June 16 - August 10, 2025
Summer is an amazing time to be in Madison. You’ll enjoy gorgeous weather, lakeside views, world-class instruction and lots of fun. Through VISP events you can watch a baseball game, sample ice cream made right here on campus, and get to know your fellow students. VISP students have access to state-of-the-art athletic facilities and all that campus has to offer. Learn more about why Summer is a great time to be at UW on the UW-Madison Summer Term page.
Whether you are currently in the United States studying at another institution, in your home country wishing to come to our campus for just a few weeks, UW-Madison is a great choice for your summer educational plans.
Academic Subjects Offered
UW-Madison offers over 50 courses during our 8-week summer session that runs from June 16 through August 10, 2025. While not a degree program, VISP students earn official UW-Madison academic credit for the classes taken. As a VISP student, you’ll have access to courses from across the UW-Madison curriculum. Popular areas include:
Chemistry, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Environmental Studies, Math, Mechanical Engineering, Microbiology, Physics, and more.
Students tend to take 2-3 classes in the summer session for a total of 6-9 credits.
Download the Summer Course Preview
Interested in online-only classes?
Students wanting to take UW-Madison classes remotely should explore the new UNOL online-only program for nondegree students.
"This is my home away from home. UW-Madison is the combination of a world-class academic institution while at the same time an incomparable college experience."
VISP Participant
Summer Application Timeline
Research our program through our website to make sure that VISP is the right fit for you.
Next Steps: You can learn more about our program eligibility, estimated cost of attendance, and our required application materials you’ll need to start collecting via our website.
Receive permission to attend VISP from your university, if currently enrolled.
Check out the 2025 Summer Course Preview to see what classes will be offered this upcoming Summer Term.
Apply by mid-March for the most flexibility with housing and class selection. After your formal admission to our program, you’ll receive additional information about obtaining a student visa, enrolling in classes, and more.
Next Steps: Ready to apply? Visit our How to Apply page for required materials and to get started with your application.
Enroll in your summer class(es), and get ready to start your adventure!
Next Steps: Read over the information you received with your admission, as well as information on our website to learn more about Summer Term Housing, about the City of Madison, and get inspired by listening to testimonials of former VISP students.
View 2025 Courses
Each year, our staff creates a handy PDF guide showcasing the classes our students are most likely to be interested in taking, and those that work with our on-campus housing options.
On-Campus Housing Available
VISP summer participants are welcome to apply for Summer Term Housing in our campus residence halls. Single and double rooms are available during the 8-week summer session. Space is limited, so apply early for best consideration.
Typical Summer Enrollment
In the summer, students typically enroll in 2-3 classes in our 8-week program for a total of between 6-9 credits.
Ready to Apply?
You've looked over everything and now you know VISP is the right fit. Go ahead and start your program application. The VISP staff will be in touch soon. Questions? Contact the VISP Coordinators for assistance.
Interested in learning more?
Fill out this form to learn more about our non-degree programs.