A transformational partnership for UWC graduates.
The Davis UWC Scholars Program is the world’s largest privately funded international scholarship programme for undergraduates.
Since 2000, it has supported thousands of UWC alumni from over 160 countries to continue their education at leading colleges and universities in the United States.
Created by philanthropist Shelby Davis and international educator Phil Geier, the programme builds on the UWC experience. It removes financial barriers for talented students and brings greater global diversity to US campuses.
How it works
UWC students who complete the IBDP and are accepted to one of over 100 participating US institutions may be nominated as Davis UWC Scholars. The scholarship is needs-based and supports costs beyond what the university itself can offer.
There is no separate application. Students apply directly to the university. If eligible, the university nominates them for support through the programme.
“Before the Davis UWC Scholars Program, so many gifted, committed young people from diverse backgrounds had few opportunities to continue their education after UWC. This all changed with the advent of the programme.“
Lawrence Nodder
(former Rektor of UWC Robert Bosch College)
A global community of scholars and changemakers
Today, Davis UWC Scholars are present on more than 100 campuses across the United States – including all eight Ivy League universities, Stanford, MIT, Middlebury and Macalester.
Each year, over one thousand UWC graduates join the programme. In total, more than 14,700 alumni have received support, often unlocking additional financial aid from their universities. Many go on to lead work in global health, climate science, international relations, journalism and education.
“The Davis UWC scholarship allowed me to study in a place where I could explore my passion for marine biology while also considering its relevance to society… That ability to think critically and globally remains central to my work today.”
Nina Overgaard Therkildsen
(Denmark, UWC Red Cross Nordic)
A legacy of opportunity
The Davis UWC Scholars Program has transformed what’s possible for generations of UWC graduates. It has extended the mission of UWC well beyond school – helping young people shape more peaceful, sustainable and inclusive societies around the world.
“The Davis UWC Scholars Program gave me the opportunity to study in an environment that challenged my perspective and deepened my understanding of global health issues. Today, my work with the World Health Organisation focuses on ensuring that healthcare planning reaches vulnerable and marginalised communities.“
Francis Poitier
(Bahamas, Pearson College UWC)