Our Guide to the Best UK Summer Schools 2026

Our Guide to the Best UK Summer Schools 2026

This summer 2026, do something phenomenal: embark on the summer of a lifetime at a UK summer school in Oxford, Cambridge, London and other inspirational UK locations!

Experience the UK This Summer!

This summer 2026, live on-campus at world-famous universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, or choose exciting, whirlwind London, be beside the seaside in St Andrews with its royal connections, or enjoy quintessential British boarding school life. If you're looking for a UK summer school, look no further!

Find Inspirational Programs

Browse a handpicked range of top-quality programs offered throughout England, Scotland, and beyond. From STEM and humanities to arts and leadership, every programme meets our standards for academic rigour and student experience.

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.

Why Choose the UK this Summer 2026?

From the dreaming spires of Oxford and Cambridge to the creative energy of Brighton or the coastal charm of St Andrews, UK summer schools offer a range of locations to suit every student. Where will you choose for your UK summer experience?

A busy street in the city of Oxford, a popular Oxford summer schools location
1

Summer School in Oxford

Oxford is a tantalising mix of academic prestige, medieval beauty and modern buzz. Its world-famous university is its beating heart and you’ll soak up the city’s uniquely inspirational and scholarly atmosphere – there’s simply no better place to learn!
Browse Courses in Oxford

King's College Cambridge at sunset, part of the University of Cambridge and a Cambridge summer schools venue host
2

Summer School in Cambridge

Like ‘the other place’, as Oxford is known locally, Cambridge is deeply traditional, historic and academically prestigious, but it’s also incredibly picturesque and tranquil, with gardens backing onto its sublime river and pretty meadows surrounding the city.
Browse Courses in Cambridge

A University College London (UCL) campus building - also a London summer schools host venue
3

Summer School in London

There’s no place on Earth like London: its fascinating history extends back 2,000 years but it continually reinvents itself through its exciting culture, music, cuisine, art and architecture. Visit Big Ben and Buckingham Palace or see a West End show!
Browse Courses in London

Three female summer school students sitting in the sunshine on a bench outside, smiling and having fun
4

Browse All UK Destinations

Looking for something a little different, such as the Scottish seaside town of St Andrews, vibrant Brighton, or a top UK Boarding School?
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: UK Summer Schools

Oxford is a recognised setting for summer study, with provision spanning multiple subjects and formats across the season.

Academic Focus and Teaching

Oxford’s summer schools emphasize a rigorous academic approach that fosters critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. Instruction often centers on discussion-based learning, encouraging students to engage deeply with material across various disciplines. Unlike typical school settings, where standard curricula can stifle creativity, these programs prioritize a breadth of knowledge and the application of concepts in real-world contexts. The integration of interdisciplinary themes enriches the learning experience, allowing students to draw connections between subjects and apply their insights collaboratively.

Programme Structure and Student Experience

The structure of summer schools in Oxford is designed to balance academic rigor with personal growth. Classes typically blend lectures and seminars, creating a vibrant classroom atmosphere where ideas can flourish. Students are often encouraged to take ownership of their learning through independent research and project work, fostering a sense of responsibility and initiative. This blend of guided instruction and self-directed study creates an engaging rhythm, allowing learners to immerse themselves fully in their subjects while cultivating essential skills for future academic pursuits.

Student Age Groups and Eligibility

While specific age groups may vary by program, summer schools in Oxford generally cater to a diverse range of students. Participants can expect to encounter peers from various backgrounds and academic levels, enriching their experience through shared insights and perspectives. The environment encourages collaboration, making it suitable for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of a subject or explore new academic interests.

What Makes UK Summer Schools Unique

UK summer schools stand out for their commitment to fostering an academic culture that values inquiry and exploration. The historical setting of institutions in Oxford provides a unique backdrop, blending centuries of scholarly tradition with contemporary educational practices. This combination not only enhances the learning experience but also instills a sense of belonging to a rich intellectual legacy. Unlike summer programs elsewhere, which may focus solely on recreational activities or skill-building, those in Oxford prioritize a holistic academic experience that challenges students to think critically and engage meaningfully with their studies.

