15 Summer Programs for High School Students in Cambridge, England
- Stephen Turban
- Apr 23
- 10 min read
Summer programs are a great way for high school students to explore their academic and career interests while getting a taste of college life. Many offer exposure to university-level coursework, research environments, and professional settings. You gain practical experience, work alongside mentors and peers with shared interests, and build skills that extend beyond the classroom. These programs also provide opportunities to network by connecting you with professors, researchers, and industry professionals.
For students interested in studying abroad, Cambridge, England, offers rigorous and engaging summer opportunities for high schoolers. We've shortlisted 15 summer programs for high school students in Cambridge, England. We chose these programs for their strong academic focus, selective acceptance rates, and the prestige of their host institutions.
Location: Oxford, Cambridge, Singapore, Sydney, Toronto, and Boston
Cost: Varies according to program. Financial aid available
Application Deadline: Multiple summer cohorts with rolling admissions throughout the year
Program Dates: 2 weeks during the summer
Eligibility: Students aged 13-18 currently enrolled in middle/high school
The Academic Insights Program allows high school students to take undergraduate-level classes at universities around the world. The program pairs you with academics from universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard in classes of 4-10 students. You'll attend university-style lectures and 1:1 weekly sessions with your tutor. The program includes practical experiences such as dissections in medicine, robotic arm building in engineering, or moot courts for law. You can choose from over 20 subjects, including architecture, artificial intelligence, business management, computer science, economics, medicine, philosophy, and more. By the program’s end, you will complete a personal project and receive written feedback and a certificate of completion. You can find more details about the application here.
Location: University of London | University of Cambridge | University of Oxford
Cost/Stipend: Residential £5,995–£15,950; non-residential £4,950–£14,325
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: 2-, 4-, and 6-week sessions in July and August
Application Deadline: Rolling; varies by cohort
Eligibility: Students aged 15–18
The LITE Regal Medical School Preparation program is designed to give high school students a structured introduction to medicine through a blend of academic learning and clinical practice. You’ll study anatomy, physiology, and medical ethics while developing diagnostic reasoning with guidance from Oxford and Cambridge medical faculty. Practical workshops cover dissection, suturing, and other foundational clinical techniques. The course also integrates UCAS, UKCAT, and BMAT preparation, helping you strengthen your personal statement, interview performance, and test-taking strategy. You’ll participate in collaborative sessions that clarify how medical school applications are evaluated in the UK. Upon completion, you earn 3.5 academic credits, a Certificate of Completion, and a Letter of Recommendation to support future applications.
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type; financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June - August), Fall (September - December), Winter (December - February), and Spring (March - June) | Summer cohort: June 1
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November) | Summer cohort: May 10
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in high school | Must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. It offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler. The program pairs you with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. You can choose research topics from subjects such as medicine, psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can find more details about the application here. Even though the program isn’t run by a university, completing it may make you eligible to receive UCSD credit.
Location: Cambridge (Sancton Wood School, St Andrew’s Cambridge, Cardiff Sixth Form College)
Cost/Stipend: £5,100 for 2 weeks
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: Sessions start July 6 | July 20 | August 3
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students aged 15–17 with minimum English proficiency B1+
The Dukes Cambridge Academic Summer School provides a rigorous pre-university experience for high school students who want academic exploration in a college-style environment. You’ll engage in about 25 hours of subject-specific learning per week, choosing from streams in science, social sciences, business, or medicine. Classes are small and led by specialist tutors who guide you through both conceptual and applied learning. The program also includes university preparation workshops that cover personal statements, interview techniques, and admissions guidance. You’ll participate in practical sessions, guest lectures, and optional fieldwork to connect academic topics with real-world applications. Outside of class, the program features cultural excursions, social events, and a graduation ceremony, with each participant receiving a Certificate of Achievement and a reference letter at the end of the course.
Location: Downing College, University of Cambridge
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: July 12–25 | July 26–August 8 | August 9–22
Application Deadline: Check website for latest deadlines
Eligibility: Students aged 15–18
This four-week academic program for high school students combines an online skill course with a Cambridge college experience. You begin with two weeks of virtual instruction in your chosen subject—ranging from STEM to Humanities—before transitioning to two weeks of in-person study at Downing College. Daily schedules include four 90-minute seminars led by Cambridge-affiliated tutors, totaling about 60 hours of class time. You’ll work on an independent research project, producing a written report and a short presentation evaluated by your tutor. The program closely mirrors Cambridge’s teaching approach, encouraging academic inquiry and self-directed learning.
