Eligibility CriteriaUWC logo

Eligibility Criteria

We are looking for motivated and passionate young individuals who are eager to contribute to a diverse and dynamic learning environment.

To apply through our UWC national committee, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Age requirement

Applicants must be 16 and or 17 at the time of enrolment. This typically aligns with students entering the final two years of secondary education, but specific age requirements may vary by UWC school or college.

2. Educational background

England and Wales: To be considered for a place at a UWC through the National Committee of Great Britain, you would generally apply while you are in (or about to enter) your last year of GCSEs or your first year of AS-Levels (or equivalent). 

Scotland: To be considered for a place at a UWC through the National Committee of Great Britain, you would generally apply while you are in (or about to enter) your fourth or fifth year of high school (S4 or S5) – sitting either National 4, National 5 or Scottish Higher courses. 

A strong academic record is important, but we also value a demonstrated commitment to learning beyond the classroom.

If you have skipped a year at school or are in other unusual circumstances, please contact us to confirm.

3. Residency and nationality

Candidates who apply to UWC through UWC Great Britain will be representing Great Britain at United World Colleges across the world. 

Therefore, to apply through us, you must have lived in the UK for at least three years prior to applying or hold a British passport. You are eligible if you are British, but you live overseas, though you may wish to contact the National Committee of the country you are resident in as well. You must be able to provide a British passport or other proof of British citizenship.

If you are unsure if you should apply via a different UWC national committee, please contact us for clarification.

4. Personal qualities and values

While academic excellence is important, UWC seeks students who exhibit:

The resilience and adaptability needed for an international and rigorous residential educational experience.

5. Language requirements

UWC schools and colleges primarily use English as the language of instruction. While fluency is not required at the time of application, applicants are advised to attain a basic proficiency in English and demonstrate a willingness to improve their language skills.

Ready to Apply? If you meet the above criteria and are excited about the UWC experience, we encourage you to begin your application process. For more details, please visit our Application Page or contact us at [email protected].

Please note that you are only allowed to submit one application per academic year to study at UWC, even if you are eligible to apply via more than one UWC national committee.

We look forward to receiving your application and helping you embark on this life-changing journey!
If you don’t meet the criteria above, have a look at the UWC International site and find out more about other ways to apply to UWC.