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Applying via the UWC International Application Pathway (IAP)
If you’re aged 15-18 and are interested in studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or Career-related Programme (IBCP)* at a UWC school or college, you may be eligible to apply through the International Application Pathway (IAP).
UWC schools and colleges make a limited number of IAP places available each year, based on their plans and available financial support funds.
*While all UWC schools and colleges teach the IBDP, the IBCP is currently only available at Pearson College UWC and UWC Maastricht.
Is the IAP the right route for me?
The IAP is the route for you if you meet all of the following criteria:
- You are not able to pay full fees through the Global Selection Programme** and expect to need financial support.
- You are not able to apply through a UWC national committee (based on nationality or residency).
- You have not already submitted an application to study at UWC through another route for Entry 2026.
- You meet the age criteria for studying the International Baccalaureate DP/CP at UWC (being 16-19 years old at the time of enrolment – August 2026 (January 2027 for Waterford Kamhlaba UWC Southern Africa).
**If your family can afford full fees, you should consider applying through the Global Selection Programme.
Please note that there are a limited number of IAP places and a limited amount of financial support available each year, so we encourage you to meet all the deadlines and, assuming you are eligible, to submit your application as soon as possible.
Application timeline
Applications for entry in 2026 are open until 15 January 2026.
Applying via the IAP
Before you begin your application, you will need to confirm your eligibility by completing a short form. If you meet all the eligibility criteria, we will send you a link to the application form, which you will need to complete via one of our online platforms.
START IAP APPLICATIONWhat happens after I apply?
Once you submit your application:
- A volunteer selection committee will review it. Please be patient – timelines may vary depending on application volume and reviewer availability.
If your application progresses:
- You will be invited to attend an online selection weekend, which is a required part of the process. This includes group activities, a project presentation and an interview.
- Selection days take place in English via Zoom. You do not need to be a native English speaker, but you must have access to a stable internet connection and a camera-enabled device.
- If you progress to the next selection stage, we will begin a Financial Needs Assessment (FNA) process to understand your family’s financial situation, and determine what financial support you might be eligible to receive. Your parent(s)/guardian(s) will need to share relevant financial information and supporting documents with us, which we will use to match you to a particular school or college.
- The final selection stage will consist of two more interviews on 7 and/or 8 February 2026.
If successful:
- You will be nominated to a particular school or college, based on visa and travel restrictions (if applicable) and on the results of your FNA.
- You may be invited to a follow-up interview with the school’s Admissions Director or faculty.
- Once your nomination has been accepted by a UWC school or college, they will begin your enrolment process.