About UWC short courses
What Are UWC short Courses?
Since 1987, UWC short courses have empowered young people worldwide to experience the transformative power of a UWC education. These intensive programmes, available in in-person, online, or hybrid formats, reflect UWC’s core mission: to unite people, nations, and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.
Spanning approximately 200 short courses and 7,000+ participants since 1987, UWC Short Courses are rooted in experiential learning and designed for people aged 5 to 99 years old. Each course offers participants the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of peers, explore pressing local and global challenges, develop transferable changemaking skills, and build communities that last a lifetime.
Through tailored themes and creative methods like workshops, project-learning, outdoor learning, simulations, service opportunities, and team-building, participants are empowered to explore their passions, develop practical solutions and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.
Who organises UWC short courses?
UWC Short Courses are organised by UWC national committees, UWC schools and colleges, alumni, current staff and students, and external partner organisations. Anyone with a brave idea aligned with the UWC mission and values can apply to receive UWC endorsement to organise an official UWC Short Course.
Courses are hosted locally, regionally, or internationally, in up to 30 locations worldwide each year. Online formats ensure even greater accessibility, allowing UWC short courses to reach participants in regions where in-person opportunities are limited.
Each graduate of a UWC Short Course officially becomes part of the UWC alumni network of 85,000+ changemakers, reinforcing their connection to a global community committed to building a better future.
A framework for impact
All UWC Short Courses align with the UWC short course framework, reflecting five of the six core elements of the UWC educational model:
- Social Awareness: Engage with critical global and local issues.
- Personal Development: Discover and strengthen personal values and leadership styles.
- Outdoor Learning: Connect with nature and develop resilience.
- Active Participation: Foster hands-on, meaningful collaboration.
- Service: Contribute positively to communities.
These elements embody UWC’s commitment to experiential education and the UWC Strategy 2030 goal of making UWC opportunities accessible to more young people worldwide.
Key facts about UWC short courses
| Duration: | five to 30+ consecutive days, or spread over weeks/months. |
| Formats: | In-person, online, or hybrid. |
| Participants: | five-99 years old from all backgrounds, selected through open applications, direct sponsorship, or National Committee referrals. |
| Locations: | Courses span local, national, and international venues. |
| Languages: | Delivered in English, local languages, or bilingual formats. |
| Costs: | Courses range from fully subsidised to USD 5,000. Scholarships are available, with at least 20% of participants receiving financial support. |
How to apply
Explore this year’s courses and find the one that speaks to you. Check out course themes, locations, and eligibility criteria. Applications typically open in mid-January — join a growing movement of young people changing the world, one short course at a time.