Admission Requirements for Graduate Programs at University of Wisconsin-Madison

UW-Madison has set basic admission requirements for graduate programs, but each program might have specific and stricter criteria.

• Degree Requirement: A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or a comparable degree from an international institution is required. The admitting degree must be completed and conferred before starting the first semester of graduate school.
• Grade Point Average (GPA): A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00 on the equivalent of the last 60 credit hours or a master’s degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 is required. For applicants from international institutions, the grading scale of the applicant’s institution is considered.
• English Proficiency: Required for applicants whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not exclusively in English. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores must be submitted electronically. International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores can be submitted electronically or by paper. Minimum TOEFL requirement: 92 internet (iBT). Minimum IELTS requirement: 7.0

TOEFL or IELTS scores are not required when:

• English is the exclusive language of instruction at the undergraduate institution.
• The applicant earned a degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university no more than 5 years before the anticipated semester of enrollment.
• The applicant completed at least two full-time semesters of graded coursework, exclusive of ESL courses, in a U.S. college or university, or at an institution outside the U.S. where English is the exclusive language of instruction. Completion of graded coursework cannot be more than five years before the anticipated semester of enrollment.

What is the average score required in GRE/GMAT/LSAT for getting admitted to the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Graduate programs?

The University of Wisconsin-Madison provides the following average scores for admissions to its graduate programs:

GMAT Scores:

• Average Score: 694
• Score 80% Range: 640-770

GRE Scores:

• Average Verbal Score: 153
• Verbal Score 80% Range: 147-160
• Average Quantitative Score: 166
• Quantitative Score 80% Range: 158-170

These statistics offer insights into the academic profiles of students admitted to UW-Madison graduate programs, showcasing an average GPA of 3.49. For GMAT, the average score is 694, with a score range of 640-770. Meanwhile, GRE averages include a Verbal Score of 153, with a range of 147-160, and a Quantitative Score of 166, with a range of 158-170. However, specific programs within the university may have distinct requirements or preferences.

Does the University of Wisconsin-Madison offer any master's programs that do not require the GRE or GMAT exams?

For the 2024 admission cycle, the University of Wisconsin does not require a test score for certain graduate programs, including the MBA program. If you hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. institution and have at least two years of professional work experience, you can apply for a test waiver by completing the waiver request form. The absence of a test score will not put applicants at a disadvantage during the admission review process. However, individuals with a GPA below 3.0 are strongly encouraged to consider taking either the GMAT or GRE to demonstrate their academic ability to handle the rigors of the MBA program. 

What are the chances of being admitted to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Master’s program with a low GPA?

Admission to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Master's program with a low GPA may be challenging, as the university typically requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00. The eligibility criteria specify that this GPA is based on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours, representing approximately two years of academic work. Alternatively, applicants holding a master's degree must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. However, there are chances that your program may choose to consider your application if you have less than a 3.0 GPA on the last 60 credit hours of your bachelor’s degree.

While meeting the stated GPA requirement is essential, other factors such as letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, personal statements, and relevant work experience may also play a role in the admission decision. It is advisable for prospective students with a lower GPA to thoroughly review the specific admission guidelines for the intended Master's program and consider addressing any deficiencies in the application through other aspects of your academic and professional profile. 

How challenging is it for an international student to gain admission to the University of Wisconsin-Madison?

The difficulty for an international student to gain admission to the University of Wisconsin-Madison can vary based on several factors, including the competitiveness of the specific program, the applicant's academic and extracurricular achievements, standardized test scores, and the overall applicant pool. Here are some key considerations:

• Academic Requirements: The university typically sets minimum academic requirements, such as a certain GPA and standardized test scores (like GRE or GMAT). Meeting or exceeding these requirements is crucial for a competitive application.
• Program-Specific Criteria: Different graduate programs may have specific criteria, so it's important for international students to thoroughly research and understand the requirements of their intended program.
• English Proficiency: Since the primary language of instruction is English, international students are often required to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Meeting the minimum language proficiency requirements is essential.
• Letters of Recommendation and Personal Statement: Strong letters of recommendation and a compelling personal statement can enhance the application, providing insight into the applicant's achievements, goals, and suitability for the program.
• Work Experience: Some programs may value work experience, especially for certain advanced or professional degrees. Demonstrating relevant work experience can strengthen an application.

Are there any interviews conducted for the Master's or joint-degree programs at the University of Wisconsin-Madison?

Yes, for University of Wisconsin-Madison Master's or joint-degree programs, formal admissions interviews are conducted by invitation only. The invitation typically follows the review of your submitted application.