Whether this is your first or last semester, you likely have questions or need a refresher about how to prepare for your course(s). This page includes details about important dates, deadlines, and steps you can take to successfully complete the upcoming semester at UW-Madison Online.
You will learn about:
- Steps to take before classes begin
- Important deadlines during the first week
- Resources and tools to help you prepare for midterms
- What to do at the end of the session/semester
You can come back to this page throughout your first semester (or any semester) to make sure you have completed all items.
If you are looking for information that is not listed here, feel free to contact your Academic & Career Advisor!
Before classes begin checklist
Do you have everything in place for the first week of class? Review the items on this checklist to help you prepare for your course(s).
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Log in to MyUW
MyUW, the centralized hub where the campus community can conduct university business, has nearly 150 apps, or Widgets, to build your personal MyUW homepage with targeted tools you need to get things done. It is a portal that provides you with a suite of integrated information and resources that are tailored to you.
This is a highly customizable portal for you to use during your time at UW–Madison. After logging in to MyUW, browse the menu of apps and create your own list of favorites. To access MyUW, follow the instructions below:
- Navigate to my.wisc.edu
- Enter your NetID (this is what comes before the @ in your wiscmail address) and password
- You will need to use the Duo app to verify your identity
- Here you will find lots of useful widgets for your time at UW
- Do some exploring and see what you can find!
Check your UW-Madison email
Now that you are a UW-Madison student, your UW-Madison email account (wisc.edu email) will be used for all university-related communications. You will want to plan to check this email daily, especially when classes are in session. You will receive important updates about enrollment, tuition, advising, and other important announcements. To access your email, follow the instructions below:
- Log into MyUW
- Select the email widget (the envelope icon)
- You can also access your email by going to mail.wisc.edu or downloading Microsoft Outlook on your desktop
Make note of important dates
We know that you are busy and likely have a lot of dates to keep track of. As a student, it is important to also keep track and make note of dates and deadlines related to enrollment, tuition, and coursework. To view dates and deadlines specific to UW-Madison Online, please visit the Course Dates & Deadlines webpage.
You can also view additional dates and deadlines on the Office of Registrar’s Session Dates webpage. Here, you can select the appropriate term under “term drop-down” and look for the specific session code(s) for your course(s). You can find these session codes in Course Search and Enroll when looking at a specific course.
Log in to Canvas
It is very important that you attend the first day of class. All UW-Madison Online courses will be available in the learning management system (LMS), Canvas. We strongly recommend logging into Canvas a day or two before classes begin (or as soon as the course is available) to view information such as the course syllabus, upcoming assignments, and other course-related materials. To access Canvas, follow the instructions below:
- Log into MyUW
- Select the Canvas widget (the sun dial icon)
- You can also access Canvas by going to canvas.wisc.edu
- Check the page for each of your courses and don’t forget to stop by our UW-Madison Online Student Community!
Accommodation options
We consider disability as an integral part of the diversity at UW-Madison and strive to provide an accessible and inclusive educational experience for all students. We acknowledge that disability affects a significant number of individuals and are committed to ensuring that all students have equal access to educational resources and opportunities.
To get information about accommodations, please visit the webpage of the McBurney Disability Resource Center. Even if you are not sure if you require accommodations, we suggest getting in touch with their office. The McBurney consultants and staff are available from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
Additionally, you can reach out to their office by:
- Email: mcburney@studentlife.wisc.edu
- Phone: (608) 263-2741
- Text: (608) 225-7956
If you have any questions or concerns regarding accessibility, you can also talk to your Academic/Career advisor.
Review textbook information
It is important to review all required materials, including textbooks (which may be electronic or e-textbooks), prior to the first day of class to support student success. All textbook information should be included in your course syllabi and available on the first day of class.
Check your syllabus for information on how to gain access to required materials. Your syllabus will also guide you if there is a different process, like purchasing materials. You can also review textbook and other course materials by following the instructions below:
- Navigate to Course Search and Enroll (enroll.wisc.edu)
- Click on the ‘Courses’ tab or
- Click on ‘My Courses’
- Click each course to expand
- Select your section (if applicable)
- Click the box for ‘Textbook & other materials’
- For more information, visit registrar.wisc.edu/textbook-information/
Make tuition payment arrangements
Paying for your education is an important step in ensuring degree progress and completion. For all information related to tuition and payments, please visit the Bursar’s Office website. You can learn about additional payment information, including Badger Pay (installment plan), and how to read your bill and refunds as well.
For detailed information about payment options, visit the Bursar’s Office Payment Methods webpage.
Review class schedule in Student Center
We suggest reviewing your class schedule before the semester begins, even if your classes are online, to ensure enrollment in all planned courses. You can also view the status of any class(es) you may have been waitlisted for. To review your class schedule, follow the instructions below:
- Navigate to Course Search and Enroll (enroll.wisc.edu)
- Click on the ‘Courses’ tab or
- Click on ‘My Courses’
- Click the blue ‘View schedule’ box at the bottom of the panel
First week of classes checklist
Many important dates and deadlines occur within the first week of classes. Review the items on this checklist to help you take appropriate action.
