Frequently Asked Questions from Our Applicants

Are UWC schools & colleges my thing?

First, ask yourself the following questions to find out if UWC is your thing:

• Can you imagine spending a whole two years at a UWC school or college?
• Are you ready to share a campus with people from all over the world?
• Can you manage to take part in compulsory extracurricular activities in addition to your everyday academic life?
• Do you find lessons and especially English at Austrian school rather easy?
• Do you have the support of your parents or guardians?

If you answer most of these questions with a clear “yes”, nothing stands in the way of your application. If you are still unsure, read the UWC Experience page carefully and consider whether you see yourself at a UWC school or college.

... and how do I explain this to my family?

Your parents may be interested in the following points:

• The UWC schools & colleges are boarding schools with a liberal system based on personal responsibility. Teachers and other contact persons are always available to help with everyday problems and school-related questions.
• Almost all students who are selected by UWC Austria receive a partial or full scholarship to attend a UWC school or college, which is awarded according to need, i.e. based on the income of the parents or guardians (see Scholarships). If the remaining costs are too onerous, some UWC schools offer additional financial support. It is important to note that funding is only discussed after the final selection, i.e. financial considerations should in no way hinder or prevent the application!
• Your time at a UWC school or college will provide you with lifelong contacts and friendships, and you will be in an exceptionally good position to find your way in a globalised world and contribute to its improvement.
• A diploma from UWC is recognised worldwide and opens many new doors for you. Graduates take many different paths (see Life after UWC).

Can I apply for just one year?

No, attending a UWC school or college is designed as a holistic upper secondary school model. This means that UWC school or college places are generally only awarded for two years.

Can I choose my UWC school or college?

No, you are generally applying to join the UWC Movement and not a specific UWC school or college. Despite the different environments, the “UWC Spirit” exists at all UWC schools or colleges. The decision as to which UWC school or college you will be offered a place at if your application is successful depends on the availability of places in the year and logistical considerations by UWC Austria. In the application questions we would still like to know which UWC schools and colleges particularly appeal to you; this will be taken into account in the proposal of a UWC school or college if possible.

Can someone help me fill out the application form?

Yes, it is actually advisable to put your answers in writing before you fill in the form and it may be helpful to have someone proofread it for you. However, we are interested in you, so it is important that you reflect on your ideas and express them in your own words. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us.

How does the application form (SMApply) work?

SMApply is an online tool that allows all UWC national committees worldwide to accept applications. You simply log in with your e-mail address and select the UWC national committee you would like to apply for (here: UWC Austria). You will then be asked a few questions and upload the necessary documents (such as passport, certificate, etc.). We can also contact you by email via SMApply in compliance with data protection regulations. This link will take you directly to SMApply.

How important are good grades?

A balanced, successful grade profile is an advantage, as the demands on UWC students are higher compared to Austrian schools. This is partly due to the fact that the language of instruction is English and partly due to acclimatisation to a new school and learning system. In addition, students should be able to take part in a wide range of activities and exercise their social commitment without being restricted by learning stress. However, social commitment and interest are just as important as grades!

How good does my English need to be?

Experience has shown that the English language skills of Austrian students at UWC schools & colleges are more than sufficient. Even if you feel that you do not (yet) have a good command of the language, this is not an obstacle to applying. Some students from other countries only learn English in the first few weeks of school. Once you arrive at the UWC school or college, you usually catch up quickly, even if the beginning is a little more difficult.

Does my application have to be in English?

Yes, parts of the application must be completed in English, as the UWC schools & colleges will receive the application if you are accepted. References and individual essays may also be written in German.

Can I also apply from abroad?

Yes, for the Written Pre-Selection, but you must be present in person at the selection dates (Selection Weekend and Final Selection) in Austria. It is not possible to take part in the selection via telephone or Zoom.

Can I apply a second time?

Yes, as long as the selection criteria are still met, we are happy to accept a new application. Many UWC students who have been selected by UWC Austria have applied twice.

Can I also apply if I have a physical disability?

Yes, of course. However, it is helpful if you indicate in your application which aids you need in your daily life so that UWC Austria can offer you a place at the most suitable UWC school or college for you.

Why do I have to state my parents' occupation in the statistical part of the application?

This information is for statistical purposes and has no influence on your success in the selection process.

When does the school year start and how often are vacations?

The school year starts between mid-August and the beginning of September. (Exceptions are the UWC schools & colleges in the southern hemisphere, where the school year starts in January). The “winter vacation” lasts from the beginning of December to the beginning of January, and the “summer vacation” from the end of May to the middle/end of August. The times may vary slightly depending on the college.

At UWC schools or colleges in the southern hemisphere, the “summer vacation” starts in April and ends at the beginning of June, as the school year runs from January to November.

Can I come home during the vacations?

Yes, if you want to come home and it is financially possible for your parents, you can come home during the summer vacation, which is usually three months long. At most UWC schools & colleges this is also possible over the winter vacation.

What does my timetable look like?

That depends entirely on which subjects you choose and which UWC school or college you attend. In any case, there will be time for activities and a social life.

What extracurricular activities are offered at UWC schools & colleges?

Many activities are offered. Sports activities include basketball, swimming, climbing and sailing. Artistic activities are also offered, such as singing, theatre and photography. There are differences depending on the UWC school or college, but there is certainly something for everyone!

Can I continue to play my musical instrument?

Depending on which instrument you play, you can continue to play it in your free time or, depending on the UWC school or college, you can also arrange music lessons. If you are interested in a particular instrument, it is best to check the websites of the respective UWC schools & colleges.

Can I continue my sport?

If you take part in sport in Austria, you can continue to do this sport in a variety of ways, as long as the location and facilities of the UWC school or college allow it. Unfortunately, it is rarely possible to play or train in a local club. If you are interested in a particular sport, it is best to check the websites of the UWC schools & colleges.

Sports activities are often initiated and led by students, which means that it is also somewhat up to you whether you continue to actively participate in your sport.

Do I have to cook myself?

There is a school canteen at every UWC school or college. Catering is provided!

Are there shopping facilities?

Shopping facilities vary depending on the UWC school or college. You can find information on this on the pages of the individual UWC schools & colleges.

What happens if I fall ill?

There is an infirmary at every UWC school or college, which is staffed by nursing personnel. Doctors visit regularly and will also come to you if necessary. There are also staff at every UWC school or college who offer psychological support.

What are 1^st Years and 2^nd Years?

1^st Years and 2^nd Years describe students in their first or second year at a UWC school or college, respectively. 2^nd Years are important contacts, especially at the beginning of the UWC Experience, and can help with your arrival at the UWC school or college. Some will become important friends over the course of your time together.

Can I be visited at the UWC school or college?

Yes, but this should be clarified with the school in advance and approved.

Still have questions?

Then get in touch with us by email!