Atlas Summer Courses (formerly Oxford Summer Courses)

Summer Courses in Oxford

Location: Oxford
Courses begin from: June 2027*
Courses end in: Aug 2027*
Ages: 13-24
Pricing: £5,495 - £9,995 depending on the tier
* Specific start and end dates may vary by age group
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Summer Courses in Oxford

Our summer school in Oxford gives students aged 13 to 24 the chance to live, study, and grow in one of the world's most iconic academic cities. Choose from small-group summer courses in Oxford spanning 40+ subjects, with residential stays in college accommodation in Oxford. It's a summer programme in Oxford built for real academic depth and confidence, not just a few weeks away.

The Summer Courses in Oxford Learning Experience

Teaching Style:

Small-group learning led by highly qualified tutors from leading universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. Focused on deeper discussions, critical thinking, and personalised feedback.

Subjects Available:

A diverse selection of academic disciplines, including STEM, humanities, and social sciences.

Academic & Personal Growth:

Hands-on projects, seminar-style discussions, and cultural immersion to develop analytical skills and confidence.

Opportunities Beyond the Classroom:

Excursions, social activities, and networking with like-minded students to enhance the overall experience.

Popular Summer Courses in Oxford

Explore more than 40 summer courses in Oxford across STEM, humanities, business and social sciences.

Law
Available for ages:
13-15
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Oxford
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Biology
Available for ages:
16-17
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Oxford
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Architecture
Available for ages:
16-17
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Oxford
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Economics
Available for ages:
18-24
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Oxford
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Five young adults dressed formally, three men in suits and two women in dresses, standing outdoors on green grass in front of a brick building with trees.

Why Choose Our Summer Courses in Oxford?

What is a summer school in Oxford and how does it work?

A summer school, also known as a summer course, is a short residential course that lets students explore a subject they're passionate about while experiencing life in a new city. At Atlas Summer Courses, students aged 13–24 stay and study at colleges in Oxford, including Somerville College and St Anne's College, depending on their programme arrangements. Students learn through small-group teaching, with lessons, seminars and independent study balanced against a full social and cultural programme of excursions and activities.

How much does a summer programme in Oxford cost?

Summer programmes in Oxford are priced in three residential tiers: Plus at £6,995, Superior at £7,995, and Premier at £9,995, with a non-residential option from £5,495. All tiers include small-group teaching (up to 10 students), meals, a certificate, standard Heathrow airport transfer, and insurance, with higher tiers adding guaranteed private rooms, enhanced or platinum insurance cover, and concierge-level support. Instalment payment plans are available once the deposit is paid.

What summer courses are available in Oxford?

Our summer courses in Oxford cover over 40 subjects across Arts and Humanities, Business, Economics and Law, Medicine and Sciences, History, Politics and Social Sciences, and Tech, Engineering and Maths, for ages 13-24. 

Is summer school the same as a summer camp in Oxford?

Not exactly. Summer schools focus primarily on academic study, with day trips and social activities built around that focus. Summer camps in Oxford and elsewhere place more emphasis on social and recreational activities centred around a theme, typically running as daily, non-residential sessions rather than residential programmes. Atlas Summer Courses courses are residential and run for two weeks (13+), allowing students to fully immerse themselves in both the academic and cultural experience.

Where will my child stay during a summer programme in Oxford?

Students stay in shared accommodation at colleges of the University of Oxford, Somerville, St Anne's, and St Hilda's, whose facilities we hire for the summer. Rooms include a bed, desk, and storage, with standard rooms sharing a bathroom between up to four students, or an en-suite option for a private bathroom.

Why study in Oxford?

Studying in Oxford means learning in a historic university city, home to iconic landmarks like the Bodleian Library and the colleges of Oxford. Programmes combine small-group, discussion-led teaching — held at college venues in the city — with a global community of students from over 150 countries, preparing them for university and beyond.

Who can attend a summer programme in Oxford?

Students aged 13-24 can attend summer programmes in Oxford. Age groups are split into three categories (13-15, 16-17, 18-24) to match teaching style and content to developmental stage. Applicants need a genuine passion for their chosen subject and a sufficiently good level of written and spoken English; a personal statement is required at application to demonstrate this.

Are summer schools in Oxford worth it?

Yes. Atlas Summer Courses holds a 4.8/5 rating from 377 reviews, and the value lies in the experience itself: expert tutors, courses held at Somerville College (a college of the University of Oxford, whose facilities we hire for the summer), and timetables built to balance serious academic work with the social side of academic life. The price covers accommodation, all meals, tutors, on-course staff, excursions, and insurance, so families are paying for the full experience, not tuition alone.