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Waitlists
- You will be notified via email if you rise to the top of a waitlist
- You will have 24-48 hours to accept your seat
- Check your wisc.edu email daily, around the same time (ex: 9:00 a.m.)
- Navigate to Course Search & Enroll and follow the enrollment instructions you received in the email to enroll in the course
- Typically, you will be provided a class number
- Under My Courses, click “Add by class number” to find the class
Course enrollment
We know students sometimes need to change their class schedule during the first week. We highly recommend reaching out to your Academic/Career advisor before making any changes. Be sure to also reference UW-Madison Online Course Dates and Deadlines. To review your current schedule or modify it, follow the steps below:
- Navigate to Course Search & Enroll
- Click ‘My Courses’ at the top of the page
- Click ‘Enrolled’ on the left-hand side of the page
- If a course does not appear, you are likely not enrolled in a course
- If you believe you should be enrolled in a course and it does not appear, please contact your Academic/Career advisor immediately
- To enroll in an additional course:
- Search for the course under ‘My Courses’
- Fit it into your current schedule within ‘Scheduler’
- Save your schedule, and Enroll!
- To swap courses:
- Instead of hitting enroll, select the 3 vertical dots to the right of the Enroll button
- Select the course you want to drop and the course you want to add. Voila!
- Review the next checklist item to learn about dropping a course
Dropping a class
We know students sometimes need to change their class schedule during the first week. We highly recommend reaching out to your Academic/Career advisor before making any changes. Be sure to also reference UW-Madison Online Course Dates and Deadlines. To drop or withdraw from courses, follow the instructions below:
- Navigate to Course Search & Enroll
- Click ‘My Courses’ at the top of the page
- Click ‘Enrolled’ on the left-hand side of the page
- Select the box next to the course you want to drop
- Select ‘Drop’ at the top of the page
Attend first day of class
Attending the first day of any course you are enrolled in, even if it’s online, is crucial. Although attendance is not monitored in the same way as in-person classes, your instructor(s) and classmates are eager to meet you and excited about what’s to come in the upcoming weeks. So, make sure to show up and be present! To access your course(s), follow the instructions below:
- Log into MyUW
- Select the Canvas widget (the sun dial icon)
- You can also access Canvas by going to canvas.wisc.edu
- Review the syllabus for each course and make note of important dates and deadlines
- If you have questions about any item in the syllabus, we encourage you to reach out to your instructor. When in doubt, ask questions!
Review academic and other resources
As a student, you have access to a wide range of offices and departments that can support you during your academic journey. It’s highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the different resources available for academics, career development, wellness, and university services. Additionally, your specific course(s) may offer unique resources that can be helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask your instructor about them. You can also ask your Academic/Career advisor about resources. We are here to help!
To view the resources available to you, navigate to the different webpages below:
Ask questions!
We are thrilled to have you as a part of the UW-Madison community and look forward to working together on this journey. Whether this is your first semester or your final one, please do not hesitate to ask any questions that may come up. Our instructors and staff are eager to assist you every step of the way, and even after you finish your studies!
As a valued member of the UW-Madison community, we encourage you to ask any questions that will help you fully engage in your Wisconsin Experience Online. We are here to support and empower you throughout your time with us.
Midterm checklist
Congratulations on making it to the midpoint of your course(s)! Review the items on this checklist to help you reflect on your progress, and prepare for the last half of your course(s).
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Check out academic support services
As a student, you have access to a wide range of offices and departments that can support you during your academic journey. It’s highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the different resources available for academics, career development, wellness, and university services. At this time, you may want to focus specifically on academics.
Keep in mind that your specific course(s) may offer unique resources that can be helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask your instructor about them. You can also ask your Academic/Career advisor about resources. We are here to help!
To view the resources available to you, navigate to the different webpages below:
Utilize online office hours
Do you have questions about how you’re doing in a course? Are you interested in learning about unique resources that may be available for your course(s)? Do you have a specific question about an assignment or upcoming exam? Office hours are a great option for you to get these questions answered and more!
Office hours are time blocks when you can meet with your instructors virtually to discuss the material presented in class or other related questions and interests. Most instructors list their office hours in the syllabus or on the Canvas course webpage. Some office hours are by appointment only, so be sure to review how to utilize office hours for each course.
To make the most of your time with your instructor during office hours, you should:
- Try to identify specific questions or concepts you would like assistance with during the office hours
- Expect instructors to ask questions to gain clarity
- If possible, avoid waiting until the day before the exam or the day before an assignment is due to seek assistance
- Use additional resources as well, such as study groups and connecting with peers
If you are unsure about how to access office hours or need assistance with accessing other academic resources, please connect with your Academic/Career advisor.
Connect with your peers
We understand that success is often closely linked to a sense of connection and belonging. Even though you’re pursuing your classes online, it remains crucial for you to experience a strong sense of connection and support throughout your journey as a student.
