UW–Madison
University of Wisconsin-Madison · Madison, Wisconsin · Public
UW–Madison admitted 41% of 73,912 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1400–1490 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 89% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at UW–Madison
Enter a score to see whether UW–Madison is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (41%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.
Early decision and early action
UW–Madison offers early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.
6,476 students were offered a spot on the waitlist, 4,317 took it, and 1,088 were admitted from it.
What admissions weighs
How UW–Madison rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- GPA
Important
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Activities
- Character
- State residency
Considered
- Class rank
- Test scores
- Talent or ability
- First generation
- Where you live
- Volunteering
- Work experience
Not considered
- Interview
- Legacy
- Religion
- Showing interest
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.91 GPA. 58% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $28,905 in-state and $58,303 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $14,216 on average (in-state).
Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:
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