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Admissions

How to apply

Admission to UW-Madison and the College of Engineering is a competitive process. But don’t let that scare you away. Our students are smart, well-rounded, and most importantly, passionate about growing in the field of engineering and changing the world.

To help make the application process as smooth as possible, follow the steps below.

Step one

Choose the program you would like to apply for.

Explore our undergraduate and graduate degrees to figure out which one most aligns with your interests and career goals. You can also find out more about our departments and our research.
students working in the makerspace

Undergraduate degrees and programs

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David Lynn working in the lab

Graduate degrees and programs

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Step two

Determine what kind of student you will be and learn more about what information you need to apply.

For a smooth application process, it’s best to gather everything you’ll need before you start the application. From test scores to GPAs, essays to work samples, don’t stress yourself out trying to find last-minute documents after you’ve started your application.

Freshman

A freshman includes anyone who is currently a student in high school or who has not taken college coursework since graduating from high school.

Graduate

Whether you’re interested in our online capstone or master’s degrees, an in-person accelerated master’s degree, or a traditional research-based master’s or PhD degree, you’ll find info here.

Off-Campus Transfer students

The College of Engineering (CoE) welcomes off-campus transfer students who have completed coursework at another college or university after graduating from high school.

Cross-Campus Students

Cross-campus students are students who are currently enrolled at UW-Madison, but in another school or college.

Reentry student

Previous UW-Madison students who are interested in coming back to complete their degree.

Adult Students & Second Degree Students

UW–Madison defines an adult student as someone who is 25 years of age or older. Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree previously at UW–Madison or another institution and are interested in pursuing a second bachelor’s degree will need to apply for second undergraduate degree admission.

Step three

Apply!

For a smooth application process, it’s best to gather everything you’ll need before you start the application. From test scores to GPAs, essays to work samples, don’t stress yourself out trying to find last-minute documents after you’ve started your application.
Students using microscopes

Apply as an Undergraduate Student

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Angie Xie

Apply as a Graduate Student

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Your future starts here

Learn more about campus, scholarships and tuition