U of Wisconsin Admissions: What Do They Look For?

Hi! I'm seriously considering applying to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I was wondering if anyone could tell me more about their admissions process, and what they look for in a good candidate? Are there certain scores or extracurriculars that give you an edge? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! I'm glad you're considering the University of Wisconsin-Madison. UW-Madison, like most colleges, uses a holistic admissions approach, which means they consider various aspects of your application, including academics, extracurricular activities, essays, and more, to form a complete picture of who you are as an applicant.

Academically, UW-Madison values a strong high school performance with a rigorous course load. Your GPA, class rank (if your school ranks), and the number of honors, AP, or IB courses you took will be considered. For standardized test scores, UW-Madison is currently test-optional, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. However, if you have strong test scores that help showcase your strengths, it can be beneficial to submit them.

Extracurricular activities are another essential aspect of your application. Keep in mind the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars—from Tiers 1 to 4—that colleges use when judging your involvement. UW-Madison will appreciate if you've demonstrated exceptional achievements or leadership (Tier 1 and 2), but they will also look at how you have pursued your interests and contributed to your school/community (Tier 3 and 4). It's better to have a few activities where you show a consistent commitment and make meaningful contributions than having a long list of superficial involvement.

Aside from academics and extracurriculars, essays are your opportunity to showcase your personality, background, and aspirations. The UW-Madison application includes additional writing supplements that allow you to elaborate on your experiences, perspectives, and goals. Make sure to spend time crafting thoughtful, well-written essays that demonstrate your unique qualities and potential to contribute to the campus community.

In summary, UW-Madison admissions look for:

1. A strong academic performance with rigorous courses

2. Meaningful involvement in extracurricular activities

3. Well-written essays that showcase your background, personality, and goals

While there is no secret formula for getting admitted, focusing on these aspects and genuinely presenting who you are will give you the best chance at admission. Good luck with your application process!