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Quick Stats: UW Madison | US News #35 | SAT 1310-1480 | 49.0% acceptance | Test Optional
SAT Requirements
University of Wisconsin-Madison is currently test-optional. This means applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application for admission. If you choose to submit your scores via College Board, they will be considered as one part of a holistic review process.
UW Madison practices superscoring for the SAT. If you submit scores from multiple test dates, the admissions committee will take your highest subscores from Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math across all sittings to create your highest possible composite score. Because of this, it is often beneficial to take the exam more than once to maximize your performance in specific areas like Algebra.
SAT Score Breakdown
For students who chose to submit scores, the middle 50% SAT range at UW Madison is 1310-1480. To be a competitive applicant, aiming for a score at or above the 75th percentile (1480) is recommended, especially for competitive majors in Business or Engineering.
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 640–720
- Math: 670–760
If your score falls below the 25th percentile (1310), you may want to consider applying test-optional and focusing the strength of your application on your GPA, course rigor, and personal essays.
Admission Tips
- Demonstrate Academic Rigor: UW Madison looks for students who have challenged themselves with honors, AP, or IB courses. Your high school transcript is the most important factor in the review process.
- Focus on the "Wisconsin Experience": The admissions team looks for students who will contribute to the campus community. Highlight leadership roles, community service, and extracurricular activities that show you are a well-rounded individual.
- Write a Compelling Statement: Use the application essays to explain your unique perspective and why you are a good fit for the Madison community. Be specific about how you will utilize the university's resources.
- Apply Early: While UW Madison does not offer Early Decision, applying for the Early Action deadline allows you to receive your decision sooner and can be advantageous for competitive scholarship consideration.
Application Deadlines
| Round | Deadline | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Early Action | November 1 | January 31 |
| Regular Decision | January 15 | March 31 |
FAQ
What SAT score do I need for UW Madison?
While there is no strict cutoff, the middle 50% of admitted students score between 1310 and 1480. Scores above 1400 are considered highly competitive for most programs.
Is UW Madison test-optional?
Yes, UW Madison is test-optional. Students can decide whether or not to include standardized test scores with their application without penalty.
Does UW Madison superscore the SAT?
Yes, UW Madison will superscore the SAT, meaning they combine your highest section scores from different test dates to form a new, higher composite score.
What is the acceptance rate at UW Madison?
The acceptance rate is 49.0%. While this makes it a selective institution, the university reviews applications holistically, considering factors beyond just grades and test scores.