University of Wisconsin–Madison — Admissions, Fees & Programs 2026
Top 15 Public University · R1 Research · STEM Leader · 3-Year STEM OPT
Est. 1848 · Madison, Wisconsin, USA
University ofWisconsin–Madison
The University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison) is a world-renowned public research university and the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin System. Founded in 1848, it is one of America's original "Public Ivy" institutions — offering Ivy League quality education at public university value.
As an R1 Doctoral University with $1.5+ billion in annual research spending, UW–Madison leads globally in biotechnology, engineering, computer science, agriculture, and medicine. The university's 200+ graduate programs attract top talent from 130+ countries.
175+
Years of academic excellence
$1.5B+
Annual research expenditure
#13
Top Public University (US News 2024)
#46
National Universities (US News 2024)
#29
Global Universities (QS 2024)
AAU
Association of American Universities
Why International StudentsChoose UW–Madison
From world-class research to an unbeatable college town experience, UW–Madison delivers.
Public Ivy Excellence
Consistently ranked among top 15 public universities in the US (US News)
Research Powerhouse
R1 university with $1.5B+ annual research expenditure — top 5 nationally
STEM & Innovation Hub
Leader in biotech, engineering, computer science, and data science
Strong ROI
High graduate salaries, strong alumni network, excellent career services
Vibrant College Town
Madison consistently ranked best college town — lakes, trails, culture
Global Community
8,000+ international students from 130+ countries
Generous Funding
TA/RA positions, fellowships, and scholarships for qualified students
3-Year OPT for STEM
Extended work authorization for eligible STEM graduates
Global Rankings& Recognition
Consistently ranked among the world's elite public research universities.
#13
Top Public University
US News & World Report 2024
#46
National Universities
US News & World Report 2024
#29
Global Universities
QS World Rankings 2024
Estimated Cost ofAttendance 2026–27
Costs vary by program and residency. Figures below are estimates for international students.
Tuition & Fees (Annual Estimates)
| Program Level | Tuition (USD) | INR (approx.)* |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (non-resident) | ~$40,600 | ~₹34.5L |
| Graduate (non-resident) | ~$25,500–$45,000 | ~₹21.5L–₹38L |
| Professional (Law, Medicine, PharmD) | ~$45,000–$65,000 | ~₹38L–₹55L |
| Mandatory Fees (all) | ~$1,500–$2,000 | ~₹1.3L–₹1.7L |
* Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ ₹85 (indicative). Fees subject to change. Check program page for exact amounts.
Annual Living Expenses (Madison)
Housing (on/off campus)
Shared apartment or dorm
$10,000–$14,000
Food / Meal Plan
Groceries or dining halls
$4,500–$6,500
Health Insurance
SHIP (student health plan)
$3,000–$4,000
Books & Personal
Supplies, transport, misc.
$3,000–$4,500
Total Annual Budget
Tuition + Living (Graduate)
~$45K–$65K
Eligibility &Admission Requirements
Requirements vary by program. Below are general guidelines for graduate admission.
Academic Background
Recognized bachelor's degree (4-year) or equivalent with minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA (varies by program)
English Proficiency
TOEFL iBT 90+, IELTS 7.0+, or Duolingo 120+ (some programs require higher scores)
Standardized Tests
GRE required for most PhD programs; many Master's programs have made GRE optional
Application Package
Transcripts, SOP, 3 letters of recommendation, CV/resume, program-specific requirements
Graduate AdmissionProcess
A structured journey from program selection to your first semester in Madison.
Research Programs
Explore 200+ graduate and professional programs to find your fit
Check Requirements
Review program-specific prerequisites, deadlines, and test requirements
Prepare Application
Gather transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose
Submit Application
Apply via the UW-Madison Graduate School application portal
Receive Decision
Get admission decision and funding offer (if applicable)
Enroll & Prepare
Accept offer, apply for visa, and prepare for arrival in Madison
RequiredDocuments
Prepare these documents for your graduate application to UW–Madison.
Campus Experience
Life atUW–Madison
Set on an isthmus between two beautiful lakes (Mendota and Monona), Madison offers a unique blend of urban energy and outdoor lifestyle. The campus is walkable, bike-friendly, and connected to a vibrant downtown with farmers markets, live music, and diverse cuisine.
Life in Madison
Student Life inWisconsin's Capital
Madison isn't just a college town — it's a state capital consistently ranked among the best places to live in the US. With two lakes, 200+ parks, a thriving food scene, and a strong tech/biotech job market, it offers an exceptional quality of life.
- Named #1 Best College Town in America (multiple publications)
- Two lakes (Mendota & Monona) for kayaking, sailing, ice skating
- Extensive bike trails — Platinum Bicycle Friendly Community
- Vibrant Capitol Square farmers market (largest producer-only market)
- Thriving biotech/tech corridor — Epic, Promega, Exact Sciences nearby
- Safe, walkable neighborhoods with strong Indian/Asian communities
- Direct flights from Chicago (ORD) — 45 min; major hub connections
- Four distinct seasons — beautiful autumns, snowy winters, mild summers
Advantages of Studyingat UW–Madison
Public Ivy Quality
Elite education at a fraction of private university cost
Research Opportunities
Undergrad & grad research with world-renowned faculty
Industry Connections
Strong ties to Epic, Google, Microsoft, biotech firms
STEM OPT Extension
3-year work authorization for eligible STEM graduates
Global Alumni Network
450,000+ alumni worldwide — Badgers hire Badgers
Comprehensive Support
International Student Services, career center, health services
Interdisciplinary Culture
Cross-department collaboration encouraged across schools
GVK EduTech Guidance
End-to-end application, visa & pre-departure support
Frequently AskedQuestions
1Is University of Wisconsin-Madison accredited?
Yes, University of Wisconsin-Madison is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and holds numerous program-specific accreditations across engineering, business, medicine, law, and other fields.
2What is the acceptance rate for University of Wisconsin-Madison?
University of Wisconsin-Madison has an acceptance rate of approximately 49-53% for undergraduate programs. Graduate program acceptance rates vary significantly by department.
3Is GRE/GMAT required for admission to University of Wisconsin-Madison?
GRE/GMAT requirements vary by program. Many graduate programs have made these tests optional. Check specific department requirements for your intended program.
4What is the medium of instruction at University of Wisconsin-Madison?
The primary medium of instruction is English. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test unless they have completed prior education in English.
5Can international students work while studying at UW-Madison?
Yes, F-1 visa students can work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) are available for off-campus work related to field of study.
6What is the estimated cost of attendance at University of Wisconsin-Madison?
For international graduate students, estimated annual cost (tuition + living expenses) ranges from $45,000-$65,000 depending on the program. Undergraduate costs are approximately $55,000-$60,000 per year.
7Does University of Wisconsin-Madison offer scholarships for international students?
Yes, UW-Madison offers various merit-based scholarships, departmental fellowships, and assistantships (TA/RA positions) for international graduate students. Undergraduate international scholarships are more limited but available.
8What are the career prospects after graduating from UW-Madison?
UW-Madison has excellent career outcomes with strong industry connections. The university's career services, alumni network, and location in a growing tech/biotech hub provide strong employment opportunities. Many STEM graduates qualify for 3-year OPT extension.
2026 Admissions Open
Begin Your Journey at University of Wisconsin–Madison
Our expert counselors will guide you through program selection, application strategy, and visa preparation for one of America's top public universities.