The Badger Ready program provides insight, opportunity, and support for degree-seeking adults who may face barriers to completing an undergraduate degree.

This transitional program is for adults 25+ and veterans of any age who typically have a minimum of 24 credits from an accredited institution (former UW–Madison students simply apply for reentry admission) and a cumulative break in education of at least two years.

After successfully completing specific academic and program criteria, a participant can be admitted as a UW–Madison transfer student. These criteria will likely include, but are not limited to, the completion of at least 12 UW–Madison credits as a University Special student with a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA taken over the course of multiple semesters.

Prospective Badger Ready students should apply to UW–Madison using the University Special student application under the classification UNPS-Badger Ready. Official high school and post-secondary transcripts should be sent by mail to: ACSSS, 21 N. Park St., Madison, WI 53715; or by email to: badger.ready@wisc.edu.  Applications will not be complete until all transcripts have been received.

Applicants with complete files will meet with a Badger Ready advisor to assess career goals, and review transcripts and course history. After this meeting, an admission decision will be made. Badger Ready is focused on the present and an applicant's current level of academic readiness. Prior GPA alone will not be a barrier to admission. The advisor will help applicants determine if UW–Madison is a good fit and can help explore other options as well. Advisors collaborate with the Office of Admissions and Recruitment and other campus advisors to ensure each applicant's academic plans are achievable.