Applications are accepted beginning September 15 of your senior year in high school. All applications completed by February 1 receive full and equal consideration. Refer to the Deadlines page for details on our two notification periods.

How to Apply

We make it convenient and easy to apply:

1. Apply Online. We encourage you to apply online. Our online application is secure and easy to use. It allows you to save your work and come back later. Applying online also provides you with immediate notification that your application has been received, and will likely speed up the processing of your application.
2. Download a Paper Application. If you prefer to apply on paper, feel free to download and print a copy of our paper application (PDF, 365K).

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Application Materials

A complete application file consists of the following:

1. Application for Admission. You can apply online or download a paper application (PDF, 365K).
2. Application Fee. This nonrefundable $44 application fee must accompany your application. Online applicants can pay the fee by credit card. Paper applicants can pay by check or money order (payable to the University of Wisconsin). Do not send cash. (In cases of exceptional need, the fee may be waived. Students should print the Request for Application Fee Waiver (PDF, 36K) and take it to their counselor for completion and submission to the UW–Madison Office of Admissions. We also accept fee waivers as granted by the College Board and ACT.)
3. Official Transcripts. We require transcripts for all high school and college-level work. Official transcripts should be sent directly by the school.
4. Official Test Scores. Scores from either the ACT or the SAT are required and must be sent directly from the testing agency. We also require the standardized writing test. Our test codes are 4656 for the ACT and 1846 for the SAT.
5. Statements. Students are asked to respond to two questions: one about life experiences and the impact you will have on our campus and the second is a more general personal statement. Answer both questions; those who do not are less likely to be admitted. For more information about the statements, refer to our Application Statements Tip Sheet.
6. Letters of Recommendation. We would like to see at least one recommendation from someone who can attest to your academic ability (i.e., classroom skills, knowledge, and work ethic). Other recommendations might come from an employer, clergy, research mentor, or coach. Remember that quality is better than quantity—a total of two or three is sufficient. You can use our Recommendation Form (PDF, 32K), or simply ask that your recommendation be submitted to the Office of Admissions on letterhead, plain paper, stationery, etc. So that we can match the recommendation to your application, include your full name, birth date, and campus ID number (if known).
7. Counselor Signature. Your high school counselor will need to complete the counselor section of your application. If you’re applying online, you will be prompted to print the High School Counselor Form and bring it to your counselor. If you’re applying on paper, your counselor will need to complete and sign Section Eight. In either case, you may also print this High School Counselor Form (PDF, 38K), which will take the place of both the online form and Section Eight.

Prospective Dance and Music Majors: Students interested in majoring in dance or music must also complete a separate application and schedule an audition for admission. Visit either the School of Music or the Dance Program Web site for audition dates and application information.

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