Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin–Madison has been named one of Princeton Review’s 209 “Best Value Colleges.” The recognition is given to institutions that demonstrate significant commitments to affordability through generous financial aid and/or comparatively low tuition costs.

Princeton Review awarded UW–Madison a “Return on Investment” rating of 91 out of 99. This rating is based on over 40 data points covering academics, affordability, and career outcomes for graduates. Among public schools, UW was ranked No. 22 for best value, No. 7 for best financial aid, and No. 15 for best alumni networks.

“We have made it a priority to create access and opportunity for all students, including those with high financial need,” said Scott Owczarek, UW’s interim director of student financial aid. “By removing financial barriers to UW, we can keep top talent in Wisconsin.”

UW–Madison offers several programs aimed at reducing financial barriers for students. These include Bucky’s Tuition Promise, which guarantees scholarships and grants to cover tuition and segregated fees for Wisconsin resident students in need; Bucky’s Pell Pathway, providing full-need funding for Wisconsin resident students who qualify for Pell grants; and the Badger Promise, which assists Wisconsin transfer students.

The Princeton Review selected the 209 schools on its Best Value list based on data from surveys conducted at more than 650 colleges during the 2023-24 academic year. These surveys covered aspects such as academics, cost, financial aid, graduation rates, and student debt. Additionally, the company incorporated data from student surveys as well as PayScale.com’s surveys of alumni regarding their starting and mid-career salaries and job satisfaction.

Earlier this month, Money magazine rated UW–Madison 4.5 out of 5 stars on its 2024 list of Best Colleges. The magazine highlighted the university's below-average tuition among listed schools and strong early-career earnings.