
1725 State St, La Crosse, WI 54601-3742, USA


The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, which is recognized as an authoritative accrediting body for postsecondary education institutions in the United States. This accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards for quality and effectiveness in the delivery of its academic programs and services.
Additionally, many of the university's individual programs have earned specialized accreditations from relevant professional organizations, which underscore the credibility and rigor of those specific fields of study. Prospective students can rely on these distinctions as indicators of a strong educational foundation and alignment with industry expectations.
Maintaining accreditation requires ongoing evaluation and adherence to rigorous criteria, which the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse actively fulfills to provide recognized degrees and support student learning outcomes.
Prospective students seeking admission to University of Wisconsin-La Crosse must have completed high school or obtained a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. A secondary school record and GPA are required as part of the application process. While the university does not follow an open admission policy, it does not mandate a computer for applicants, nor does it offer computer leasing options.
Applicants are required to submit TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency. Other standardized tests are recommended but not compulsory. Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted, although the university does not grant credit for dual credit courses.
The average ACT score for enrolled students is 24, which falls within the average range and the bottom 50th percentile nationally. The admissions acceptance rate at the university stands at approximately 73%, reflecting a moderately selective admissions process. From over 7,300 applicants, about 5,356 are admitted, with an enrollment yield of 2,301 students, indicating a strong enrollment rate especially among women.
Prospective students applying to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse are required to pay an application fee, which covers the administrative costs associated with processing their submissions. This fee is standard for most applicants and is intended to support the university's admissions operations.
For those who may face financial challenges, the university offers fee waivers under certain conditions. These waivers aim to ensure that the application cost does not pose a barrier to qualified students. Typically, fee waivers are available to students who demonstrate economic need or participate in designated programs, such as those affiliated with specific educational outreach initiatives.
Applicants interested in obtaining a fee waiver must usually provide documentation verifying their eligibility. This process helps maintain fairness while supporting access to higher education for diverse populations. It is recommended that prospective students review the university's admissions guidelines or contact the admissions office directly for detailed instructions on how to apply for a waiver.
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse offers an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with the opportunity to participate in Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs. This allows prospective students interested in military leadership and service to pursue ROTC training directly through the university.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse welcomes transfer students each term, including fall, winter, spring, and summer sessions. The institution accepts transfer credits from various sources, including CLEP (both subject and general exams) and DANTES exams, facilitating a flexible credit recognition process for incoming students. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to submit recommendations as part of their transfer application, which can support their admission prospects.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse offers a range of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experiences. The programs include faculty-led short-term trips, semester-long exchanges, and summer sessions, allowing students flexibility in duration and academic focus.
Faculty-led programs are typically organized around specific courses and provide immersive experiences in various countries, integrating cultural exposure with curricular goals. Exchange agreements with partner institutions abroad facilitate semester or full-year enrollments, where students can take courses relevant to their major while experiencing life in a different academic environment.
The university also supports summer study abroad options that focus on language acquisition, cultural studies, or discipline-specific topics. These shorter programs are tailored for students seeking an international experience without a lengthy time commitment.
Median composite ACT score
24Percent of students submitting ACT scores
33.03%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
1.12%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer