Students from the Davis United World College Scholars Program are a vital part of what makes Lake Forest unique. Each year, we welcome over 70 Davis Scholars from nearly 50 countries
Join a thriving community of international students
Twenty percent of the Lake Forest College student body are international students, a fact we celebrate. Our diversity strengthens every lesson students learn and prepares them to take on the world beyond our gates.
Contact
Molly Noyed
Director of International Admissions
847-735-5017
noyed@lakeforest.edu
Proud to meet full need for Davis Scholars
Students from the Davis United World College Scholars Program are a vital part of what makes Lake Forest unique and special. Each year, we welcome over 70 Davis Scholars to campus from nearly 50 countries. Plus, starting with the Class of 2025, we are at the $40,000 scholarship range and meet full need for Davis Scholars.
Our partnership with the Davis United World College Scholars Program started nearly two decades ago, and since then, our UWC students have thrived as scholars, activists, leaders, and athletes within the Lake Forest community. Plus, UWC students have access to generous financial aid, strong academic programs, a plethora of study abroad options, student work opportunities, and advanced career preparation through experiential learning and networking.
Keep the world in reach
We know that as international students, you are eager to keep exploring the world. We'd love to be your home and base for a few years, but we also ensure that all our students can expand their learning beyond our Lake Forest campus. That's why we allow students to spend up to three semesters learning off campus through study abroad or our In The Loop and ACTIVATE programs where students live, learn, and work in the heart of Chicago.
“
As a Davis Scholar, it was important to me that Lake Forest had a strong international community because it made me feel welcomed and supported. I knew that it meant that the school would be familiar with my situation and help me navigate international processes like jobs and taxes.
Sara Martinez '23, UWC Maastricht
Bringing the world home: Lake Forest ranks second in Davis Cup for third consecutive year
Each year, the Davis United World College Scholars Program releases a report that combines each participating university’s updates and achievements in supporting Davis Scholars. For the third consecutive year, Lake Forest College was recognized as the first runner-up in the Davis Cup, underscoring the effort the College puts into supporting students matriculating from United World College (UWC) institutions.
When we say we're near a big city, we mean it
At Lake Forest College, you'll have access to an incredible urban hub with vibrant culture and endless opportunities to advance your dreams. With programs like In The Loop and ACTIVATE, our students make the most of what Chicago has to offer. Plus, Chicago is host to suites of global cuisine and entertainment so you never have to feel too far from home.
Life in Lake Forest
Lake Forest, Illinois is a city on the picturesque North Shore of the Chicagoland area. Just 30 miles north of Chicago, the third-largest city in the US and Time Out's third-best city in the world, Lake Forest is a peaceful community with dining, shops, and more in the charming Market Square. (Ever see Gilmore Girls? Think Stars Hollow meets Midwest-nice.) The Metra train station in Lake Forest's downtown leads directly to Chicago with no transfers, ensuring the community can take part in all the big city has to offer.
Lake Forest boasts access to the gorgeous body of water known as Lake Michigan by way of a sandy beach that's perfect for picnics, sun-soaking, and swimming. Lake Michigan, the fifth-largest lake in the world, is one of five interconnected bodies of fresh water known as the Great Lakes. The land along Lake Michigan is often referred to as the "Third Coast" of the United States.
Lake Forest is a great home for a institution like ours, and it's an even greater home for college students such as yourself. You won't find yourself surrounded by corn fields and expansive stretches of highway here. The College is located just a 10-minute walk from the train station, downtown Lake Forest, and Lake Michigan.
Making memories in Chicago. Rumbidzaishe Marufu '25, UWC Dilijan College Class of '21
Hanging out on campus. Hawi Odhiambo '25, Li Po Chun UWC Class of '21
Why study at Lake Forest?
