If you are thinking about studying in the US, Universities of Wisconsin (UW) offer an array of opportunities for international students. With multiple campuses, well-rounded academics, and strong student support services, the Universities of Wisconsin provide an unforgettable study abroad experience.
Read on to learn more about the variety of campuses of the Universities of Wisconsin and why each is a great choice for international students.
Get to Know the Universities of Wisconsin
The Universities of Wisconsin comprise 13 campuses, with seven accepting international student applications through Shorelight. These schools are spread across the state of Wisconsin: some in small towns, others in rural areas, and still more in cities. With an enrollment of approximately 162,000 students, a $6.5 billion annual budget, and nearly $2 billion in gifts, grants, and contracts, the Universities of Wisconsin are well-funded and able to support a diverse range of programs and research.
Each of the seven UW universities working with Shorelight are a great choice for international students. No matter which one you choose, you will be joining a global community of learners and gaining access to resources that will help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Let’s take a closer look!
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
Ranked #21 in regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers programs in business, health care, and the sciences, with a focus on undergraduate research and student-faculty collaboration. Being one of only three US universities to partner with the renowned Mayo Clinic and ranked #35 for Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects by U.S. News & World Report (2024), UW–Eau Claire ensures students are empowered to take part in experiential learning opportunities so they can build in-demand skills that employers seek out.
The university’s beautiful campus, located on the banks of the Chippewa River and surrounded by Putnam Park, offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature lovers, while the city’s small-town charm also creates a friendly, supportive environment, ideal for students looking for a close-knit community.
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University of Wisconsin–Green Bay
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is renowned for its innovative approach to education and sustainability initiatives. With campuses located in Green Bay, Manitowoc, and Sheboygan, it offers a wide variety of academic programs, particularly in environmental science, business, and engineering.
UW-Green Bay provides international students with the opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking community that focuses on critical global issues such as environmental sustainability. Its hands-on approach to learning ensures students gain practical experience alongside their academic studies, preparing them for leadership roles in their respective fields.
Green Bay is a mid-sized city, known for its NFL team the Green Bay Packers and their enthusiastic fans across the region. The top business sectors are agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, and the city is known historically for its paper manufacturing and insurance industries.
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University of Wisconsin–Platteville
University of Wisconsin-Platteville has a reputation for strong engineering and technology programs. Its engineering program is ranked #37 in best engineering programs (non-doctorate) by U.S. News & World Report (2025). In addition to engineering, the university is recognized for its criminal justice, agriculture, and business programs. It also ranks highly in the region for affordability and return on investment, making it a top choice for students seeking practical, career-ready degrees without breaking the bank.
UW-Platteville offers outstanding undergraduate research opportunities, allowing students to work closely with expert faculty mentors on projects that make an impact. With small class sizes and a 1:20 faculty-to-student ratio, students benefit from meaningful connections with their professors, creating a personalized learning experience. With a student-focused environment and hands-on learning opportunities, UW-Platteville helps students develop practical skills that are highly sought after by employers.
Platteville, located in Southwest Wisconsin, is a smaller town that provides a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for international students who want to focus on their studies in a close-knit environment.
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University of Wisconsin–River Falls
Ranked #14 among Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report (2024), University of Wisconsin-River Falls offers a diverse range of academic programs, with more than 70 undergraduate and 20+ graduate options. The university is particularly renowned for standout programs in agriculture, environmental sciences, and education, attracting international students who are passionate about these fields.
Situated near the Minnesota border and the vibrant Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, UW-River Falls provides students with access to urban career opportunities and the charm of a close-knit, small-town community. With a welcoming campus atmosphere and a wide array of extracurricular activities, international students can quickly feel at home, thriving academically and socially.
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University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has one of the largest undergraduate natural resources programs in the US, offering students interested in forestry, environmental science, wildlife ecology, and sustainability a well-rounded education with hands-on learning experiences. Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including the 280-acre Schmeeckle Reserve on campus, where they can study local ecosystems and wildlife.
Additionally, UW-Stevens Point is known for its vibrant arts community, with programs in theater, music, and visual arts. International students who choose UW-Stevens Point will benefit from a dynamic, interdisciplinary education that blends creative and scientific pursuits.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is thrilled to announce the launch of the Sentry School of Business and Economics! This rebranding marks a new era for their Business and Economics programs, designed to equip students with the skills and experiences needed for a successful career. The innovative curriculum covers cutting-edge topics like AI, advanced analytics, and lean management, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving job market. With mandatory internships, comprehensive support from first visit to graduation, and the opportunity to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years through their 4+1 MBA program, the Sentry School of Business and Economics is committed to student success.
