Is UW Madison difficult to get into?

Hey everyone! I'm a junior and starting to look into colleges, specifically the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I've heard it's a great school but I'm not sure how competitive it is. Does anyone know if UW Madison is tough to get into? Any advice on admission requirements and what they're looking for in applicants? Thanks!

Yes, UW Madison is a competitive university, but it's not as selective as some elite institutions. To give you an idea of their selectivity, the admission rate for Fall 2024 was around 57%. To be a strong applicant, keep the following factors in mind:

1. Academics: Strong grades, a rigorous course load, and competitive test scores (if submitting) are essential. The middle 50% of enrolled students had an ACT of 26-32 and an SAT score of 1340-1510. While UW Madison is currently test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, it's still a good idea to submit high scores if you have them.

2. Extracurriculars: Demonstrate your commitment and passion through extracurricular activities. Aim for a blend of depth and breadth in your activities, focusing on leadership, initiative, and impact. Having a "spike" or specialized talent in a particular area can also help you stand out.

3. Essays: Your personal statement and supplemental essays give you a chance to showcase your unique perspective and experiences. Be sure to highlight anything that isn't conveyed through other parts of your application. For UW Madison, their main essay prompt asks you to discuss your reasons for applying and how you'll contribute to the campus community.

4. Letters of Recommendation: Choose teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths both as a student and as an individual. Ideally, they should be able to provide specific examples of your achievements or personal qualities that will enhance your application.

5. Holistic Review: UW Madison looks at each application holistically, meaning they take all factors into account when making admission decisions. Factors such as your background, personal circumstances, and the context of your school and community will also play a role in the final decision.

To increase your chances of admission, focus on maintaining a high GPA, taking challenging courses, pursuing meaningful extracurricular activities, crafting strong essays, and getting impactful letters of recommendation. Best of luck as you prepare your application!