Wisconsin Experience Summer Launch


This online program allows incoming first-year 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 early move-in for Fall semester with on-campus programming with WESL cohort.
Eligibility: Incoming first-year students who have accepted an offer of admission to UW–Madison for fall 2025.
Length: 8 weeks online.
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.
UW Study Abroad Summer Launch programs
UW Study Abroad


Explore intriguing topics in small, active learning environments, with your Badger peers, before you arrive on campus! This summer 2025, students can choose from programs in Italy, Japan or Sweden.
Format: UW–Madison faculty-led study abroad or away program.
Eligibility: Students who are U.S. citizens and have accepted an offer of admission to UW–Madison as a full-time undergraduate for fall 2025.
Length: 3 weeks. (end of July to mid-August)
Coursework: 3-credits; course varies by program.