Interested in starting a UWC school or college? Contact UWC International
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UWC is a global movement that makes education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.
Our schools and colleges offer a transformative education that combines academic excellence with experiential learning, empowering young people to realise that change is possible and that they can help make it happen.
UWC is committed to expanding access to this model, especially in underserved regions.
We welcome interest from:
- Existing institutions that wish to join the UWC movement and
- Individuals or groups developing new school concepts inspired by UWC’s educational approach
Two UWC models
UWC offers two distinct school models – both designed to deliver our mission through a transformative learning experience:
- UWC colleges: These focus on the final two years of secondary education and offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) to students from around the world.
- UWC schools: These offer a broader programme beyond the final two years of the IBDP or IBCP. Some begin in kindergarten or early secondary years; others operate three-year programmes with a pre-IBDP year. Regardless of structure, IBDP/IBCP students always form the largest cohort, ensuring space for a diverse, mission-aligned intake.
In both models, students for the IBDP or IBCP are selected through UWC’s global network of national committees.
What defines a UWC school or college?
To become part of the UWC movement, a school or college must align with our mission and education model. This includes:
- Mission-driven learning: Academic study is integrated with experiential learning, social impact, service and student-led activities that respond to local and global issues.
- Deliberate diversity: Students are selected based on promise, not financial background. Needs-based scholarships are available through UWC’s national committees.
- Sustainable foundations: New UWC schools are independent, non-profit institutions. Founders must establish strong governance structures and a path to long-term financial sustainability, including an endowment.
How to join the UWC movement
Joining the UWC movement is a purposeful journey. New schools or colleges go through a structured, multi-stage process to ensure they are mission-aligned, financially sustainable and able to contribute meaningfully to the wider movement.
The application process has five formal stages and typically takes two to six years, depending on factors such as fundraising, campus development, curriculum planning, staff recruitment and governance.
While UWC International does not fund, build or run schools, we offer strategic guidance throughout the process.