International Student Admission

International Students at Wisconsin

Total University Enrollment: 41,480

Undergraduates: 28,458

Total International Enrollment: 3,571

International Undergraduates: 923

Countries with the Highest Number of Undergraduates at Wisconsin

  1. Korea
  2. Hong Kong
  3. Taiwan
  4. Singapore
  5. Indonesia
  6. Thailand
  7. Japan
  8. India
  9. Malaysia

Orientation

Admitted international students participate in our Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration program, which we call SOAR. This mandatory program takes place just before the start of fall and spring classes. At SOAR, you will:

  • Find out what it means to be a student at Wisconsin
  • Learn about cross-cultural differences, money matters, health care, safety, student visa requirements, and the U.S. educational system
  • Take placement tests in English and math
  • Learn about our academic advising system
  • Work with faculty and staff advisors to become familiar with your academic interest or major
  • Select your courses and enroll online
  • Get your student identification card
  • Learn your way around campus on a walking tour

Parents and guests are invited to attend the first day of SOAR. They participate in a specialized program that provides more information on housing, money matters, visa requirements, health and safety, and more.

Visit the Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration Web site and the International Student Services site to learn more.

Welcome Week

Photo of new students at the Wisconsin Welcome Tailgate Party.

Wisconsin Welcome Tailgate Party

Welcome Week events begin prior to the start of fall- and spring-term classes and continue though the first several weeks of the term. This campuswide welcome is designed to help you make an easy transition to UW-Madison.

During Welcome Week you will:

  • Meet new people
  • Participate in social and cultural events
  • Learn about university traditions
  • Discover the abundant resources available to you on campus
  • Find out where to get the help and support you need

Visit the Wisconsin Welcome Web site to learn more.