Location: Downing College, University of Cambridge
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: July 12–25 | July 26–August 8 | August 9–22
Application Deadline: Check website for latest deadlines
Eligibility: Students aged 15–18
The ISSOS Cambridge International Summer School offers high school students a three-week residential program. You will select one academic and one elective course, engaging in 39 hours of tuition over the program's duration. Academic options include subjects such as Debate, Study Skills, English Language, Business & Entrepreneurship, Journalism, and Youth Leadership, while electives encompass activities like Outdoor Leadership, Theatre, Tennis, Photography, and Art. The program emphasizes a truly international environment, limiting any single nationality to 10% of the student body and integrating native and non-native English speakers throughout. You will reside in historic Cambridge colleges, providing an immersive setting that combines rigorous academics with cultural exploration and recreational activities.
Location: University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
Cost/Stipend: One week $3,500; two weeks $6,995
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: One week July 12–19 | Two weeks July 19–August 2
Application Deadline: Check website for latest deadlines
Eligibility: Students aged 14–18
The Cambridge Scholars’ Programme offers high school students the opportunity to experience university-level education at Cambridge. The program emphasizes a blend of academic rigor and cultural immersion, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of British history and culture through various excursions. Subjects that you will get to study range from business psychology to scriptwriting to STEM subjects. These include visits to landmarks such as Windsor Castle, Oxford, Stonehenge, Bath, and multiple trips to London. Students also have the chance to explore Cambridge independently, fostering personal growth and confidence. The program aims to prepare you for the independence of university life while helping you pursue your passions.
Location: CSVPA, Cambridge, England
Cost: Varies by course and duration
Application Deadline: Check website for latest deadlines
Dates: Multiple sessions across the summer (1- to 3-week courses)
Eligibility: Under-18-year-olds are also eligible
The CSVPA Summer School offers a creative experience at the Cambridge School of Visual & Performing Arts, with short courses in Acting, Fashion, Animation, Photography, Games Design, and Portfolio Preparation. You’ll work with professional artists and tutors through studio-based workshops, group projects, and guided creative exercises. Each course emphasizes hands-on learning and personal artistic growth, allowing you to explore your creative process in a structured yet flexible environment. Residential students participate in organized evening activities and supervised excursions to cultural sites around the UK. The program balances independence with support, ensuring a safe environment for students under 18. On completion, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion, valuable for future applications in creative fields or art schools.
Location: Peterhouse, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
Cost/Stipend: $7,395 (two-week session); $12,595 (27-day combined session); financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: July 11–24 | July 26–August 8 | Combined July 11–August 8
Application Deadline: Rolling; early application recommended
Eligibility: Students in grades 8–9
The Cambridge Experience is a two-week (or optionally four-week) residential academic program specifically designed for younger high school students, hosted in Peterhouse College at the University of Cambridge. You will pick one major course per session from a variety of offerings like Medical Science, Business, Psychology, Espionage, and Law, each taught by university-affiliated teachers or professionals. Classes make use of Cambridge itself as a living classroom, weaving in site-based learning, seminars, and workshops. Outside the classroom, the schedule includes organized activities, field trips, and excursions to local cultural sites, allowing students to explore the city while bonding with peers. Accommodation is provided in college housing (singles or doubles), along with two meals a day, and all program-led evening events. At the end of the program, students receive a detailed grade report highlighting their coursework, progress, and achievements, useful for future academic applications.
Location: University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
Cost/Stipend: From £6,995
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: Two-week sessions throughout summer
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: Students aged 13–15
The Oxford Summer Courses in Cambridge offer a small-group academic experience designed to mirror the Oxford and Cambridge tutorial model. Each class has a maximum of eight students, allowing you to explore subjects such as Medicine, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Psychology, and English Literature & Creative Writing through close interaction with university tutors. You’ll participate in seminar-style discussions, guided research sessions, and practical or creative projects tailored to your chosen subject. The program emphasizes independent thinking, critical analysis, and collaboration through problem-solving tasks and project presentations. Outside of academics, you’ll join social activities, college excursions, and a final graduation ceremony celebrating your work. The Cambridge setting gives you the chance to experience university life.
