The University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison) one of the most prestigious public universities in the United States, maintains rigorous academic standards for their applicants. In this article, we will dive into the UW–Madison ACT scores and requirements. Be sure to check out our other post that discusses UW–Madison’s SAT stats and requirements!
UW–Madison’s average composite ACT score is 29, quite a bit higher than the national average of about 21. Further, the 25th percentile score is 26, and the 75th percentile score is 32.
This range indicates that 25% of admitted students scored 26 or below, and the top 25% scored 32 or above. These scores reflect the competitive nature of admissions at UW–Madison, but also show that a variety of scores can still be competitive.
The ACT composite score comprises four sections: English, mathematics, reading, and science. In this post, we’ll explore the statistics for the English and math sections.
The average ACT English score at UW–Madison is 29. The 25th percentile score is 25, while the 75th percentile score is 33.
From these statistics, we can see that 50% of UW–Madison’s admitted students achieved a 29 or above on their ACT English section, while the remaining 50% scored a 29 or below. These statistics show that many UW–Madison students excel in the English section. Still, there is no minimum English score required for admission.
For the ACT Math section, the average score at UW–Madison is 28. In addition, the 25th percentile sits at 25, while the 75th percentile reaches 31. From these statistics, we can see that 25% of students admitted to UW–Madison achieved a 25 or below on their ACT. Meanwhile 25% of admitted students scored a 31 or above, likely with some perfect scorers among them.
Although these scores fill a narrower range than the average ACT English section scores, UW–Madison does not maintain strict ranges for students in order to be considered for admission. Because the national average is a 21, the admitted student body is likely comprised of both students in the 50th percentile nationwide and the 99th percentile nationwide, in terms of their ACT scores.
UW–Madison currently maintains a test-optional policy. This policy applies to students applying for admission in spring 2025, fall 2025, spring 2026, fall 2026, and spring 2027. Including ACT or SAT scores with your application is not required for the upcoming admissions cycle, and choosing not to submit scores will not disadvantage you in the evaluation process. Applicants can indicate their choice regarding test scores at the time of application.
UW–Madison does not accept self-reported test scores. Official scores must be sent directly from the testing agency. This process may take 2–4 weeks, so it is important to plan ahead. The admissions office notes that there is no advantage to using the “rush” or “priority” services when sending test scores to UW–Madison as the scores are received electronically.
Additionally, the ACT Writing section is not required for admission.
Among students admitted to UW–Madison, 40% of students submitted ACT scores, while 17% submitted SAT scores. Meanwhile, the remaining approximate 43% omitted standardized test scores from their application.
From these statistics, we can see that ACT is a popular choice at UW–Madison. More than twice as many students elected to submit ACT scores as SAT scores. That said, there is no advantage to taking one test over the other.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison uses a holistic review process that considers multiple factors, including grades, coursework, essays, letters of recommendation, and other materials. Standardized test scores are only one part of the evaluation. If you believe your test scores reflect your academic abilities, you are encouraged to submit them. However, if you choose not to, you will not be disadvantaged.
It can be helpful to compare your test results with that of UW–Madison’s average admitted applicant. If your scores fall at or above UW–Madison’s 25th to 75th percentile range, then it may be advantageous to submit your scores.
In addition, if you are a homeschooled student or attended a school with a competency-based grading system, submitting standardized test scores is encouraged by the admissions office. That said, submitting standardized test scores is a personal decision that you must make based on what you feel best represents your strengths and abilities.
No, UW–Madison does not superscore the ACT. They will only consider your highest score from a single test date. While applicants can use the ACT equivalent of the College Board’s Score Choice option, the university will only evaluate the highest composite score from a single test sitting.
UW–Madison does not have set ACT score requirements or cutoffs. A competitive score typically falls within the middle 50% range of admitted students. Aiming for a score around the average of 29, or within the 26 to 32 range, will position applicants well.
Further, if you can achieve a score above the average of 29, you will be especially well-positioned in the admissions process. See the table below for more details about UW–Madison’s ACT score statistics.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 26 | 29 | 32 |
| English | 25 | 29 | 33 |
| Math | 25 | 28 | 31 |
It is possible to gain admission to UW–Madison with a lower ACT score, particularly since the university is test-optional.
Note that the lower quartile UW–Madison ACT scores hover around 26. This means that the lower 25% of admitted students achieved a composite 26 or below. Thus, a “low” score for UW–Madison would be around 26 or below. Thus, it is in your best interest to strive for a score higher than 26. Further, if you feel that your test scores do not accurately represent your strengths and abilities, you can always go test-optional.
Regardless, UW–Madison emphasizes a holistic review process, considering academic performance, leadership, community contributions, and extracurricular achievements. A strong overall application can offset a lower ACT score.
o comfortably meet application deadlines, it is best to take the ACT during your junior spring semester. Doing so will also give you time to retake the exam if necessary.
For students applying via Early Action, the application deadline is November 1, and all materials must be received by November 8. For Regular Decision, the deadline is January 15, and all materials must be received by January 22.
Because UW–Madison requires official score submission and does not permit self-reported scores, you must factor in the 2-4 week processing time for sending scores. Thus, you need to take your last ACT early enough to receive your scores and pay to send your scores four weeks or more before the appropriate materials deadline, in order to be sure they are received in time for consideration.
UW-Madison’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 4656.
While submitting ACT or SAT scores is optional, a strong score can enhance an application. Ultimately, the decision to submit test scores should be based on the individual applicant’s strengths and overall application strategy. If you are considering the SAT instead, check out our article about UW–Madison SAT scores!
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