, I have grown up with a high degree of exposure to discussions surrounding the University of Wisconsin-Madison. As a result of the assortment of compliments I frequently heard describing its academics, I have always held the university in high regard.

Additionally, I have heard of the stellar location and value that comes along with the university being in the state capital. Through the combination of the two previous factors, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has become the center of my search for my ideal college experience. While exploring further, however, I have found that there is more about the university that causes my desire to attend. From the array of libraries and study spaces, a large student body in which I can find like-minded people, to the excellent campus I saw during a visit, there are countless aspects about the university that I find alluring. However, one element of the university stands out from the rest— the Wisconsin Idea.

I would describe myself as curious due to my constant attempts to learn new information; the more knowledge about current or former events I can achieve, the better. When a person has consistent access to accurate, unbiased information, I believe they can grow as a person, academically or socially. As new information is gathered and shared, new ideas can develop.

These novel ideas can lead to innovation and problem-solving. Unbiased and unpersuasive reports allow for thinking for oneself, forcing originality. I am interested in entering the field of journalism because of its capacity to prompt these thoughts. Beyond any encouragement of self- reliance, journalism can be an agent of change. Through reporting on issues afflicting society, widespread awareness is created. A society’s recognition of its problems enables attempts to fix them through methods such as civic engagement. Through these characteristics of journalism, better people and communities develop, showing its connection to the Wisconsin Idea. A bettering of society is something meaningful to me, and I believe journalism is the pathway to do so. The University of Wisconsin-Madison will allow me to explore all my interests involving journalism.

Growing up, I appreciated the coverage of sportswriters, from national writers such as ESPN’s Jeff Passan to local writers such as University of Wisconsin-Madison alumnus Curt Hogg with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The work of these sportswriters is also valuable to society, helping provide moments of respite from the stresses of life. Through the sports communication certificate program, I will be able to discover if this branch of journalism is the niche meant for me.

Additionally, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has the resources that will allow me to succeed in journalism. Being in the journalism program with a focus on reporting and multimedia journalism, I will be able to strengthen my ability to inform the public in conjunction with the Wisconsin Idea. Education on how to vet sources and how to properly engage with audiences will allow for the merging of reporting with the mentioned principles and values. Through the university, I am confident that I will be able to leave a positive mark on the world.

I know that the University of Wisconsin-Madison will be able to cultivate my interests and help me grow as a person. Through the totality of its resources and classes, I will be well-prepared for my career as a journalist and ready to contribute positively to society.

What the Essay Did Well

Since this essay combines the “ Why School? ” and “ Why Major? ” supplements, it’s important to answer both questions while still ensuring the essay feels like one cohesive unit. This student has done exactly that, by highlighting the Wisconsin Idea and using that thread to tie his ideas together throughout the essay. That anchor also allows for a smooth transition between the student’s interest in the school and their interest in the major.

In addition to doing an excellent job crafting a unified essay, the student gives a lot of background on their decision to major in journalism, which shows that they are a thoughtful, dedicated student who is prepared to get the most out of a Wisconsin education. They start off by telling us why they see journalism as important in the big picture: “ Through these characteristics of journalism, better people and communities develop, showing its connection to the Wisconsin Idea. ” 

But in the next paragraph, they zoom in from the abstract ideals of journalism, to their personal interest in sports journalism specifically. By mentioning particular sportswriters they find inspiring, plus the “ focus on reporting and multimedia journalism ” they aspire towards, we get a more detailed picture of how they will contribute to the world of journalism, which is further evidence that this is a motivated student who is prepared to hit the ground running in college.

Although this essay is more detailed when answering the “Why Major?” question than the “Why School?” one, that isn’t a huge issue because they bring in school-specific programs while discussing their major. That, in effect, answers the “Why School?” question, because this student would not be able to get the same education in journalism at a different school. As highlighted at the beginning of this section, this essay’s biggest strength is that seamless blend of school opportunities and the student’s interest in journalism as a major.

What Could Be Improved

There are two weaknesses to this essay: the response to the “Why School?” half of the prompt, and the lack of personal details.

As noted above, the student does a good job of addressing “Why School?” in the part of their essay that focuses on “Why Major?” but the essay would be even stronger if they took some time to answer “Why School?” directly.

The first two paragraphs are in theory doing that, but they are wildly vague and provide few substantive examples of why UW Madison is a good fit for this student. As a rule of thumb, the school’s reputation and location, generic resources like libraries, and general campus aesthetic are not valid answers for why you want to attend, because lots of other schools have strong reputations, good locations, beautiful libraries, etc.

Instead, when answering this prompt you want to hone in on opportunities that can only be found at that school and explain how they connect to your current interests or will help you accomplish your goals. That shows admissions officers that you want to attend their school specifically, rather than that you’d be happy at any college in a state capital.

A better response would have looked something like this: “I look forward to sitting in on panel discussions hosted by UW’s Center for Journalism Ethics and working under Professor Culver to broaden my perspectives when I report on difficult topics like racial injustice, a topic which has particularly contentious in Wisconsin since the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha. ”

This version shows that the student already has a clear, concrete vision of how they would fit into UW Madison’s campus community, which in turn gives admissions officers a more detailed sense of what this student would bring to their school. 

This version also shows how the student being from Wisconsin makes them a stronger applicant than someone from another state, as they have a personal understanding of the same issues that have affected UW Madison. The original essay, in contrast, only showed that being from Wisconsin has helped the student know the school better, not how them being from Wisconsin would benefit UW Madison.

The other issue with this essay is that the reader learns very little about the student’s background and personality. Broad statements like “ A bettering of society is something meaningful to me, ” and “ Growing up, I appreciated the coverage of sportswriters, ” don’t have enough detail for the reader to understand this student, as these two statements could be true of thousands of other applicants. Remember, the whole point of the essay is to distinguish yourself from students whose more objective metrics, like grades and extracurriculars, are similar to yours.

A stronger essay would accomplish that by providing insight into the emotional connection this student has to journalism. Rather than vaguely stating that sports journalism “help[s] provide moments of respite from the stresses of life,” it would describe how the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s riveting coverage of the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship season gave the student something joyful to think about even as their grandfather’s dementia was worsening. 

Without that personal connection, even if admissions officers know what the student is interested in and even some of their beliefs about the world, they won’t know who the student truly is at their core. That deeper layer of understanding is what would take this essay from good to great.

Where to Get Feedback on Your Essay

Do you want feedback on your University of Wisconsin essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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The Common App is Open! Get your application done over a weekend with the College Application Booster​®.

How to Write the University of Wisconsin-Madison Supplemental Essays

Tell us why you decided to apply to 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. (you may enter up to 650 words, but 300-500 is recommended)..

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s supplemental essay is a great opportunity to showcase your voice to the admissions committee and convey your academic passions and knowledge of the school. When writing your UW-Madison supplement, be sure to address both parts of the prompt: explain your interest in the majors you’ve selected and discuss what draws you to UW-Madison. UW-Madison generously provides a word count of up to 650, so you have ample space to elaborate on the past experiences and values that have led you to your area of study, and also write about the school-specific resources at UW-Madison that you would like to take advantage of during your undergraduate career.

Before you begin drafting your UW-Madison supplemental essay, you’ll want to do some “why school” research. UW-Madison offers 20+ schools with many niche majors and certificates ; therefore, you’ll want to spend some time on the website to identify the specific program that is the best fit for you. If UW-Madison offers programs that can’t be found at any other universities that align with your interests, you can cite these and make an even stronger case for why UW-Madison is the best school for you! Some particular academic strengths of UW-Madison include its programs in Education, Agriculture, Communication, Biological Sciences, Social Sciences, Business, Engineering, and Economics. You can look through the web pages of specific departments and schools, and see if there are general resources that are well-suited to you. For instance, UW-Madison’s Integrated Liberal Studies programs, Living-Learning Communities, First Year Interest Groups, and Honors programs integrate communal life with academic pursuits in a way that may be appealing to you.

