How to apply

Ready to apply for UWC? 🌍

Would you like to…

• Study and live with peers from over 150 different countries?
• Represent your country at one of the world’s most elite colleges?
• Open the doors to top global universities?
• Win a scholarship worth up to €150,000?

If your answer is yes, then UWC is the right place for you! Read more about the program here!

The application will open in mid-July 2025!

If you want to stay informed about all news and deadlines, leave your email by filling out THIS SURVEY.

SIGN UP FOR UWC UPDATES HERE

How to Apply?

Applying for UWC might seem like a big challenge, but you can complete it in just 3–4 hours!

With a bit of effort, you can open the door to a life-changing experience. Read more about life after UWC [here]!

The Selection Process Includes Three Steps:

1. Online Application
2. Group Workshops
3. Individual Interview

Before starting your application, carefully read the instructions below. If anything is unclear, check out the FAQ page HERE.

Contents

1. Who can apply?
2. The UWC Factor – What are we looking for?
3. What does the online application include?
4. Group Workshops – Second selection phase
5. Individual Interview – Final selection phase
6. Final Step – Nominations
7. Application Link

1. Who Can Apply? 🎓

To apply for the UWC scholarship through the Serbia National Committee, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship

You must be a citizen of the Republic of Serbia or provide proof of permanent residence in Serbia for more than 5 years. If you reach the final round of selection, you will be required to submit a copy of your passport and proof of citizenship or residence.

Academic Requirements

You must be in the 2nd or 3rd year of general, artistic, or 4-year vocational secondary school in an accredited institution. If your school does not follow the national curriculum, you must be in the equivalent grade level.

Other Conditions

If selected for the second round, you must attend in-person group workshops in Belgrade (usually mid-December). The application is written in English; group workshops are held in Serbian; interviews are conducted in English. Basic knowledge of both Serbian and English is required.

2. The UWC Factor – What We’re Looking For

We seek students with a unique combination of intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and strength of character. Key qualities include:

• Intellectual Curiosity – A deep interest in the world around you, both inside and outside the classroom.
• Commitment to UWC Values – Open-mindedness, respect for diversity, and engagement with global issues.
• Social Competence – Ability to connect with others and work constructively in a team.
• Resilience and Independence – Adaptability to challenges—academic, emotional, or physical.
• Personal Responsibility and Integrity – A sense of accountability, honesty, and respect in your behavior.
• Academic Ability – Readiness for the International Baccalaureate (IBDP) and a passion for learning.

3. What Does the Online Application Include?

The application is submitted via SurveyMonkey. After creating an account, you must complete a questionnaire confirming your eligibility. Eligible candidates will see the application titled “UWC Serbia 2026–28.” Make sure to choose the Serbian National Committee.

The application is in English and includes:

• Personal and family/school information
• Two essays (topics and word count provided)
• A short video (topic and format provided)
• Copies of certificates, awards, and extracurricular achievements
• Proof of processing fee payment (details HERE)
• Two letters of recommendation (in English):
  • One from a teacher or school counselor
  • One from someone in a non-academic setting (e.g., coach, mentor, volunteer coordinator)

Important:

You do not upload the letters yourself. Instead, you enter the email addresses of your recommenders in the portal, and they will receive instructions. Your application cannot be submitted until both recommendations are received, so ask early!

4. Group Workshops – Second Selection Phase

Will be held in person in Belgrade, usually in the second half of December.

What to expect?

About 40 top candidates are divided into small groups to discuss current global and youth-relevant issues. The discussions are in Serbian. Each candidate is evaluated by at least 3 evaluators—UWC alumni and experts familiar with the UWC mission.

They assess:

• How you interact with peers from diverse backgrounds
• Your perspectives on global issues

You can view the workshop evaluation criteria by clicking the button below:

🔗 VIEW GROUP WORKSHOP EVALUATION CRITERIA

After the workshops:

Within one week, a decision is made about who proceeds to the final round: the individual interview.

5. Individual Interview – Final Selection Phase

Will be held online, this interview is your chance to personally present yourself to the UWC committee and conducted in English (understanding that it may not be your native language).

What to expect?

This is not about ticking off achievements—it’s about who you are. You’ll be interviewed by a panel of 3–4 UWC Serbia committee members, discussing your experiences, values, and motivations.

We’re looking for answers to questions like:

• What inspires you?
• How do you handle challenges?
• What kind of change do you want to make in the world?

This interview is where both you and the committee determine whether UWC is the right fit—for both sides.

6. End of the Process – Nominations

Congratulations!

If selected, you’ll be nominated for one of UWC’s 18 prestigious schools around the world. This is just the beginning of your exciting journey. You’ll receive detailed next steps and support throughout the transition to your new global home.

If not selected:

Don’t give up. We encourage you to apply again next year. Every application is a chance to grow. Your opportunity is coming!