The University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the top public universities in the country, attracting students from all over the world. While in-state students have an advantage when it comes to admissions, out-of-state students can still get accepted with the right combination of academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and a well-crafted application.
As an out-of-state student, getting into UW-Madison requires more than just meeting the minimum requirements. Here are five ways out-of-state students can increase their chances of getting accepted:
Meet the Requirements
The first step to getting into UW-Madison is to meet the minimum requirements. Out-of-state students need to have a minimum GPA of 3.7, a minimum ACT score of 28, or a minimum SAT score of 1300. Meeting these requirements doesn't guarantee admission, but it's a good starting point.
Show Academic Achievements
Out-of-state students need to demonstrate academic achievements beyond the minimum requirements. This can include taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, being part of the National Honor Society, or winning academic awards. The more academic achievements, the better.
Examples of Academic Achievements
• Taking AP or IB courses in core subjects like English, math, science, and social studies • Being part of the National Honor Society or other academic organizations • Winning academic awards or competitions • Publishing research or academic papers • Participating in academic teams or clubs
Demonstrate Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are just as important as academic achievements. Out-of-state students need to demonstrate a commitment to activities outside the classroom. This can include sports, volunteer work, clubs, or leadership positions. The key is to show a passion and dedication to something beyond academics.
Examples of Extracurricular Activities
• Playing sports or being part of a sports team • Volunteering for a cause or organization • Being part of a club or organization that aligns with interests • Holding a leadership position in a school or community organization • Participating in internships or job shadowing programs
Show a Connection to UW-Madison
Out-of-state students need to show a connection to UW-Madison beyond just applying. This can include visiting campus, attending recruitment events, or speaking with current students or faculty. The more connections, the better.
Examples of Showing a Connection to UW-Madison
• Visiting campus and taking a tour • Attending recruitment events or information sessions • Speaking with current students or faculty members • Joining online communities or forums for UW-Madison students • Participating in summer programs or camps on campus
Write a Strong Application Essay
The application essay is a chance for out-of-state students to tell their story and show why they're a good fit for UW-Madison. The essay should be well-written, concise, and authentic. It should also demonstrate a passion for learning and a commitment to the university's values.
Tips for Writing a Strong Application Essay
• Start early and take time to brainstorm ideas • Show, don't tell – use specific examples and anecdotes • Use clear and concise language – avoid jargon and clichés • Edit and revise – get feedback from teachers, counselors, or mentors • Be authentic and genuine – tell a story that's unique and true
Getting into UW-Madison as an out-of-state student requires a combination of academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and a well-crafted application. By meeting the requirements, showing a connection to the university, and writing a strong application essay, out-of-state students can increase their chances of getting accepted.