As with any “why school” essay, you’ll want to not only cite school-specific resources, but also share what you know about the school’s values and reflect upon how these values align with your own. UW-Madison often emphasizes the “Wisconsin Idea”, or the idea that a successful state university should inspire its students to seek truth and apply the resulting knowledge to benefit themselves and society. UW-Madison students are highly involved with their communities and the causes that matter to them. In your UW-Madison supplemental essay, you’ll want to explore how your academic and personal journey to date has reflected the principles of the Wisconsin Idea, and discuss which academic course of study, extracurriculars, and other opportunities at UW-Madison will put you in a position to serve others and bring positive change to society.

If you apply with the UW System Application, you will need to answer the following prompt:

This part is all about you. tell us about something you’ve done—academically or personally—and what you’ve learned from it. was it a success or a challenge did it represent a turning point in your life how did this particular moment in your life influence you, and how will it continue to influence you as you pursue your college education.

If you apply to UW-Madison through the UW system rather than the Common Application, this is the equivalent of the Common Application’s personal statement. Unlike the Common App, you won’t get a choice of prompts to respond to–you must answer this question, and the “why school” supplement if you are applying to UW-Madison.

For this UW essay, carefully examine the wording of the prompt before you dive into writing. UW admissions readers are looking for you to discuss something you’ve actively done rather than something that’s happened to you, so to select a strong topic, you’ll want to reflect on any memorable accomplishments, initiatives you started, intellectual interests you’ve pursued, or risks you’ve taken in the past four years. These can be in the context of your academics, extracurriculars, or personal life. Then, it’d be best to gravitate towards a specific moment–rather than a story that covers a long span of time–and select one that was highly influential in determining your academic path, personal values, or worldview.

This is a multi-part prompt, so ensure that you are answering each question within the prompt. You should respond directly to all parts of the prompt, including “something you’ve done,” “what you’ve learned,” “how did this particular moment in your life influence you,” and “how will it continue to influence you [in college].” While you don’t need to answer the questions of “success or challenge” or “turning point” in language that’s as head-on (e.g. sentences like “My accomplishment was a success” or “This was a turning point for me”), it should be very clear and obvious to admissions readers whether you’re writing about a success or challenge, and how that event worked as a turning point in your life.

If you have already written a personal statement for the Common Application, you’re in luck if you’ve responded to prompt #2 (“The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”), prompt #5 (“Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.”), or potentially even prompt #3 (“Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?”). There is significant overlap between these prompts and UW’s, so it’s likely that you can recycle your Common App essay with some light modifications. In particular, make sure that you add material that addresses the final part of the prompt, discussing how the moment you selected will influence your approach to your journey as an undergraduate. That being said, if you’ve already written an essay for the Common App, we definitely recommend applying to UW through the Common App! Best of luck with your UW-Madison essays!

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University of Wisconsin-Madison Supplemental Essays 2024-25 — Prompts & Advice

August 7, 2024

The University of Wisconsin—Madison has joined the ranks of other premier flagship universities that high-achieving teens from all around the country/world now line up for a chance to attend. Like  UVA,   UNC—Chapel Hill , and the  University of Michigan , UW-Madison requires its in-state residents to sport excellent grades and test scores. Further, it has an even higher bar for out-of-state hopefuls. This makes the University of Wisconsin – Madison supplemental essay more important than ever before.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into UW-Madison? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into the University of Wisconsin-Madison: Admissions Data and Strategies   for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

In evaluating applicants, the University of Wisconsin—Madison places a strong emphasis on the quality of one’s essays. Below are UW-Madison’s supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with our advice for creating a needle-moving admissions essay.

2024-2025 University of Wisconsin-Madison Supplemental Essay Question—Common App

The following prompt is the only supplemental essay that students will encounter when applying to UW-Madison via the Common App:

Tell us why you decided to apply to 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. (650 words max)

Prospective Badgers face a two-parter here. You are tasked with presenting a compelling case as to:

1) Why you want to attend UW-Madison.

2) Why you have picked your particular academic discipline.

University of Wisconsin Madison Supplemental Essay (Continued)

As you move through the “Why Us?” and “Why this Major?” portions of this essay, consider taking some of the following steps to address why UW-Madison is the perfect fit for you  and  why you are the perfect fit for UW-Madison:

• How did your interest in your major of choice begin and how has it matured over the years?
• How do you pursue knowledge about your subject of interest? Talk about sources of learning (teachers, podcasts, books, news, etc.).
• While pursuing your majors(s)/interest(s) of choice, how will you take advantage of the university’s immense resources both inside and outside of the classroom? Be sure to cite specific academic programs , professors,  research opportunities , internship/externship programs ,  study abroad programs , etc. Discuss why they pique your interest.
• How will you be an active, contributing member of the Badger student body? What special talents and passions will you bring to the University of Wisconsin-Madison? Check out this list of nearly  1,000 student-run organizations  on campus.
• Lastly, show evidence of how your past/current endeavors (academic and extracurricular) will carry over onto UW-Madison’s campus.

Again, if you are applying through the Common App, this essay will be the only supplement you need to worry about. However, if you elect to apply via the UW System Application (as some in-state students applying to multiple UW campuses do), you need to address the next prompt as well.

2024-2025 University of Wisconsin-Madison Supplemental Essay Question—UW System Application

Each student is unique. Please tell us about the particular life experiences, talents, commitments, and/or interests you will bring to our campus. ( 650 words)

This open-ended prompt is a platform from which you can share more about an academic or extracurricular achievement, detail a personal interest, chronicle a challenge/obstacle you overcame, or just share a meaningful event in your life.

No matter which route you choose, what truly matters here is that you use this essay as an opportunity to reveal something deep and important about yourself. The sky’s the limit as long as your topic is personal and sheds light on who you are as an applicant and prospective community member.

Remember, these essays will be your best chance to forge a human connection with an admissions officer since UW-Madison is too large a school to offer you an interview. In sum, be honest, vulnerable, sincere, and reflective in your essay and the result will be a compelling composition that will ultimately aid your admissions chances.

How important is the essay at the UW-Madison?

The essays are “very important” to the University of Wisconsin–Madison admissions committee. The only other factor rated this highly is the rigor of one’s secondary school record. GPA, recommendations, and state residency are rated as “important.” In other words, the University of Wisconsin is clearly very interested in the quality of your essay. Therefore, we can conclude that the admissions committee will weigh your essays heavily in their evaluation of your candidacy.

Want Personalized Essay Assistance?

Interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your University of Wisconsin—Madison supplement? We encourage you to get a quote  today.

Looking for additional writing resources? Check out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• How to Quickly Format Your Common App Essay
• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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New Freshman

Freshmen include students who are graduating high school seniors or high school graduates (or equivalent) who haven’t previously attended a college or university. Students who enrolled in college courses while in high school should still apply to UWM as a freshman.

Application requirements for new freshmen are below. Ready to apply?  Review your steps for applying to UWM.

Preparing to Apply to UWM as a Freshman

During the college application process, you’ll be asked for a variety of information, including personal information and academic history. To make completing the application as easy as possible, we recommend having the necessary information on hand. If you’re current enrolled in high school, we recommend having this information available:

• Your current class schedule.
• A PDF of your most recent transcript, which you’ll have the opportunity to upload to your application.
• Your ACT/SAT scores (optional). On the Common App, you have the option to self-report your scores. You can also use our self-reported test scores form.
• A list of activities and work experience.
• Personal and parent contact information (if applicable).

