Best Science Summer Schools

Best Science Summer Schools

Discover fascinating science summer courses in world-class locations including Oxford, Cambridge and London.

Discover, Experiment, Understand.

Welcome to our guide to some of the very best science summer schools in Oxford, Cambridge and other top study destinations. Science summer schools invite curious students to explore the wonders of biology, chemistry, physics, and beyond. With expert-led classes, hands-on experiments, and access to inspiring academic settings, all programmes featured on our site offer an exciting glimpse into real scientific thinking — and a head start for future study.

Explore Featured Programmes

Browse a curated selection of standout science summer schools across Oxford, Cambridge and other top institutions. Each programme listed meets our high standards for academic quality, student experience, and trusted delivery—making it easy to find the right fit for your goals.

Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies summer school Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies logo Oxford
From 12,595 US Dollars Ages 16 - 18 Summer 2026

The Institute offers a transformative academic experience for students eager to challenge themselves intellectually and prepare for university life. By engaging with cutting-edge topics under the mentorship of university experts, students not only deepen their understanding of global issues but also develop critical thinking and research skills through their individualized projects.

Oxford International Summer School for Teens summer school Oxford International Summer School for Teens logo Oxford
From £6,995 Ages 13-18 05 July 2026 to 1 August 2026

ISSFT Oxford offers an inspiring two-week summer experience for teenagers, combining world-class academics, exciting electives, and unforgettable cultural adventures at the historic University of Oxford.

Transformational Academic Summer Programme in Oxford summer school Transformational Academic Summer Programme in Oxford logo Oxford
From £6,995 - £13,690 Ages 12-18 Summer 2026

Exceptional learning experience in Oxford, blending immersive academics with practical, real-world challenges.

Inspiring Academic Summer Courses in Cambridge summer school Inspiring Academic Summer Courses in Cambridge logo Cambridge
From £5,845 - £17,445 Ages 13-18 Summer 2026

Transformative summer courses for teens, combining academic studies, cultural excursions, and growth opportunities in Cambridge.

Oxford Advanced University Preparation Programme summer school Oxford Advanced University Preparation Programme logo Oxford
From £3,195 (pw) Ages 15-18 Summer 2026

The Oxford Pre-University Preparation Programme by Bucksmore is an intensive, academic course for ambitious students, focusing on first-year undergraduate-level study and university admissions skills.

World Leading Oxford Summer Schools for Teens summer school World Leading Oxford Summer Schools for Teens logo Cambridge • London • New York • Oxford • Yale
From £6,995 Ages 12-18 5/7/26-15/8/26

Experience Oxford Royale's summer programmes on campus at world leading universities, offering students a chance to dive into prestigious academic and cultural enrichment.

Oxbridge Scholars Cambridge Summer Programmes summer school Oxbridge Scholars Cambridge Summer Programmes logo Cambridge
From £5,395 per programme Ages 14 - 17 July 2026

Cambridge excellence. Real-world experience.

Easter Revision Course with OXSS summer school Easter Revision Course with OXSS logo Oxford
From £1,350 - £1,950 per week Ages 14-19 Summer 2026

Maximise Holiday Revision Time with Structured, Expert Tuition this Easter

LMH Oxford Summer Programmes summer school LMH Oxford Summer Programmes logo Oxford
From £4,384 - £12,676 Ages 19+ Summer 2026

Experience Oxford University’s world-renowned tutorial teaching system, explore fascinating subjects with experts in the field, and gain new skills to take you further in your future academic or professional career.

Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience for Teens & Young Adults summer school Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience for Teens & Young Adults logo Cambridge • Oxford
From £5,495 - £9,995 Ages 13-24 Summer 2026

Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience by Oxford Summer Courses immerses high school students in diverse academic studies and cultural explorations at these historic universities.

Pre-University Scholars with Sapphire Education summer school Pre-University Scholars with Sapphire Education logo Bath • Oxford
From £5,990 Ages 14-18 5 July - 15 August

New for 2026! Explore your subject with Sapphire Education’s two-week programme in Bath and Oxford this summer. Are you ready to supercharge your futur?

Pre-university and Career experiences at Oxford College summer school Pre-university and Career experiences at Oxford College logo Oxford
From From £6,695 Ages 15-17 Summer 2026

The Oxford College Summer School by SBC offers high school students aged 15-17 an immersive academic experience in a prestigious university setting in Oxford.

