The following are answers and responses to questions that have been frequently asked by other incoming international students like you. We specifically asked students what they wish they would have known before arriving in Madison and what their advice would be to others coming in the future.
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How am I going to find housing? How shall I select a place to live?
The search for your desired housing situation can be challenging, but you'll find right away that there are a wide variety of options to choose from.
Indeed, one of the most difficult parts of searching for housing in Madison is deciding between your many options!
These options include university housing (only available if you are applying early), private residence halls, and off campus housing and/or apartments.
Most students live off campus in apartments or student houses.
You should select a place to live based on your budget, the kind of living situation you would like to experience (housing with international students or in a more uniquely American situation), and the kind of neighborhood you would like to live in.
Of course, proximity to your classes is an important issue, and you'll find that accommodation is cheaper the further away it is from campus.
Have a list of questions ready when you're looking at apartments, and try to set a monthly rent amount you are aiming for.
Refer to our Housing section for more information.
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What is the weather like in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin weather is something that most incoming international students are not prepared for.
Madison summers are hot and humid, with an average temperature around 28° C.
Winters can be extremely cold.
In January, the average low temperature is 16° C.
These cold temperatures, along with the snow and ice, can be very uncomfortable if you are not dressed for the winter.
Be prepared to buy a warm winter coat and thin comfortable summer clothes.
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What is the food like in Wisconsin?
Finding food you consider convenient, tasty, and inexpensive might be difficult when you first arrive. Explore State Street and the wider downtown area; try as many different restaurants as you can to see what you like and what you don’t like. Ask your fellow international students what they thought about different eating establishments. Overall Madison restaurants are affordable, delicious, and plentiful, and we assure you there will be a few you will miss when you return home!
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How big is the campus?
Madison has a large, urban campus with tens of thousands of students, but don't let the size intimidate you! The campus is easy to tour on foot, and the distances between classes are definitely manageable. When you first arrive in Madison, take a good look around.
Get a map from the international office and try to familiarize yourself with the campus.
There's a lot to see.
You can take a
virtual tour of our beautiful campus.
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What is required for health insurance?
Health insurance is required for international students studying at the University of Wisconsin.
All international students attending the College of Engineering are expected to enroll in SHIP, a special health insurance program tailored for international students.
Please see our health insurance page for more information.
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What do I need to do regarding my visa after I enter the United States?
It is very important that you contact
UW-Madison International Student Services
when you first arrive in Madison, as there are special rules that you as an international student must comply with.
International Student Services also has a variety of programs specially designed for you, including friendship programs, special get-togethers, socials, and international student advising and counseling.
They are a great resource for you on campus, and one you'll be glad you explored.
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What is academic life like in the US?
The structure of American classes is more work intensive than many international students are accustomed to, so be prepared to study more regularly than you may at home.
The culture, class schedule, and daily life also will be a bit different than what you are familiar with.
It will take a few weeks to become adjusted, but you will eventually grow used to (and maybe even prefer) the differences.
Even so, do not try to take on too much of a load in the very beginning.
And do not be afraid to ask questions of your
professors or your international studies advisor.
We are here to help you.
Don't forget to visit our section about
Courses.
It will answer many of your questions.
Also take a look at our
Academic Life page for further information.
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Will my English skills be adequate when I'm in Madison?
You may have a bit of trouble following all the ins and outs of American English when you first arrive, but within a few weeks the language will become second nature to you. When you first arrive, try to speak English as much as you possibly can with local shopkeepers, waiters or waitresses, and American students. This will be a big help. You will eventually leave Madison speaking the best English you have ever spoken, with a Wisconsin accent to boot!
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How much money should I bring?
Everybody has different spending habits, and the amount of money you bring will depend on your plans for traveling, how long you plan to stay in the United States, and what kind of lifestyle you want to live.
Plan on bringing at least $4,000 for each semester you are in Madison.
This amount should cover bare expenses, a few short trips, and a moderate entertainment budget while you're in Madison.
Visit our
Arrival section
to learn how to open a bank account.
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Is the metric system common in the US?
No. The United States has stubbornly refused to change over to the metric system. You actually might find that they are quite proud of their antiquated system. Be prepared to use the metric-to-English conversion (inches, feet, etc.). There are several
conversion tables on the web.
There are also many different resource materials you can buy in Madison to help you with the conversions.
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Can I bring my electronic devices?
Voltage and outlets are different. The voltage in the United States is 110V. Before you depart for Madison, try to purchase adapters for your more expensive electronic devices. For everything else, save time and space by purchasing the devices in Madison.
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Any other advice?
Come to learn and to have fun! Life at the University of Wisconsin is what you make it. The more open you are to new experiences and new ways of looking at the world, the more beneficial and memorable your time here will be in the long run!
