About us

Our mission

The mission of University of Wisconsin–Madison Badger Precollege is to engage, encourage, and guide youth along a path to life readiness. We are proud to offer a variety of academic and recreational programs across the UW–Madison campus.

Youth explore arts and music, language and culture, business, leadership, STEM, sports, college preparation, or a combination of these topics, in programs that range from a single afternoon to multiple weeks. No matter the subject or the duration, UW–Madison Badger Precollege help children look past the possible and reach for the impossible.

classes offered each summer

students served in 2022

of students receive scholarships

~0%

of alums attend UW–Madison for college

Since there were no credits involved, I could just focus on learning rather than reaching for a specific grade. This allowed me to purely focus on one of the best parts of school, learning. In this setting I was able to find enjoyment in simply learning rather than enjoyment in getting a good grade.

—Badger Summer Scholars student

Serving all youth

UW–Madison is committed to achieving equitable outcomes for all youth, especially those from traditionally underrepresented groups and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Many precollege programs offer scholarships and other forms of financial assistance. Others enroll potential first-generation college students and provide a path to UW–Madison undergraduate enrollment.

Learn more about diversity, equity and inclusion

Our Commitment to Safety

University of Wisconsin–Madison precollege programs achieve high standards for educational and recreational experiences. We recognize that working with youth is not the same as working with college-age students. UW–Madison is committed to the well-being, safety and protection of all members of the university community, including minors. The university community recognizes that minors are a vulnerable population, and they require special attention and protection. Therefore, we follow specific youth protection policies, laws, licensing requirements and best practices. This ensures that all participants are safe and protected while attending any UW–Madison precollege program. Find more information about youth protection at the Office of Youth Protection.