Prospective Students

Prior to taking any credit course at the UW-Madison, you must apply and be admitted as a student. The process varies depending on your student classification and status. For University Specials and Guest auditors, the application is free.

Nondegree applicants

University Specials—Enroll for credit

  • New: Never applied or enrolled
  • Returning: Previously enrolled as a Special student and know your classification. If you previously filled out an online application, log in and update your information to submit a new application. Don't remember your ID or password? Contact UW HELP, 608-263-4567.

Guest auditors—Enroll in credit classes without earning credit

NOTE: Prospective Special and Guest students—For information on tuition/fees, grading, transcripts, and more, see Current/recent Special and Guest students. For credit courses, see Schedule of Classes; also see courses with limited access for Special and Guest students. For links to UW-Madison noncredit courses and credit courses at other schools see Classes.

Degree applicants

For degree options at UW-Madison and other Wisconsin schools, please use the following links:

Noncredit continuing education participants

There’s no need to apply for admission if you want to take a noncredit continuing education course. You can just register for the courses that interest you. Registration instructions are included with course descriptions. See online noncredit catalog for current courses by subject area.

Not sure what option is best for you? Want to learn more?

Contact Adult Career and Special Student Services at 608-263-6960 or email advising@dcs.wisc.edu.

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