The Oxford University Pre-University Summer Schools 2026 offer a unique opportunity for students to engage with academic subjects in an intellectually stimulating environment. Designed for high school students, these programs provide a platform to explore advanced topics under the guidance of experienced educators. Participants will immerse themselves in the rich academic traditions of Oxford, fostering critical thinking and collaboration among peers. The courses are structured to challenge students and enhance their preparedness for future academic pursuits.
oxford hosts a distinct range of university preparation summer courses for motivated learners.
The teaching approach at Oxford’s Pre-University Summer Schools emphasizes critical thinking, in-depth analysis, and intellectual curiosity. Students engage with complex themes that transcend the typical school curriculum, fostering a rigorous academic environment. Instructors combine traditional pedagogy with innovative methods, encouraging learners to explore subjects from multiple perspectives. This contrasts sharply with standard educational practices, which often prioritize rote memorization over analytical skills. The academic value derived from this experience prepares students not just for university-level work, but for lifelong learning.
The structure of the summer schools promotes a dynamic study rhythm, balancing lectures, discussions, and group projects. Classrooms buzz with intellectual energy, as students are encouraged to actively participate and collaborate with peers. Independent work is integral to the experience, allowing students to delve deeper into their interests and apply what they learn in a supportive setting. This engaging atmosphere cultivates a sense of community, as participants share diverse perspectives and insights, enriching the overall educational journey.
The Pre-University Summer Schools are generally suitable for high school students, typically ages 13 to 18. This age range encompasses those preparing for the transition to university, making the program particularly relevant for developing the skills and confidence necessary for higher education.
What distinguishes Oxford’s summer schools is their integration of world-class academic rigor with a vibrant cultural backdrop. Unlike many other pre-university programs, the experience here is rooted in the university’s historic context, providing participants not only with knowledge but also with a sense of belonging to a prestigious academic tradition. This connection enhances the learning experience, allowing students to engage with both the content and the culture of one of the world’s leading educational institutions.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Explore Law (Oxford) | Oxford Royale | Law, Humanities, Social Sciences | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Oxford Royale’s Explore Law Summer School in Oxford offers students aged 12–15 an immersive introduction to UK law. Through expert-led classes, mock trials, debates, and investigations, students gain foundational legal knowledge and skills. | 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 |
| 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 |
| A-Level & IB Revision Courses in Oxford | Oxford Science Studies | Exam Preparation, SAT Prep, University Preparation, Humanities, English | Online, Oxford | 1-9 days or 1-3 weeks | From £1,250 per week | OXSS offers tailored academic support for IB, and A Level students. With small group classes, expert tutors, and flexible scheduling, students can focus on key subjects, exam practice, and revision that fits around their holiday plans. | 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 |
| Film Academy for ages 12-15 (Oxford) | Oxford Royale | Media, Arts, Creative Writing | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Create, edit, and screen your own short film at the Oxford Summer School Film Academy for ages 12-15. Using professional equipment and Final Cut Pro, you’ll learn screenwriting, storyboarding, filming, and editing on location in Oxford. | View |
| Politics, Philosophy and Economics (The Oxford Experience) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Politics, Economics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,495 | Oxford's famous undergraduate degree, Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE), is adapted for our students. They examine the governing institutions and policies of modern Britain and contrast the British, American, European, and East Asian approaches to the challenges of government. | View |
| Computer Science (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Computer Science, Tech & Coding, STEM | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Computer Science summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Creative Writing (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Creative Writing, Arts, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Creative Writing summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Pre-University Preparation AI and Computer Science |
Bucksmore Education | Computer Science, Tech & Coding, STEM, Artificial Intelligence, Coding, Engineering, 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 |
| Film Academy for ages 16-18 (Oxford) | Oxford Royale | Arts, Media, Creative Writing | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Create, edit, and screen your own short film at the Oxford Summer School Film Academy for ages 16-18. Use professional HD cameras and editing tools like Final Cut Pro, and learn screenwriting, storyboarding, and location scouting in historic Oxford. | View |
| Psychology (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Psychology, Social Sciences, Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Psychology 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 |
| Photography MINOR ONLY (The Oxford Experience) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Arts, Media, Creative Writing, Design | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,495 | Photographers of all levels of expertise spend much of their time in the field, pursuing assignments designed to improve their landscape, portraiture, art, and fashion photography skills. Students exhibit their best work at the end of the program. | View |
| Active English + STEM (9-15 years old) | St Clare’s, Oxford | English, STEM, Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Coding, Arts | Oxford | 2 weeks | 3795 | Build in all four English language skills while exploring the exciting world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). Combine language learning with innovation and discovery, through coding workshops, hands-on engineering challenges, and maths and science workshops at our IB World School. | View |