Routes to study the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) at UWC
All 18 UWC schools and colleges provide a two-year pre-university education for students aged between 16 and 19 years. In these final two years of secondary school, the academic curriculum is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). At most UWC schools and colleges, students in the IBDP years are boarding students, learning and living on campus in a diverse UWC community (several UWC schools also enrol day students, based on their suitability according to UWC criteria).
There are two main ways that you can apply to study for the IB Diploma Programme at a UWC boarding school:
- Through the UWC national committee in your country of residence or citizenship
- Through UWC International’s pathways (the Global Selection Programme and the International Application Pathway)
UWC National Committee route
(Incl. partial + fully funded scholarships)
Most students in the IBDP years at UWC are selected through one of UWC’s national committees. Representing UWC in over 155 countries and territories, UWC national committees form a global network which seeks and selects students with great potential from around the world, often in the most unlikely places.
If you require a grant or scholarship, you should apply using this application process. Over 65% of students selected through the UWC national committee system are also offered financial assistance. Scholarships are granted on the basis of each individual’s need and means.
When we refer to “Selections” on this site we are referring to this route, via the UWC Ireland National Committee.
UWC Global Selection Programme route
(fee-paying route)
The UWC Global Selection Programme is designed for those:
- who wish to apply 9-12 months before the beginning of the school year, and
- who are able to pay the full fee for the UWC school or college to which they are successful in applying
- who are looking to attend a specific school or college.
A limited number of full-fee paying places are available at 15 UWC schools and colleges.
The UWC Global Selection Programme is coordinated by UWC International in close cooperation with UWC schools, colleges and the national committees. Selections are carried out by experienced UWC selection volunteers.
Which application route is best for you?
Which ever route a candidate chooses, the application will be assessed against UWC’s core selection criteria. Please note that a candidate may only submit one application per year to study the IB Diploma Programme at UWC. You may not apply through two different UWC national committees or a UWC national committee and the UWC Global Selection Programme concurrently.
Choosing your application route to study the IBDP at UWC for:
| UWC Global Selection Programme | National committee selections | |
| Is entry guaranteed? | No | No |
| When are places offered to successful applicants? | October 2025 – May 2026 | January – April 2026, depending on the National Committee Selections are happening on a rolling basis |
| Is the number of places available limited? | Yes | Yes |
| Are scholarships available? | No | Yes, based on demonstrated need |
| Are candidates able to apply for a specific UWC school or college? | Yes | No, but you can list your preferences |
| Can applicants apply in a language other than English? | No | In most cases, yes (contact the UWC national committee of your country of origin or residence for information on the application process) |
| How can I apply? | Applications are currently open. Please visit the application page to apply. | Contact the UWC national committee of your country of origin or residence for information on application procedures |