WISLI is designed as a college-level intensive language program intended for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as lifelong adult learners. Alongside these learners, highly motivated high school juniors and seniors – as of fall 2026 – may be admitted to participate in WISLI for online courses only.
Application
High school applicants may be subject to additional procedures to demonstrate their potential to succeed in a college-level intensive course, and applications can take several weeks to process. For this reason, students are strongly encouraged to apply early. As part of the application, students must list a reference (e.g., teacher, counselor, or another school official). The summer language institute will contact this reference directly for either a letter or a phone call recommendation.
Per UW–Madison policy and FERPA regulations, all application materials must be prepared and submitted personally by the student.
Communication
All communications with the summer language institute’s office must also come directly from the student. WISLI cannot communicate with a parent or guardian regarding a student’s interest or status in the program.