How prestigious is UW Madison in current rankings?

I'm trying to gauge the prestige and reputation of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Does anyone know how it ranks, especially in terms of academic quality and student satisfaction?

University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW Madison) is a highly regarded institution that consistently performs well in various university rankings. Its academic quality is quite significant, with many of its individual departments, like its programs in engineering and business, maintaining an excellent reputation nationally and internationally.

For example, in the U.S. News & World Report's 2025 National University Rankings, UW Madison ranks in the top 50. It's worth mentioning that these rankings are determined by factors such as academic reputation, student retention, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, graduation rate performance, and alumni giving rate.

In terms of student satisfaction, universities don't typically share specific student satisfaction ratings. However, reading online reviews of the university and connecting with current students and alumni is a good way to gauge this. It seems that many students are particularly fond of the social environment and wide array of extracurricular options at UW Madison. Its location in Madison, a medium-sized city bustling with activity and vibrant culture, is also often cited as a plus by students.

Keep in mind that rankings are useful, but they aren't everything. It's essential to consider other factors such as your prospective major's strength, campus culture, location, extracurricular opportunities, and financial aid offerings. It's crucial to find a school that fits your individual needs and career goals.