University of Wisconsin-Madison: Is It Worth It?
Madison, Wisconsin · Public · Website
ROI Score
9.6
Net Price/Year
$17,354
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$73,792
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$20,484
at graduation
Is University of Wisconsin-Madison Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $73,792 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $17,354 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $69,416.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 0.9 years.
The median graduate leaves with $20,484 in debt, which represents about 28%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
45.2%
Avg SAT
1427
ACT Midpoint
29
Enrollment
36,902
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
89.4%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
96.2%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
729100.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$11,603
Out-of-State Tuition
$42,103
Avg Net Price
$17,354
After grants/scholarships
Similar Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Wisconsin-Madison worth the money?
Based on federal data, University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn a median of $73,792 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $20,484 at graduation. The ROI score is 9.6.
What do University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn?
The median earnings for University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates is $61,275 six years after enrollment and $73,792 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at University of Wisconsin-Madison?
The acceptance rate at University of Wisconsin-Madison is 45.2%.
How much debt do University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for University of Wisconsin-Madison students is $20,484.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.