To facilitate this, we have established the UW-Madison Online Student Community as a dedicated platform. Here, you can engage with your program and fellow students, seek answers to your questions, view resources, and enhance your overall Wisconsin Experience while pursuing your education.
In addition to the UW-Madison Online Student Community, we strongly encourage you to establish connections within your course(s). If you’d like to explore strategies for building these connections, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Academic/Career advisor for guidance.
Prepare for exams
Midterm exams are a pivotal moment in your college journey, and effective preparation is key to success. Here are some key action items to help you better prepare.
- Review Class Notes: Go through your class notes thoroughly to ensure a solid understanding of the course material
- Textbook and Supplementary Materials: Supplement your notes by revisiting your textbook and any additional reading and posted materials
- Establish a Study Schedule: Create a study schedule to manage your time wisely, allowing for focused study sessions and breaks
- Seek out Study Groups: Collaborate with peers in study groups to discuss concepts, clarify points, and reinforce your learning
- Consult Instructors or TAs: Don’t hesitate to seek clarification from your professors or teaching assistants if you’re struggling with specific topics
- Ask Your Classmates: Pose a course question in the UW-Madison Online Student Community discussion forum or in your course discussion sections
- Prioritize Self-Care: Maintain your physical and mental well-being through proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate rest (all-nighters can be counterproductive to your success!)
- Get Organized: Keep your study materials organized, and use tools like flashcards or study aids to enhance retention
- Utilize Academic Support Services & Resources: Take advantage of the academic support services available to you
- Exude Confidence: Finally, approach your midterm exams with confidence, knowing that your diligent preparation will pay off
Good luck- you got this!
Review health & wellness resources
Your journey as a UW-Madison Online student is not just about academics; it’s also about your well-being. We want to empower you to be your best self, both in and out of the classroom. That’s why we encourage you to explore and utilize the health and wellness resources available to you.
From virtual counseling services to fitness classes, mindfulness workshops, and podcasts, UW-Madison offers a wealth of resources to support your physical and mental health. These resources are designed to help you manage stress, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and find balance in your busy life.
Remember, your well-being is a crucial part of your overall success as a student. So, don’t hesitate to take advantage of these valuable tools and services. If you need additional support or do not see a resource listed that you would like access to, please connect with your Academic/Career advisor.
Solidify plan for next semester enrollment
Having a solid academic plan is an important part of being a successful student. It is important to note that registration for the next semester will begin while you are still in classes. You can prepare for upcoming enrollment by meeting with your Academic/Career advisor for next semester or long-term planning. We encourage you to schedule an appointment to meet with your advisor 2-4 weeks in advance of your enrollment appointment date.
Additionally, don’t forget to review and complete the items on the Course Enrollment & Planning webpage for a step-by-step guide to a seamless registration experience.
End of classes checklist
We know the end of classes can be a busy time for final projects, exams, and just trying to catch a breath! Review the items on this checklist to help you get across the finish line successfully and prepare for your next course(s).
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Final exams & projects
As the semester nears its end, it’s time to gear up for those final exams. Don’t stress – with some smart strategies and dedication, you’ll ace your tests and finish strong. Start by creating a study schedule, breaking down your materials into manageable chunks.
Utilize study groups, seek out your instructor’s guidance, and make use of practice exams. Prioritize sleep, eat well, and stay active to keep your mind sharp. Remember, it’s not about how much time you spend studying, but how effectively you use that time. Believe in yourself, stay positive, and you’ll tackle those finals with confidence and success! Good luck!
Review academic support services
As a student, you have access to a wide range of offices and departments that can support you during your academic journey. It’s highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the different resources available for academics, career development, wellness, and university services. At this time, you may want to focus specifically on academics.
Keep in mind that your specific course(s) may offer unique resources that can be helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask your instructor about them. You can also ask your Academic/Career advisor about resources. We are here to help!
To view the resources available to you, navigate to the different webpages below:
Complete course evaluations
All students are strongly encouraged to complete a course evaluation for each course they are enrolled in. If you have not already received information about course evaluations, please be on the lookout for this via email. We understand that courses are a substantial part of the overall online student experience, and feedback (both positive and constructive) is greatly valued.
Please note that these evaluations are separate from the UW-Madison Online Student Experience survey that UW-Madison Online manages.
Make additional payment arrangements (if needed)
Have you made payment arrangements for your classes? Be sure to do so as soon as possible to avoid any holds on your account. Check out important information related to deadlines and payment options on the University Bursar’s website.
For financial aid inquiries, connect with your academic/career advisor or refer to the financial aid section on the University Resources webpage.
Enroll in future courses
Enrollment for the upcoming term is either beginning or already in progress. Keep an eye on your email for crucial updates from our office concerning future term enrollment. Enrollment appointments are distributed by the Office of the Registrar, and you can also access appointment details for your reference.
Remember to enroll in courses as soon as your enrollment date approaches! Connect with your academic/career advisor soon to discuss course options.