Understanding International Student Status At The University Of Wisconsin

am i an international student university of wisconsin

If you require any type of visa to attend a University of Wisconsin (UW) university, you are considered an international student. This includes students living inside and outside the United States. All 13 UW universities welcome applications from international students, and they offer scholarships, assistantships, and other funding opportunities. International students in Wisconsin can expect to pay an average tuition of over $12,600, with the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee being the least expensive at $6,000+ and the Madison campus the most expensive at $20,000+.

Characteristics Values
Definition of an international student Anyone requiring a visa to attend a UW university, including those living inside and outside the United States
Number of international students enrolled at UW–Madison in AY 23-24 7,626
Number of international students enrolled at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 1,500+
Number of countries represented by international students at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 80+
Number of countries represented by international students at all UW universities 136
Undergraduate schools and colleges at University of Wisconsin–Madison 8
Undergraduate majors at University of Wisconsin–Madison 140
Cost of attendance at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee $6,000+
Cost of attendance at University of Wisconsin-Madison $20,000+
English Language Proficiency Exam Waiver Available under certain conditions
Submission of proof of funding for one full year of study Required for students enrolling with an F-1 or J-1 student visa

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International student services

ISS supports students through four strategic areas: advising, compliance, operations, and global engagement. ISS offers drop-in advising through Zoom every week, and students can check the Event Calendar to find activities they can get involved in. ISS also provides information about OPT and how to apply, as well as reminders about important factors to consider when travelling outside the US during the winter break.

The Visiting International Student Program (VISP) welcomes non-degree international students who have completed at least one semester of college/university study and meet the proficiency requirements.

The University of Wisconsin–Madison offers eight undergraduate schools and colleges with 140 undergraduate majors. The International Division at UW–Madison advances international education, promotes global research partnerships, and builds inclusive excellence through the engagement of students, staff, faculty, and alumni from around the world. The Division leads campus internationalization efforts, such as study abroad, language learning, area studies scholarship, and international collaborations.

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English language proficiency exam waivers

International students at the University of Wisconsin are required to verify their English language proficiency. This is usually done through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other standardised tests like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Duolingo English Test (DET).

However, the University of Wisconsin does offer English Language Proficiency Exam Waivers to students who qualify. To determine whether you qualify for a waiver, you can check your "Student eForms" on your Student Center home page for an ELP Waiver Request. If you believe that the English language proficiency requirement does not apply to you, you can also submit a request for a waiver.

To begin the waiver process, select "Admissions" from the left-side menu on your Student Center home page, then select "ELP Waiver Request" and complete the form. Please note that the ELP Waiver Request will not be visible until your transcripts are received and removed from your To-Do List. Once you have completed the ELP Waiver Request, allow up to 14 business days for your request to be reviewed. If it has been longer than 14 business days, you can contact the admissions office via email.

If you are an international student whose native language is not English, you may be required to provide proof of English language proficiency through official translations or evaluations of your academic transcripts. These requirements may vary based on your academic history and home campus policies, so it is recommended to contact your preferred home campus admissions office for guidance.

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Undergraduate and graduate degrees

The University of Wisconsin welcomes international students to its undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The university defines an international student as anyone who requires a visa to attend a UW university, including students living inside and outside the United States.

Undergraduate Degrees

The University of Wisconsin–Madison offers eight undergraduate schools and colleges with 140 undergraduate majors. Each school and college provides unique academic communities, facilities, resources, professors, and academic programs. The campus offers some 600 undergraduate and graduate majors and more than 9,000 courses, ranging from accounting to zoology.

Graduate Degrees

The University of Wisconsin–Madison offers 160+ master's and specialist programs and 100+ doctoral programs. The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) plays an essential role in supporting the innovative research and graduate education that are cornerstones of the university. The Graduate School sets university-wide standards and policies for graduate education, serves a special advocacy and communication role, promotes diversity initiatives, and augments the margin of excellence.

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International student fees

At the University of Wisconsin, an international student is anyone who requires a visa to attend a UW university. This includes students living inside and outside the United States. All 13 UW universities welcome applications from international students.

The University of Wisconsin is made up of 13 universities, each with its own specific undergraduate and graduate international admission requirements. Therefore, international student fees will vary depending on the specific university and program.

The cost of attendance (COA) is an estimate of the expenses you might encounter while attending a University of Wisconsin school. It includes tuition and fees, as well as room and board, books, supplies, and other estimated school expenses. The actual cost of attending will vary depending on your spending habits, but the university bases your financial aid on your estimated COA.

International students will have additional expenses, including International Student Fees. For example, at UW–Madison, international students are charged a $100 semesterly International Student Services (ISS) fee. There is also a mandatory Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) that is included in the estimated living expenses for international students.

Additionally, students not on UW-Madison-issued F-1/J-1 visas may have higher tuition costs if they enroll in more than the minimum number of credits. There may also be other fees, such as electronic textbook fees, late payment fees, and returned check fees.

It is recommended that you visit the International Student Services (ISS) Office for more information on funding and scholarship options, and the Bursar’s Office, Tuition Rates page to see the actual tuition and fees for your specific degree and/or program.

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International student life in Wisconsin

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is home to over 7,000 international students from more than 116 countries, making it one of the top 20 universities in the US with the largest number of international students. The university offers eight undergraduate schools and colleges with 140 undergraduate majors, ensuring a diverse academic community. The International Division at UW–Madison fosters global engagement by promoting international education, global research partnerships, and inclusive excellence. The university also provides resources like the International Student Services (ISS) website, which assists with transitioning to UW–Madison, visa requirements, and on-campus programming.

The University of Wisconsin has 13 campuses across the state, each with its unique characteristics and surroundings. The Milwaukee campus, for example, is the state's largest city, offering a vibrant urban experience, while the Madison campus is ranked as one of the finest schools in the nation. The state's major urban centres provide a culturally rich environment, with cosmopolitan culture and nightlife. At the same time, rural Wisconsin offers a relaxing and picturesque escape with its farming landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and water sports on the many lakes, including the renowned Lake Michigan.

Wisconsin's varied industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and entertainment, provide international students with exposure to diverse technical areas. The state's median income is over $49,000, and international students can expect to pay an average of more than $12,600 in tuition fees at state-run institutions. However, financial support is available through scholarships and funding opportunities, such as the Wisconsin Scholarship Hub (WiSH) and the International Student Services (ISS) Funding & Scholarships page.

Overall, international students in Wisconsin can look forward to a well-rounded experience, combining academic excellence, cultural exploration, and a supportive community, making their time in the state both enriching and enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions

You are an international student if you require any type of visa to attend a UW university. This includes students living inside and outside the United States.

International students in Wisconsin can expect to pay an average of more than $12,600 in tuition fees. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is the least expensive at $6,000+, while the Madison campus is the most expensive at $20,000+.

Each UW university has specific undergraduate and graduate international admission requirements. Students can start by reviewing the international admission process and exploring the academic programs offered by the various UW universities.

Yes, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) offers scholarships, assistantships, and other funding opportunities to international students.

International students at the University of Wisconsin can expect a range of experiences, from the cosmopolitan culture and nightlife of urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison to the relaxing and picturesque rural settings of farming communities. Wisconsin offers a full range of American experiences, including outdoor activities such as swimming, water-skiing, hiking, camping, and horseback riding.

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