More Details: Cambridge Summer Schools 2026
Why Choose a Cambridge Summer School?
Cambridge offers one of the most inspiring study environments in the world. With centuries-old colleges, cobbled courtyards and a truly international student body, it’s the perfect setting for academic and cultural growth. Joining a Cambridge summer program means learning from top tutors, exploring new ideas, and experiencing life as a Cambridge student.
Accommodation & Daily Life
Most programs take place in authentic Cambridge colleges such as Clare, St John’s or King’s. Students live in college accommodation, enjoy meals in dining halls, and take part in an active social calendar — from punting on the River Cam to formal dinners and cultural excursions.
Who Can Attend a Cambridge Summer School?
Cambridge summer schools welcome motivated students from around the world. Programs are typically divided by age and level:
- Ages 13–15: Academic discovery and cultural immersion programs that introduce new subjects in a fun, supportive way.
- Ages 16–18: Pre-university experiences focused on subject mastery, personal statements and university admissions preparation.
- 18+ and university students: Intensive academic or research-based courses designed to extend knowledge and enhance career prospects.
Students come from over 100 nationalities, creating a global community that encourages collaboration and friendship. Many courses also include workshops on critical thinking, public speaking and leadership — invaluable skills for future study.
Is a Cambridge Summer School Worth It?
For many students, a Cambridge summer school is a transformative experience — combining academic challenge, cultural enrichment and personal growth. Beyond improving university applications, students gain independence, confidence and a clear sense of their future direction.
The teaching style, small class sizes and access to Cambridge college facilities provide a realistic glimpse of university life. When you factor in the friendships, networking opportunities and global perspective, most students and parents agree that the experience is well worth the investment.
How Much Do Cambridge Summer Schools Cost?
The cost of a Cambridge summer school depends on the provider, program length and level of accommodation. Short one-week academic taster courses typically start around £1,800–£2,000, while two- to four-week residential programs range between £4,000–£8,000. These usually include tuition, accommodation, meals, and extracurricular activities within Cambridge colleges.
Many providers also offer early-bird discounts or limited scholarships for students who demonstrate academic excellence or financial need. To find the right balance of quality and value, compare each course’s inclusions, teaching style and alumni reviews. You can also visit our Cambridge summer school provider directory to explore verified options.
What Makes Cambridge Summer Schools Unique?
Unlike generic international summer programs, Cambridge summer schools combine world-class academic teaching with a truly historic setting. Students attend lectures and seminars led by university-level tutors, explore centuries-old colleges, and experience the atmosphere of a top-tier academic community. Small class sizes and one-to-one tutorials encourage discussion, critical thinking and confidence — skills that prepare students for university and beyond.
The city itself is part of the learning experience. Whether punting along the River Cam, attending formal dinners in college halls, or joining international debate nights, students gain an authentic taste of Cambridge life while forming lifelong friendships. Many attendees go on to study at leading universities, and cite their summer school experience as a defining moment in their academic journey.
How to Choose the Right Program
- Match your academic interests and goals with available subjects.
- Check entry ages, dates and tuition length.
- Compare accommodation type, supervision and extracurriculars.
- Review tuition fees and any scholarships on offer.
- Read course reviews or alumni feedback to gauge the experience.
Not sure where to start? Try our course finder to get personalised recommendations instantly.
What Can You Study in Cambridge?
Cambridge summer schools offer a wide range of subjects for every interest — from academic specialisms to creative and career-focused options.
Choose from the list below to explore courses and programs in each field.
Compare Cambridge Summer School Providers (2026)
Provider |
Ages |
Duration |
Subjects / Focus |
Tuition (from) |
Highlights |
Link |
Oxford Royale |
13–18 |
2–6 weeks |
Medicine, Law, Business, Engineering, English |
£6,995 |
Tutorials, real Cambridge college setting, wide subject choice |
View
|
Dukes Cambridge (SBC)
|
15–17 |
2–4 weeks |
Academic enrichment, university prep |
£4,795 |
Boarding experience, excursions, small classes |
View
|
The Cambridge Experience (Oxbridge Academic Programs)
|
13–14 |
2 weeks |
Introductory academic + creative electives |
$4,695 |
Designed for younger students, small-group classes |
View
|
Immerse Education – Academic Insights
|
15–18 |
2 wees |
STEM, humanities, business & law insights |
£6,995 |
Oxford & Cambridge tutor lectures, interactive mini-projects |
View
|
The Cambridge Tradition (Oxbridge Academic Programs)
|
15–18 |
2 or 4 weeks |
Academic immersion across many subjects |
$7,125 |
College accommodation, lectures, excursions |
View
|
ISSOS Cambridge |
13–18 |
3 weeks |
Major + elective mix, leadership modules |
£7,900 |
Creative electives, international students, strong campus community |
View
|
Reach Cambridge |
13–18 |
2, 4 or 6 weeks |
Academic courses in STEM, humanities, business & creative subjects |
£5,845 |
International cohort, cultural excursions, college accommodation |
View
|
Oxford Summer Courses (Cambridge) |
13–24 |
2 weeks |
Humanities, sciences, creative & professional subjects |
£6,495 |
Tutorial style teaching, flexibility, accredited partners |
View
|
Oxbridge Summer Scholars |
14–19 |
2 weeks |
Academic & project-based learning |
£6,350 |
Balanced academic & social program, small classes |
View
|
Verified comparison of Cambridge summer school providers for 2026: age ranges, durations, subject focus, tuition and direct provider pages.