2024 Top Public Universities in Wisconsin

• Madison, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  3,413 reviews

Freshman: The student life here is amazing, and it's clear the university wants its students to feel comfortable on campus. TA's and professors have been mostly receptive to emails and eager to help out when needed. The location and surrounding resources are valuable and easy to take advantage of as a student. I wish professors were better equipped to use canvas or some other teaching website. Also, there should be a standardized attendance app or website that is used by all teachers rather than having to download two or three separate applications in a semester depending on which professors you have. Overall, a great experience!... Read 3,413 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $13,484

• SAT range 1320-1500

• La Crosse, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,797 reviews

Freshman: The organizations available on campus are spectacular. They're a great way to get involved and meet new people, and with a diverse variety of options, everyone is bound to find something they're interested in. There are multiple different dining options on campus that take meal swipes, block meals, and dining dollars. So if you find that one doesn't float your boat, there are many others to choose from. There is also a very vibrant social culture, the student body is a cast of lively characters who love to party any day of the week. So, beware of noise complaints! The professors are highly educated on what they teach and are always willing to help. They make their office hours very clear and strongly encourage students to come to them, even if it is just to chat. The campus is walkable and beautiful. There's many study spaces from picnic tables to cozy chairs by the Student Union fireplace to trees to hammock in. Overall, UW-La Crosse is a welcoming school that includes everyone.... Read 1,797 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $12,904

• SAT range —

• Superior, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  288 reviews

Junior: So far through my college journey, it has been a struggle figuring out this temporary lifestyle as a first generation student. However, the University of Wisconsin-Superior has been accommodating to it's furthest extent when providing resources. I have had a difficult time venturing my way through college as it feels I am on my own. One resource UWS provides is called the TRIO Student Support Services. I have always been slow to asking for help when I need it. TRIO Student Support Services has made that easier as I have a mentor I can check in with. When I notice myself getting into a slump, I know who I can turn to with no shame or fear. Someone that understands what I am going through and can help me in the best ways they can. Providing more services than the ones they offer to make sure I have what I need to succeed. This school has made a safe space for me where I hope to show my true potential.... Read 288 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $12,120

• SAT range —

• Milwaukee, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  3,322 reviews

Junior: My time at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee started with my freshman year in the height of the pandemic. As an incoming freshman, I was weary about being in a heavily populated college during a time of troubled health. However, UWM provided most classes online in formats that best suited student engagement and learning. This also allowed me to stay home for my first year and save some money! My sophomore year began on campus and the transition to rural living to being in a city was quite the change, however UWM provided numerous ways to bring students together and feel comfortable on campus and in the city. My time academically here has been wonderful, as I am able to be fully immersed in my passions. I'm allowed an abundance of creative freedom and following feedback, preparing me for the real world.... Read 3,322 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $17,083

• SAT range —

• Eau Claire, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,519 reviews

Junior: I have enjoyed my time here at UWEC and look forward to finishing out my college career here. I came here from California which was a large change from location, weather, time zone, family and friends, but it is beyond worth it. The atmosphere on the campus is light and fun and they do everything to engage you. There are many sports and clubs that cater to every one person on campus. The faculty and staff are all generous and understanding. The food on campus could be better, luckily though it is something that the school is actively working to improve! That being said, the school listens to their students and staff and do their best to make being on this campus better than any other.... Read 1,519 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $15,713

• SAT range —

• Kenosha, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  548 reviews

Senior: As a commuter biomed student who never really got into the social scene at parkside, I can’t complain much. I started online which wasn’t bad overall. My first year psych teacher was subpar and I had to drop biology because the teacher was non accommodating. Throughout my 3 years, about 90% of my teachers put noticeable effort into assuring they accommodated your schedule and spent time outside of class answering questions. Some were tough graders, but others made up for it for being excellent teachers with great personalities, engaging with students one-on-one, and frequently asked the class for feedback to improve their course/teaching style. As for the food, it’s okay. I usually stay on campus for 8 hours on my busy days. I’m gluten sensitive and they have a few options I can have a day as well as a Starbucks. The dinners are good. There are a decent number of clubs but I could rarely find one that interested me and worked with my schedule. It’s a safe and affordable option.... Read 548 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $10,531

• SAT range —

• Whitewater, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,425 reviews

Senior: The Professors there are actually really understanding and make the content easy to understand. I am a transfer student so this past year was my first year there. Comparing the studies and professors to the previous institution I attended, they have very professional and intelligent staff. The campus life is also very positive. There are many activities to do on campus such as bowling, movies, magic shows, and pool. There are many clubs and extra curricular options available so it is easy to have something to do! I would highly recommend this college.... Read 1,425 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $12,754

