UWC South Africa Scholarships 2027 for Grade 9 to 11 Learners
United World Colleges (UWC) offers South African learners in Grades 9 to 11 the chance to finish their last two years of school at one of 18 UWC schools and colleges around the world, graduating with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Scholarships of up to 100% are awarded on financial need. Applications are free and close at 11:59pm SAST on 10 December 2026.
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UWC South Africa Scholarships 2027 for Grade 9 to 11 Learners is a scholarship offered by UWC South Africa (open nationally). Applications close on 10 Dec 2026.
Who can apply
- Be in Grade 9, 10 or 11 now.
- Be aged 16 to 18 when you enrol in September 2027.
- Live and attend school in South Africa, of any nationality, including refugees and permanent residents. South African citizens living abroad may also apply.
- Have an average of around 70% or higher across your core subjects.
- Show impact through community service.
- You do not need to be fluent in English to apply.
How to apply
Applications are submitted directly to UWC South Africa - we do not collect applications. Read the eligibility criteria, prepare your supporting documents, then complete your application on the official page.
Go to the application pageFull details
United World Colleges (UWC) runs 18 schools and colleges around the world. Each year the UWC South Africa National Committee selects South African learners to complete their final two years of school at one of them, graduating with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. It is a residential high school programme built around service, peace and intercultural understanding.
UWC selects on promise and potential, not on financial background. Applications for places starting in 2027 are open now and close at 11:59pm SAST on 10 December 2026.
What the scholarship covers
Scholarships of up to 100% are awarded on demonstrated financial need. They range from partial scholarships to full scholarships that cover tuition, room and board (including campus meals), books, IB exam fees and curricular trips. All-inclusive scholarships also cover costs such as visa fees, travel to campus and pocket money.
Places are also open to families who can pay the full cost, and those families are equally welcome to apply. Selection and funding are not guaranteed.
Free online information sessions every Thursday
UWC South Africa runs a free online information session on Zoom every Thursday until applications close on 10 December 2026. Learners, parents and teachers are all welcome. It is the easiest way to ask the National Committee your questions before you apply.
Weekly information session on Zoom
Every Thursday, 18:00 to 19:30 SAST, until 10 December 2026
Join the Zoom sessionTap the button to open Zoom in a new tab. Join a few minutes before 18:00 on any Thursday.
Official information
Published by UWC South Africa for applicants:
Each button opens the official page in a new tab, so this page stays open.
Questions about applying go to UWC South Africa at [email protected]. We do not handle applications.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for the UWC South Africa scholarship?
Learners currently in Grade 9, 10 or 11 who will be aged 16 to 18 when they enrol in September 2027. You must live and attend school in South Africa, of any nationality, including refugees and permanent residents, and South African citizens living abroad may also apply. UWC looks for around a 70% average or higher across core subjects and impact through community service. You do not need to be fluent in English to apply.
What does the UWC scholarship cover?
Scholarships of up to 100% are awarded on demonstrated financial need. They range from partial scholarships to full scholarships covering tuition, room and board (including campus meals), books, IB exam fees and curricular trips. All-inclusive scholarships also cover costs such as visa fees, travel to campus and pocket money. Selection and funding are not guaranteed.
When do UWC South Africa applications close?
Applications close at 11:59pm SAST on 10 December 2026, for places starting in September 2027.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No. The application is free and is completed online at apply.uwc.org.
Can families who can pay the full cost apply?
Yes. Places are also open to families who can fund the full cost, and UWC says those families are equally welcome to apply.
Is there an information session I can attend?
Yes. UWC South Africa hosts a free online information session on Zoom every Thursday from 18:00 to 19:30 SAST until applications close on 10 December 2026. Learners, parents and teachers are all welcome. Use the Join the Zoom session button on this page to take part.
Who do I contact with questions?
UWC South Africa publishes an FAQ and an information pack for applicants, linked on this page. You can also email the National Committee at [email protected].
Sources
This page summarises information published by:
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