License plate program supports need-based aid

At UW–Madison there are several ways you can help support students, but one easy way is to renew your license plates.

A specialty university license plate featuring Bucky helps support need-based aid at UW–Madison.

Need-based aid is always in high demand. When you purchase and annually renew your university license plate, there is an additional $20 that you donate to UW–Madison for your Bucky plates.

Through the Wisconsin License Plate Scholarship Program, UW–Madison has received about $1.8 million in program funds since 2000.

On average, an eligible student receives $2,500 for an academic year in need-based aid in the BANNER and FASTrack programs, administered by the Office of Student Financial Aid.

“This is a small but reliable source for aid since people usually keep their plates from year to year,” says John Dreger, assistant director for fund management at the Office of Student Financial Aid. Dreger has had his plates for about 15 years. “It’s an easy way to help out.”

“Every dollar donated goes directly to student financial aid,” says Dreger. Currently there are about 7,500 drivers who support students every year simply by renewing their specialty plates.

Anyone can join the cause by switching your plates when it comes time to renew, and being a graduate of UW–Madison is not required. These specialty plates are also customizable for a fee. The $20 scholarship donation is tax deductible.

Visit the Wisconsin DMV website for complete information on how to apply for these plates.

The Wisconsin License Plate Scholarship Program began in 1989 to fund scholarships for students attending a UW System four-year institution. Funds from the institution’s specialty plates support students attending each campus.

– By Hannah LeDuc