How to Apply

UW Online Collaborative programs offer the flexibility of an online degree, certificate, or course with the quality of a University of Wisconsin education. This overview covers general admission requirements, key application deadlines, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply—to help you get organized.

→ Before applying, you may find it helpful to schedule an appointment with an enrollment adviser or attend an Information Session.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible to apply, students must meet the following general admission requirements:

• Associate degree: You must have earned a high school diploma, GED, or HSED.
• Bachelor’s degree: UW Online Collaborative bachelor’s degree programs are degree completion programs. This means you must have earned an associate degree or higher, or completed approximately 45-60 transferable general education credits to be considered for admission.
• Master’s degree: You must have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher to be considered for admission.
• Certificates: Admission requirements vary across certificates depending on whether they are undergraduate, graduate, credit, or non-credit.

→ Some programs may have additional admission requirements, such as prerequisites, which vary by program. Visit your program page for specific details.

Are exams required?

The ACT or SAT is required for admission to an associate or bachelor’s degree program, if you have not earned an associate degree or higher, or are under age 22 (optional through the 2026-27 academic year). Exams, such as the GMAT or GRE, are not required for admission to a master’s degree program.

Application Deadlines

To be considered for admission to most programs, your online application and all required materials must be submitted to your home campus two weeks to one month prior to the date classes start (this varies by campus). Starting your application early allows time to gather required materials (such as transcripts), transfer credits, apply for financial aid, and complete the Universities of Wisconsin Online Application.

• Visit apply.wisconsin.edu to login or create an account.

→ While most programs use the UW Online Application, some programs or campuses may use a different application. Visit your program page for specific details.

Are there specific enrollment/start times?

Most programs allow flexibility to start at the beginning of any semester or subscription period, with a few exceptions. If a program is cohort-based, you may be required to start during a specific semester. Course availability for semester-based programs may also vary by semester. For general information about semester dates and subscription periods, visit the important dates page.

→ For specific information about program dates and deadlines, visit the COURSE SCHEDULE and ADMISSION tabs on your program page.

Is there an application fee?

If you are a degree-seeking student (domestic and international):

• Applying to an associate or bachelor’s degree program:
  • The following UW universities charge an application fee: UW-Eau Claire ($25), UW-La Crosse ($25), and UW-Madison ($80).
  • For the other UW universities, there is no application fee.
• Applying to a master’s degree program:
  • There is a nonrefundable $56 application fee.

→ Some programs may offer an application fee waiver for a limited time. Visit your program page for more information.

We want to make sure your application goes smoothly. We are happy to help!