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Freshman Badgers: Prepare to Join Us this Fall!

Posted: 2013-05-02 04:00:00   Expiration: 2013-05-31 15:54:25

Disclaimer: This news item was originally posted on 2013-05-02 04:00:00. Its content may no longer be timely or accurate.

Follow these tips to successfully begin classes in Fall.

Freshman Badgers: Prepare to Join Us this Fall!
May 2, 2013


Our 2013 freshman class represents a select group of talented students who were chosen from more than 29,600 applicants. With the May 1 National Candidate Reply Deadline now passed, the Office of Admissions and Recruitment invites incoming freshmen to follow these tips to successfully begin classes in Fall.

Finalize Plans for University Housing
Follow the steps outlined for the housing application process. Be sure to review the housing contract and pay the housing deposit. If you have questions, reach University Housing by email.

Review Your Financial Aid Package
U.S. citizens and permanent residents who submitted the FAFSA can anticipate receiving a financial aid package from the Office of Student Financial Aid by email.

Arrange to Take the Placement Tests
Refer to the testing information on the Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR) website to determine available options and to register for placement testing before making a reservation. This is a requirement in order to select a SOAR date.

All freshman students are required to complete placement testing in mathematics and English (or English as a Second Language) regardless of previous coursework, AP or IB credit. You are strongly encouraged to test in the foreign language you studied in high school. Contact the SOAR office with any questions or concerns.

Make a SOAR Reservation
Admitted students who have submitted the enrollment confirmation are eligible to sign up to attend the Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR) program in the summer. This program gives students a closer look at what life is like on campus, provides background information on campus resources, and connects students with academic advisors. Contact the SOAR office with any questions.

Submit AP/CLEP/IB Scores to Admissions and Recruitment
Students with scores from the AP, CLEP or IB exams may be eligible to receive course credit. Request that The College Board or International Baccalaureate program send official scores directly to our office. Request that they arrive as soon as June 1, but no later than September 15, to have all possible credits reviewed and posted in time for spring course registration.

Remember to Send a Final Transcript to Admissions and Recruitment
After your final grades are posted, make sure to request a final official transcript to be sent to our office by June 30, 2013. Electronic transcripts will be accepted if your school uses a system, such as Docufide by Parchment, to transmit them to us.

I-20 and Visa Information for International Students
International Student Services also provides a Guide for International Students with more information. Be sure to submit the Financial Verification Form with an official bank letter showing sufficient funds on deposit for one year of study. If you need help completing it, refer to the financial verification form instructions. Complete the Student Visa and Mailing Information Form and include a photocopy of the pages in your passport that show your identity and full legal name.


This post is from the Office of Admissions and Recruitment located at 702 West Johnson Street, Madison, Wisconsin, 53715. For media inquires or for interview requests please contact News and Media Relations in University Communications and Marketing.

-- Office of Admissions and Recruitment: Ken Cutts