If you’re a high school or GED/HSED graduate, we recommend having this information available:

• Final high school transcript or GED/HSED transcript.

UWM Application Essay

When you apply to UWM as a freshman, the application essay is completed before you submit your application through either the UW-System Application or Common App.

Sample essay question:

Tell us about something you’ve done — academically or personally — and what you’ve learned from it. Was it a success or a challenge? Did it represent a turning point in your life? How did this particular moment in your life influence you, and how will it continue to influence you as you pursue your college education?

Essay questions may differ depending on which application you use. Please complete the essay prompt associated with the application that you prefer .

Your application essay should include:

• Any academic and personal hurdles and/or challenges you’d like us to know about in the context of your application.
• Any information that is inclusive of your family or your community experiences.

Before you submit your application essay, please make sure to:

• Review your spelling and grammar.
• Ask someone to proofread your final version.
• Check that your essay is between 250 and 650 words in length.

Required Application Materials

High school transcripts.

Official or unofficial high school transcripts may be submitted for initial application review. You may choose to upload your unofficial transcripts when completing the UW-System application. Unofficial transcripts can also be emailed to [email protected] for review.

Admission decisions are conditional until an official final high school transcript is submitted after high school graduation. Official transcripts can be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions through an approved electronic service or via mail to:

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Office of Undergraduate Admissions P.O. Box 749 Milwaukee, WI 53201-0749

[email protected]

Test Scores (optional)

UW System institutions, including UWM, are not requiring applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of the application process this year. UWM will consider applicants for admission with or without one of these standardized test scores. On the application, students can indicate whether or not they intend to send an ACT or SAT score to be reviewed with their application. Students who plan to send test scores can submit official scores directly from the testing service, self-report their test scores on the Common App or in your UWM Admissions Portal.

To send scores directly from the testing service, select UW-Milwaukee as a recipient (ACT school code: 4658; SAT school code: 1473).

Application Review

Academic preparation.

Your academic performance in the classroom is the most important factor in the review of your application. We carefully consider the pattern and rigor of your high school coursework, class rank (if available), overall GPA and grades in specific courses related to your intended major at UWM. The most competitive candidates for admission to UWM typically surpass these unit requirements:

• English: 4 units
• Math (Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2 or equivalent): 3 units
• Natural Sciences: 3 units
• Social Sciences: 3 units
• Academic Electives: 4 units

Performance on ACT or SAT (optional)

If you choose to submit test scores, performance on the ACT or SAT is only one factor considered in the admission process. In addition to your composite score, we also consider your sub-scores in the area(s) (English, math, reading, science) that closely relate to your intended major at UWM. Although the writing portion of the ACT is not required, we will consider these results if you wish to submit them.

Additional Information

We want to know more about you beyond your academic record and test results! Other factors considered in the review process include but are not limited to: student experiences, work experience, leadership qualities, motivation, community service, special talents, etc.

This information is collected when you complete the application. The essay is where you answer the prompt and tell your story. Letters of recommendation are not required but will be considered if you choose to send them.

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UW System to launch new EApp electronic application

New eapp will reduce fees, offer easier navigation, and allow first-time applicants to apply to any uw system university.

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

MADISON, Wis.—University of Wisconsin System President Ray Cross announced today the creation of a new electronic application system, EApp, to be launched this fall for prospective students applying to attend a UW System university.

The new EApp will provide reduced application fees, offer easier navigation, and allow first-time undergraduate applicants to apply to more than one UW System school using a single application. The UW System Board of Regents will vote Thursday on adopting the new application.

“As I traveled the state, visiting our campuses and meeting students as part of our All In Wisconsin tour, one consistent piece of advice I heard was to simplify admissions, particularly the application process,” UW System President Ray Cross said. “We have taken that advice, and I am excited to see the results this fall and going forward.”

Cross said the new EApp was under development prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is even more critical now for families and students to have an easy, low-cost application.

Beginning August 1, 2020, all prospective students—including new freshmen, transfer students, international students, and non-traditional students—will be able to use the EApp to apply to any university in the UW System.

Under the new EApp, students will pay $25 to apply to each university except UW-Madison. That’s a reduction from the current cost of $50 for all universities except UW-Madison, which has a $60 application fee it will retain.

As part of the new application process, students who are transferring internally within the UW System will not need to write an application essay for admission and will not be charged an application fee as long as they transfer within one semester of leaving a UW System university and did not attend a university outside of the UW System in between.

Cross said the redesigned EApp will also be simpler for students, which means they will be more likely to complete the application once they start. The EApp will also include a simplified waiver process for students who can’t afford the application fee.

“As Regents, we are always looking for ways to expand access opportunities,” Regent President Andrew S. Petersen said. “We believe this new EApp will provide a better experience for anyone looking to attend a UW System university.”

The University of Wisconsin System serves approximately 170,000 students. Awarding nearly 37,000 degrees annually, the UW System is Wisconsin’s talent pipeline, putting graduates in position to increase their earning power, contribute to their communities, and make Wisconsin a better place to live. More than 80 percent of in-state UW System graduates stay in Wisconsin five years after earning a degree. The UW System provides a 23:1 return on state investment. UW System institutions also contribute to the richness of Wisconsin’s culture and economy with groundbreaking research, new companies and patents, and boundless creative intellectual energy. wisconsin.edu

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Dempsey Hall 135 800 Algoma Blvd Oshkosh, WI 54901

(920) 424-3164 [email protected]

We’re so happy you’re considering applying to UW Oshkosh! Follow the steps below to make sure your application is completed successfully. Each box contains additional information about each step in the process.

In summary, a completed application includes:

• Your application to UWO
• High school transcript (official or unofficial)
• ACT or SAT score  (currently optional through Spring 2025)
• OPTIONAL: Letters of recommendations

Step 1: Complete the UW System Application for Admissions

Visit  apply.wisconsin.edu to start your application online.

Paper applications may also be obtained from any high school guidance office in Wisconsin or by contacting the  UW Oshkosh Admissions Office , P.O. Box 2423, Oshkosh, WI 54903-2423.

Step 2: Send a Transcript of all High School Coursework

Students may apply for admission by providing transcripts from a recognized high school showing course work completed through their junior year. If available, official high school class rank should be provided on the transcript.

Students are allowed to submit either an official or unofficial copy of their transcripts during the application process. After being admitted, we require an official copy to be submitted to the Admissions Office.

A recognized high school is one which is accredited either by a regional accrediting association or is recognized and accredited by a state department of public instruction or its equivalent.

Applicants who have not graduated from a recognized high school must provide evidence of satisfactory completion of the requirements for a high school equivalency certificate or a diploma from a recognized high school, school system or state department of public instruction based on a Graduation Equivalency Diploma (GED) examination and other established criteria.

Students may be conditionally accepted prior to high school graduation. Upon graduation, all accepted students must provide an official, final transcript indicating successful completion of all required course work. Failure to successfully complete any of the required units will result in revocation of admission.

Home school students are required to submit an official transcript of all course work completed and scores from either the ACT or SAT I standardized tests.

Step 3: Send an Official ACT or SAT I Profile

Due to current circumstances, the UW System has decided to temporarily make ACT/SAT scores optional when determining admission through the Spring 2025 semester.

Students who list UW Oshkosh as one of their three receiving schools when registering for either exam will automatically have their scores reported by the testing agency.  The ACT code for UW Oshkosh is 4674. The SAT code is 1916.

