Top Cambridge Summer Schools Compared (2026 Guide)
Looking at Cambridge for summer study? This guide compares leading programmes side-by-side—covering ages, duration, academic style, hours, setting and standout features—so you can choose with confidence.
How to choose the right programme
- Academic structure: Seminars and lectures, tutorial-style teaching, or “major + elective” mixes.
- Time & pace: Two-week intensives vs. longer three- or four-week experiences.
- Setting: Cambridge college accommodation vs. premium boarding school campus.
- Support & enrichment: Guest speakers, project work, industry insights, welfare, excursions.
- Age fit & goals: Choose by age band and purpose (exploration, university prep, or subject deep-dive).
Cambridge summer schools — provider snapshots
Immerse Education: Academic Insights (Cambridge)
At a glance: University-style programme for ages 13–18, delivered in Cambridge colleges over 2 weeks (July–August 2026). 40 hours of tuition, small classes (avg 7), and authentic college accommodation. Fees: £5,995–£7,495 (2026).
- Subject immersion across STEM, humanities, business & more
- Seminars, skills workshops, real-world projects & presentations
- Formal dinners, excursions, vibrant international cohort
Dukes Cambridge Academic Summer School (SBC)
At a glance: For ages 15–17, 2 or 4 weeks in Summer 2026 at Sancton Wood School, Cambridge. Around 25 hours/week, with industry placements, guest lectures, excursions and graduation certificate. Fees from: £5,100.
- Courses incl. Medicine, Psychology, Business, Engineering & Architecture
- Academic + English development; structured timetable & strong pastoral care
- Evening social programme and trips (e.g., London & Cambridge)
ISSOS Cambridge (13–18)
At a glance: A three-week Cambridge experience for teens aged 13–18, mixing a chosen academic major with an elective (e.g., debate, film, leadership) and a full activities programme.
- Longer duration for deeper community & personal growth
- Academics + electives structure with leadership elements
- International cohort with strong traditions and events
Oxbridge Academic Programs: Cambridge Experience (Grades 8–9)
At a glance: Tailored for younger high-schoolers (approx. ages 13–15), with introductory academic tracks and college-style living to build confidence and curiosity.
- Age-appropriate academics, workshops & cultural activities
- College setting with supportive pastoral environment
- Ideal first step into Cambridge-style learning
Oxbridge Academic Programs: Cambridge Tradition (Grades 10–12)
At a glance: Built for older teens (Grades 10–12), with deeper subject study, workshops and cultural immersion in Cambridge’s historic setting.
- Varied subject choice with seminars/lectures & excursions
- Pre-university orientation with study skills & portfolio building
- College-style residence (availability varies by intake)
Reach Cambridge: Inspiring Academic Summer Courses
At a glance: Two-week college-based programmes for ages 14–18, combining classes, workshops, guest talks and trips in Cambridge.
- Structured academic days with clear weekly hours
- Guest speakers, leadership and cultural activities
- Pastoral support and community events
Oxford Summer Courses: Authentic Cambridge Experience
At a glance: Tutorial-inspired classes in small groups (discussion-led, close feedback) for high-school students, with the option to study in Cambridge colleges.
- Tutorial-style learning to build independent thinking
- College accommodation & curated enrichment
- Certificates and personalised feedback
Cambridge summer schools — comparison table
Use this quick view to shortlist programmes, then click through to the detailed provider profiles.
| Provider | Ages | Duration | Cambridge Setting | Teaching Model | Study Focus | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immerse – Academic Insights | 13–18 | 2 weeks | College accommodation | Seminars, skills workshops, projects | Deep subject immersion | View |
| SBC – Dukes Cambridge | 15–17 | 2 or 4 weeks | Sancton Wood School (boarding) | ~25 hrs/week + industry placements | Academic + career insights | View |
| ISSOS Cambridge | 13–18 | 3 weeks | University setting | Academic major + elective | Longer immersion | View |
| Oxbridge: Cambridge Experience | ≈13–15 (G8–9) | Check dates | College residence | Intro academic tracks | First Cambridge experience | View |
| Oxbridge: Cambridge Tradition | ≈15–18 (G10–12) | Check dates | College & city | Seminars + workshops | Pre-uni preparation | View |
| Reach Cambridge | 14–18 | 2 weeks | Cambridge colleges | Classes + guest talks | Structured + cultural | View |
| Oxford Summer Courses (Cambridge) | High school | 2 weeks (typical) | College setting | Tutorial-style small groups | Discussion & feedback | View |
How to use this guide
- Shortlist 2–3 providers that match your goals (exploration, subject depth, or university prep).
- Check dates, fees, and entry criteria on the linked provider pages.
- Consider setting & pace — college accommodation vs. school campus changes the vibe.
- Ask about outcomes — guest speakers, projects, certificates, and feedback reports.
FAQs
Which Cambridge summer school is “best”?
There’s no single winner for everyone. For deep subject immersion with small classes, Immerse – Academic Insights is excellent. If you want a longer three-week community experience, consider ISSOS Cambridge. For career-flavoured academics and placements, look at Dukes Cambridge (SBC). Families seeking tutorial-style learning should explore Oxford Summer Courses.
What age groups are covered?
Most programmes cater to 13–18. Some have tracks for younger teens (Grades 8–9) or older teens (Grades 10–12). Check each profile for exact eligibility and subjects.
How early should I apply?
College places and popular dates fill quickly—especially July. Apply early if you’re targeting specific subjects, colleges, or room types.
Do I need prior knowledge?
It depends on the course. Many programmes welcome motivated beginners; others expect some background. The provider pages note any prerequisites.