Choosing the Right Programme or Provider

  1. Academic focus and subject offerings
  2. Teaching methodology and instructor qualifications
  3. Student-to-teacher ratio and classroom dynamics
  4. Opportunities for independent study and research
  5. Overall learning environment and cultural fit

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 UK Summer Schools Compared

Last updated: 19/12/2025

Program Provider Destination Ages Fees Duration Short Description Link
Summer Career Camps at University College London with Study Mind Study Mind London 15-18 from £2,999 2 Weeks Choosing your career path can be overwhelming and, with infinite possibilities, it is hard to know where to begin. Study Mind’s Career Camps are specifically designed to not only provide in-depth understanding of your career but also to experience all these possibilities right now. View
Pre-University Scholars with Sapphire Education Sapphire Education Oxford, Bath 14-18 5990 2 weeks Our Pre-University Scholars Programme is designed for students aged 14-18 who are curious about the world and eager to take their learning further. View
Junior Summer School for Ages 9-14 in UK Boarding Schools Oxford Summer Courses London 9-14 2395 1 week Embark on a unique and enriching educational adventure with Oxford Summer Courses’ Juniors Summer School, designed for inquisitive minds aged 9-12. Offering a diverse range of subjects, including Enterprise, History, Law, Maths, Medicine, Science, Story, and Technology, each one-week course is hosted at renowned boarding schools such as Harrow School and St John’s Beaumont. View
St Andrews Summer School For Ages 13-18 ISSOS St Andrews 13-18 7900 3 weeks The ISSOS St Andrews Summer School in Scotland offers a unique opportunity for students aged 13 – 18 from around the world to spend three weeks at one of the UK’s top universities. This all-inclusive residential program allows students to choose one academic and one elective option while participating in exciting activities, evening programs, and cultural trips. View
Future Scholars with Sapphire Education Sapphire Education Oxford 12-14 5590 2 weeks Our Future Scholars Programme is designed for younger students aged 12-14 who are beginning to explore their interests and build academic confidence. View
Oxford International Summer School for Teens ISSFT Oxford 13-18 6995 2 Weeks The International Summer School for Teens (ISSFT) offers a world-class summer experience designed for ambitious students aged 13–18. Taking place at the historic University of Oxford and the University of St Andrews, the programme combines academic excellence with adventure, creativity, and cultural discovery. View
Pre-university and Career experiences at Oxford College Summer Boarding Courses Oxford 15-17 From £6,695 2 or 4 weeks Embark on a transformative pre-university experience with Oxford College Summer Courses, tailored for students aged 15-17, hosted at the prestigious Oxford University campuses. Delve into 25 hours of academic lessons each week, led by top academics and industry professionals, providing a unique blend of traditional higher education settings, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, and hands-on practical workshops. View
Fun Summer English Courses for Juniors St Clares Oxford 9-15 £3,195 – £4,425 2-3 weeks St Clare’s English Summer Courses offer an enriching educational experience for juniors aged 9-15. These courses provide a safe and supportive environment for young learners in the picturesque city of Oxford, just an hour away from London. View
The Oxford Experience for Grades 8-9 Oxbridge Academic Programs Oxford 13-15 12,495 USD 26 days The Oxford Experience offers an exceptional academic journey for students in grades 8 and 9, situated at Keble College, University of Oxford. This program allows students to choose both a Major and a Minor course, utilizing Oxford’s unique heritage as a teaching tool. View
Academic Insights in Oxford & Cambridge Immerse Education Oxford, Cambridge 13-18 £5,995 – £7,495 2 weeks The Academic Insights programmes in Cambridge and Oxford bring motivated students aged 13–18 into the heart of world-renowned university cities for an immersive, intellectually challenging experience. Designed and delivered by expert tutors with teaching experience at Cambridge, Oxford, and other leading institutions, each course blends advanced subject exploration with practical skills development. View
