Overview of classifications
Special students take UW–Madison classes, but are not currently in a UW–Madison degree program. There are several classifications of University Special Students, each with distinct educational goals, admission criteria, enrollment policy, and fee structures.
Review the Special student classifications to determine which one is the best fit for you. If you still have questions, please reach out to the USSS staff to discuss your situation.
Pre-bachelor’s degree
For junior and senior high school students participating through the Wisconsin ECCP program.
For students visiting from another U.S. college or university. Students planning to visit from an international college or university should explore our international student options.
If you intend to take classes that are online and not take any in-person classes, this online-only option works best for you. For pre-baccalaureate, post-baccalaureate, and international students.
Post bachelor’s degree
For those wanting to take a course for personal or professional development.
As the name implies, this classification is for individuals who are planning on graduate or professional school, but need some prerequisites before starting or applying to a program.
Over 15 different graduate-level capstone certificates are available.
If you intend to take classes that are online and not take any in-person classes, this online-only option works best for you. For pre-baccalaureate, post-baccalaureate, and international students.
Auditing classes
Take non-participatory courses at UW–Madison with professor approval if space is available. Senior Guest Auditors do not earn college credit, but tuition is waived for Wisconsin residents 60 years of age and older.
Take non-participatory courses at UW–Madison with professor approval if space is available. Guest Auditors do not earn college credit, but tuition is charged at a reduced rate of about 30% undergraduate tuition.
Limited classifications
Generally if you do not have a bachelor’s degree, and do not fit into the UNHS (high school) or UNVS (visiting undergraduate) categories, you are not eligible for admission as a University Special student.
Prospective students who do not meet other University Special student requirements may be considered as potential UNOS candidates. Before completing an application, contact USSS to speak with an advisor to determine if the UNOS category is an option for you. Admission is on a case-by-case basis.
Once approved by a USSS advisor, apply using the University Special student application, indicating your academic goal and the name of the advisor.
This is not a category for someone who has been denied admission to, or has missed the application deadline for UW–Madison.
Required application materials:
- University Special student application
- Academic plans that address the applicant’s goals and needs
- Transcripts from all previous educational institutions
- Additional materials as requested by the admission team
Badger Ready may be an option
If you have at least 24 transferable credits but no 4-year degree, have been out of school for a few years or more, and may not currently qualify for transfer admission due to previous academic history, learn more about our Badger Ready program.
Students in this classification have been selected to participate for credit in a specific course, seminar, institute, workshop, or program. Admission requirements are established by the program or department that makes the final admission decision.
For most preselected special students, enrollment is for one term only for the specific course or program. Students who wish to be considered for enrollment in a subsequent term must contact University Special Student Services to request a change of classification based on their academic plans or goals.
International students
If you are an international student studying at a university outside the United States and are interested in short-term study at UW–Madison, we have options specifically for your situation.