• SAT range 890-1110

• Menomonie, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,030 reviews

Senior: My overall experience at UW Stout has been positive. There’s a wide array of interesting classes offered. The major-related classes and electives are taught by passionate people in the field. The professors and staff are almost always kind, helpful, and flexible with students. The university is overall aptly funded, and provides a lot of resources to students in most majors. It's far from perfect, though. Some majors tend to get overlooked when it comes to support. While the art program at Stout is one of the largest draws to the university, the art facilities still often fall short. For example, many art and design programs require relevant work experience/internships, but the polytechnic doesn’t provide the same resources it provides other majors. Many programs get career fairs and direct connections to professionals in a way that design students don't receive. The art building also remains one of the oldest buildings on campus, yet little budget is put into maintenance.... Read 1,030 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $16,063

• SAT range —

• Oshkosh, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,440 reviews

Alum: I LOVED UW Oshkosh. From the size of campus to the school’s size to its incredibly affordable price, UWO is a fantastic choice for a college experience. The staff and professors were incredibly supportive and helpful. I worked on campus for 3.5 years, and it helped me advance my skills socially, academically, and professionally. The student amenities (rec center, Horizon Village, student support center, LGBTQ+ center, alumni welcome center) were incredible too. I was inspired constantly to thrive here. Also, there were an incredible amount of scholarships available, especially for out of state students. The only thing I would change is a more expansive College of Education building since it’s an incredibly large major and program like business and nursing. Overall, I would and do recommend this to any student looking for a medium-sized, affordable, and supportive public university.... Read 1,440 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $12,975

• SAT range —

• River Falls, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  702 reviews

Alum: I had an absolutely amazing experience at UWRF! From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt welcomed and supported. The professors were incredibly knowledgeable and always available to help me with any questions or concerns I had. The coursework was occasionally difficult, but I never felt overwhelmed thanks to the resources available to me, such as tutoring and academic advising. In addition to the academics, UWRF had a ton of extracurricular activities to get involved in. I joined a club and made some great friends through that experience. The campus itself was beautiful, with green spaces to relax and study, as well as modern facilities like a state-of-the-art gym and recreation center. Overall, I am so grateful for the time I spent at UWRF. It was an amazing time that helped me grow both personally and professionally, and I feel well-prepared to take on the next chapter in my life. I would highly recommend UWRF to anyone considering higher education.... Read 702 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $14,318

• SAT range —

• Platteville, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,104 reviews

Sophomore: The University of Wisconsin Platteville is a awesome close knit campus! I like so many things about it, from the friendly people to the beautiful scenery. One of my favorite things is the sense of community here. It's a small campus, which means it's easy to get to know people and make friends. I also love the opportunities that UW-Platteville offers for getting involved. There are so many clubs and organizations to choose from, and they cover a wide range of interests. I've joined a few already, and I'm looking forward to exploring more. Academically, UW-Platteville is a great fit for me as well. The classes are challenging, but the professors are supportive and approachable. They really want to help their students succeed, and it shows. Overall, I feel like UW-Platteville is the perfect place for me. I'm excited to see what the future holds here!... Read 1,104 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $14,840

• SAT range —

• Stevens Point, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,178 reviews

Sophomore: Stevens Point always feels like home! From students on campus, to faculty and staff, everyone is smiling and happy to make you comfortable. It is a very easy campus to navigate while also having a lot of different buildings and opportunities on campus. It is very easy to get involved and feel like you fit in with the various groups and clubs. Classes are very structured and professors are always willing to lend a helping hand. It is a wonderful college experience that I think everyone should have the opportunity to have.... Read 1,178 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $14,122

• SAT range —

• Green Bay, WI•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  855 reviews

Freshman: I love Green Bay! The campus is tucked away, surrounded by green space, so you can hear the woods instead of busy city life. The student population is very tightly knit, the professors are so kind, and the buildings are very full of windows and full of natural light. Each dorm comes with their own bathroom, so no communal showers or toilets. Laundry is free, food is good. There's a cute coffee shop on campus that is the best place to study. The library is huge and beautiful, and the athletics always have some type of game or something to go to and be involved in something.... Read 855 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $11,291

• SAT range —

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  2 reviews

Niche User: I loved the flexibility, teachers, and counselors here! I felt that the staff wanted me to succeed and worked with me to finish my degree. There is not much socialization, however, as this is an online school. This is not necessarily a bad thing if you prefer that. It is just something to be aware of!... Read 2 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $12,901

• SAT range —

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  3 reviews

Junior: UW Flex at Parkside is a great experience. Once you get the hang of this unique learning set-up, you will find that the course material and the instruction are top-notch. You will not regret enrolling in this program if you are driven to complete school.... Read 3 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —

• Madison, WI•

• 4 Year (Online)

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —

• Menomonie, WI•

• 4 Year (Online)

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —

• Green Bay, WI•

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.83 out of 5  6 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay Online was positive, thanks to its high-quality education, knowledgeable professors, and interactive online platform that fostered a strong sense of community. The comprehensive support services, including resources and technical assistance, were invaluable. While more frequent communication and an expanded course selection would be beneficial, I highly recommend the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay Online for its commitment to academic excellence and flexible learning environment.... Read 6 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —

• Milwaukee, WI•

• 4 Year (Online)

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —