Wisconsin Intensive Summer Language Institutes
Aerial view of Downtown Madison looking from Bascom Hall, up State St., to the Capitol building.

Your quick guide to living and learning in Madison

Summer in Madison: Resources for In-Person WISLI Students

Planning to join us on campus this summer? WISLI offers select language courses in an in-person format. For Summer 2026, the following languages are scheduled to run in person at the Elementary level (all other levels and languages will run in a synchronous, online modality):

  • Indonesian
  • Thai
  • Vietnamese

On this page, you’ll find details on housing, campus resources, and ideas for making the most of your time in Madison.

Important: Please confirm you class enrollment before making housing or travel arrangements.

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Essentials for In-Person Students

  • Attendance: Daily participation is required for successful completion.
  • Technology: While classes are in person, students should bring a laptop or tablet for digital resources and assignments. As a UW-Madison student, you’ll also have access to several Computer Labs and technology equipment for check out.
  • Carefully review the Student Handbook for pertinent information and WISLI policies.

Campus Map & Class Locations

All in-person classes will be held on the UW-Madison Campus in Van Vleck Hall during Summer 2026. Students should plan to attend daily sessions during the intensive summer term.

Specific class locations will be sent to admitted students via email closer to the start of the summer term.

Travel Information

Madison is located in south-central Wisconsin and is accessible by car, bus, or plane.

By Car

  • ~1.5 hours from Milwaukee
  • ~2.5 hours from Chicago
  • ~4.5 hours from Minneapolis/St. Paul
  • ~2 hours from Dubuque

By Bus

  • Badger Bus: Daily routes between Milwaukee and Madison.
  • Van Galder Bus: Daily service between UW–Madison and Chicago’s O’Hare Airport and downtown.

By Plane

  • Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) offers regional and national flights.
  • Flying into Chicago or Milwaukee and taking a bus to Madison is often more economical than direct flights. Shop and compare.
  • Taxis and ride-share services are available at the airport; many hotels offer shuttle service.

Campus Parking

Student parking is limited. Most students walk, bike, or use public transit.

Campus Transit

  • Madison Metro Transit offers free summer bus passes for WISLI students.
  • Madison is a platinum-level bicycle community; consider BCycle memberships for shared bikes.

Housing

Southeast Asian Flagship Language Initiative (SEAFLI) Students: Housing is arranged automatically with your program coordinator.

Other In-Person Students: You are responsible for securing your own housing.

Please be aware that WISLI cannot be help responsible for any sublet or rental agreements made through any aforementioned resources.

Things to Do in Madison

Student Life in Madison is lively in summer! Here are some highlights:

  • Memorial Union Terrace: Live music, Lakeside Cinema, and Outdoor UW rentals (kayaks, paddleboards, etc.).
  • Union South: Marquee Cinema, Bowling, Billiards, and Rock Climbing
  • Events & Festivals: Dane County Farmers Market, Art Fair on the Square, Concerts on the Square, La Fete de Marquette.
  • Museums & Parks: Chazen Museum of Art, Henry Vilas Zoo, UW Arboretum, Devil’s Lake State Park.
  • For a full calendar of events in Madison, visit Isthmus.

Campus Resources