Are there full-ride scholarships at UW–Madison?

Yes. Programs like the Mercile J. Lee Scholars and Chancellor’s Scholarship provide full tuition, fees, and often enrichment funding or mentorship.

Does UW–Madison have an Honors Program?

Yes. The Honors Program includes small classes, close faculty connections, and exclusive access to funding for research and travel.

🎓 University of Wisconsin–Madison Scholarships & Aid (2025–2026)

Q: What is Bucky’s Tuition Promise?

It’s an automatic guarantee of full tuition and fees for Wisconsin residents from households earning $65,000 or less annually.

← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See Wisconsin state aid

What This Page Covers:

Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
Automatic merit and competitive scholarships explained
Need-based programs like Bucky’s Tuition Promise
Honors, reciprocity, and regional tuition savings

📊 Admissions Snapshot

Acceptance Rate: ~43% (CDS 2024–25)
Middle 50% ACT: 27–32
Middle 50% SAT: 1360–1510
Average HS GPA: 3.9 (unweighted est.)

Source: UW–Madison Common Data Set 2024–25 and Office of Admissions.

Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →

📌

University of Wisconsin–Madison at a Glance

Average Net Price

$18,834

Average after grants and scholarships (College Factual 2025)

Automatic Merit

$1,000–$10,000 per year (Renewable)

Chancellor’s and Wisconsin Excellence Scholarships

Typical Qualifiers

GPA 3.8+ • ACT 29+ • SAT 1350+

Most top awards go to students in the top 10–15% of their class

Testing Policy

Test-optional through 2027

Highest single ACT/SAT score used (no superscoring)

Key Deadlines

Nov 1: Early Action • Feb 1: Regular Decision

FAFSA priority: Dec 1

Honors College

L&S Honors Program

Includes Honors in the Liberal Arts, Major, and Comprehensive Honors

Full-Tuition / Full-Ride

Bucky’s Tuition Promise & Chancellor’s Scholarship

Covers full tuition for qualifying Wisconsin residents by need or merit

Residency & Reciprocity

Minnesota Reciprocity + MSEP

Reduced rates for Minnesota and select Midwestern students

Verified from UW–Madison Financial Aid & Admissions (2025–26).
Last verified: October 15, 2025

The University of Wisconsin–Madison combines world-class academics with Midwestern value. While it’s one of the most selective public flagships, Wisconsin still offers clear financial pathways for both in-state and out-of-state families through merit and need-based aid.

Programs like Bucky’s Tuition Promise make UW surprisingly affordable for lower- and middle-income residents, and reciprocity with Minnesota helps regional families save thousands. For high-achievers, the Chancellor’s and Excellence Scholarships reward strong academics without a separate application.

FAQ

Does Wisconsin–Madison offer automatic merit scholarships?
Yes — awards like the Wisconsin Excellence and Chancellor’s Scholarships are automatic based on academic performance.

Are there full-tuition programs?
Yes — Bucky’s Tuition Promise covers full tuition for in-state students with family incomes under $65,000, and the Chancellor’s Scholarship offers merit-based full funding.

Does reciprocity apply?
Yes — Minnesota residents and MSEP students receive discounted tuition rates.

What’s the average net price?
About $18,834 after grants and scholarships (College Factual 2025).

Sources (Intro):
Common Data Set (CDS 2024–25): https://data.wisc.edu/common-data-set-and-rankings/
First-year deadlines (EA/RD): https://admissions.wisc.edu/deadlines/
Test-optional policy & no superscoring: https://admissions.wisc.edu/act_sat_faq/
Scholarships overview (campus & WiSH portal): https://financialaid.wisc.edu/types-of-aid/scholarships/ and https://wisc.academicworks.com/
Bucky’s Tuition Promise (tuition & fees covered for eligible WI residents): https://financialaid.wisc.edu/types-of-aid/tuition-promise/
L&S Honors Program (honors options/benefits): https://honors.ls.wisc.edu/
Minnesota tuition reciprocity (how it works): https://registrar.wisc.edu/reciprocity/
College Scorecard (average net price): https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?240444-University-of-Wisconsin-Madison=

💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Wisconsin–Madison (2025–2026)

These are estimated costs for a full-time undergraduate living on campus for the 2025–26 academic year. Numbers below represent typical tuition, housing, and meal plan rates before scholarships or grants are applied.