Pricing

Plus
Price
£6,995
Deposit:
£1,295
Available for ages:
13-15
16-17
18-24
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Superior
Price
£7,995
Deposit:
£1,495
Available for ages:
13-15
16-17
18-24
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Premier
Price
£9,995
Deposit:
£1,495
Available for ages:
13-15
16-17
18-24
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Non-Residential
Price
£5,495
Deposit:
£1,295
Available for ages:
13-15
16-17
18-24
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Payment plans are available, and you can apply for more than one course to extend your stay. For more details on what’s included, visit our what’s included page.

Subjects in Oxford

Choose from over 40 academic subjects taught as part of our summer school in Oxford.

Architecture
Art History
Biology
Biology and Chemistry
Business and Economics
Business and Entrepreneurship
Chemistry
Classical Civilisation
Computer Science
Creative Writing
Economics
Engineering
English Literature
English Literature and Creative Writing
Environmental Science
History
International Development
International Relations
International Relations and Politics
Law
Leadership
Marketing and Media
Mathematics
Mathematics and Physics
Mechanical Engineering
Medicine
Philosophy
Physics
Politics
PPE
Psychology
Sociology and Anthropology
Sustainable Engineering

Can’t find the course you’re looking for? Explore courses across Oxford, Cambridge, Harrow and more.

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Ashmolean Museum

Explore the Ashmolean Museum, the the Ashmolean Museum — the University of Oxford's museum of art and archaeology, open to the public. Discover remarkable collections spanning ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome to contemporary art, rare manuscripts and archaeological treasures, while exploring one of the world's oldest public museums.

Bath

Step back in time with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, famous for its remarkably preserved Roman Baths and elegant Georgian architecture. Explore iconic landmarks including the Royal Crescent and the Jane Austen Centre while discovering the history, culture and literary heritage that make Bath one of England's most celebrated cities.

Blenheim Palace

Discover the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Explore its magnificent State Rooms, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy attractions including the Marlborough Maze, Butterfly House, miniature railway and historic grounds.

Bristol

Discover the creativity and innovation of Bristol, one of the UK's most vibrant cities. Step aboard Brunel's iconic SS Great Britain, enjoy interactive science exhibits at We The Curious, and experience the Planetarium while exploring Bristol's rich maritime heritage, engineering achievements and thriving cultural scene.

British Museum

Discover the British Museum, one of the world's leading museums of history, art and culture. Explore extraordinary collections spanning more than two million years of human history, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies and ancient Greek sculptures, while uncovering the stories of civilisations from around the world.

Oxford

Discover the historic city of Oxford, home to the world-renowned University of Oxford and centuries of academic excellence. Wander through its iconic colleges and cobbled streets, visit landmarks including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church, and explore the city's rich literary, architectural and cultural heritage. Fans of Harry Potter can also see the Great Hall that inspired Hogwarts' famous dining hall.

Portsmouth

Explore Portsmouth's rich maritime heritage with a visit to the Historic Dockyard, home to some of Britain's most famous naval landmarks. Discover the story of Henry VIII's flagship at the Mary Rose Museum, learn about the Royal Navy at the National Museum of the Royal Navy, and explore the city's centuries-old connection to Britain's seafaring history.

Tower of London

Explore the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with nearly 1,000 years of royal history. Discover the magnificent Crown Jewels, step inside the iconic White Tower, and uncover the stories of kings, queens and famous prisoners, including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes, while exploring one of London's most historic landmarks.

Warwick Castle

Step inside Warwick Castle, one of England's best-preserved medieval fortresses, and discover more than 1,000 years of history. Explore its magnificent Great Hall and towers, experience spectacular live jousting and falconry displays, and uncover the stories of medieval life in one of the UK's most iconic castles.

Westminster, London

Explore the historic heart of London with a visit to Westminster, home to some of the UK's most iconic landmarks. Discover the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace while learning about Britain's royal heritage, political history and centuries of architectural excellence.

Typical outings

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The Summer Courses Experience in Oxford

For ages
13-15

Our Atlas Summer Courses blends academic exploration, curriculum enrichment, and social engagement. Students participate in two daily lessons with our expert tutors from leading universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, ensuring interactive learning in small class sizes. Directed study sessions offer dedicated homework time with on-course staff available for assistance.

For ages
16-17

Academic pursuits deepen with seminars, tutorials, and independent study sessions. Goal-setting and reflection sessions provide a personalised approach to academic and personal growth. University fairs and college visits offer valuable insights into higher education options.