Students who did not request that UW Oshkosh receive their ACT or SAT I profile should contact American College Testing, (319) 337-1000 for ACT scores or the College Board at (800) 728-7267 for SAT I scores.

UW Oshkosh will use the highest composite test score submitted by the student for admission consideration.

Step 4: Application Status Notification

You will typically receive an admissions decision letter from the University within two to three weeks after your application file is complete. An email will also be sent to the email address provided on your application.

If you would like to check the status of your application, please send an email to [email protected].

Sending Materials

Most applicants choose to submit their application and materials electronically.

All application materials sent as paper copies should be forwarded to:

UW Oshkosh Admissions Office P.O. Box 2423 Oshkosh, WI 54903-2423

Any paperwork that is sent express or overnight by any company other than U.S. postal services should be sent to the following address :

UW Oshkosh Admissions Office 800 Algoma Boulevard Oshkosh, WI 54901

Note:  UPS, FedEx, Airborne, etc. DO NOT deliver to P.O. Box addresses

Application Changes?

If you need to make changes to your application  after submitting it electronically, you can email us with your changes at [email protected]. You will not be able to edit your application online on your own once you submit it.

Changes may include things like:

• Updating personal statement
• Updating personal information
• Adding courses in progress

If you have questions at any time, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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• Before you begin: useful tips for writing your essay

Before you start writing, keep these principles in mind:

Less is more

That is, you have a lot you could say, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you should try to say everything.

Be selective. Organize your statement around a unifying theme rather than merely listing your accomplishments.

Give good examples and explanations

Try to avoid writing sentences that could be cut and pasted out of your statement and into someone else’s with little difficulty. One detail is worth a thousand cliches.

For example, “I have always wanted to study physics because I like science,” is a sentiment with which almost anyone applying to graduate physics programs might agree. Remember that you’re applying to an advanced research degree, so the admissions committee will want to see evidence not only that you like a particular discipline, but that you engaged with the questions of the particular subfield in it—that you’re interested in that subfield’s ideas and research. You’ll need to show how that you’ve taken concrete steps to pursue your interests (like, for example, engaging in undergraduate research) and in doing so, you’ll use the jargon of your field to indicate that you are knowledgeable about it and can talk like someone who will be joining it.

Instead of saying that you “like” something, you can give a describe an experience that inspired or confirmed your interest. Explain how and why it had an effect on you. These details show your enthusiasm and dedication far more effectively than just saying that you like something does.

You may also want to describe a challenge that you’ve encountered while pursuing your academic interests—maybe a lab experiment didn’t turn out correctly or perhaps you encountered an issue with the archive you were studying. Explain how you tried to mitigate an obstacle or (if appropriate) how you overcame it. Including information about a problem that you’ve confronted can demonstrate your persistence and indicate that you’re ready to meet the challenges of graduate study. (Be careful though, an essay full of challenges and complaints may persuade a committee of just the opposite.)

Help your reader

Remember, the reader isn’t inside your head and may not always be able to understand why you are including certain information in your statement or may not be able to easily understand the connections between different parts of your statement. Don’t be afraid to be explicit and to clearly state how a particular experience demonstrates your potential for advanced study or the soundness of your reasons for pursuing it.

Follow instructions carefully

Make sure that your essay is responding to the question(s). Each department you apply to may have different requirements and expectations for their admissions essays. For this reason, ensure that read the admissions directions thoroughly and consult your advisor if you have any questions.

Cover your bases

Make sure that you’ve called attention to your successes and relevant experience and that you’ve explained any discrepancies in your record.

Proofread your essay!

Spelling, typos, and grammatical errors may distract your reader. Because readers often have to make quick judgments about potentially hundreds of candidates, they may be quickly turned off by any errors they perceive and may assume that the writer isn’t fully prepared for graduate study if a statement seems sloppy.

For this reason, leave yourself time to proofread and enlist the help of others to make sure that your essay is clearly written and error-free. Read through our “Get more help with your statement” page for more information about soliciting advice from others.

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University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to approach the UW-Madison essay prompts? With tips from an Ivy League graduate, CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the UW-Madison essay prompts will show you exactly how to write engaging essays for your UW-Madison application and maximize your chances against the UW-Madison acceptance rate.

Want help crafting your UW-Madison essay prompts? Create your free  account  or  schedule a free consultation  by calling (844) 343-6272.

UW-Madison  Supplemental Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• The UW-Madison acceptance rate is 57%— U.S. News  ranks UW-Madison as a  competitive  school.
• We recommend answering all UW-Madison supplemental essays comprehensively and thoughtfully.

What is the acceptance rate for the University of Wisconsin-Madison?

According to U.S. News, the UW-Madison acceptance rate is 57%. Last year, over 53,000 students applied to the school, which was a  17% increase  over the previous year. While the UW-Madison acceptance rate increased temporarily to about 60%, the normal rate falls near 57%. Like most schools, UW-Madison was  test-optional  last year in response to COVID. This year, they’ve continued the test-optional policy. Admissions experts believe that changes in testing requirements have caused the spike in applications that most schools have experienced.

So, what does this mean for you? Well, it does indicate that the UW-Madison supplemental essays will be an important part of your application. Without mandatory test scores and given the rise in applications, admissions officers will pay more attention to other aspects of your application.

In other words, for your best chance against the UW-Madison acceptance rate, we recommend that you take time to make sure that your responses to the UW-Madison essay prompts reflect your strengths.

Additionally, remember that the UW-Madison acceptance rate is not the only factor to consider when building your school list. Make sure that you’re looking at schools holistically. For more information on how to evaluate the UW-Madison acceptance rate (and more details on the data behind acceptance rates), read  our article .

What is the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s ranking?

The UW-Madison ranking is #42 in  National Universities , according to U.S. News.

Other U.S. News UW-Madison rankings: the UW-Madison ranking in  Best Undergraduate Teaching  is #71; UW-Madison ranking in  Best Value Schools  is #81; and the UW-Madison ranking in  Top Public Schools  is #14.

In terms of specific programs, the UW-Madison ranking is #15 in  Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs , and the US Madison ranking is #19 in  Nursing .

Finally, the UW-Madison ranking is #64 in  First-Year Experiences .

These are just some of the UW-Madison rankings. However, a school’s rankings should not be the only thing you take into consideration when compiling your college list. You should also consider other factors—including the school’s location, programs available, and size—when you look at schools. The UW-Madison rankings are not the only important factor in deciding to apply.

Keep in mind that the best college for you may not be the one you expected! There are a lot of different resources available when it comes to researching colleges; be sure to consult a few to ensure you create a comprehensive list.

Need help creating a college list? Check out our resources on the college list process  here .

Does the University of Wisconsin-Madison require essays?

Yes. In addition to the  Common App   personal essay, there are specific UW-Madison essay prompts. The UW-Madison supplemental essays differ depending on how you submit your application. The Common Application and  UW System Application  are available for all applicants. You will be required to write a “Why UW-Madison” essay no matter how you submit your application.

Need tips on writing your Common App essay? Check out our  blog article .

How many essays does the University of Wisconsin-Madison require?

In addition to the Common Application Personal Statement, there is one required UW-Madison essay that all applicants must complete: the “Why UW-Madison” essay.

However, if you apply through the UW application portal rather than the Common App, you will have to submit a second UW-Madison essay. This second essay functions as a replacement for the Common App essay. If you apply via the UW application portal, give yourself ample to complete both UW-Madison essay prompts.

Does the University of Wisconsin-Madison care about essays?

