UWC selection criteria
A great education transforms lives. But - all over the world - too many people are missing out.
That’s why UWC does things differently. We do not think that a quality education should be reserved for those with wealth, or connections. We believe that those with the drive and compassion to change the world should be given the chance to shine.
So why do you have a selection process?
A UWC education is open to anyone. But it is not always suited to everyone.
Our curriculum can be rigorous and requires a lot of dedication. But it will encourage you to take on challenges that might seem beyond you, until you complete them.
Our places are limited. This is to ensure students get the individual attention they require, and to maintain a community which encourages students to mix, and learn from each other.
We want to ensure that people that receive a UWC education have the passion and commitment to complete it, and the motivation to apply it to improve the world.
How do you select students?
Our selection process varies from country to country. Each national committee has their own deadlines and tailors the process to reflect their own culture and community.
This means they may add their own criteria, such as minimum grade requirements.
But all UWC schools use five key standards for selecting students:
- Intellectual curiosity and motivation: You have a genuine urge to learn about the world around you. You can grasp a range of local and global issues, and have the ability to analyse them critically.
- Active commitment: You can question, confront and reflect on the values of yourself, your family and your community. You are able to act your beliefs responsibly, and with courage.
- Social competence: You can make contact with others, work together, and interact respectfully. You can express yourself in different situations, to different people, and achieve solutions together.
- Resilience, personal responsibility and integrity: You can look after yourself physically and emotionally during challenging situations. You are motivated to adhere to UWC’s principles, and have a sense of humility and a willingness to listen.
- Motivation: You have a passion and ability to contribute to UWC, and actively promote its values.
We’re looking for students who want to contribute to a better world, whatever their background.