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.

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.

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.

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.

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 High School Students summer school Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience for High School Students logo Cambridge • Oxford
From £6,495 - £8,595 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.

Dukes Cambridge Academic Summer School for High School Students summer school Dukes Cambridge Academic Summer School for High School Students logo Cambridge
From From £4,895 Ages 14-17 Summer 2026

Join us at the ultimate pre-university experience, a stepping stone designed to prepare you for entry into top universities for students 14-17.

The Oxford Experience for Grades 8-9 summer school The Oxford Experience for Grades 8-9 logo Oxford
From 12,495 USD Ages 13-15 Summer 2026

The Oxford Experience by Oxbridge Academic Programs offers a unique opportunity for younger students to immerse themselves in the academic and cultural life of Oxford, providing a blend of intellectual challenge and creative enrichment designed to foster personal growth and academic curiosity.

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 Summer 2026

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

English Immersion at Prestigious UK Institutions summer school English Immersion at Prestigious UK Institutions logo Brighton • London • Oxford
From £1,560 - £2,310 (pw) Ages 10-18 Summer 2026

The English summer program by Bucksmore offers intensive English language learning at top UK universities for students aged 10-18.

Autumn Half Term Revision Course with OXSS summer school Autumn Half Term Revision Course with OXSS logo Online • Oxford
From From £330 to £485 per day Ages 14-19 October - November

Join OXSS for 1-9 days of study, for small group tuition or one-to-one tuition in a friendly learning environment

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.

Future Scholars with Sapphire Education summer school Future Scholars with Sapphire Education logo Oxford
From £5,590 Ages 12-14 5 July - 15 August 2026

New for 2026! Discover & Grow with Sapphire Education’s two-week programme in Oxford, combining university-style teaching with hands-on projects, industry insight and expert mentorship.

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.

The Cambridge Tradition Summer School for Grades 10-12 summer school The Cambridge Tradition Summer School for Grades 10-12 logo Cambridge
From 7,395 - 12,595 USD Ages 15-18 Summer 2026

The Cambridge Tradition, offered by Oxbridge Academic Programs for students in grades 10-12, provides diverse academic courses and cultural immersion at Cambridge University.

Oxford Day Camps for Ages 6-12 summer school Oxford Day Camps for Ages 6-12 logo London • Oxford
From TBD Ages 6-12 Summer 2026

The Oxford Day Camps for ages 6-12, offered by SBC, combine English learning and various fun activities, promoting cultural integration and interactive education in a day camp setting in the UK.

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
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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
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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
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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
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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

Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford
Global Perspectives on Public Health: A Survey of Core Concepts and Applied Practice

While clinical medicine deals with the health of the individual, public health is concerned with the health of the population.…

ISSFT
Intensive English Language

This immersive course at International Summer School for Teens (ISSFT) offers full English-language immersion for teens at levels A1-B2. It…

Immerse Education
Mathematics in Cambridge for Ages 16-18

Advance your mathematical thinking in Cambridge, a city that has shaped some of the world’s greatest mathematicians.

ISSOS
English Language

English Language at ISSOS is designed for students with English as a second language. This course caters for students of every ability…

Oxford Summer Courses
Economics (13-15 years old)

The Economics summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning…

Sapphire Education
Business, Entrepreneurship & Start-Ups

Explore what drives great ideas and turns them into real-world impact. This course invites students to delve into the fundamentals…

Reach Cambridge
Philosophy

Consider the big questions alongside giants from the past like Socrates, Plato and the dozens of more contemporary philosophers who…

Oxford Scholastica Academy
Experience International Relations, Politics & Leadership Academy

This course helps students better understand the importance of relationships between nations and cultures. We’ll explore case-studies of international relations…

Bucksmore Education
Young Professionals Engineering

Ignite your career aspirations, our Young Professionals courses combine academic rigour, industry embedded workshops and a real world collaboration with…

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…

Summer Boarding Courses
Future Entrepreneur at Headington Oxford

Unlock your entrepreneurial potential and gain the skills to turn innovative ideas into thriving business ventures in a global market.

Oxford Science Studies
A-Level & IB Revision Courses in Oxford

OXSS offers tailored academic support for IB, and A Level students. With small group classes, expert tutors, and flexible scheduling,…

Oxford Scholastica Academy
Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

This course brings business, economics and management to life, to help you better understand what it’s like to pursue study…

ISSOS
Debate

The ISSOS Debate programme offers students the opportunity to build valuable transferable skills while developing their confidence, voice, presentation and…

Reach Cambridge
ENG4U Canadian Credit

Gain Grade 12 English Canadian Credit in summer through Reach's accredited Ontario credit courses with Canadian teachers.

Summer Boarding Courses
Faculty of Science and Technology (STEM) in Cambridge

The Faculty of Science and Technology is where curiosity meets innovation. This programme is designed for students who are passionate…

Immerse Education
Natural Sciences in Cambridge for Ages 13-15

Discover the interconnected world of science in Cambridge, a city that has inspired countless scientific breakthroughs.

Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford
The Moral Life of the Law

What kinds of people, values, and relationships does Law assume? What is the Law's vision of the good life? Whose…

Oxford Science Studies
GCSE & IGCSE Revision Courses in Oxford

OXSS offers tailored academic support for GCSE and IGCSE students. With small group classes, expert tutors, and flexible scheduling, students…

Sapphire Education
Psychology, Marketing & Leadership

Explore what drives human behaviour and how it shapes the world around us. This course invites students to delve into…

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: 13/10/2025

Program Provider Destination Ages Fees Duration Short Description Link
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 9-12 in UK Boarding Schools Oxford Summer Courses London Tue Dec 09 2025 00:00:00 GMT+0100 (Central European Standard Time) 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
Oxford College Experience for University Students Lady Margaret Hall Oxford 19+ £4,060 – £12,400 3, 6 or 9 weeks The LMH 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

Oxford Summer Schools by Subject

Oxford Summer Schools by Age