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Precollege programs for ages 7-18

Welcome to Badger Precollege

What can young learners do at UW–Madison this summer? Just about anything. Badger Precollege offers an array of academic programs for students ages 7-18 — from advanced learning programs and STEM classes to music clinics and college readiness conferences.

Whatever you choose, your student will enjoy the university’s outstanding facilities, resources, faculty and staff — all while getting to know the UW–Madison campus, pursuing their passions and meeting new friends. Financial assistance is available for most programs.

International students are welcomed and encouraged to apply for our high school programs. Learn more about our international programs. We look forward to meeting your student soon!


WCATY participants show off their hands after doing finger painting

Badger Precollege Junior
Grades 2-8

Day and residential programs designed to engage, challenge and inspire advanced learners in elementary and middle school. Students explore one area of study, build community and make lasting friendships.


Badger Precollege Senior
Grades 9-12

Immersive college-prep programs for students completing grades 9-12. Students select a course or area of interest, explore campus and learn with their peers.


Summer Music Clinic
Grades 6-12

Programs for middle school and high school musicians providing the opportunity to learn from experienced educators, enhance their skills and create a community.


From the Blog

Colorful glass mosaic detail of a sun Summer Arts Clinic invites students to get creative

Three Summer Arts Clinic instructors share what they’re most excited about teaching in this new summer program from Badger Precollege.

The four members of the Carlson-Colton family pose with a lake behind them in the distance. A family affair

A Badger Precollege alum and his mom share their experiences with the program and the lasting lessons that have stayed with them.

Galin Education Logo Badger Precollege featured on Galin Education podcast

Chris Harry, assistant dean and the director of Badger Precollege, chats with podcast hosts about about what students should look for in a high-quality summer program.

Nine international high school students pose in front of UW–Madison's Bascom Hall. A large banner of Bucky Badger is hanging behind the building's columns International high school students thrive at EducationUSA Academy

Five international students shared what they like best about the program and how it has impacted their future education plans.

chancellor mnookin standing behind a lab table, talking with students in a classroom Chancellor Mnookin attends classes with Badger Precollege students

The chancellor’s visit showed how UW–Madison is committed to helping precollege students learn about the university and the world around them.

Madison 365 logo Latino Youth Summit previewed in Madison365

Madison365 spoke with Badger Precollege staff about the annual Latino Youth Summit for middle school students — and how it helps young learners prepare for college and career.

Elliott Frank stands smiling in the foreground. He is wearing a UW Marching Band uniform and has snare drum attached to his front. The the blurred background there are other members of the UW Marching Band, in the stands while watching an unseen event. Summer Music Clinic helps alum snare his place in UW Marching Band

Now a member of the UW Marching Band drumline, Elliott Frank says SMC helped him get comfortable with campus — and the audition process.

A diverse group of middle school students walks down a sidewalk on campus smiling and talking. More students appear in the background. Summer programs back on campus!

It was so exciting to have students ages 5–18 back at UW–Madison this summer for Badger Precollege and campus youth programs! Check out some of the action in this photo essay.


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Looking for other UW–Madison youth programs?

We are happy to include information on our site about the many sports camps, leadership summits, field trips, and other youth programs offered by our UW–Madison partners, including Badger Sports Camps, Wisconsin 4-H, the Language Institute and others.