Easter Revision Course with OXSS Oxford Science Studies Oxford 14-19 £1,350 – £1,950 per week 1 to 3 weeks Easter revision is arguably one of the most important dates in the calendar for GCSE, GCSE, IB and A Level students. As revision course specialists, running successful courses since 1997, OXSS understands the importance of getting the right help at the right time. View
Oxford Advanced University Preparation Programme Bucksmore Education Oxford 15-18 £3,195 (pw) 2 or 4 weeks The Oxford Advanced Studies Programme is an intensive academic and pre-university course designed for high-achieving students aged 16-18 with a global perspective. Priced at £2,655 per week, the program runs from July 2 to July 30, offering 23 hours of subject-specific tuition per week at the first-year undergraduate level. View
Oxbridge Summer Scholars 2025 Oxbridge Summer Scholars Oxford 14-19 6350 2 weeks Oxbridge Summer Scholars offers six exciting academic programs at the University of Oxford:
1. STREAM A: Science, Innovation and Technology (SIT): Explore cutting-edge topics in physics, computer science, and engineering.
View
LMH Oxford Summer Programmes Lady Margaret Hall Oxford 19+ £4,384 – £12,676 3, 6 or 9 weeks The LMH Oxford Summer Programmes offer a unique opportunity for intellectually curious students from around the world to experience Oxford University’s renowned tutorial teaching system. With a diverse range of courses taught by experienced academics and experts, the program emphasizes personalized intellectual discussions in small classes, fostering critical reasoning, logical argumentation, and analytical skills. View
St Andrews International Summer School for Teens ISSFT St Andrews 13-18 5950 2 Weeks The International Summer School for Teens (ISSFT) offers a world-class summer experience designed for ambitious students aged 13–18. Taking place at the historic University of St Andrews, the programme combines academic excellence with adventure, creativity, and cultural discovery. View
English Immersion at Prestigious UK Institutions Bucksmore Education Brighton, London, Oxford 10-18 £1,560 – £2,310 (pw) 1-6 weeks Bucksmore Education offers a diverse range of English language programs tailored for students at different stages of their language learning journey. The Bucksmore English program is designed for students aged 10–13 and 13–16, providing specialized tuition ideal for beginners or those seeking to build confidence steadily. View
Career Preparation Summer Programmes in Oxford & London Bucksmore Education Oxford, London 13-17 £2,470 (pw) 2 weeks Bucksmore Education offers a series of immersive “Aspiring” courses designed for students aged 13–17 to explore various industry sectors and gain insights into potential future careers. The Young Performer course, taught by West End professionals, focuses on the performing arts, enhancing students’ confidence and communication skills through workshops in acting, singing, dancing, and stage combat. View
The Cambridge Experience for Grades 8-9 Oxbridge Academic Programs Cambridge 13-15 7,395 – 12,595 US Dollars 2 or 4 weeks The Cambridge Experience, tailored for students in grades 8 and 9 at Peterhouse, the University of Cambridge’s oldest college established in 1284, offers an immersive educational opportunity. With the choice of two sessions and a variety of courses, such as Banking and Markets, International Espionage, or Medical Science, students receive instruction from university professors and industry professionals, using Cambridge as a living classroom. View
Academic & English Courses at Headington Oxford Summer Boarding Courses Oxford 12-16 From £4,095 2-4 weeks Immerse yourself in a transformative summer experience at Headington Summer School, tailored for students aged 13-16 and hosted at a leading independent school in Oxford. Offering an engaging combination of academic courses, English language learning, cultural excursions, and activities, the program provides teenagers with an unforgettable summer adventure. View
Oxford Summer Language Programmes for Adults St Clares Oxford 18+ £420 – £1,990 2+ weeks The St Clare’s Oxford Summer Language Program for Adults offers an excellent opportunity to enhance English language skills in the heart of Oxford. With courses spanning 2+ weeks, including options such as English for Life, English for Exam Preparation, Business and Leadership, and Online Personal Language Training, this program caters to diverse language needs. View

Oxford Summer Schools by Subject

Oxford Summer Schools by Age