UWC short courses are immersive 1-5 week programmes for all ages.
UWC short course participants explore:
Peace, power and conflict resolution
Leadership for global impact
Social entrepreneurship and innovation
Environmental sustainability
Identity, diversity and inclusion
Courses are hosted worldwide, in various languages, with formats that reflect local contexts and priorities.
Some focus on themes like climate justice or youth leadership. Others centre on personal development, identity or intercultural dialogue. What they all share is a commitment to learning through community, collaboration and critical engagement. Participants leave with fresh perspectives, stronger leadership skills and lasting connections.
What do participants gain?
Confidence and transformation
90% of participants each year say they would recommend UWC short courses to others.
“This short course gave me the confidence to pursue my passion for social justice and global change.”
Anonymous participant,
Building and Crossing Bridges (UWC Belgium), 2023
Skills for leadership
89% of participants reported significant improvement in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills (2024).
“I gained leadership skills I never thought I had—it’s helped me make a bigger impact at school and in my community.”
Anonymous participant,
UWC ISAK Japan Summer School, 2022
A global alumni network
Graduates become part of the UWC alumni community – over 85,000 strong and active worldwide.
“Being part of the UWC Short Course was an eye-opening experience, and becoming a UWC alumni has connected me to a global network of changemakers who are all committed to making the world a better place.”
Anonymous participant,
Global Leadership Forum 2023 (UWC USA, online)
Community impact
UWC short courses empower grassroots initiatives in areas like intercultural understanding, youth empowerment and climate action.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that makes you think and challenges you to grow, while connecting with amazing individuals.”
Anonymous participant,
Diversity in Action (UWC Cyprus), 2022
“My daughter has grown in maturity and confidence in just two weeks. She now has the tools to action change and realises that this can be done on a small scale by an individual and potentially have a significant impact.”
– Parent, Action x Change (UWC Spain)
How to apply
Applications for UWC short courses are managed individually by course organisers. You can explore upcoming opportunities, check eligibility and apply directly through the course listings. Most courses welcome applications from all nationalities. Some have regional focus or language requirements. Each one lists its own application process, timeline and selection criteria.
View current short coursesTracking our impact
Since 2018, UWC short courses have followed a centralised evaluation framework to monitor outcomes and strengthen impact.
Read our 2025 Short Courses Annual Report