Inspirational Cambridge Summer School for Ages 13-18 summer school Inspirational Cambridge Summer School for Ages 13-18 logo Cambridge
From £7,900 Ages 13-18 Summer 2026

ISSOS at Cambridge is based in the extensive and beautiful grounds of The University of Cambridge, one of the UK's most prestigious universities.

Interactive Oxford Summer English Programmes for Teenagers summer school Interactive Oxford Summer English Programmes for Teenagers logo Oxford
From £2,145 - £4,865 Ages 15-17 Summer 2026

Summer English language and academic courses for teenagers aged 15-17, combining interactive learning, academic support, and cultural activities in a supportive environment in Oxford.

Academic Insights in Oxford & Cambridge summer school Academic Insights in Oxford & Cambridge logo Cambridge • Oxford
From £5,995 - £7,495 Ages 13-18 July and August 2026

University-style summer programmes in Cambridge and Oxford for ages 13–18, combining academic rigour, world-class teaching, and an authentic taste of student life.

Find the Best Experience for You

Whether it’s the historic charm of Oxford or the academic prestige of Cambridge, each city offers a unique and inspiring summer experience. Explore what makes each location special—and find the perfect setting for your summer school journey.

The Radcliffe Camera in Spring with pink blossoms on a tree, part of Oxford University, a host venue of Oxford Summer Schools
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Science Summer School in Oxford

Ranked as being in the top 5 globally for science and medicine, the University of Oxford is the heart and soul of Oxford (and many summer schools are based on-campus), with Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking among its most remarkable scientist alumni.
Browse Oxford

View of a University of Cambridge College from the front quad, a Cambridge summer school host venue
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Science Summer School in Cambridge

Cambridge has given the world some truly amazing scientific discoveries: evolution (Charles Darwin studied here), IVF, the UK’s first successful heart transplant, and more Nobel Prize winners than any other institution in the world. Study science here and join them!
Browse Cambridge

A University College London (UCL) campus building - also a London summer schools host venue
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Science Summer School in London

London is a science powerhouse, with more universities ranked in the world’s top 25 than any other city, and plenty of science career opportunities. It’s also home to a dazzling selection of (usually free) museums, including the Science Museum, Natural History Museum and the Royal Observatory.
Browse London

A female student departing for a Summer School
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Browse All Destinations

Interested in studying Science in other wonderful study destinations in Europe, the USA and worldwide?
Browse All

Find A Course

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Classics (The Oxford Tradition)

This course examines the literature, philosophy, history, art, and scientific thought of Ancient Greece and Rome. From readings of classical…

Study Mind
Engineering Career Camp (15-18 Years Old)

Unlock your future in engineering with Study Mind’s Engineering Summer Career Camp. Engage in practical, hands‑on workshops covering electrical circuits, autonomous…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Cambridge: Shaping Scientific Futures (The Cambridge Experience)

Drawing ideas and inspiration from the university that nurtured Newton, Darwin, Turing, and Stephen Hawking, students immerse themselves in cutting-edge…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Criminology (The Oxford Tradition)

Through workshops, debates, and visits to police stations and criminal courts, students explore individual and social theories of crime, philosophies…

Study Mind
Banking and Finance Career Camp (15-18 year-olds)

Unlock your future in finance with Study Mind’s Banking & Finance Summer Career Camp. Visit UIB Lloyd’s of London, trade…

Oxford Summer Courses
Artificial Intelligence (16-17 years old)

The Artificial Intelligence Cambridge summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is…

Oxford Summer Courses
Natural Sciences (13-15 years old)

The Natural Sciences Cambridge summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small…

Oxford Summer Courses
Science Explorers (12 years old)

The Science Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 12 year old students, provides interactive learning and is…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
AI: Designing Intelligent Systems (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies)

The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful Artificial Intelligence…

Immerse Education
Psychology in Cambridge for Ages 16-18

Advance your understanding of the mind in Cambridge, a leader in psychological research and innovation.