Our partnership with the Davis United World College Scholars Program started nearly two decades ago, and since then, our UWC students have thrived as scholars, activisits, leaders, and athletes within the Lake Forest community. Plus, UWC students have access to:
Application Requirements
Secondary School Transcript
Please submit your UWC transcript and home institution (pre-UWC) transcript. If admitted, you can receive credit for IB Higher Level classes based on final scores (review our AP/IB credit score requirements for more information).
Interview
Our UWC counselor, Molly Noyed, would love to speak with you! Sign up for an interview with her here.
While interviews are only required for test-optional applicants, this is a great opportunity to learn more about the Davis community at Lake Forest, and Molly can answer any questions you may have about the admissions process.
Letter of Recommendation
We require a letter of recommendation (in English) from a teacher or a college counselor. While we only require one recommendation, we recommend submitting a letter from both a teacher and a college counselor as it will provide us with a more complete picture of you.
Standardized Test Scores
We are proud to be a test-optional college—we look at more than your grades and test scores when you apply to Lake Forest College. If you wish to submit your SAT or ACT scores, we require official scores or a screenshot that can be emailed to your counselor. Our SAT Code is 1392 and the ACT Code 1054.
English Proficiency Testing
As a UWC applicant, you will likely not be required to submit proof of English proficiency as you meet our English requirement of at least two years of schooling in English. That said, If you are in English B and/or Lake Forest College would like supporting information regarding your English abilities, we may request a Duolingo test on a case-by-case basis.
- If the above applies to you but you have scores you would still like to submit, the below are our acceptable ranges:
- TOEFL score with a minimum TOEFL score of 90
- IELTS score with a minimum 6.5 composite
- Duolingo English Test (DET) score of a minimum 120
Financial Aid Application
The CSS Profile is required for all non-US citizens who would like to be considered for need based aid.
If the CSS Profile is a financial burden to you and your family, please submit your admissions application to Lake Forest for access to our UWC financial aid application, which will be linked in your applicant portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of financial aid and scholarships are available?
Starting with the Class of 2025, we are at the $40,000 scholarship range and will meet full need for Davis Scholars. This scholarship is awarded on the basis of academic achievement and financial need. Students are required to submit the CSS Profile. UWC transfer students may also apply for financial aid and scholarships.
Learn more about financial aid for UWC students.
You can contact your admissions counselor, Molly Noyed, for an alternative financial aid application if completing the CSS is a hardship for you.
Will my credits transfer?
Yes! Mainly your HL’s. If you take any humanities or language HL’s they can often check off a couple of Forester Fundamental Curriculum courses at once.
Students who have successfully completed International Baccalaureate courses and taken the higher-level examinations provided by the IB Program may apply for college credit for this work. Grades of 4, 5, 6, or 7 on the examinations entitle students to at least one course credit; grades of 1, 2, and 3 are not granted credit. See the International Baccalaureate Credit Table.
Will I feel supported as a UWC student?
Very much so! In the beginning of the year, there is an introduction ceremony where new and current students get together to talk about their backgrounds and share their experiences within the Lake Forest community. Professors are eager to meet UWC students and provide support wherever it's needed. Staff on campus are also willing to help and your admissions counselor, Molly Noyed, is a great resource for all international processes. Everyone on campus is extremely welcoming and there to help throughout your entire time as a Forester.
What is the UWC community like at Lake Forest?
Very close! The UWC family is strong and proud at Lake Forest. If new students ever need anything, the UWC community is available to answer questions, provide insight, or just hangout!
“Because we international students don’t have our families nearby, we become each other’s support system. We rely on each other as students. I know a lot of domestic students choose Lake Forest because of our diverse population. It’s nice to meet people who grew up in the US but have multiple layers of identity.” - Mac Chan ’25, UWC Li Po Chun in Hong Kong
Are there opportunities to work on campus?
Many UWC students are eligible for work-study, which allows students to find jobs on campus. You can learn more about work-study opportunities here.
Can I see the UWC annual report?
Of course! You can see the latest report here.