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University of Wisconsin–Superior
Located near the scenic shores of Lake Superior in northwest Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin-Superior offers international students a personalized education in a supportive environment. With smaller class sizes and a focus on liberal arts, UW-Superior ensures that every student receives individual attention from faculty.
UW-Superior also stands out for its affordability, with more than 90% of international students qualifying for merit-based scholarships and/or tuition waivers, significantly reducing the cost of attendance. This financial support, combined with the university’s dedication to providing high-quality education, makes UW-Superior an excellent value.
Located close to the Minnesota border, UW-Superior offers a quiet and peaceful setting for international students to live and study. Water sports and recreation, alongside parks and an arboretum, provide a picturesque study abroad experience.
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University of Wisconsin–Whitewater
Ranked #11 among Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report (2024), University of Wisconsin–Whitewater is an ideal choice for students pursuing business, accounting, or entrepreneurship, thanks to its AACSB accredited College of Business and Economics. The university also excels in education (graduating the most teachers of any university in Wisconsin), communications, and technology programs. Students enjoy small class sizes and professors who are passionate about what they teach and about the students they serve. At UW-Whitewater, students gain valuable and transferrable skills, secure coveted internships, and are often hired by employers before graduation. Nearly 99 percent of recent graduates report they are employed or enrolled in continuing education within one year of commencement.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater was ranked Number 1 in Wisconsin for student experience in 2024 by the Wall Street Journal. UW-Whitewater is the best value in the Universities of Wisconsin. Students save money through free textbook rentals. Tutoring, laundry and admission to regular season sporting events are at no extra cost at UW-Whitewater, too. The Whitewater campus community is vibrant and diverse, offering many opportunities for student engagement through clubs, winning athletics programs, and leadership programs. Its location in southeastern Wisconsin offers students a friendly and welcoming community that is also in close proximity to major cities like Milwaukee and Chicago, providing excellent internship and networking opportunities, while experiencing the traditions and hospitality that make our region the “heartland” of the United States.
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Opportunities to Transfer Within the Universities of Wisconsin
The Universities of Wisconsin welcome transfer students from accredited colleges and universities both within and outside Wisconsin. UW Undergraduate Transfer Policy endorses a student-centered transfer process that fosters educational attainment, accommodates student mobility, and provides equitable treatment of transfer and continuing students. There are a range of reasons a student may choose to transfer between campuses within the Universities of Wisconsin. Some students may want to experience the unique opportunities and environments at different campuses, while still maintaining a sense of community as a UW student. Others may find that a different campus offers a program or major that better aligns with their evolving academic and career goals. Transferring can provide the flexibility to explore new fields of study, access specialized resources, or benefit from opportunities such as internships or industry connections that might be stronger at another location. Universities of Wisconsin are committed to making transfer between their 13 universities as easy as possible for students. Policies, articulation agreements, and transfer resources all help students explore transfer options and prepare for transfer. Historically, students who start at one UW university have been very likely to be admitted as a transfer student at another UW university if they meet admission criteria and space is available. Current Universities of Wisconsin Transfer Policy includes a Guaranteed Transfer Program that exists between UW universities.
Learn more about UW Guaranteed Transfer Program eligibility > Students can take several steps to make it more likely that they will be admitted as a transfer student. Meet with an Academic Advisor Meet with an academic advisor at your home UW and let them know about your plan to transfer so that they can help explain transfer processes, requirements, and steps to take to ensure that you earn as many transfer credits as possible. Learn Admission Criteria, Processes, and Deadlines Familiarize yourself with the admission criteria (i.e., required courses, GPAs) and application materials and deadlines for the UW you want to attend. Understand that admission to a UW university does not necessarily mean that you will be admitted to a specific academic program/major. Connect with a Transfer Admission Counselor Connect with a transfer admission counselor at the UW university you want to attend as early as possible to review admission criteria, processes, and deadlines and to discuss the academic program and semester in which you hope to enroll. Verify How Courses Will Transfer Meet with an academic advisor at your home UW each term so that they can offer advice about which courses that will transfer to your new UW university and meet academic program requirements. Make sure to view planned courses on Transferology to verify how courses will transfer. Universities of Wisconsin offer the best of both worlds - top-tier academics paired with welcoming, supportive communities. Each UW university is committed to providing students with comprehensive degree programs, research opportunities, and a nurturing learning environment, empowering you to achieve your academic, personal, and professional goals.
When you choose a school within the Universities of Wisconsin, you join a diverse and dedicated community of students, staff, and faculty who are invested in your success. Additionally, you have the freedom to explore different campuses within UW as your academic goals evolve. Ready to take the next step? Discover your options at Universities of Wisconsin and find the perfect fit for your academic and career aspirations.
Speak to an Shorelight advisor about your options at the Universities of Wisconsin >