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Critical Thinking (The Oxford Summer Seminar)

How might the rise of the "selfie stick" be related to the popularity of first-person video games? What does our…

Oxford Summer Courses
International Development (18-24 years old)

The International Development summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced…

Oxford Summer Courses
Sustainable Engineering (16-17 years old)

The Sustainable Engineering summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Medicine and Public Health (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies)

The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful Medicine, or…

ISSFT
Golf and Academic Study Summer Program

The ISSFT Golf Programme gives students the chance to train in the world-famous home of golf under the guidance of…

Oxford Summer Courses
Story Explorers (9-10 years old)

The Story Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 09-10 years old students, provides interactive learning and is…

Immerse Education
Medicine in London for Ages 15-18

Explore medical sciences in London, home to pioneering research institutions and teaching hospitals.

Oxford Summer Courses
Marketing and Media (16-17 years old)

The Marketing and Media summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is…

Oxford Summer Courses
Business and Entrepreneurship (16-17 years old)

The Business and Entrepreneurship summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Business Management (The Cambridge Tradition)

How do business organizations start, grow, and thrive? What analytical, interpersonal, and technical skills are required to address the problems…

More Details: Science Summer Schools

A broad selection of programmes is available, varying in depth, workload and course design across providers.

Academic Focus and Teaching

Science summer schools emphasize an inquiry-based teaching approach that actively engages students in the learning process. This method fosters critical thinking and encourages exploration of scientific concepts beyond the confines of a typical school curriculum. By integrating hands-on experiments and collaborative projects, students gain a deeper understanding of theoretical knowledge and its real-world applications. Unlike conventional educational settings that may adhere strictly to standardized curricula, these programs often allow for greater flexibility in topics and themes, addressing students’ interests and fostering a more personalized learning experience.

Programme Structure and Student Experience

The structure of science summer schools is often designed to promote a dynamic and interactive learning environment, balancing lectures, discussions, and practical experiments. Students can expect a rhythm that varies daily, incorporating both guided instruction and independent research. This blend fosters a classroom atmosphere that encourages curiosity and collaboration among peers. The focus on project-based work enables participants to delve deeply into specific scientific inquiries, enhancing their understanding while cultivating essential skills such as problem-solving and teamwork. Overall, the experience is marked by engagement and a sense of community, enriching students’ academic journeys.

Student Age Groups and Eligibility

Science summer schools cater to a broad range of students, welcoming individuals with varying levels of prior knowledge and interest in the subject. These programs are designed to accommodate learners who are eager to expand their scientific understanding, regardless of their formal education background. Expectations typically include a willingness to participate actively in discussions and experiments, as well as an openness to explore new ideas and concepts.

What Makes Science Summer Schools Unique

What sets science summer schools apart is their distinctive focus on experiential learning and exploration. Unlike traditional classroom settings, which often prioritize rote memorization and standardized testing, these programs encourage a hands-on approach that allows students to engage with scientific principles in a meaningful way. This emphasis on project work and inquiry not only deepens students’ understanding of scientific concepts but also fosters a passion for discovery that can extend well beyond the summer experience.

Choosing the Right Programme or Provider

  1. Curriculum breadth and depth offered by the programme
  2. Teaching methodologies and their alignment with student learning styles
  3. Duration and intensity of the programme
  4. Opportunities for independent research and project work
  5. Feedback and reviews from past participants

Fees and Course Costs

Observed fees for current intakes start from £2,395, with total cost shaped by duration, accommodation and subject intensity.

When you’re ready, you can browse providers or compare courses that match your interests.

