How to give your UWC application your best shot?

Applying to study at a UWC school is the first step in a unique and potentially life-changing experience – not only for you, but also for the people and communities you will engage with during and after your time at UWC.  

All UWC schools offer the IB Diploma Programme, but we are unlike other schools. We are deliberately diverse. Our students come from over 150 countries and from a wide range of backgrounds and beliefs. What we share is a common purpose: to work towards peace and a sustainable future.

Our application process is designed to help you share your authentic self. There is not a single “type” of UWC student – we want to understand what makes you a strong fit for this experience and our shared mission. 

Here are five tips to help strengthen your application:

1. Start early

Places at UWC schools are limited and applications may close once capacity is reached. Submitting your form early increases your chances of being considered – and gives you more time to focus on quality. Complete your application now.

2. Keep your options open

For Global Selection Programme applicants:

You can express a preference for up to four UWC schools. As places are limited at each one, selecting more than one preference can increase your chances. 

For UWC national committee and International Application Pathway applicants:

You cannot choose which school to apply to, but you may be able to indicate your order of preference. 

Learn more about the different application routes. 

3. Be yourself

We are looking for students who are committed, reflective and ready for challenges. Show us your true self – your ideas, interests and perspective. There is no need to guess what we want to hear. We may ask you about your favourite books, how you approach conflict or what you would change if you were a headteacher for a week.

4. Share your interests and passions

Your hobbies, interests and activities help show who you are – and what matters to you. Tell us how you spend your time, what motivates you and how your interests have shaped your growth. 

For example, you might describe your involvement in music, sport, community groups or activism – and explain why it is meaningful to you. 

Read our advice on sharing your passions in your application. 

5. Show your connection to the UWC mission 

This is at the heart of your application. We want to know why you are drawn to UWC and how you hope to contribute. 

You may be asked about the biggest social problem in your community and how you would work to solve it. You could also be asked how you would advance the UWC mission through your everyday actions. We encourage you to explore our mission, values and impact stories. Reflect on your own experiences and explain how you will help build a more peaceful and sustainable future – at UWC and beyond.

Most importantly: get your application in early. We look forward to getting to know the real you.