Welcome to Campus
SOAR (Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration)
SOAR is your orientation to UW–Madison and is where you enroll for your first semester of classes. It introduces you to our campus and the many great resources available to you. While you’re here, you and your parents/guests are encouraged to stay in the residence halls for SOAR Housing, to get the full campus experience.
Wisconsin Welcome
Meet tons of new friends and find your place on campus in your first 45 days on campus through Wisconsin Welcome. These fun events and programs hosted by the Center for the First-Year Experience will help you discover the great things about being a Badger.
Move-In
University Housing works hard to take the stress out of move-in and welcome you to campus. In the summer, our Moving & Breaks page gives you all the details for a smooth move-in experience, as well as information you’ll need throughout the year about break periods and holidays.
Getting Around Madison
Whether you’re from another country, another state, or within Wisconsin, there are many options for getting to Madison. And once you’re here, there are plenty of ways to get around campus and the city.
- UW–Madison campus map: an interactive map that includes building details and live transportation data
- Madison Metro bus service: free routes around campus and bus passes for students that give unlimited bus access throughout Madison
- B-Cycle: urban bicycle sharing program with special rates for UW-Madison students
- Taxi services: Madison Taxi and Union Cab taxi companies serving the Madison area
- UW–Madison Transportation Services: information on transportation and parking on the UW-Madison campus
The Bucky List
Bucket lists? Too outdated and boring. This is The Bucky List. Now that you’ve made it to Madison, it’s time to experience it.
Resident Guide
Welcome to your home away from home in University Residence Halls. A place to #LiveWithBucky, meet people and make memories that will last forever. The Current Resident Guide provides you with easy icons and quick links to find what you are looking for easily.