UWC short courses are immersive, short, intensive, experiential programmes – most commonly designed for young people aged 13-20.
Each course is a unique opportunity to explore UWC’s mission and values while engaging with diverse peers around global and local challenges.
Courses distil the essence of a UWC education into one to five weeks of immersive learning.
Without the constraints of a formal academic curriculum, participants explore themes such as:
Peace, power and conflict resolution
Leadership for global impact
Social entrepreneurship and innovation
Environmental sustainability
Identity, diversity and inclusion
Courses are hosted around the world, in different languages, with formats that reflect the local context and priorities.
Some focus on themes like climate justice or youth leadership. Others centre on personal development, identity or intercultural dialogue. What they all share is a commitment to learning through community, collaboration and critical engagement. Participants leave with fresh perspectives, stronger leadership skills and lasting connections.
What participants gain
Confidence and transformation
90% of participants each year say they would recommend UWC short courses to others.
“This short course gave me the confidence to pursue my passion for social justice and global change.”
Anonymous participant,
Building and Crossing Bridges (UWC Belgium), 2023
Skills for leadership
In 2024, 89% of participants reported significant improvement in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
“I gained leadership skills I never thought I had—it’s helped me make a bigger impact at school and in my community.”
Anonymous participant,
UWC ISAK Japan Summer School, 2022
A global alumni network
Graduates become part of the UWC alumni community – over 85,000 strong and active worldwide.
“Being part of the UWC Short Course was an eye-opening experience, and becoming a UWC alumni has connected me to a global network of changemakers who are all committed to making the world a better place.”
Anonymous participant,
Global Leadership Forum 2023 (UWC USA, online)
Community impact
UWC short course alumni often go on to launch grassroots initiatives in areas like intercultural understanding, youth empowerment and climate action – putting their learning into practice.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that makes you think and challenges you to grow, while connecting with amazing individuals.”
Anonymous participant,
Diversity in Action (UWC Cyprus), 2022
Families frequently notice a transformation too:
“My daughter has grown in maturity and confidence in just two weeks. She now has the tools to action change and realises that this can be done on a small scale by an individual and potentially have a significant impact.”
Parent,
Action x Change (UWC Spain)
Tracking our impact
Since 2018, UWC short courses have followed a centralised evaluation framework to monitor outcomes and strengthen impact.
Read our 2024 Short Courses Annual ReportHow to apply
Applications for UWC short courses are managed individually by course organisers. You can explore upcoming opportunities, check eligibility and apply directly through the course listings. Most courses welcome applications from all nationalities. Some have regional focus or language requirements. Each one lists its own application process, timeline and selection criteria.
View current short courses