Wisconsin wants in-state students, but they also want diversity. So if you’re from California, your odds are worse. Sorry, not sorry.
UW - Madison Acceptance Rate and SAT/ACT Scores
Funny fact: the College of Engineering is so competitive that they rarely accept applicants from the engineering waitlist. It’s a ghost town. Don’t hold your breath.
But here’s the kicker: once you’re in, you’re family. The engineering building (Engineering Hall) has a secret tunnel to the library. True story. It’s for late-night study sessions and avoiding snow.
What About Transfer Students?
Think you can transfer in after community college? Think again. The transfer acceptance rate for engineering is even lower. Like 10% lower.
They want you from day one. No second chances. It’s like a marriage, but with more calculus.
One quirky detail: UW-Madison has a program called “Engineering without Borders.” It’s not about borders. It’s about building water pumps in developing countries. Very cool, very competitive.
