Individuals who wish to enroll in a credit course, are not currently in a degree program at UW–Madison, and do not fit the other types of University Special students may qualify for one of the classifications below.

Preselected by a Department or Program

Students in this classification have been selected to participate by a department in a specific course, seminar, institute, or workshop for credit. Admission requirements are established by the program or department that makes the final admissions decision. These students are assessed tuition at the undergraduate student rate (Wisconsin resident or nonresident) unless students are participating in a program that has a nonstandard tuition rate. Enrollment is for one term only for the specific course or program. Students who wish to be considered for enrollment in a subsequent term must contact the Adult Career and Special Student Services office to request a change of classification based on their academic plans or goals. 

OTHERS/ONE TERM ONLY

University Special students typically require one of the following: (1) hold a baccalaureate degree, (2) are currently a degree student in good standing at another college, (3) are selected for a course, program, institute, or Capstone Certificate, or (4) are a high school student in the early college credit program. There may be unique needs or circumstances that allow a student to qualify for admission without satisfying any of these requirements. For consideration, a conversation with an advisor who approves admission is necessary. Note: Individuals who have been denied admission or missed the undergraduate admissions application deadline are not eligible for admission as a University Special student.

Preselected by a Department or Program

Admission requirements are established by the department and program, which screens prospective students and provides information regarding the steps to complete an application for admission. The steps will include completion of a University Special student application, in addition to any specific program or department requirements. UNPS is the designation on the admissions application and course roster. 

Once admitted to the university, enrollment instructions which are customized for the department or program with specific course numbers are provided to the student.

OTHERS/ONE TERM ONLY

Prospective students who have consulted with an advisor and received support for admission in this classification, apply using the University Special students application—indicating their academic goal and name of the advisor. Applying at least one month before the start of the term is recommended as it takes one to two weeks to review and process an application. UNOS is the designation on the admissions application and course roster.