Student Affairs and the Division of Enrollment Management (DEM), with support from the Graduate School, today released findings and recommendations from UW–Madison’s first comprehensive Basic Needs Survey. The survey was conducted in spring 2025 to better understand the experiences, barriers, and factors associated with basic needs access among UW–Madison students. Questions addressed food security, housing stability, financial resources, and more.
“There is growing evidence that basic needs insecurity, from food to housing, is negatively affecting college students nationwide, including their well-being and ability to succeed academically,” said Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Lori Reesor. “We knew it was important for us to get reliable data among our students so we can ensure our support systems are truly meeting students where they are.”
A random sample of 7,500 students — including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students — was selected to participate in the Basic Needs Survey, yielding a 27% response rate.
Read the full article and report online.