University of Wisconsin–Madison

Fostering Success for Independent Badger Scholars

You belong

Fostering Success for Independent Badger Scholars (FSIBS) is a support program for incoming and currently enrolled UW–Madison students who lack family support. Typical experiences for students in the program include, but are not limited to:

  • Foster care after age 13
  • Orphan
  • Ward of the court
  • Emancipation
  • Are dependent students who can be changed to independent on FAFSA:
    • Unaccompanied homeless youth or at risk of homelessness
    • Dependency override for financial aid

FSIBS ensures students have the resources, support, and guidance necessary for college success.

Connect with us for

  • Advising and support to help students navigate the large and diverse UW–Madison campus
  • Connection to school and college success coaches and mentors
  • Computer and workspace area with printing availability (21 N Park)
  • Access to spaces to hold meetings and consultations with staff and peers
  • Events and meals offered by the offices of Student Financial Aid and Student Assistance and Support
  • Welcome packages and assorted supplies

Resources

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There are many people on campus to support you in your educational journey at UW–Madison. The Success Services Campus Resource Guide is full of great resources.

Want a mentor? Fill out the form on this webpage!

Assistance with basic needs such as food, housing, health and well-being, clothing, and emergency support is available.

There are resources available to help you explore options for financing your education.

Office of Student Financial Aid

Understanding the various types of aid including Bucky’s Tuition Promise, Bucky’s Pell Pathway, Wisconsin Tribal Educational Promise, and Badger Promise.

Work-Study and Student Jobs

Scholarships

Connect with people who share goals, attitudes, and interests through the various communities, organizations, and groups at UW–Madison.

Find resources and community with the Transfer Transition Program.

Whether you are driving, biking, busing, or walking (or some combination) to campus, there are resources to make it easier, including a free Madison Metro bus pass!

Each school and college has its own career services office. Find your career services office.

If you haven’t declared a major, the Career Exploration Center is a great place to start.

UW–Madison’s Badger Precollege has programs for students in grades 2 – 12.

Support our scholars

Bowl of #IamUW stickers.

Fostering Success request for services

Please use this form to let us know how we can help. We will respond within 2 business days.

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