An experiential approach to education

At UWC Adriatic, education is a holistic experience that includes but it is not limited to academic learning. In line with the mission of the United World Colleges (UWC), our goal is to shape engaged, responsible, and compassionate global citizens who can positively contribute to the world around them. This approach is anchored in four core principles: learning to serve, learning to act, learning to know and learning to be. Through these four pillars, we prepare students not only for future academic success but also to become global changemakers, ready to actively contribute to a more just, sustainable, and inclusive future.

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Academic Programme

The Academic Programme focuses on the acquisition of knowledge and the development of academic skills such as interpretation and analysis, investigation and research, synthesis and production (oral and written); evaluation, critical thinking and international-mindedness. Our students follow the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) curriculum for assessment purposes, so that they have a broad range of options available to them following their time at UWC Adriatic. The IBDP was developed in collaboration with the UWC movement to provide a rigorous, flexible, internationally-minded curriculum in line with the UWC mission and values.

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IB – Academic Integrity Policy
UWCAD Academic Honesty Policy

Learning to serve

Learning to serve encourages students to view community service not only as an opportunity to help others but also as a path to personal growth. Through volunteer projects, Project Week, and collaborations with the local community, students develop empathy, resilience, and teamwork, while cultivating a strong sense of civic responsibility and solidarity. In doing so, they also learn to communicate effectively, identify needs, design projects, and manage resources.  

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Learning to act

Learning to act emphasises the importance of transforming ideas into meaningful, tangible actions. Through co-curricular activities, student-led initiatives, and student councils, UWC Adriatic nurtures initiative, self-determination, and leadership skills. Students are encouraged to take ownership of projects that address pressing global challenges, learning to act with creativity, courage, and resilience. This environment equips them not only to lead change but also to collaborate effectively, manage resources, and adapt to complex, real-world situations. By engaging with diverse perspectives and applying ethical reasoning, students develop the confidence and tools necessary to make a positive impact on the world.

Learning to know

Learning to know lies at the heart of academic learning, grounded in intellectual curiosity, critical and creative thinking, and ethical engagement. Rooted in the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, the UWC Adriatic academic programme intends to promote not only academic ambition but also an understanding of systems thinking and complexity theory. In doing so, students deepen their awareness of global issues and are encouraged to apply their knowledge to solve complex real-world problems, fostering a holistic understanding of the world.

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Our Subjects
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Learning to be

Learning to be focuses on personal and interpersonal development, fostering identity, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. Students are guided in finding a balance between productive struggle and well-being while developing conflict-resolution skills and responsible decision-making. Through residential life in a diverse and inclusive environment, UWC Adriatic students learn to embrace different perspectives, build a strong sense of belonging, and develop adaptability — essential for thriving in a constantly changing world.

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Arts at UWC Adriatic

At UWC Adriatic, we love to engage in music, dance, poetry, theatre, visual arts, film and musical theatre to pursue our passions, to develop our skills, to celebrate and acknowledge our different cultures, languages and religions and to learn from and about each other.

Arts at UWC Adriatic

Innovation & Development

We strive to offer a diverse educational experience encompassing formal, non-formal, and informal learning. While formal learning in structured settings is typical, non-formal contexts like co-curricular programs and informal activities also play significant roles in shaping students’ learning. At UWC Adriatic, we go beyond the traditional paradigm of education and we are continually evolving to meet the needs of our diverse student body.

Memberships

 

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Student support

Study support and Coordinator

The study support programme offers help with research and study skills, writing, citation, referencing, time management, checking students’ English and highlighting errors in short pieces of writing (priority for English Language Learners). Students can access ad-hoc one-to-one assistance or organise a regular meeting. The Study Support Coordinator collaborates with all departments to offer the best possible support for our students. The Study Support team meets each first-year student in September for a short discussion about their study support needs, and subsequently, runs a series of Study Skills workshops over the first year. The Study Support Coordinator works closely with the college Psychologist to design learning support for students with specific educational needs, as well as with the Learning Resources coordinator, who also manages the Library. 

Check the Library’s website here

Language support 

For students whose native language isn’t English, the prospect of residing in a UWC campus and pursuing the International Baccalaureate in English may seem daunting. Language support offers a nurturing environment for students who are navigating the challenges of learning English and adjusting to a new cultural setting. 

 

Peer study support

The most proficient students in certain subjects – such as math – lead peer study support groups, where they help other students by sharing their knowledge, skills and advice.

The college employs a full-time University Counsellor to assist and advise students about their university applications and life after UWC. The counsellor has the experience to guide students on how to proceed with their applications and ensures that all supporting documentation required from the college is provided.

Residence Tutors

Residence Tutors oversee the orderly and safe operation of their assigned residences, ensuring they are conducive environments for both living and studying. They foster good relationships among students and promote a strong sense of community within the residence. Residence Tutors provide social-emotional support, hold regular meetings to build community, and communicate expectations regarding hygiene, safety, and other residence matters.