Location: London & Cambridge, United Kingdom
Cost: Residential Fees-Cambridge: £3,950; Day Fees-Cambridge: £2,000
Dates: June 28 – July 11 | July 12 – July 25 | July 26 – August 8
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; early application recommended
Eligibility: Open to students aged 13–18
The MPW Summer School 2026 offers high school students an academic experience that combines theoretical learning with practical application at MPW’s London and Cambridge campuses. You can choose from a range of courses, including Academic English, Art and Design, Business, Finance, and Economics, Law, Politics, and International Relations, Medical Science, Psychology and Sociology, and STEM subjects. Courses are designed to enhance both subject knowledge and critical skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and creative expression. Beyond the classroom, the program includes My Path; My Way workshops to develop life skills, enrichment activities like field trips and university lectures, and social events including cultural excursions and leisure activities. Residential students stay in high-quality accommodation with full board, providing a safe and supportive environment. On completion, you will receive a Certificate of Completion, which can strengthen university applications and future academic pursuits.
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Cost/Stipend: £710 per week
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: June 23–August 18
Application Deadline: Rolling; early application recommended
Eligibility: Students aged 11–16
The Cambridge Summer School offers an immersive English language experience for students aged 11–16 in Cambridge. The program includes 15 hours of English tuition per week, with classes held Monday to Friday. You will engage in interactive lessons designed to enhance your language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. In addition to academic instruction, the program features one half-day and one full-day excursion each week, allowing students to explore the cultural and historical landmarks of Cambridge and beyond. Supervised afternoon and evening activities are also part of the curriculum, promoting social interaction and personal development.
Accommodation is provided in full-board residential settings, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. The program is designed for students at an A1 (Elementary) level, with class sizes ranging from 10 to 14 students to ensure personalized attention. Upon completion, students receive a certificate acknowledging their participation and achievements
Location: St Mary's School, Cambridge, United Kingdom
Cost/Stipend: £1,407 per week (residential); £844 per week (day-only)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: July 5–August 9
Application Deadline: Rolling; early application recommended
Eligibility: Students aged 8–17
The St Giles Cambridge Junior Summer School offers an English language experience for students aged 8–17 in the historic city of Cambridge. Located at St Mary's School, the program provides a traditional boarding school setting with modern amenities. Students participate in 20 lessons (16.7 hours) of English instruction per week, focusing on enhancing their language skills in an engaging environment. Classes are conducted in small groups, ensuring personalized attention and effective learning. In addition to academic instruction, the program includes a comprehensive extracurricular schedule. Students embark on at least one full-day and three half-day excursions each week, visiting iconic sites such as Shrek’s Adventure, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, and Legoland. The on-site facilities support a variety of activities, including sports like table tennis, basketball, volleyball, and football, as well as social events like cinema outings, discos, and pizza parties.
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: £3,300 (approx. $3,900); merit scholarships available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: 13-week sessions in spring, summer, and fall
Application Deadline: Early October for fall; rolling for other cohorts
Eligibility: Students in grades 11–12
In the Cambridge Future Scholar Programme, you’ll engage in an online research-based course designed and delivered by faculty from universities like Cambridge, Oxford, Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. You’ll begin with lectures and seminars to build foundational knowledge in your chosen field—covering STEM, business, social sciences, or humanities—before moving into an independent research project supervised by your mentor and PhD teaching assistants. You’ll receive one-on-one feedback, complete a formal research paper, and may even publish your work. You’ll also gain a signed evaluation from your faculty mentor and the option to request a personalized letter of recommendation. Small cohort sizes (2–5 students per course) ensure focused support, and the program emphasises rigorous academic inquiry, methodological training, and practical research exposure.
Location: University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
Cost/Stipend: £6,995
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: July 5–18 | July 19–August 1
Application Deadline: First-come, first-served
Eligibility: Students aged 12–15
At the Cambridge Medicine Summer School, you’ll explore the fundamentals of human anatomy, physiology, and the healthcare system through interactive sessions. The program introduces you to clinical reasoning, patient care, and the daily responsibilities of medical professionals. Courses are taught by experienced faculty. You’ll engage in practical exercises such as taking patient histories, performing basic physical exams, and responding to simulated medical scenarios. The course also focuses on communication, empathy, and teamwork—skills essential for future healthcare roles. You’ll conclude the program with a role-play assessment that simulates working as a doctor in a clinical setting.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
Image Source - University of Cambridge logo