Yes, all colleges care about your essays, UW-Madison included. The UW-Madison essay prompts are a great chance to show admissions officers something new about yourself. When responding to the UW-Madison essay prompts, you will want to demonstrate that you would be a great fit for their UW-Madison. This is especially true when writing the “Why UW-Madison” essay. This is referred to as demonstrated interest (DI). DI is a tool the admissions officers use to determine how interested a student is in attending their particular school. By writing specific “Why UW-Madison” essays, students can show their DI in attending UW-Madison and increase their admissions odds.

The high UW-Madison ranking indicates that students may apply just because of UW-Madison’s prestige. In response to this, admissions officers will be on the lookout for students whose interest in the school runs deeper than its reputation. For more information on DI and how to use it to your advantage, check out this article from  Forbes .

Finally, in light of the UW-Madison acceptance rate, well-crafted responses to the UW-Madison essay prompts will strengthen your application. Don’t underestimate the UW-Madison essays and their impact.

Does the University of Wisconsin-Madison have a “Why UW-Madison” essay?

Yes. This is the classic supplemental essay question, and the UW-Madison essay prompts are no exception—all colleges want to know what makes them special to you. The “Why UW-Madison” essay is your chance to showcase any research you have done about UW-Madison while you’ve been writing your UW-Madison supplemental essay or as you’ve been completing the rest of the application.

Given the UW-Madison acceptance rate, your research will be an important part of acing the why UW-Madison essay. Why? When it comes down to two candidates with similar GPAs and extracurriculars, a strong “Why UW-Madison” essay can be the determining factor in who is admitted.

UW-Madison Essay Prompts – Question 1 (required)

Tell us why you decided to apply to 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. (650 words maximum).

How do I write a good essay for UW-Madison?

The rest of this guide will show you how to write engaging UW-Madison supplemental essays.

Let’s start with the first UW-Madison essay, which is required of all applicants. You have 650 words to respond to this why UW-Madison essay, which is the same length as the Common Application’s personal statement. You should be prepared to spend a fair bit of time both researching and writing this UW-Madison essay, considering its length.

For this UW-Madison essay, avoid over-generalizing with statements like “The campus is beautiful” or “I just feel like I belong there.” Instead, offer concrete examples of why you belong there. You should do research into specific aspects of the UW-Madison community that appeal to you.

This UW-Madison essay prompt has two parts. First, the prompt asks why you decided to apply to UW-Madison. Then, it asks why you are interested in your chosen academic field. You’ll want to ensure you respond to both parts of the question. If you are undecided in your major, you will still want to address your academic interests and explain how attending UW-Madison would help you to hone these interests and discover a major that excites you.

Do your research

Before answering the first part of this UW-Madison essay prompt, do some reading. For example, you can look into  extracurricular activities , research, or  travel opportunities  that only UW-Madison offers to its students. You might also review the  calendar  of student events. The  list of student organizations  on their website can be a great resource to find campus organizations you’d like to join.

If you want to get your finger on the pulse of student life, check out UW-Madison’s student publications. Additionally, leverage the alumni network to ask questions about previous students’ experiences. This can help you learn about student-specific traditions and events that you can’t read about on the website.

Start free-writing

If all of these options seem overwhelming, try starting with a structured free-write session. Take about 15-20 minutes and create two lists. Under one, list every reason why you want to attend UW-Madison. Under the second list, list every reason why you selected your major. If you’re unsure of your major, list every area of academic interest that you may want to pursue. Then, take an additional 15 minutes and draw connections between the two. Perhaps you listed that you want to participate in UW-Madison’s  DSE Mentorship Program  for undergraduate engineers. If you also engineering as a possible major, that’s a great connection to highlight in your essay.

The second part of this UW-Madison essay prompt is a great way to demonstrate your academic and intellectual goals. Take a look at their list of 9,192 courses and 288 undergraduate majors and certificates. Pick three courses that look interesting and explain why each of those courses appeals to you. How would you benefit from taking these courses? How do your previous academic experiences set you up for success?

Avoid statistics

You want to avoid listing out numbers and statistics that admissions officers already know. For instance, instead of spending words talking about how the average class size is 31, explain specifically which professors you would be excited to learn from in such a personal teaching environment. If you are interested in two contrasting majors, you should support both of them with anecdotes about your academic experiences.

This is the space to show off your expert investigation skills and name-drop courses, clubs, professors, and research opportunities only available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Colleges can tell when you swap out their name for another University and submit the same “Why here?” answer. Your application will be stronger if your answer to this “why UW-Madison” essay could not be swapped with any other schools’ applications.

UW-Madison Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Do you prove that you’ve done research on the school?
• Do you explain what unique opportunities UW-Madison would provide you that you could not get anywhere else?
• Does your draft provide specific details about what you hope to do while on UW-Madison’s campus?

UW-Madison Essay Prompts – Question 2

If you apply using the Common Application, you will be asked to respond to one of the freshman Common Application essays. If you apply within the UW System Application, you will need to answer the following prompt:

This part is all about you. Tell us about something you’ve done—academically or personally—and what you’ve learned from it. Was it a success or a challenge? Did it represent a turning point in your life? How did this particular moment in your life influence you, and how will it continue to influence your education? (650 words maximum).

Who completes this prompt?

Not everyone applying to UW-Madison will complete this UW-Madison essay. If you are applying to UW-Madison through the Common App, you will  not need  to respond to this UW-Madison essay prompt. If you are applying through the UW Systems Admissions Application then this UW-Madison essay will be the substitute for your Common App personal essay. This means you will want to spend a fair amount of time drafting your response to this UW-Madison essay prompt, since UW-Madison will not read your Common App personal essay if you apply through their college-specific portal.

There are several different parts to this UW-Madison essay prompt. At first glance, it may seem quite general. “Something you’ve done” is a pretty broad topic. However, the follow-up questions might qualify your chosen topic a bit more. You’ll need to describe how you learned from the situation. Was it something you succeeded in or was it a challenge you overcame? Did you find it to be a turning point that pushed you into a new phase of your life? You should be sure to address the final part of this UW-Madison essay prompt—about the event’s influence—and discuss how it will influence your education moving forward.

Avoid cliches

For this UW-Madison essay prompt, you could expand on something that is already present in your application. However, make sure that your topic is proportional to the length of this UW-Madison supplemental essay. For example, if you decide to write about an extracurricular, you will want to select something that you have a large role in. You should then discuss an anecdote that really challenged you, and as a result, prompted you to grow. Topics such as scoring an A on a big exam or winning an important sports game can be a little clichéd. Try to think of a unique situation that you overcame and the skills that you gained from that experience.

One of the most important parts of this UW-Madison essay is how your topic will impact your education. Make sure you discuss how you will contribute to academic life at UW-Madison. However, don’t repeat anything you already said in your “Why UW-Madison” essay. Overall, you want to make sure this UW-Madison supplemental essay shows who you are as a person and how you have grown. Given the relatively low UW-Madison acceptance rate, you should present detailed, well-written answers to the UW-Madison essay prompts.

UW-Madison Essay Prompts: Final Thoughts

Completing the UW-Madison essay prompts can seem daunting in light of the UW-Madison acceptance rate and high UW-Madison rankings. However, you shouldn’t let that discourage you from applying. The UW-Madison supplemental essays are a great opportunity to introduce yourself to UW-Madison admissions officers. With the lower UW-Madison acceptance rate, these UW-Madison essay prompts can boost your application if you have a lower-than-average GPA or  SAT score .

Use this guide as a step-by-step aid when approaching the UW-Madison supplemental essays, and start earlier than you think you should. Don’t be afraid to ask for revisions from someone; it’s helpful to have another set of eyes checking your UW-Madison supplemental essays for grammatical errors, tone, and clarity. Good luck!

