University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a public research university offering a broad range of graduate programmes with a moderate published CGPA floor, located in Wisconsin’s largest city.

Institution size
Large
Min. CGPA floor
2.75
Tuition / yr
$18k–$23k
Type
Public research university
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States |
| Type | Public research university |
| Institution size | Large |
| Rankings | Holds R1 (very high research activity) Carnegie Classification; not typically featured in the QS/THE global top 800. |
| Notable feature | Research university status within the University of Wisconsin system |
| Official website | uwm.edu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.75
- Requirement varies somewhat by department
- Full application reviewed alongside the CGPA floor
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Graduate tuition (international) | $18k–$23k per year |
| Living costs (Milwaukee) | Moderate; below Chicago and the US coasts |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Business Administration
- Engineering
- Nursing
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Social Work
- Public Health
- Education
- Information Studies
This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Offered
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- Graduate assistantships available in select research-focused departments
- International merit scholarships reviewed at time of admission
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
UW-Milwaukee offers genuine research university standing within the respected University of Wisconsin system, at a meaningfully lower entry bar and cost than the system’s flagship Madison campus.
Campus Life
Milwaukee offers moderate living costs relative to Chicago and the US coasts, with a Great Lakes regional job market for graduates.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | Fall (August/September) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; Spring (January) intake is offered by many universities with more limited programme choice. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70-90 is typical for graduate admission, varying by programme. |
| Student visa type | F-1 Student Visa |
| Post-study work options | Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of post-study work authorisation, extendable to 36 months for STEM-designated degrees. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: uwm.edu
Compare University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.