As international education continues to evolve, summer schools in Europe are increasingly recognized for their unique opportunities to enhance academic and cultural experiences. This guide presents a selection of the most esteemed summer programs available in 2026, focusing on institutions that offer comprehensive curricula designed to foster intellectual growth and intercultural exchange. Summer Boarding Courses, Oxbridge Academic Programs, and Oxford Royale are among the key providers contributing to this enriching landscape, each offering distinctive educational approaches tailored to meet the diverse needs of international students.
A broad selection of programmes is available, varying in depth, workload and course design across providers.
Courses in international relations often emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, integrating political science, economics, history, and sociology to provide a comprehensive understanding of global issues. Instruction typically fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, encouraging students to engage with complex concepts such as diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international law. This contrasts with more traditional educational settings, where curricula may lack the breadth and depth necessary for grappling with evolving global challenges. In these summer programs, educators prioritize interactive learning, facilitating discussions that challenge preconceived notions and promote a more nuanced perspective on international affairs.
The structure of summer programs in international relations varies, yet they often consist of intensive, short-term courses designed to immerse students in the subject matter. A typical week may blend lectures with collaborative projects, fostering a dynamic classroom atmosphere that encourages active participation. Students are expected to engage in independent research and group work, enhancing their understanding through practical application of theoretical concepts. This combination of guided learning and self-directed study creates a rich educational experience, enabling learners to develop both academically and personally within a supportive community of like-minded peers.
Eligibility for summer schools in international relations is generally broad, welcoming individuals who possess a keen interest in global affairs. Students from various educational backgrounds and levels of experience may find these programs suitable, as they often cater to diverse perspectives and foster an inclusive learning environment. Expectations typically include a willingness to engage with complex material and collaborate with classmates from different cultures, enriching the overall educational experience.
The standout summer schools for international students in Europe 2026 distinguish themselves through their emphasis on experiential learning and global networking. Unlike conventional programs, which may focus heavily on theoretical instruction, these schools integrate real-world case studies and simulations, thus preparing students for practical challenges in international relations. Additionally, the multicultural environment enhances cross-cultural communication skills, making these programs particularly valuable for those aiming to forge careers in a globally interconnected landscape.
Observed fees for current intakes start from £0, with total cost shaped by duration, accommodation and subject intensity.
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Last updated: 15/02/2026
| Course | Provider | Subject | Location | Duration | Fees | Short Description | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| International Relations in a Post-Unipolar World (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,595 | The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful International Relations research project. At the same time, the instructor will propose a range of topics students might wish to concentrate on. | View |
| International Law and Politics in the 21st Century (Adults) | Oxford Royale | International Relations, Politics, Law, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of international law and global governance, exploring critical issues like human rights, conflict, and the environment. Learn from subject experts and international peers through hands-on projects, workshops, and masterclasses. | View |
| International Relations and Politics (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The International Relations and Politics 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 |
| International Relations and Politics (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Cambridge | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The International Relations and Politics 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 |
| Young Leaders in Oxford (13-15 years old) | St Clare’s, Oxford | Leadership, International Relations, Climate & Sustainability, English, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 3975 | Learn about global challenges facing leaders of the future, while developing leadership, critical thinking skills, resilience and mindfulness. Experience the British countryside with outdoor pursuits and a night of camping. | View |
| International Business (Oxbridge in Barcelona) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Business, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Leadership, Economics, Humanities, International Relations | Barcelona | 4 weeks | $9,995 | Taking advantage of our residence's proximity to Barcelona's financial center, students gain first-hand knowledge of current issues in the world of business and economics by studying local corporations. They perform case studies on topics ranging from brand positioning to crisis management and – to cap off the course – develop and present a business plan for a start-up venture. | View |
| Economics in Toronto for Ages 15-18 | Immerse Education | Economics, Business, Social Sciences, International Relations | Toronto | 2+ weeks | 5995 | Examine global economies in Toronto, a thriving financial hub with strong academic traditions. | View |
| Experience International Relations, Politics & Leadership Academy | Oxford Scholastica Academy | International Relations, Politics, Leadership, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | This course helps students better understand the importance of relationships between nations and cultures. We’ll explore case-studies of international relations in action — and how it’s created significant change. | View |
| Law in Sydney for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | Law, Politics, International Relations, Humanities | Sydney | 2 weeks | From £3,995 | Uncover the specifics of international and Australian law in Sydney's diverse environment. Click to learn more. | View |
| Global Leadership at Earlscliffe | Summer Boarding Courses | Leadership, Politics, International Relations, Social Sciences, Business | UK Boarding Schools | 2 Weeks | 3795 | The Faculty of Global Leadership prepares you to navigate the complexities of international relations, diplomacy, and governance. This programme is designed for students who want to explore how decisions are made on a global scale and how leaders shape the world around them. | View |
| International Relations in Toronto for Ages 15-18 | Immerse Education | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Toronto | 2+ weeks | 5995 | Analyse global issues in Toronto, one of the world's most diverse cities and a model of cultural harmony. | View |
| International Espionage (The Cambridge Tradition) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Cambridge | 2 or 4 weeks | $7,395; $12,595 | At the University in which the world's most famous fictional spy, James Bond, studied, this course, which blends politics and history with practice, examines the methods and techniques of the world's most infamous services-Mossad, the KGB, the CIA, MI5, and MI6. Students address the future of intelligence operations, the challenges of field work, and the ethics of espionage in terms of international cooperation, competition, and conflict. | View |
| International Relations in Cambridge for Ages 13-15 | Immerse Education | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences | Cambridge | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Begin exploring the world of global politics and diplomacy in Cambridge, a city with a truly international outlook. | View |
| International Relations in Oxford for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | International Relations, Politics, Humanities, Law, Social Sciences | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Analyse global dynamics in Oxford, a city that has shaped international diplomacy for centuries. | View |
| International Development (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | International Relations, Social Sciences, Politics, Economics | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The International Development summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| International Relations (18-24 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The International Relations summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| International Relations in Cambridge for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Climate & Sustainability | Cambridge | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Examine the complexities of international politics in Cambridge, a hub of global research and diplomacy. | View |
| International Relations (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The International Relations summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Relations Internationales (Oxbridge in Paris) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences | Paris | 4 weeks | $9,995 | Face aux crises qui dominent l’actualité – le réchauffement climatique, l'Ukraine, la migration, le Moyen-Orient – étudiants travaillent à comprendre le fonctionnement et les enjeux de la politique mondiale. | View |