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 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 2024.
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
Explore intriguing topics in small, active learning environments, with your Badger peers, before you arrive on campus! This summer 2024, students can choose from programs in Ireland, 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 2024.
Length: 3 weeks, (end of July to mid-August).
Coursework: 3-credits; course varies by program.