 

Residence Assistants

The Residence Assistants play a vital role in the residential and educational life of our students, providing a reassuring adult presence in the village and residences. They support the Residence Tutors in ensuring the safe and healthy operation of residences and the wellbeing of our students. As key members of UWC Adriatic’s Pastoral Care team, they get to know, support, and advise students through their specific duties. Typical responsibilities of Residence Assistants include community building and enforcing College policies.

The College has a Medical Centre where students can consult with a doctor or the College Nurse as needed. There is also a small infirmary for those who need to stay overnight. A nurse is present on weekdays to provide routine care and to transport students to the local hospital if necessary. Another nurse is available over the weekend. The College doctor is present at the Medical Centre three afternoons a week. For medical needs outside of these times, the National Health Service can be accessed by calling 112.

UWC Adriatic is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment in which students can thrive both personally and academically. Mental health support at the College is delivered through a collaborative model, led by two full-time staff members: a College Psychologist and a College Counsellor and Wellbeing Lead.

The College Psychologist provides professional psychological support to students, offering individual consultations, assessments, and group interventions during daytime hours. Students may access this support on a one-off or regular basis, depending on their needs. The Psychologist also plays a key role in the College’s emergency response related to student wellbeing and mental health and may coordinate referrals to external services when additional or specialised support is required.

The Counsellor and Wellbeing Lead works to promote a proactive wellbeing culture across the College. In addition to providing counselling during afternoon and evening hours, the Counsellor oversees the Peer Support programme, coordinates safeguarding and risk assessments, and delivers workshops and training for students and staff. This role focuses on early intervention, psychosocial support, and strengthening resilience through a range of wellbeing initiatives.

Together, the Psychologist and Counsellor collaborate to ensure students have access to timely, culturally sensitive, and confidential support, in alignment with best practices and the College’s commitment to student wellbeing.


Visiting psychologists

We also provide students with access to an external psychologist who offers invaluable support through confidential counseling services, addressing a range of personal and emotional concerns.


Personal Tutors

The tutorial relationship is at the heart of our pastoral care programme. Each student is assigned a Personal Tutor, who provides both personal and academic support throughout their two years at the College. The Personal Tutor is the first adult that a student should consult should they need any kind of support. They can listen and provide guidance and perspective as requested by the student. 

 

Peer Supporters & Health Educators

A number of students in each generation serve as Peer Supporters and Health Educators during their second year at the College. Following a selection process, Peer Supporters are trained in active listening to provide support. Their goal is to offer a peer-based option for students seeking support. Information shared with a Peer Supporter remains confidential from staff and other students (including other Peer Supporters) unless there is a concern of harm to you or others. In such cases, Peer Supporters are legally obligated to inform College staff.

 

Student Representatives

Student representatives play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive and inclusive community. Each year, students elect their representatives, entrusting them to voice their concerns, ideas, and aspirations. These representatives serve as a bridge between the student body, the administration and the local community, ensuring that students’ voices are heard and their needs addressed.

Admission

How to become a UWC student

UWC offers more than just an international diploma and the experience of living abroad. It’s a transformative two-year journey where young adults from around the globe live and learn together, engage in social projects within the local community, and develop their leadership and teamwork skills.

Please note that UWC Adriatic does not accept direct applications. You must apply through your National Committee.

Apply through your National Committee

Costs and scholarships

The costs for attending the UWC colleges can vary considerably depending on the destination. At UWC, students are chosen by National Committees based on their promise and potential, not their ability to pay. If accepted, scholarships are awarded based on individual needs to ensure access to a UWC education. It’s important to note that scholarships and available spots vary annually, and fees differ among UWC colleges. For detailed information, you can visit this website.

The vast majority of students attend UWC Adriatic thanks to full scholarships that cover all costs. The value of a scholarship for attending United World College of the Adriatic is currently €52,000 for the entire two-year diploma study programme.

Children of staff members

The children of staff members aged 16-19 can attend UWC Adriatic as non-residential students and sit for the IB exams at the end of their two years at the College. Please note that there will be a selection process.

Key Dates in the 2026-27 Academic Year

 

 

Wednesday, 19 August 2026Second-year arrivals begin
Thursday, 20 August 2026Second-year arrivals complete by 22:30
Monday, 24 August 2026First-year arrivals begin
Tuesday, 25 August 2026First-year arrivals complete by 22:30
Saturday, 24 October 2026Mid-Term Break starts (departures after lessons on Friday)
Sunday 1 November 2026Mid-Term Break ends (all arrivals complete by 22:30)
Wednesday, 16 December 2026 Winter Break Starts (departures begin after lessons on Tuesday)
Sunday, 10 January 2027Winter Break Ends (all arrivals complete by 22:30)
Friday, 26 March 2027Easter Long Weekend Starts (departures after lessons on Thursday)
Monday, 29 March 2027Easter Long Weekend Ends (all arrivals complete by 22:30)
Saturday, 22 May 2027Closing Ceremony (student departures begin at 13:00)
Sunday, 23 May 2027Student departures complete by 12:00 (noon).