Communities Through Education and Outreach
Does the University of Wisconsin Defer?
Yes, the University of Wisconsin System, including UW–Madison, offers admission deferrals under specific circumstances. If a student is admitted and cannot attend during the term for which they were accepted, they may request a deferral, typically for one academic year.
To qualify for a deferral, students must:
- Submit a written request detailing the reason (such as medical, military, service, or personal circumstances)
- Receive approval from the Office of Admissions
- Agree not to enroll at another institution during the deferral period
Deferrals are not guaranteed and are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Students granted a deferral must submit an enrollment confirmation and, in some cases, a deposit, to hold their place for the following year.
Does the University of Wisconsin Have Tenure?
Yes, the University of Wisconsin System supports tenure for faculty, in alignment with traditional academic practices found at leading U.S. universities. Tenure ensures academic freedom, allowing faculty to conduct research and teaching without undue political or administrative pressure.
At UW–Madison, tenure is granted to faculty members following a rigorous evaluation process, which includes:
- Peer-reviewed research and publication
- Demonstrated teaching effectiveness
- Service to the university and broader community
Tenured faculty enjoy job security and the ability to pursue long-term research goals, making UW–Madison a top destination for scholars across disciplines.
What Is the Deadline for University of Wisconsin–Madison?
The application deadlines for the University of Wisconsin–Madison vary depending on the type of applicant and desired term of entry:
First-Year Applicants (Fall Semester)
- Early Action Deadline: November 1
- Regular Decision Deadline: January 16
Transfer Applicants
- Fall Deadline: March 1
- Spring Deadline: October 1
Graduate Programs
Deadlines vary by department and program. Prospective graduate students should consult their specific department’s webpage for accurate and current dates.
It is highly recommended that students apply early, especially if they are interested in competitive programs, scholarships, or housing preferences.
What Is the Mission of the UW–Madison Extension?
The University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension serves as the university’s public outreach arm, delivering research-based knowledge to individuals, businesses, and communities across the state.
Mission Statement:
“To connect people with the University of Wisconsin and engage them in transforming lives and communities.”
The Extension is grounded in the Wisconsin Idea, the belief that the university should influence people’s lives beyond the classroom. Through educational programs and applied research, the Extension supports:
- Agriculture and Natural Resources – Providing training for farmers and landowners
- Health and Well-Being – Promoting nutrition, mental health, and disease prevention
- Community Development – Supporting local economies and governments
- Youth Development (4-H) – Building leadership and skills among young people
- Family Engagement and Education – Offering parenting and financial literacy resources
Operating in every county of Wisconsin, the Extension bridges the gap between university research and public application, ensuring that education serves the entire population, not just enrolled students.