Top Science Summer Schools Compared

Last updated: 19/12/2025

Course Provider Subject Location Duration Fees Short Description Link
Green Futures: Solutions to Environmental Challenges (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies) Oxbridge Academic Programs Climate & Sustainability, Social Sciences, Sciences Oxford 4 weeks $12,595 The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful research project related to the Environmental crisis. At the same time, the instructor will propose a range of topics students might wish to concentrate on. View
Pre-University Preparation Medicine Bucksmore Education Medicine, Sciences, Psychology, Neuroscience, Exam Preparation, University Preparation Oxford 2 or 4 weeks 3195 This programme prepares students to excel in their chosen subjects within the highly competitive higher education environment. Students choose one university-level subject taught at a first-year undergraduate level. View
Mathematics in Oxford for Ages 16-18 Immerse Education Mathematics, STEM, Sciences, Economics Oxford 2+ weeks 7495 Solve complex equations in Oxford, following in the footsteps of world-renowned mathematicians. View
Computer Science (13-15 years old) Oxford Summer Courses Computer Science, Coding, Tech & Coding, STEM Cambridge 2 Weeks 6995 The Computer Science Cambridge summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning and is priced from £6,995. View
Law Explorers (11-12 years old) Oxford Summer Courses Law, Humanities, Social Sciences UK Boarding Schools 1 Week 2595 The Law Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 11-12 years old students, provides interactive learning and is priced from £2,595. View
Natural Sciences in Cambridge for Ages 13-15 Immerse Education Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Physics Cambridge 2+ weeks 7495 Discover the interconnected world of science in Cambridge, a city that has inspired countless scientific breakthroughs. View
Economics (Oxbridge in New York) Oxbridge Academic Programs Economics, Business, Social Sciences New York 4 weeks $11,495 The city that over the past two centuries has contributed more than any other to making the world rich, while bankrupting it on several occasions, becomes a classroom as students are introduced to the theories that govern economic thought as well as economic modeling. Guided by experts, and making full use of visits to Wall Street and experts drawn from corporate New York, students go on to test their knowledge against contemporary economic problems in order to understand how the world economy might evolve. View
Politics (The Oxford Summer Seminar) Oxbridge Academic Programs Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities Oxford 1 or 2 weeks $3,995 for one session; $7,395 for the combined session What goals and methodologies, if any, do politicians around the world share? To what extent are politicians able to change contemporary society? View
Youth Leadership ISSOS Leadership, Business, Social Sciences St Andrews 3 weeks 7900 Develop leadership skills and discover your own potential on this unique leadership programme that will give you a variety of valuable life skills that will be useful in both your academic and your personal life. View
Mathematics Reach Cambridge Mathematics, STEM, Sciences Cambridge 2, 4 or 6 weeks £6,295.00 – £18,495.00 There is no better place to gain an introduction to university-level mathematics than at Cambridge – a home to numerous Fields Medal winners. View
Veterinary Studies in Sydney for Ages 13-15 Immerse Education Veterinary Science, Sciences, Biology Sydney 2 weeks From £3,995 Begin your veterinary journey in Sydney, surrounded by Australia’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. Click to learn more. View
Experience Psychology & Neuroscience Academy Oxford Scholastica Academy Psychology, Neuroscience, Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities Oxford 2 weeks 6995 Fascinated by the human mind, thought and behaviour? If you’re thinking of studying psychology, this course will give you a great head start. View
Business Management in Cambridge for Ages 16-18 Immerse Education Business, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Humanities, Social Sciences Cambridge 2+ weeks 7495 Develop advanced business skills in Cambridge, a global centre for learning and innovation. View
Engineering in New York for Ages 15-18 Immerse Education Engineering, STEM, Sciences New York 2+ weeks 7495 Explore engineering innovation in New York, where infrastructure and technology shape the modern city. View
Enterprise Explorers (13-14 years old) Oxford Summer Courses Business, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Leadership, Humanities, Social Sciences UK Boarding Schools 1 Week 2295 The Enterprise Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-14 years old students, provides interactive learning and is priced from £2,295. View
Computational Psychology and Artificial Intelligence Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford Psychology, Neuroscience, Artificial Intelligence, Sciences, STEM Oxford 3 Weeks 4384 How does the brain process information, make decisions, and learn? Computational Psychologists seek to answer these questions by using algorithms and mathematical models to simulate and analyse the mechanisms behind mental processes. View
Technology Explorers (12 years old) Oxford Summer Courses Technology, Engineering, Coding, Computer Science, STEM UK Boarding Schools 1 Week 2995 The Technology Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 12 year old students, provides interactive learning and is priced from £2,295 for Non Residential option. View
Engineering in Sydney for Ages 13-15 Immerse Education Engineering, STEM, Sciences Sydney 2 weeks From £3,995 Discover engineering principles in Sydney, where iconic structures showcase innovative design. Click to learn more. View
Engineering in Sydney for Ages 16-18 Immerse Education Engineering, STEM, Sciences Sydney 2 weeks From £3,995 Push engineering boundaries in Sydney, a city known for its cutting-edge infrastructure and technology. Click to learn more. View
Future Global Leader at Headington Oxford Summer Boarding Courses International Relations, Leadership, Business, Social Sciences, Economics Oxford 2 Weeks 4595 Future Global Leaders is a two-week programme for students who want to understand power, politics and influence in an international context. You’ll study how governments work, how global organisations respond to crises, and how leaders build trust and authority. View

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