Application Instructions

UWC Online Degree Seeking Students

*If you are a non-degree-seeking student (special), please go to our Registration page.

  1. Complete the UW System electronic application. To expedite the application process, UW Colleges Online recommends that you apply electronically. Be sure to select UW Colleges Online as the campus to which you apply. Keep in mind, there are 13 UW Colleges’ campuses throughout the state. UW Colleges Online is the only online campus for the Associate of Arts and Science degree.
    • Applications and all required materials must be submitted in a timely manner prior to the end of the registration period to allow sufficient time for processing.
  2. You must submit the following items to the UW Colleges Office of Distance Education, 644 W. Washington Avenue, Madison, WI 53703-2638, to complete your application:
    • A non refundable $44 application fee must accompany the application of prospective freshmen and transfer students from schools outside the UW Colleges. This fee can be paid by credit card after completing the online application or by mailing a check or money order to the Office of Distance Education.
    • If you are under age 21, you will be required to submit official ACT scores with your application.
    • Have official high school or record of GED and all college transcripts sent. Official Transcripts — must bear school seal and be sent directly from the awarding institution or in a sealed envelope from the school.
  3. Financial aid is available to eligible students admitted to UW Colleges Online. The Student Financial Aid (SFA) site has information about applying for financial aid. Students can also email the SFA Advisor with questions. Students considering applying for admission to UW Colleges Online are encouraged to complete the online application for financial aid, the FAFSA, as soon after January 1 as possible. Financial aid is distributed to students during the second week of classes each term. The UW Colleges school code is 003897.
  4. Credit Transfer: Use the Transfer Information System (TIS) program to learn how credits transfer from UW System campuses and/or Wisconsin Technical Colleges. NOTE: This is an unofficial report. An official credit evaluation will be completed upon receipt of all application materials.
  5. When UW Colleges Online receives and reviews your completed application, you will receive notification of your admission status by email from your academic advisor.
  6. Once admitted, you may be required to take online placement tests in math and English. This step will depend upon your past experience in these two disciplines. Your academic advisor will notify you if this is necessary.
  7. Your academic advisor will work with you to develop a schedule each semester, as well as a study plan to complete your degree.

Begin to review the Online Course Descriptions for the semester you wish to begin with UW Colleges Online.