How to Apply to UWC Costa Rica

Start your UWC Costa Rica Journey!

Regardless of your socioeconomic, religious, national, ethnic, or cultural background, if you are an outstanding student who wants to become a changemaker for a better world and a passionate learner excited at the prospect of studying and living with young people from around the world, a UWC education is for you!

Applying to any college in the UWC Movement can be tricky and lengthy; we recommend you read all the information provided and sign up for our Admissions Newsletter with up-to-date news and content for your application process. Make sure to follow us and your corresponding National Committee (NC) on social media!

If you have any specific questions regarding admissions and your application process, contact admissions@uwccostarica.org

Application Routes and Resources

There are two routes in which every student can apply to the UWC Movement. Whichever 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 Program at UWC.

You may not apply through two different UWC National Committees or a UWC National Committee and the UWC Global Selection Program concurrently.

Global Selection Programme (GSP)

The UWC Global Selection Program is an application route for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), with limited places available at some UWCs. You can apply to UWC Costa Rica or to 15 other colleges in the UWC Movement, and you are expected to cover the total tuition cost.

National Committees (NC's)

Most students in their years at UWC are selected through one of UWC’s National Committees. Representing UWC in over 155 countries and territories, they offer accompaniment in the application process and often provide scholarships to the applicants. This route is subject to each NC's deadlines, so make sure to find the correct information from your NC.

Student Profile

Selected students are expected to:

Meet all academic and co-curricular responsibilities, including completing the entire International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, as well as other activities that promote the Institution’s philosophy and mission.
Learn to communicate in both English and Spanish.
Develop an appreciation for and a deeper understanding of diversity and cultural differences by interacting with their peers.
Abide by UWC Costa Rica's policies and regulations.

Choosing your application route to study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at UWC:

	Global Selection Program	National Committee Selections
Is entry guaranteed?	No	No
When are places offered to successful applicants?	Early decision: no later than November	August to April, depending on the National Committee. Selections are happening on a rolling basis.
Are the number of places available limited?	Yes	Yes
Are scholarships available?	No	Yes, based on the demonstrated need
Am I able to apply for a specific UWC school or college?	Yes, you can. There are three options available: 1) Application to a specific school 2) Application to up to 3 schools and 3) Application to all schools	No (applicants may, however, list their preferences)
Can I 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 application procedures)
How can I apply?	Apply Here!	Contact the UWC national committee of your country of origin or residence for information on application procedures.

From the northeast corner of the Catholic Church, 400 meters north.
San José, Santa Ana. 10901.
+506 2282 5609
info@uwccostarica.org