Find answers to frequently asked questions about the UWC selection process, placements, and financial assistance for Cambodian students.
1. What are the eligibility criteria to apply?
To apply through UWC Cambodia, candidates must be Cambodian citizens or permanent residents, usually aged 16–18 and enrolled in the final two years of upper secondary school.
2. What does the selection process involve?
After submission of the application form, shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in written assessments, group work, and interviews. The process evaluates academics, leadership potential, teamwork, and alignment with UWC values.
3. How long does it take to receive a result after applying?
From the application closing date, it may take up to five months before results and offers are confirmed, as colleges finalize decisions after nomination.
4. Can I reapply next year if I’m not selected?
Yes, students may reapply up to two times as long as they still meet all eligibility requirements.
5. How many UWC placements are available for Cambodia each year?
In the last several years, Cambodia has received an average of three offers for placement, some with full financial assistance and others with partial support. The exact number may vary each year depending on funding and availability at each UWC college. We do not know in advance which colleges will offer placements until the offers are made.
6. How are selection decisions and college placement determined?
UWC Cambodia’s national committee selects candidates based on merit during the selection process.
After that, an assessment of financial need is completed. Only then will the national committee confirm which UWC college a selected candidate is nominated to and what level of financial assistance they may receive. A nomination package is then sent to the college for final evaluation and confirmation.
7. Are all placements supported by full financial assistance? Are there partial placements?
All placements offered to Cambodian students are based on demonstrated financial need. It is likely that at least one offer per year includes full financial assistance, but there are also partial and non-assisted placements. The final decision on financial assistance is made by the UWC college after nomination.
8. How are selection decisions, school placement, and financial assistance determined?
Selection to UWC is based primarily on merit, including academic ability, motivation, leadership potential, and alignment with UWC values.
After candidates are selected on merit, college placement and financial assistance are determined through a means-testing process. This means that the national committee carefully reviews each family’s financial situation to assess how much support is needed. The assessment considers information such as household income, expenses, assets, and other financial responsibilities.
Once all required documents are reviewed and the means test is completed, the national committee will:
– Confirm the most suitable UWC college placement for the student, and
– Recommend a level of financial assistance based on demonstrated need.
– A nomination package is then sent to the UWC college, which makes the final decision on both placement and financial assistance.
9. Can I choose which UWC college I or my child will attend?
During the final round of selection, candidates can indicate their preferred choice of placement. However, the national committee reviews whether that choice is the best fit, and the final assignment is made considering both fit and availability. Therefore, the assigned college may not always be the preferred one indicated.
10. If I receive a placement with partial financial assistance, how much is my family expected to contribute?
In the final selection stage, we will speak individually with parents or guardians to understand your family’s ability to contribute financially. All financial information provided is kept confidential.
11. What does the financial assistance cover?
Financial assistance varies by offer, but it typically covers tuition, mandatory fees, room, and board. It may also include some extra support such as Project Week activities, travel, or pocket money, depending on the offer.
12. Are there any costs I still need to pay even with full financial assistance?
Yes. Even with full financial assistance, students usually pay for their visa costs, international airfare, and personal expenses such as toiletries, clothing, local travel, or leisure activities.
13. For partial financial assistance, when does my family need to pay fees after acceptance?
Each college sets its own payment schedule. When you receive your offer letter, the national committee will provide specific details about payment deadlines.
14. I am currently in Grade 11. If I am offered a placement, can I wait to finish high school first?
Students offered placement are expected to begin at their UWC college in the fall (usually late August) of that year. In past years, some Cambodian students have been able to remain registered in their Cambodian schools to sit for national exams while abroad during the summer break. In rare cases, deferment may be possible only due to serious visa or health issues.
15. If I’m awarded a place at UWC, at which grade will I begin?
All successful candidates for the two-year UWC programme will begin in Grade 11 at their respective UWC college.
16. How can I contact UWC Cambodia if I have more questions?
You can contact us by:
📩 Email: [email protected]
💬 Message: Facebook & Instagram
Due to high email volume during the selection period, response times may be longer. The national committee does not have an official phone line.