This 2021-2022 essay guide on UW-Madison was written by  Laura Frustaci , Harvard ‘21. For your best chance against the UW-Madison acceptance rate, and more CollegeAdvisor.com resources, click  here . Want help crafting your UW-Madison supplemental essays? Create your free  account  or  schedule a free consultation  by calling (844) 343-6272.

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A Guide to Graduate School Applications

• A Guide to Grad School Apps

Office of Admissions | Knight Hall 150 1000 E. University Avenue Department 3435 Laramie, WY 82071

Phone: (307) 766-5160 Toll-Free: (800) 342-5996 Fax: (307) 766-4042 Email:   [email protected]

Published August 22, 2024 By Audrey M.

Graduate school can be incredibly intimidating. As you begin thinking about applying to a program, it can quickly become overwhelming deciding where you should even begin. Although graduate programs are incredibly diverse, and application requirements will vary from one to another, I’m here to provide some helpful tips and a step-by-step guide that I used to successfully apply to PhD programs myself. My goal is to break down the large process into attainable steps that you can use yourself to get into the program of your dreams!

1. Before Applying

Contrary to popular belief, the graduate school application process doesn’t begin with your application – it actually starts much sooner. Before you begin compiling your application, take the time to research schools, programs, labs, and mentors. It’s also important to take the time to explore your own interests to ensure that you enter a program that is right for you.

Know what you want: Graduate programs can span years of intensive work, so it’s incredibly important that you’re confident in your decision to begin! Explore your interests and career goals to ensure which program is right for you – a master’s? A PhD? Is it possible that your dream job is achievable with your current education level? It’s also important to identify which program you want to enter early on. For example, a PhD in psychology is broken down into a range of specialties that each lead to distinct research areas and career paths. If you’re entering a research-heavy field, start exploring what sparks your curiosity and which specific topics you’d enjoy researching later on. This knowledge will come in handy once you begin crafting your application materials.

Research the schools: You may be wondering where to start when searching for programs across the country – it’s an intimidating thought! Some easy ways to narrow down your list of potential schools are by analyzing location, cost of living in the area, school/class sizes, and program funding. Inspect what feels most important to you – a specific part of the country? A large program? A prestigious research history? – and use this knowledge to craft a list of potential schools.

Find your fit: One area in which graduate programs may differ is how closely you’ll be working with faculty. In some areas of study, you’ll apply directly into a program where you’ll take courses under a variety of professors. For others, you’ll apply to advisor or primary investigator directly, working closely with them in their lab to earn your degree. Either way, once you’ve identified schools that you can envision yourself at, dive into their list of faculty to learn more about advisors in the program. For research-heavy programs, how well your interests fit with those of your advisor is often the biggest predictor of success in the application process.

Reach out and introduce yourself: Once you’ve compiled a list of potential programs and/or faculty advisors, it’s time to introduce yourself! Send a formal email notifying potential advisors of your interest and plans to apply in the upcoming cycle. Feel free to share information about your experiences, future interests, and what initially drew you to them. This step establishes a rapport with people in your field and can help you form a relationship before your official application is submitted.

After completing these initial steps, you’ve set yourself up for success when transitioning to compiling your application. Application fees are expensive, and crafting materials to specific schools quickly becomes time consuming. By taking the time to analyze your standards and narrow down your list to a few top programs, you’ve ensured that your time and money will be well spent moving forward.

2. Completing Your Application

Now it’s time to do the heavy lifting and complete your application. Applications can differ from program to program, so take extra care in reading through each program’s requests ahead of time. Across schools, here are some common documents that you can expect to provide:

A curriculum vitae (CV): Your CV is the roadmap of all the experiences you’ve gained before entering a graduate program. Your goal in this document is to express interest in the field while highlighting your relevant skills and knowledge. This document can vary greatly depending on the person and the area of study you are entering, but common sections of a CV are contact information, education, research/clinical experience, teaching experience, honors and awards, memberships and affiliations, publications and presentations, certifications and skills, and references. Although you want your CV to convey your depth of experience, avoid padding this document with filler and only include things that are directly relevant to your program.

A personal statement/academic statement/statement of purpose: This document goes by many names, but essentially serves as a complement to your CV and a place where you can speak more in depth about the ways that your experiences have shaped your goals and interests. The requirements for this document often lie in one of two categories: a free-response, comprehensive personal statement, or a brief list of specific prompts supplied by your program requirements. In this document, it’s important to be both personable and professional, and not to simply restate what you’ve already outlined in your CV. This statement should also individually address the program and advisor it is being submitted to, as opposed to sending in an identical document for every application.

Letters of recommendation: Letters of recommendation are a key aspect of graduate applications and provide an avenue for your program to learn about you through the testaments of others. Many schools will request a minimum of three, with others allowing up to five. Ensure that you choose letter writers who are relevant to your program, such as professors, research mentors, or relevant professionals, and who know you well enough to speak to your strengths as an applicant. Individualized, thoughtful letters take time to write, so request letters from your writers earlier than you think!

A writing sample: Some programs will require a writing sample or may suggest it as an optional component of your application. Choose a sample that showcases your strength as a writer, and preferably is applicable to your program – such as a paper related to your specific research interests. Reach out to peers, mentors, or the writing center to proof this sample for any errors before submitting.

Standardized Test Scores: GRE scores are becoming increasingly less essential in graduate applications – many programs have ceased requesting them at all. In my experience, those viewing your application want to get a strong sense of who you are both as a student and a person, and whether or not you’re capable of being successful in their program. Often, your CV, personal statement, and letters of recommendation are more than enough to paint this picture. Regardless, take the time to study and prepare for these examinations as there’s always a chance that the extra boost may help make the difference between an acceptance and a rejection. And again, emphasis on testing scores may vary widely from one program of study to another.

A diversity statement: An increasing number of programs are adding diversity statements as a core piece of their application requirements. These statements are often around five hundred words, and specific prompts will vary from one program to the next. In general, many will want to know more about your lived experiences and how diversity or hardships have impacted your academic journey. Some programs may also ask you to describe how you will encourage and support diversity if you were to be admitted to their program.

Once you’ve assembled the necessary pieces, it is time to apply. Take note of deadlines, paying careful attention to time zone differences, and ensure that your application is submitted on time. You should receive a confirmation email after your application has been received but keep an eye on your inbox in the coming days as programs will be contacting you with updates.

3. After Applying

You’ve submitted your application! First, take the time to decompress and congratulate yourself. Putting together an application is a long and demanding process, and you should be proud to be on the other side. Nevertheless – your journey is not over yet. The next step in the application process is completing interviews with your chosen programs.

Preparing for your interviews: Although it’s impossible to predict exactly what you will be asked in an interview, there are a few areas you can prepare in to feel confident about your future performance. Make sure you are able to articulate your previous experiences, especially in the context of their impact on you as a strong candidate. Prepare an “elevator pitch” consisting of basic information about yourself and your future goals. Take time to research your program/mentor’s history and specialties. It is often also helpful to be knowledgeable of the current research literature in your field.

The interview process: The interview process is another place where programs can vary greatly from one another, but many will follow a two-step process. The first interview is often virtual, conducted over the phone or through a video call service like Zoom. The second round of interviews are more commonly conducted in-person and will require a physical trip to your program’s location as a result. Some programs will only require one interview before rejecting applicants or extending offers. Other schools host “visitation days” in lieu of interview days, where applicants who have been extended an offer are invited to visit the campus and interact with faculty and graduate students.

