UW–Madison continues to demonstrate excellence in global engagement, earning recognition in the 2024 Open Doors Report. This report is published annually by the Institute of International Education in partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
Study abroad rankings
The report ranks UW–Madison #8 among U.S. universities for total study abroad participation during the 2022–2023 academic year. A total of 2,662 students participated in study abroad programs, marking a significant increase from the previous academic year’s 1,798 participants. UW–Madison is particularly strong in semester-long programs, earning the #2 spot in the U.S. in this category.
The university’s International Academic Programs (IAP) administers more than 300 programs worldwide in collaboration with academic units across campus, such as the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the Wisconsin School of Business. These programs include offerings for first-year students, year-long language immersion opportunities, domestic study-away programs, short-term faculty-led programs, international internships, and field research opportunities.
Dan Gold, director of IAP, highlighted several initiatives that are attracting more students to study abroad programs, including the introduction of new locations and innovative program formats. A standout example is the UW Global Gateway Initiative—faculty-led summer programs with fellowships that make study abroad more accessible to a diverse range of students. This initiative has garnered campus recognition, including the Division of Enrollment Management’s Campus Partner of the Year Award, for its impact and ingenuity.
“I am delighted that the rankings reflect the value that UW–Madison faculty and students hold toward global educational experiences,” said Gold. “With the world as our classroom, we strive to create innovative opportunities that connect to core UW–Madison values and initiatives, such as developing new sustainability-focused programs and experiences accessible to all students.”
International student rankings
UW–Madison also climbed two spots in the rankings for international student enrollment, rising from #20 to #18. The 2023–2024 academic year saw 9,526 international students on campus, including 1,900 students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT), which provides work experience in their field of study post-graduation. The official campus count does not include OPT participants.
International students at UW–Madison represent 127 countries. As of fall 2023, 3,569 were undergraduates, 3,721 were graduate/professional students, and 336 were short-term or non-degree-seeking students.
“It is exciting to see that UW–Madison continues to be a top destination for international students,” said Samantha McCabe, director of International Student Services. “International students enrich our campus and surrounding community through the sharing of their lived experiences and cultural perspectives. That connection extends to the greater Madison community, in part through programs such as International Reach, which places international student speakers in venues throughout the community to encourage cross-cultural connections beyond the boundaries of campus.”
Frances Vavrus, vice provost and dean of the International Division, noted the significance of these rankings.
“To be in the top 10 for total study abroad participation and the second in the nation for semester-long programs is a great accomplishment. We know our students value the array of programs and financial support we offer, and the experiences they have during their years at UW–Madison will have a positive impact on their futures. We are also honored to see that increasing numbers of students from around the world are choosing our campus for their studies, which reflects our global reputation as a leader in many fields.”
About Open Doors
The Open Doors Report is released annually during International Education Week, a joint initiative of the U.S. Departments of State and Education to promote the benefits of international education and exchange. UW–Madison will celebrate International Education Week from November 18–22.
For more information and a schedule of events, visit the International Education Week events calendar.
Story by Steve Barcus