Our early start programs allow incoming first-year students to take classes in the summer before their first fall semester. Early start programs give you a head start on your UW–Madison journey and help you make a smooth academic transition to college. Meet fellow students, earn college credit, get to know campus resources, and start work toward your degree.
Choose the program that works best for you and helps you achieve your goals this summer:
Wisconsin Experience Summer Launch
This online program allows students to launch their UW–Madison academic careers by choosing from a list of popular courses that fulfill common requirements. Program participants will also establish a network of friends, peers and campus resources they can continue to grow when they arrive on campus in the fall.
Format: Online, with optional on-campus component.
Eligibility: Students who have accepted an offer of admission to UW–Madison for fall 2023.
Length: 8 weeks online with optional early move-in.
Coursework: Choose from a list of popular 3-credit courses and enroll in two 1-credit courses designed to support program participants as they begin their UW–Madison journey.
College of Agricultural & Life Sciences Quickstart (CALS Quickstart)
CALS QuickStart allows incoming College of Agricultural & Life Sciences (CALS) students to complete their first-year seminar online. Participants will connect with peers, gain early exposure to campus opportunities and resources, and develop personal academic and career roadmap. Students have the option to move to campus a week early, earn an additional credit and apply what they’ve learned through hands-on activities and tours.
Format: Online, with optional on-campus component.
Eligibility: Students who have accepted an offer of admission to the UW–Madison College of Agricultural & Life Sciences for fall 2023.
Length: 8 weeks online with optional additional week on campus.
Coursework: CALS QuickStart: Foundations (1 credit) online, with option to also complete CALS QuickStart: Connect2Campus (1 credit)