Category	Wisconsin Resident	Nonresident
Tuition & Fees	$12,166	$44,210
Housing & Meals	$14,520	$14,520
Estimated Total (On-Campus)	$27,036	$59,060

Why we only show tuition & housing: Federal “cost of attendance” figures also include books, transportation, and personal expenses (about $1,100 + $1,200 + $2,570), but those are allowances—not billed charges. The table above focuses on predictable, university-billed costs that vary by residency.

📉 Average Net Price: $18,834 per year — the average amount families pay after scholarships and grants (no loans). Wisconsin residents receiving Bucky’s Tuition Promise often pay far less.

🌎 For Out-of-State Families: UW–Madison does not offer a general out-of-state tuition waiver, but select merit scholarships—especially through Engineering, Business, and Letters & Science—can reduce the tuition gap significantly. Apply early and explore departmental scholarships for the best chance.

❓ Cost of Attendance FAQs

What is Bucky’s Tuition Promise?
It’s a need-based program covering full tuition and segregated fees for Wisconsin residents with family incomes of $65,000 or less.

Does Minnesota reciprocity apply automatically?
Yes — Minnesota residents qualify for in-state rates under the Minnesota–Wisconsin reciprocity agreement once their paperwork is approved.

Can out-of-state students earn merit to lower costs?
Yes. Strong applicants often receive merit awards or departmental scholarships that narrow the tuition gap by $5,000–$15,000 per year.

How accurate are these estimates?
Figures are verified for the 2025–2026 academic year from UW–Madison’s Financial Aid Office. They’ll be refreshed when the 2026–2027 data posts.

Sources (COA):
Official Cost of Attendance (budgets & allowances): https://financialaid.wisc.edu/cost-of-attendance/
Tuition & Fees (resident/nonresident rates): https://bursar.wisc.edu/tuition-and-fees
University Housing billing & dining plan rates: https://www.housing.wisc.edu/undergraduate/billing/ and https://www.housing.wisc.edu/dining/residents/
Minnesota–Wisconsin Reciprocity details: https://registrar.wisc.edu/reciprocity/
Types of Aid (need/merit programs incl. Bucky’s): https://financialaid.wisc.edu/types-of-aid/
College Scorecard (average net price reference): https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?240444-University-of-Wisconsin-Madison=

✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships

UW–Madison doesn’t offer many automatic merit scholarships — but a few programs award money automatically based on GPA, test scores, or financial need. Students are automatically considered if they apply by the November 1 priority deadline.

💡 Good news: UW–Madison superscores the ACT for admission and scholarships. That means they’ll combine your highest section scores from multiple ACT test dates to form the best composite. (They do not superscore the SAT.)

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Bucky’s Tuition Promise	Full in-state tuition & fees	WI residents with household income <$65K or Pell-eligible	No	Yes (4 years)	WI families meeting income criteria and admitted by priority date	Nov 1
Chancellor’s Scholarship (WI only)	Up to full tuition	WI residents in top 10% of class with financial need (competitive review)	No (separate review within admissions)	Yes	High-achieving WI students with exceptional records and need	Nov 1
Nonresident Scholarship (varies)	$1,000 – $10,000 per year	Out-of-state students with ACT 30+ or SAT 1350+, and GPA 3.8+	No	Yes	Out-of-state students in top 10–15% of class who apply early	Nov 1

GPA and test score cutoffs above are approximate and based on official UW–Madison data plus prior-year recipient ranges. Actual thresholds may vary depending on the applicant pool and available funds.

❓ Automatic Scholarship FAQs

Do I need to submit a separate application for automatic scholarships?

No — if your student applies for admission by November 1, they’re automatically considered for most merit awards, including the Nonresident Scholarship and Bucky’s Tuition Promise.

Does UW–Madison award scholarships based on class rank?

Not directly. While class rank isn’t required, students in the top 10% or those taking rigorous coursework often have an advantage for merit consideration.

How competitive are the automatic scholarships?

In-state programs like Bucky’s Promise are predictable if you meet income requirements. Out-of-state merit awards are more selective — most go to students with ACT 30+ and 3.8+ GPAs.

Can these scholarships be stacked with others?

Sometimes. The Nonresident Scholarship can often be combined with departmental or private awards, but Bucky’s Promise may limit additional need-based aid. Always confirm with Financial Aid before accepting multiple offers.

🏆 Competitive Scholarships

These scholarships are competitive and often require more than just strong academics. Some are by invitation only, while others have priority deadlines (often November 1) or require separate applications. Apply early to be considered.

