UWC South Africa follows a thorough and well-rounded selection process to identify motivated and talented young individuals who align with UWC’s values and mission.
Before starting your application, we suggest you:
- Check our eligibility criteria to determine if this is the correct route for you to apply.
- Check the UWC selection criteria to determine if you are a good fit for a UWC experience.
You’ll then be ready to start your UWC journey!
1. Application stage
The first step in the selection process is submitting an application. This includes:
- Completing an online application form with personal details, academic background, extracurricular activities, and motivations for applying to UWC.
- Submitting essays or short responses to demonstrate critical thinking and commitment to UWC values.
- Providing references from teachers, mentors, or community leaders.
- Uploading academic transcripts and other required documents.
- Signed permission from the parent or legal guardian.
- Documents required at time of application: School reports, ID or birth certificate, refugee status, permanent resident permit, residence/study permit, academic references, other
- Preferable to have but not needed until selection: unabridged birth certificate, passport.
2. Provincial selections
Students who have been selected to attend the regional group activities and interviews will be notified after receipt and assessment of written applications. The regional selection stage of the application process will see the shortlisted candidates attend an interview session, held regionally in Kwa-Zulu Natal, Western Cape and Gauteng, where the students will participate in both team and individual activities. The purpose of these activities is to gain a better understanding of the candidates and to assess their suitability for the UWC environment. There is also a formal interview component of this second stage, in which the candidates will sit before a panel of UWC alumni, as well as representatives from external organisations.
3. National selections
Following the shortlist from each of the regional selection committees, the candidates are invited to attend a national selections day where the students will participate in both team and individual activities. Following an in-depth interview process, candidates are ranked nationally, and a formal offer process begins between the national committee and the candidates.
4. Nomination stage
After selections, the National Committee nominates the most promising candidates for placement at UWC schools and colleges. Successful applicants will:
- Receive an offer for a UWC placement, which may be fully or partially funded depending on demonstrated need (all applicants will be requested to submit financial information to this effect).
- Have the opportunity to accept or decline the nomination.
- Complete necessary paperwork and preparations for enrollment.
Important dates
- Application Open: 12 November
- Application Deadline: 10 February
To start your application, please visit our Application Page or contact us at [email protected].
We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to the UWC community!