As parents, we strive to make the right choices for our children, and to give them the confidence to make their own.

Here are just a few ways in which a UWC school will offer them an education they can build on.

Is your child a UWC student?

Education is not just learning about what has been, and what is. It is also about realising what can be.

We offer a chance for your child to discover their path - and to help others along the way.

If your child is:

• Interested in the world, and the many different cultures and ideas within it
• Active in community projects, and focused on helping others
• Aware of local and global issues, and inspired to change things for the better
• Idealistic, and interested in setting up initiatives that have a strong social benefit
• Curious, and committed to following their dreams

...there’s a home - and a community - waiting for them here.

Why UWC?

UWC schools give young people the tools to thrive in the world, but also the belief it takes to change it.

Our challenging curriculum will develop their critical thinking, versatility and resilience. And our focus on idealism and action will give them the spark they need to address issues, build communities, and improve lives.

A diverse education

UWC is not just one school. It is a family of 18 schools on four continents, each with their own distinct identity.

Within each of those schools is a community of diverse students. Students from different backgrounds and different cultures. It is this diversity that pushes students to explore new perspectives, and develop new ways of understanding the world. By seeing people rather than nations, students learn to not only accept difference, but to celebrate it. This is the purpose that UWC was founded to fulfil during the Cold War era and it remains at the heart of what we do today. 

Education for all - Scholarships

Money should not be a barrier to a quality education. Thanks to our generous supporters,  the vast majority of our students receive full or partial financial assistance, depending on their needs. This ensures that tomorrow’s changemakers get access to quality education, regardless of their socio-economic background. 

Academic excellence

UWC schools follow the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), the most recognised global pre-university programme for students aged 16-19. While being at the core of academic life, the IBDP curriculum at UWC is also complemented by sessions on global issues and other activities fostering critical thinking and courageous engagement with the challenges our world faces. Our students will explore a broad range of skills and ideas that will prepare them for higher education, service and entrepreneurship, and help them discover which path is right for them.
Some UWC schools also cater to younger students, from as early as 18 months old. 

Support available

We are open to everyone with a spark. Students with disabilities are given all the support they need to excel. If your child faces specific physical challenges or learning difficulties, we can help them find a campus that is appropriate for them.

Life on campus

A UWC school is a place where young people are inspired, challenged and encouraged to go further. But every day takes place in a safe and welcoming environment, where they can discuss issues, report problems, and grow and learn without fear. Students live on-campus residences, forming close-knit communities, with the help and supervision of residence tutors (usually teachers and their own family). We offer a community of on-site staff that look after your child’s welfare, as well as ensure healthcare access.

During term times, students are immersed in experiences on and off-campus, and in breaks, they can either return to their families or absorb more of the local culture with a host family.

Applying to UWC

Students can apply either via their UWC national committee in their country of residency or citizenship, or through the UWC Global Selection Programme (GSP). 

To find out more about the application process and to figure out which of the two application routes is right for your child, visit our applications page.