Scholarship	Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Mercile J. Lee Scholars Program	Full tuition + stipend	High-achieving WI students from historically underrepresented backgrounds	No (invited after applying)	Yes (4 years)	Top WI students with leadership, community impact, and demonstrated need	Nov 1 (apply for admission)
Chancellor’s Scholarship Program (WI only)	Full or partial tuition	WI residents with strong academics and financial need	No (invited after applying)	Yes	Top 10% WI applicants who submit FAFSA and apply early	Nov 1 (priority)
Wisconsin Alumni Association Scholarships	$1,000–$10,000	Varies by alumni chapter — merit, need, geography, or major	Yes	Varies	Students with strong community ties or alumni connection	Dec–Feb (chapter specific)
Powers-Knapp Scholars Program	Full tuition + book stipend	Top STEM students (often WI residents) from underrepresented backgrounds	No (invited to apply after admission)	Yes (4 years)	High GPA, strong STEM record, and commitment to science/engineering	Nov 1 (apply for admission)

❓ Competitive Scholarship FAQs

Do I have to apply separately for UW–Madison’s competitive scholarships?

Some yes, some no. The Mercile J. Lee and Powers-Knapp programs don’t require a separate application — you may be invited to continue after admission. Others, like Wisconsin Alumni Association awards, require a separate form or essay.

How do we increase our chances?

Apply by November 1, submit the FAFSA, and highlight leadership and community impact. Many competitive awards weigh service and fit in addition to GPA/test scores.

What does “invited to apply after admission” mean?

UW reviews the initial application; if your student matches the profile, they’ll receive a follow-up to submit additional materials. You can’t request an invite — it’s based on the strength of the admission file.

Can out-of-state students win these?

Yes, though many programs favor Wisconsin residents. Alumni-funded awards can be open to nonresidents, especially with strong records or family connections to UW.

What does “underrepresented” mean here?

Generally, students from historically excluded racial/ethnic groups, first-generation students, and students from rural or low-income communities — especially within Wisconsin.

We’re middle income and may not qualify for need-based aid — any tips?

Apply early, craft a strong essay, and emphasize impact and leadership. Some alumni awards focus more on contribution and fit than on financial need.

If we don’t hear anything, should we follow up?

For invite-only programs, silence usually means not selected. For separate-application awards, check the scholarship site for timelines and notifications.

💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships at UW–Madison

UW–Madison offers several “under-the-radar” scholarships for students involved in music, the arts, transfer programs, or nontraditional education paths. These awards aren’t widely advertised but can make a real difference — especially for engaged or returning students.

Scholarship	Award Amount	Eligibility	Separate App?	Renewable?	Who Actually Wins?	Deadline
Marching Band & Spirit Squad Awards	$500–$1,500/year	Band, cheer, or dance team participants	Yes (audition or tryout)	Sometimes	Students selected for marching or spirit programs; awards often renewed with continued participation	Spring auditions
Badger Ready Grant	Up to full tuition	Returning adult students (age 25+) or veterans completing degrees	Yes (via Badger Ready)	Varies	Nontraditional students admitted through Badger Ready pathway	Rolling
Transfer Academic Excellence Scholarship	$2,000–$5,000	High-achieving Wisconsin college transfers	No	No	In-state transfer students with strong GPAs and completed credits	Feb 1
Creative Arts Awards	$500–$2,000	Studio art or design majors submitting portfolios	Yes (via Art Department)	Varies	Talented students selected by faculty juries	Feb 15

📌 Strategy Tip: These awards don’t always appear on main scholarship lists. Students involved in band, the arts, or nontraditional programs should check departmental sites or contact advisors directly — many of these scholarships quietly renew each year.

❓ Hidden Gems FAQ

Do I need to apply separately for these scholarships?

Most of these awards are not automatic — students usually need to audition, submit a portfolio, or apply through a department. The Transfer Academic Excellence Scholarship is the exception and is awarded automatically to qualifying Wisconsin transfers.

Are these renewable or one-time awards?

Some (like band awards) renew annually with continued participation. Others, such as portfolio-based awards, are one-time or re-evaluated each year. Always confirm renewal terms with the department.

How can students find these department-level awards?

Check departmental websites (e.g., Music, Art) or email the undergraduate advisor. Many of these scholarships aren’t on the main financial aid site, but departments welcome inquiries.

Are these awards stackable with other aid?