Managing offers and making your decision: It can be very difficult to decide between programs if you’ve received multiple offers, and there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer for every applicant. It’s important to ask questions of potential mentors, faculty members, and current graduate students of the program you are considering. When making a final choice, weigh costs, benefits, location, and future potential for success in your decision-making process. Above all, trust your gut, and go wherever feels right for you!

Interviews can definitely be stress-inducing, but your biggest goal at this stage should be gathering information to make an informed decision. Once you’ve made it this far, it’s all about connecting with your potential mentors and determining the best fit for you and your individual goals. At the end of this process, you should feel confident in your final choice of program.

My hope is that this guide to the application process helps clarify the overwhelming thought of beginning graduate school. Setting yourself up for success is a culmination of researching programs, crafting strong application materials, and seeking information to help you feel confident in your final decision. Entering a graduate program after acceptance comes with an entirely new set of challenges to face, but you can rest easy in the knowledge that you’re in the company of many other graduate students just like you . Best of luck!

Why is the Universities of Wisconsin temporarily suspending the standardized test score requirements (ACT & SAT)?

The Universities of Wisconsin wanted to be flexible given many challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic such as lack of access to testing.

Who does this apply to?

The Universities of Wisconsin is test-optional for students applying for undergraduate admission for Spring 2025 through Summer 2027 term. This includes admission to the following terms: Spring 2025, Summer 2025, Fall 2025, Spring 2026, Summer 2026, Fall 2026, Spring 2027, and Summer 2027 terms. The last term that students will be able to opt out of submitting an ACT/SAT score will be for admission to Summer 2027 term unless the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents takes additional action regarding test score requirements before that time.

How are admissions decisions made now without an ACT or SAT?

The Universities of Wisconsin have always engaged in a holistic review of applicants that considers various factors such as course rigor, GPA, class rank, essay, extracurricular activities, work experience, and community service. 

If I took the ACT or SAT, can I still submit my score?

It is not required to submit an ACT or SAT score, but you can submit test scores if you feel it will benefit the strength of your application. If you have additional questions regarding submitting an ACT or SAT test score, please contact the Admissions Office. 

Are international students still required to submit language proficiency test scores?

Yes, language proficiency test scores (TOEFL & IELTS) are still required for international students. 

What is Direct Admit Wisconsin?

Direct Admit Wisconsin is an initiative by the Universities of Wisconsin to proactively offer admission to qualifying high school students between their junior and senior years of high school. Direct admission removes the traditional application process and instead uses data provided by the high school to admit students to universities.

For more information about Direct Admit Wisconsin, please visit the following website: www.wisconsin.edu/direct-admissions

What is the Wisconsin Guarantee?

Starting August 1, 2024, with the high school class of 2025, the Wisconsin Guarantee will offer guaranteed admission to all Universities of Wisconsin universities for Wisconsin high school students in the top 5% to 10% of their graduating class.

For more information about the Wisconsin Guarantee, please visit the following website: www.wisconsin.edu/wisconsin-guarantee

How do I request an official transcript from a UW university?

You will need to work directly with the college institution to request an official transcript.

When will I receive a decision?

An admission decision will vary campus to campus. You can do your part to speed things along by providing all application materials in a timely fashion.

How do I know if the campus I applied to has everything it needs from me?

After submitting your application for admission, you will be able to download your “Next Steps” PDF. This PDF provides more information about what to expect after submitting your application. You will also receive information from the campus(es) you applied to informing you of the website or portal you will use to check your application status. You can also contact the Admissions Office with questions about missing documents.

I only want to take one class. What do I need to do?

You will need to apply to the campus as a special/non-degree student using the Universities of Wisconsin Application at apply.wisconsin.edu . Upon creating a new application, please answer NO to the question “Are you applying as a degree-seeking student?” Doing so will put you on the right track to apply as a special/non-degree student.

How do I know if the classes I have taken will transfer and what they will transfer as?

You can see how most courses taken at the Universities of Wisconsin and some WTCS campuses will transfer to other UW universities or WTCS campuses using the Transferology tool . If you are transferring courses from other institutions, send your transcript to the admissions office of the campus you are transferring to, and the course or courses will be evaluated for credit. Note: Prior to taking the course, it is ideal to work with both institutions to understand how your credits will transfer.

For information about transferring to the Universities of Wisconsin, please refer to the Transfer Wisconsin website

Do re-entry students need to send high school and/or college transcripts?

Re-entry students do not need to send official high school transcripts. If college credit was earned while away from the institution to which you are reapplying, official college transcripts for those earned credits may need to be sent.

Do transfer applicants need to send official high school and/or college transcripts?

Some UW universities may require official high school transcripts from transfer students. Check with the admissions office after submitting your application. Official transcripts will need to be sent from all college institutions previously attended.

What makes the transcript official and how do I send an official transcript?

Most campuses offer an online transcript request tool. Transcripts sent this way are official. If a paper copy of the transcript is mailed from a college or university, the transcript needs to include the college seal and arrive at the receiving institution in a sealed envelope.

I am an international student – how high do I have to score on the TOEFL or IELTS?

Most UW universities will require the results of a foreign language proficiency exam for international applicants. You can learn about TOEFL and IELTS score requirements at the  International Admissions Requirements page.

Do I need to provide letters of recommendation?

UW-Madison requires one letter of recommendation written by someone who can attest to your academic ability, such as a teacher, school counselor, or faculty member. All other Universities of Wisconsin do not require letters of recommendation, but you are welcome to send letters of recommendation.

For UW-Madison, please refer to their website for more information about how to submit a letter of recommendation.

All other UW universities will accept a letter of recommendation sent to the Admissions Office

I haven’t taken any college courses. Why am I being asked for this information on my application?

In the “Academic Background – Higher Education Check” section, make sure that you didn’t mark YES to the question, “Have you ever taken any college level courses?” If you truly did not take college courses in high school, please make sure to select NO to the question.

I am a high school student currently taking a college-level course. Do I put that class in my currently enrolled high school classes and/or in the college courses I am taking?

If you are taking the course for both high school and college credit, the course needs to be entered both as a High School Course and as a College Course . AP and IB courses should be entered only on the High School Courses section and NOT the College Courses section.

Does the information I enter on the application automatically save?

Yes, the Universities of Wisconsin Application automatically saves. However, when exiting the application, it’s always a good idea to click  Save or Save and Return Later .

How do I apply to another campus?

Log in to your Universities of Wisconsin Application account at apply.wisconsin.edu . Once logged in, click on Start Application and answer the initial questions. After the “Review My Choices,” you will be able to copy over information from your most recent application to this new application. Essays do not copy over. Please make sure to doublecheck each section to make sure everything copied over accurately.

How do I change my submitted application?

Once you’ve submitted your application, you cannot go back into the application to be make changes. Changes to an application must be made via email to the Admissions Office. All changes should be thoroughly and accurately described and sent to the Admissions Office at the campus.

I noticed that the formatting of my essays didn’t stay as I intended. Should I worry about that?

No need to worry about the formatting of your essays! This is normal behavior with the application, and there is no reason to be concerned if you are not able to format your essay (like including indentations or double-spacing). Campuses are aware of this behavior.

Why do I need to include information about my parents in my application?

Questions about your parents are asked to determine eligibility for Wisconsin residency status for tuition purposes.

How do I cancel a submitted application?

Once your application has been submitted, contact the Admissions Office> at the campus you applied to to request your application be canceled.

The email address in my account is no longer in use. What do I do?

Log in to your Universities of Wisconsin Application account and update your email address in the Account Information. For additional assistance, please call 1-800-442-6459 or email UW HELP at [email protected] .

What is the application deadline?

