Make no mistake – choosing a school is a big decision. When you hope your education will set you on a path to a fulfilled and meaningful life of making a difference in the world, this decision can feel even more important.

So you need to clarify your options, think about what's standing between you and a decision, and then work your way through a process.

If you want an education that prepares you to be a change-maker, we believe UWC (United World Colleges) offers the experience you're looking for.

You'll be stretched academically as you develop your ability to build relationships with people from radically different backgrounds to yours. You'll serve others as you pursue your dreams, and have adventures you'll be talking about for years to come.

Still unsure about applying? Here are three ways to reach a decision you can be confident in.  

Take your time - but set yourself a deadline

There are a limited number of places available at UWC schools each year. So take the time you need to think about this important choice, but we encourage you to submit your application sooner rather than later. 

Someone else could be completing their application as you read this post, so set yourself a deadline to make sure you keep moving the process forward.

We'll give you other deadlines along the way for different stages in the process. But you need to do that first part so the other stages can happen.

Get a second opinion – or a third one

Take some time to look through our selection criteria. Does this sound like we're describing someone like you? Is this the kind of student you want to be?

We recommend getting input from people you know well. Talk to your parents, a close friend, or a current school teacher. Ask them to read through the criteria or check out the UWC website. Then ask them for an honest opinion.

This should help you decide if you and UWC are a good fit.

Write your application – it will clarify your thinking

Sometimes the process of writing an application – thinking through the questions you're being asked and deciding if you feel confident and passionate about your answers – helps you decide what you really want.

For instance, our Global Selection Programme application form includes questions asking you if you take part in cultural activities, sports, or a youth club, and what those experiences have been like for you. Other questions ask you to consider what changes you would make to your education experience if you were to become headteacher of your school, and how you would contribute to the UWC mission. These sorts of questions will help give you an idea of the types of students UWC is right for. 

Remember, completing an application does not mean you have made a final decision. But it's more than likely that by the time you're ready to hit the send button, you'll know if this is something you really want to do.

You can find out everything else you need to know, including details about different routes to apply to UWC by visiting our website or emailing info@uwcio.uwc.org.

You have a vision for the life you want to lead. We want to nurture that vision and help you develop the life skills you need to make it a reality.

So if you can't think of a good reason to delay your application any longer, why not start right now?