University Special Students

University Specials—If you are not currently enrolled in a UW-Madison degree program, but you want to take UW-Madison credit courses for credit, review your options below to find the category most appropriate for your circumstances.

University Specials have many of the privileges of degree-seeking students. Read about them here.

University Special student classifications Helpful information for University Special Students enrolling in the fall 2011 term.

Review the descriptions below, select your classification, and then apply/enroll as a University Special.

Professional or personal enhancement (UNDS)
You want to advance professionally or pursue a personal interest and you have already earned an undergraduate degree.

Preparation for admission to graduate or professional school (UNRS)
You need prerequisite courses for graduate or professional school. Credits earned as a University Special student typically do not count for degree credit. Direct questions about prerequisites, application requirements, or use of Special student credits toward an eventual degree to your specific graduate or professional school advisor. When you meet with your intended program’s advisor, you may find it helpful to have a Graduate/Professional School Recommendation (GPS) form completed.

Exploring future career or educational goals (UNOS)
You want to take courses for one term to help clarify academic needs and career goals. Contact Adult Career and Special Student Services by phone (608-263-6960) or email to discuss whether this classification is right for you.

Visitor from another college or university (UNVS)
You are an undergraduate in good standing with a minimum GPA of 2.0 (both cumulative and most recent term) at a college other than UW-Madison and plan to return to that college or to attend an institution other than UW-Madison. The most recent college transcript is required. If you intend to transfer to UW-Madison apply directly to the Offices of Undergraduate or Graduate Admissions.

Capstone Certificate (UNCS)
Capstone Certificate programs serve returning adult students who wish to acquire specialized training to meet current and future job requirements. All Capstone Certificate applicants must have completed a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent. You may also need to submit additional admission items (transcripts, test scores, etc.) by deadline dates directly to the program offering the certificate.

Students preselected to attend special programs or workshops (UNPS)
This classification is for you only if you have been directed by your program to select it. 

International Student Options

International students (UNIS) on formal exchange programs
 You are an international student and wish to study at UW-Madison as part of a formal exchange program agreement between your university and UW-Madison.

Visiting international students (UIUL, UIGL, UIDL) not on exchange programs
You are an international student at any level of education (undergraduate, graduate or dissertator) and you are requesting admission and an F-1 or J-1 student visa to study full-time. International students currently on other visa types may be able to apply in other special student categories. Read more about the Visiting International Student Program.

English as a Second Language (UNES)
You speak English as a second language, and wish to study it full time. Apply directly to the ESL Program as a first step.

High School Students Applying as University Special students

High school student (UNHS)
If you are a qualified high school junior or senior you may apply to take one course each term through either the Traditional or Youth Options Programs.  

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