Application deadlines will vary by campus, program, and applicant type. We recommend contacting the Admissions Office for deadlines.

I forgot the username and/or password I use to log in to my account. How do I recover it?

Please use your email to log into your Universities of Wisconsin Application account.

To reset your password, upon sign-in, click on “Forgot My Password” . Enter in your email. An email will then be sent to you with steps for how to reset your password. Please check your junk/spam inboxes as well for the email.

If you are still having difficulties, contact UW HELP at 1-800-442-6459 or [email protected] .

Application Fees

Beginning August 1, 2024 for freshman and transfer applicants for Fall 2025 term: There is no cost to apply to the Universities of Wisconsin as an undergraduate student with the following exceptions: UW-Eau Claire and UW-La Crosse charge $25 application fees. UW-Madison charges a $70 application fee. If an application fee presents a financial hardship, you can indicate a need for a fee waiver in the application on the Personal Information section of the application.

How long will the change in application fees last?

Application fees are reviewed annually and are subject to change.

Does this change in application fees impact the Common Application?

No. The change in application fee structure only impacts the Universities of Wisconsin Application for Admission.

NOTE: All UW universities including branch campuses are included on the Universities of Wisconsin Application for Admission. However, not all UW universities are on the Common App. Students interested in applying for admission to UW universities that are listed on the Common App have the option to apply using either the Universities of Wisconsin Application for Admission or the Common App.

What do I do if I am concerned about paying application fees?

The Universities of Wisconsin don’t want financial concerns to keep students from applying. For domestic applicants, if you are concerned about paying application fees, please note your financial hardship on the personal information section of the application. If you have further questions about this or if you don’t feel you meet the financial hardship eligibility guidelines, please reach out to the UW HELP team at 1-800-442-6459 or email UW HELP at [email protected] .

How do I decide how many UWs to apply to?

It’s about finding the right “fit.” Consider what characteristics, services or experiences you want a college to have to be happy, healthy, and successful and to feel safe and supported on campus. Students should consider their academic and career interests (major/programs), location, size of the student body, housing options, cost and financial aid, student services, and opportunities to get involved outside of the classroom (e.g., athletics, clubs and organizations, research and study abroad).

We encourage students to narrow down their list of options and consider their top three universities: • My “Sweet Spot”: I can totally see myself here. It’s a perfect fit! • A “Stretch”: It might be a challenge to get into, but it would be amazing if I did! • A “Safe Bet”: A UW that has everything I need and can launch me to my next step.

Check out the UW Journey app to find a best fit at a UW university today!

Where can I see how my students’ credits will transfer?

For information about transferring to a Universities of Wisconsin university, please find more information at Transfer Wisconsin .

Students can also use the Transferology tool to find out how credits may transfer.

How do I show my students the electronic application without submitting an application to a campus?

Visit the Practice Application site and create an account to get started. This Practice Application is for practice/demonstration purposes only. Applications submitted on this website will not be received by any campus for admission review.

What counts for Project Lead the Way and what does not?

Information about Project Lead the Way can be found at the Additional Credit Opportunities section of our site.

Where can students register for the Wisconsin Regional Placement Exam?

Learn about registering for the  Wisconsin Regional Placement Exam .

How do I get added to the UW HELP mailing list?

You can sign up for the UW HELP mailing list by filling out the  UW HELP Mailing Sign-Up form.

Where can I obtain a paper application?

You can download a paper application on the Universities of Wisconsin Application website at apply.wisconsin.edu.

When are the UW Fall workshops happening?

Check out our Universities of Wisconsin Fall Workshop page to find the most up-to-date information on the workshops. 

What and where is College Goal Wisconsin this year?

Check out the College Goal Wisconsin website for dates and locations. 

Where can I find the nonresident tuition for a particular UW campus?

You can find non-resident tuition by viewing the Annual Tuition page.

Does Spanish 1 taken in middle school count toward meeting the foreign language admission requirement?

Yes, if Spanish 2 is taken in high school, it is understood that Spanish 1 was taken in middle school. Please note, middle school credits do not count toward the total number of high school credits a student needs for admission.

When do I need to fill out the FASFA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be completed any time after October 1 for the following fall semester. Observe priority dates and deadlines found at Scholarships and Grants page.

In terms of aid, does it make a difference whether I’m a special or degree-seeking student?

Typically, special/non-degree students are not eligible for financial aid. Degree-seeking students are eligible for financial aid.

Where can I find information about scholarship offerings at a particular UW?

Each UW university offers a variety of scholarships. Find more information at the Scholarships and Grants page.

What is work-study? What are grants?

Federal Work-Study provides the opportunity to get a part-time job for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. Grants are free money that doesn’t need to be paid back. Grants for college are typically need-based.

Where can I find the tuition for a Universities of Wisconsin university?

You will find that information by using the UW HELP Build Your Budget tool .

How can I get a scholarship?

Each UW university has a different process to apply for scholarships offered at the campus. Don’t forget to check for community scholarships and scholarships offered through your high school. Also, search the web for businesses and organizations that offer scholarships. 

Where do I find the financial aid priority filing date for a specific UW campus?

The financial aid priority filing date for each campus can be found at each UW Financial Aid Contacts page.

What if something happens that changes my family’s FAFSA information based on the most recent tax year, or my family has had unusual expenses in the last year?

It is important to inform the Financial Aid office of the campus you are attending of any changes to the information submitted on your FAFSA so that your family’s current financial situation is known at the time your aid package is created.

Should I pay a scholarship search company to help me find money?

No, students and families should never pay for a scholarship search. There are great search tools available online for free.

How long do I have to wait before I can expect to receive my Student Aid Report (SAR)?

Typically, the SAR will arrive within 3 to 5 business days, if an email address has been provided.

Do I have to reapply for financial aid every year?

Yes, the FAFSA needs to be completed each year. It is always available on October 1.

Do I have to wait until I am admitted to apply for financial aid?

No, you can complete the FAFSA starting October 1 for entrance to your UW the following fall semester.

How can I tell whether my family is eligible for financial aid?

Every student should complete the FAFSA . This is the only way to know what your financial aid package will be.

What classes do I have to take to get into college?

The UW System Board of Regents requires students to complete minimum course requirements for admission to any UW university. All Universities of Wisconsin encourage students to prepare for college-level coursework by taking advantage of rigorous and challenging courses.

How good do my grades have to be to get into college?

UW universities conduct a comprehensive review of each individual’s application.  Additional information about admission guidelines can be found in the  Admissions Requirements page.

Do I have to take foreign language to get into college?

UW-Madison requires a minimum of two years of a single world language for admission. Other Universities of Wisconsin do not require world language for admission.

How do AP/IB credits transfer to college?

All Universities of Wisconsin award credit for scores of 3, 4, or 5 on AP exams and scores of 4, 5, 6, or 7 on higher level (HL) IB exams. See how your AP and IB courses will transfer at Universities of Wisconsin at the AP and IB page .

Is it possible to take college classes while in high school?

Yes, there are many opportunities to earn college credit while in high school.  For more information visit the Additional Credit Opportunities section of the UW HELP site. 

How do I tour a campus?

Registering for a campus tour is easy! Check out the Campus Tour section of the our site to learn more. 

How do I notify a UW campus of my AP/IB test results?

To request your Advanced Placement and/or International Baccalaureate test scores, go to the AP website and IB website . 

How do I register for the Wisconsin Regional Placement Exam?

You can register for placement testing at the Wisconsin Regional Placement Testing Program website .

Where can I learn more about the UW Colleges and UW-Extension restructuring?

The Universities of Wisconsin  website provides the latest updates.