Discover more about our teaching methodologies
For ages
18-24

Independent study takes precedence, allowing students to explore topics beyond seminars and develop their own ideas. Industry insights discussions and future pathways sessions offer valuable career guidance. Evening socials, diverse activities, and college visits contribute to a well-rounded experience.

Learn more about what's included.

Who Can Attend?

Our summer school at Atlas Summer Courses is designed for students aged 13–24, catering to a wide range of academic interests and career goals. Whether you are interested in exploring new subjects or deepening your understanding of a particular field, our expert tutors will provide a personalised and enriching learning experience. Students are divided into three age groups to ensure the programme meets their developmental needs.

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Stay in the City of Oxford

For ages
13-15

Staying in Oxford provides a wide range of enriching experiences. Guided city tours and orientations help students discover the city's highlights, while carefully planned activities and excursions offer immersive opportunities to explore its culture. With group outings, collaborative learning, and social events, students gain confidence and make lasting friendships in a supportive setting.

Price:
£5,495 - £9,995
Depending on tier
For ages
16-17

The Atlas Summer Courses summer experience offers a balance of academic enrichment and social connection. Students take part in full-day excursions, evening socials, and hands-on activities that promote personal growth and confidence. Free time is built in to allow students to explore independently or with peers, encouraging responsibility and curiosity in an inspiring environment.

Price:
£5,495 - £9,995
Depending on tier
For ages
18-24

Older students enjoy a mature and independent experience shaped by college visits, industry insight sessions, and evening socials. The programme encourages both academic development and peer collaboration. Time is allocated for self-directed exploration of Oxford, while formal dinners and a graduation ceremony bring the summer to a memorable close.

Price:
£5,495 - £9,995
Depending on tier
Accomodation

Students can choose between residential and non-residential options, depending on their programme and package. Residential students are allocated accommodation based on their age group, package selected, and availability, with room types ranging from shared to single occupancy and shared or private bathroom facilities where applicable.

Food and Catering

Ages 13-15: Full-board accommodations with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Ages 16-17 and 18-24: Half-board accommodations with breakfast and dinner. Lunch is not provided, but local restaurant recommendations will be offered by staff.

