Welcome to the International Friendship Center, a non-profit organization committed to facilitating connections among UW-Madison international students and the global community. Our mission is to foster new friendships, enhance English proficiency, and provide unique experiences in the United States. Our classes, both online and in-person, offer a secure and welcoming environment for language practice, emphasizing the development of enduring relationships outside the classroom setting. From engaging in discussions on U.S. history to enjoying movie nights, our diverse range of classes caters to a wide array of interests.
Discover Madison, Wisconsin, and the U.S. in a whole new light through our monthly events, which include traditional summer barbecues, thrilling snow sledding excursions, and cultural exchanges with local host families. Our primary objective is to create a warm and enriching community for international visitors, providing opportunities to establish lifelong bonds with both Americans and fellow internationals. As advocates for cultural exchange, we are dedicated to ensuring that everyone feels at home and gains authentic insights into American life.
Originally founded in 1986 as a church ministry and later transitioning into an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2021, the International Friendship Center relies on the generous support of partners to sustain its vital work. With an executive director overseeing classes and events, and a committed board of directors, we are steadfast in our commitment to delivering free language instruction and cultural encounters that enrich the lives of international students and the wider Madison community.