Usually yes, especially if awards come from different funding sources. However, stacking may be limited if total aid exceeds the cost of attendance, so verify with Financial Aid before accepting multiple awards.

How can I tell if my student qualifies?

Check for eligibility hints — like involvement in specific majors, ensembles, or transfer programs. When in doubt, reach out directly. Departments are happy to clarify who’s eligible.

Is it okay for students to contact departments directly?

Absolutely. It shows initiative and genuine interest — qualities departments value. Many students find awards simply by asking the right person at the right time.

Do these small awards really help?

Yes. Even $500–$1,000 can help cover books or fees — and small scholarships often stack with larger ones to reduce total borrowing. Every bit counts.

🎓 Honors College at UW–Madison

UW–Madison doesn’t have a separate honors college. Instead, the College of Letters & Science (L&S)—which houses the most majors—offers a competitive Honors Program for high-achieving students in fields like biology, political science, psychology, and journalism.

Admission is by invitation only after the student is admitted to UW. Most invites go to students with a 3.9+ GPA, top 5–10% class rank, and strong ACT/SAT scores (if submitted). Reviewers also look for rigorous coursework and clear academic curiosity—especially in writing-heavy or research-based classes.

🎓 Honors Benefits at UW–Madison:

Priority course registration
Smaller, discussion-based honors sections
Undergraduate research & faculty mentorship
Dedicated honors advising
Stronger preparation for grad school or competitive fellowships

💡 Strategy Tip: L&S Honors doesn’t include automatic scholarships, but it often puts students in the room for future funding. Honors students get earlier access to research, department-level awards, and national scholarship advising (e.g., Goldwater, Truman).

❓ Honors Program FAQ

Is the UW Honors College a separate application?

No for incoming freshmen. The L&S Honors Program is by invitation after admission. If invited, students receive an email with next steps. Some departments allow later applications once on campus.

What kind of student gets invited?

Typically a 3.9+ GPA, top 5–10% class rank, and strong course rigor. Submitting high test scores (ACT 32–36 / SAT 1400–1550) can help, but curiosity and academic drive matter, too.

Does being in Honors come with a scholarship?

Not automatically. However, Honors students often access research funding and department awards sooner and receive targeted support for national scholarships (e.g., Hilldale Research Fellowship, Goldwater).

Is the program worth it?

For academically driven students—especially those eyeing grad school, research, or competitive fellowships—yes. Priority registration, smaller classes, and mentorship are significant advantages.

Can a student apply if they aren’t invited?

Often yes—after enrollment. Students may apply during the first year, and some majors offer department-specific honors tracks regardless of L&S Honors invitation.

Is it harder to maintain GPA in Honors?

Honors classes can be more demanding, but they’re smaller and more engaging. Many students perform better thanks to closer faculty interaction and focused coursework.

Which majors qualify for L&S Honors?

Only majors in the College of Letters & Science (e.g., biology, psychology, political science, English, economics, journalism). Engineering, business, and nursing are not eligible for L&S Honors.

🎯 What the University of Wisconsin–Madison Is Known For

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public R1 Research University and one of the world’s leading public institutions. Known for its “Wisconsin Idea”—the belief that research should improve lives beyond the classroom—UW–Madison excels in science, business, education, and the humanities, with deep strengths in health, engineering, and public policy.

Standout Program: College of Engineering
Ranked among the Top 15 public engineering colleges (U.S. News 2025), UW–Madison Engineering is globally recognized for research in biomedical, chemical, civil, and electrical engineering. Its graduates are heavily recruited by Fortune 500 companies and national research labs.

Institutional note: UW–Madison is a public R1 Research University—one of the nation’s highest recipients of federal research funding.

Wisconsin School of Business — Ranked in the Top 20 public business schools, with nationally respected programs in accounting, real estate (#1 in the nation), and supply chain management.
College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) — One of the country’s most productive agricultural research institutions, with Top 10 national rankings in dairy science, food science, and agronomy.
School of Education — Ranked #3 nationally (U.S. News 2025) and #1 among public universities, with top programs in curriculum & instruction, counseling, and special education.
College of Letters & Science — Home to highly ranked programs in psychology (#6), sociology, economics, and political science—fields that have shaped policy and scholarship worldwide.
School of Medicine and Public Health — Ranked among the Top 25 for research and Top 30 for primary care, known for public health initiatives that serve the entire state.
La Follette School of Public Affairs — Consistently ranked among the Top 15 graduate public affairs programs, with leading research in health policy, budgeting, and social policy analysis.