Come join Badger Precollege for a unique learning experience at one of the largest research universities in the world. Our programs offer academically challenging courses for students in grades 1–12 in an immersive, community-oriented environment. Learn why UW–Madison is the perfect place to spend your summer!
UW–Madison
- One of the top 25 U.S. universities with the largest international student population
- Top 10 university in research spending since 1972
- 1/3 of campus is nature reserves
- 18-minute walk from campus to downtown Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
- Consistently ranks as one of the top places to live in the U.S.
- 82 degrees Fahrenheit/28 degrees Celsius average temperature in summer
- 5 freshwater lakes in the area, nestled between lakes Mendota and Monona, one of only two major U.S. cities built on an isthmus
- 2.5 hours away from Chicago
- Hosts the Dane County Farmers’ Market, the largest producer-only market in the U.S.
Badger Precollege Programs for International Students
EducationUSA Academy Connects at UW-Madison provides international high school students the opportunity to explore life at a US university and prepare for the application process in an online environment. Using the university's online tools, students will engage in activities and discussions with new friends from around the world.
The Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) engages talented students from across Wisconsin, the nation and the world in an intense, three-week residential summer camp designed to push students to the next academic level in a welcoming learning environment. Students enroll in a single course for an in-depth experience, while participating in activities outside of class that are thoughtfully planned and coordinated by residential staff to foster additional social and emotional connections between students.
Badger Summer Scholars is a transformative residential learning opportunity for high school students across several academic areas of interest. Applicants should be ready to take the next step in their academic journey and to engage in a rewarding college program with peers from all over the country and the world. Participate in one academic track focus during the day, then become familiar with the college application process and college life through the Jump Forward workshop series.
Badger Precollege is pleased to offer engaging online courses to students in grades 9-12.
Each live online course meets for one month and includes high-quality educational and social content to help prepare students for the college experience — all backed by the academic reputation of the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Learn more about program opportunities for international high school students!
Learn more about the in-person EducationUSA Academy program for international high school students.
Explore the virtual EducationUSA Academy Connects program.
Support for international students
At Badger Precollege, we provide international students with engaging coursework and programming as well as varying levels of support to ensure the best experience possible. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide scholarships to international students at this time.
In addition to the traditional program opportunities, international students have access to:
- A Badger Precollege Residential Assistant (RA), who works closely with international students to create a fun and educational atmosphere. The RA is available for students to communicate any ideas, concerns or issues related to the program.
- An orientation session that covers all relevant program information and any questions that students or their families may have. It also covers what you can expect from the program, time zone considerations and other topics.
- Special activities dedicated to creating cultural awareness and sessions that introduce students to the City of Madison and the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
English requirement
To be successful in your Badger Precollege program, we suggest that students demonstrate at least intermediate-level English through a minimum TOEFL score of 80, IELTS score of 6.5 or Duolingo English Test score of 105. If you do not have a test score available but would like to see if your English is suitable for our programs, you may request a phone or video interview with program staff. To schedule an interview, please email info@precollege.wisc.edu.
Travel requirement and visa
The University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) have determined that summer programs offered by Badger Precollege serving precollege students at UW–Madison are programs that require a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa for any non-U.S. citizen or non-permanent resident.
International student applicants are strongly encouraged to bring their program admission letter, among other supporting documents, to their visa interview at the U.S. Embassy. The process of obtaining visa and travel documents is the responsibility of the student applicant. The University of Wisconsin–Madison cannot advise students on visa procedures or eligibility. For more information about the application and required travel documents, view the B-1 or B-2 VISA Form, contact the Badger Precollege office or visit the U.S. State Department website.
It is recommended that, along with your visa and passport, you bring a printout of your acceptance letter and a letter of support to justify your visit. Your visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The customs officer at the port of entry determines the period of authorized stay. For this reason, you must give serious and clear answers to the customs officer during your interview.
For more information on our health and communicable disease policy, please visit our resources page.