Adnaan
Mauritius
"The best lesson I have had so far was at Atlas Summer Courses when we studied Game Theory during the programme, and when we did presentations in class about shops or platforms that we had to imagine ourselves."
Alejandro
Spain
"I loved having people from different cultural backgrounds on my Atlas Summer Courses course — they brought experiences to the conversation that I had never encountered before."
Anas
Australia
"The favourite thing about my subject at Atlas Summer Courses was that, for the first time, I felt challenged, coming from someone who has studied Computer Science for 3 years in school (at GCSE and A Levels). It was kind of exciting and intimidating at the same time."
Aryaman
India
"Chemistry has always been my favourite subject, and my tutor made me love it even more. He shared insights not in books. An incredible learning experience at Atlas Summer Courses."
Blythe
Hong Kong
"The best thing about Atlas Summer Courses is the brilliant tutors and friendships I've built. During the programme, I adapted to being surrounded by people from many parts of the world. The environment was very welcoming. I learned a lot from the courses and enjoyed my time here immensely overall."
Bree
Canada
"The Creative Writing Course at Atlas Summer Courses helped me properly analyse famous writers works in order to fully understand them while letting me create my own short stories and poems."
Brett
USA
"The best part of my classes at Atlas Summer Courses would be the insight they've provided towards looking at history from different perspectives, and how important it is to properly gauge the usefulness of a source in your given essay. The summer programme experience has been enriching and has allowed me to broaden my understanding of historical analysis."
Christian
Romania
"The classes at Atlas Summer Courses have simply amazed me, and the tutor has guided us every step of the way, focusing on our interests, but also developing our critical thinking by encouraging us to support our views and find arguments to do so. The Atlas Summer Courses experience has been invaluable in expanding my knowledge and skills."
Dev
United Kingdom
"My mentor at Atlas Summer Courses, Mr Christian Holm, has been an absolute pleasure. I always look forward to his lessons, not only for my passion for economics but also because I feel Mr Holm has been great at dissecting complicated and large ideas, making them simpler and easier to digest. The summer programme experience with Mr Holm as my mentor at Atlas Summer Courses has been invaluable in enhancing my understanding of economics."
Emma
Sweden
"You get the chance to ask questions at Atlas Summer Courses to someone who can tell you what it's like to work in that field and answer more difficult questions. You get a more inspiring insight into the subject than you would in your normal school."
Erin
Canada
"The course at Atlas Summer Courses made me realise that chemistry is all around me and there is much more than just the classroom."
Gabrielle
Australia
"I chose to study the same subject that I study at university—Classical Civilisations—but Atlas Summer Courses gave me a fresh perspective on the subject and introduced me to ways of thinking that I hadn't been exposed to before."
Gabrielle
Singapore
"The last 14 days at Atlas Summer Courses have allowed me the opportunity to study International Relations and Politics in a new environment, with tutors who were able to cover a broad scope of the subject with us on the programme."
Irene
Panama
"Atlas Summer Courses has been such a unique and fulfilling experience, thanks to the support of our tutors and programme staff."
James
USA
"Atlas Summer Courses I liked how we were given complex problems to solve. This pushed me to learn more and gave me the motivation to want to learn more."
Jana
Palestine
"My tutor at Atlas Summer Courses, Mrs Hila Levy, was incredibly kind and helpful. She made sure that every student in her class clearly understood the new concepts she explained, and she always provided detailed feedback on our work."
Jennifer
India
"It has been exhilarating, all in all, to be a part of Atlas Summer Courses and I would definitely recommend it!"
Joshua
South Africa
"Inside the classroom at Atlas Summer Courses, we learned a great deal about a wide range of topics, including game theory, evaluation, supply and demand, inflation, interest rates, and resource allocation, covering both macroeconomics and microeconomics."
Katrina
USA
"I would love to do this course again in the future. Atlas Summer Courses is a place where you can make friends from all over the globe, as well as a chance to explore Oxford, London, and enjoy all sorts of extracurricular activities."
Krisha
India
"We were taught about business: what is it? how can we set up our own businesses? How can we successfully one day become leading entrepreneurs? Our classes were at Atlas Summer Courses very engaging and informative. We did lots of case studies which helped us understand better."
Loobdhak
Bahrain
"After finishing the course at Atlas Summer Courses, I feel as if I have not only learnt more about this topic but also understood how important it is in our everyday life. We explored different parts of computer science such as Hardware, Software engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Game designing, etc."
Magnus
Norway
"The main reason why I chose Atlas Summer Courses was to make new experiences, both with people and for myself to grow as an individual. Looking back now, the two weeks might be one of the most memorable and I am greatly thankful and satisfied."
Marina
Finland
"My tutor at Atlas Summer Courses was very nice and encouraging, she gave me lots of feedback that helped me improve my writing."
Maxim
Russia
"Even though I consider myself an advanced student in this field, I still had something new to learn and feel as if theres plenty more that I could do at Atlas Summer Courses."
Mitko
Macedonia
"The teaching is done so well at Atlas Summer Courses. I really like that my tutor broke down complicated issues into smaller subjects that we then discussed in-depth."
Muhammad
Pakistan
"My tutor at Atlas Summer Courses, Daniel Kaute, was not only witty and engaging, but also took the time to make sure we are applying our own skills to the work we are doing."
Oscar
Germany
"The tutorials at Atlas Summer Courses were the best, with individual feedback and valuable suggestions. This personalised approach was helpful. The summer school was beneficial overall."
Patrick
Norway
"I will forever appreciate the time I have spent at Atlas Summer Courses. During my time there I gained new friendships from a range of different cultures and I learned new things about myself."
Summer
New Zealand
"I like my course at Atlas Summer Courses, business and entrepreneurship, because I can learn many things there and the the tutor can be more focused in teaching me since there are only six students."
Uzair
Pakistan
"I am so happy that I picked Atlas Summer Courses over any other summer courses and I truly feel that this was a once in a lifetime experience."
Ximena
Mexico
"My tutor at Atlas Summer Courses was open to suggestions about other material we would like to see and study, like poetry!"

Reviews

Hear from students who attended our summer school in Oxford.

1
/
5
Read our reviews →

Summer School Accommodation in Oxford

Somerville College
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St Benet’s at St Hilda’s
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St Anne’s College
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Explore Our
Summer Courses

Choose from over 40 subjects taught through flexible, age-appropriate programmes. Our tutors adapt their teaching methodologies to different age groups and shape course content around students’ interests, rather than following a fixed curriculum.

View all courses
A Global Community of Curious Learners
150+
Countries represented
4.8/5
From 377 reviews
16k+
Alumni since 2010
Group of students in green lanyards talking together indoors between sessions

Be Part of a Global Community

Since 2010, more than 20,000 students from 150+ countries have joined our award-winning summer courses. Apply early to secure your place—spaces are limited and fill fast.
Apply Now
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