University of Wisconsin-Madison acceptance rate
University of Wisconsin-Madison has a school-wide acceptance rate of 45%, which makes it selective.
Published tuition & fees: $11,603 in-state, $42,103 out-of-state. But sticker price is rarely what families pay — the net price after aid below is what matters.
SAT & ACT scores for University of Wisconsin-Madison
| Test | Admitted middle 50% |
|---|---|
| SAT Math (mid-50%) | 710–780 |
| SAT Reading/Writing (mid-50%) | 670–740 |
| SAT Total (approx.) | 1380–1520 |
| ACT Composite (mid-50%) | 29–33 |
"Middle 50%" = the range from the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students. Scoring above the 75th puts you toward the safety end; below the 25th makes it more of a reach.
University of Wisconsin-Madison cost & net price after aid
The "sticker price" almost no one pays. Here is the average net price — what families actually pay per year after grants and scholarships — broken down by household income:
| Household income | Avg. net price after aid |
|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | $4,200/yr |
| $30,001–48,000 | $4,101/yr |
| $48,001–75,000 | $8,134/yr |
| $75,001–110,000 | $17,763/yr |
| $110,001+ | $27,292/yr |
Graduation rate & outcomes
University of Wisconsin-Madison has a graduation rate of 90% and graduates earn a median of $73,792 about 10 years after enrolling. Outcomes are one honest signal of value — especially read next to the net price above.
Frequently asked questions
What is University of Wisconsin-Madison's acceptance rate?
About 45% (school-wide, U.S. Dept. of Education, June 2026) — selective.
How much does University of Wisconsin-Madison cost after aid?
It varies by income. For middle-income families the average net price is about $8,134/year; see the full table above for your bracket.
Is University of Wisconsin-Madison a reach for me?
Depends on your stats vs. the admitted middle-50% range above. Check free →