🏠 University of Wisconsin-Madison — Parent Guide

🏠 How housing selection works at University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison does not require students to live on campus but has a large on-campus housing system along the shores of Lake Mendota. Incoming freshmen who apply by the priority deadline are guaranteed placement. The dorms are organized into two main neighborhoods with distinct characters.

First-Year Housing:Freshmen apply for housing in the fall/winter before enrollment, ranking . The two main are Lakeshore (quieter, scenic lakeside location, includes Gordon Dining) and Southeast. Most freshmen end up in one of the two areas based on preference and availability.

Living Learning Communities (LLCs):UW-Madison offers more than 30 LLCs across both neighborhoods. Notable ones include the Bradley Learning Community (broad academic community), Business Connect (business school students), GreenHouse (sustainability), (LGBTQ+-inclusive), International LLC (global engagement), WISE (Women in Science & Engineering in Elizabeth Waters), and many others. LLC placement is part of the housing application — students apply for LLCs before their general .

College:One of the most distinctive options at Wisconsin, Chadbourne is a full model with integrated academics, a faculty master-in-residence, and a tight-knit learning community. Admission is selective; students apply separately.

Upperclass Housing:Returning students can apply for on-campus apartment-style housing through a continuing resident process. Off-campus housing in the University Avenue / State Street corridor and in East and West Campus neighborhoods is widely available and popular with upperclassmen.