LSE Summer School
The LSE Summer School offers an exceptional opportunity for ambitious students to experience academic excellence at one of the world’s most respected social science universities.
Hosted by the London School of Economics and Political Science, this globally recognised summer programme allows students to study rigorous undergraduate-level courses while living in London during one of the most vibrant times of the year.
Running between June and August, the LSE Summer School is structured around three-week intensive courses that mirror the academic depth and teaching standards of LSE’s full-time undergraduate programmes.
Program Overview
Students can enrol in one, two, or three sessions, making it possible to tailor the experience according to academic goals, credit requirements, or personal schedules.
Each session lasts three weeks, and students are permitted to take one course per session. Over the nine-week summer period, students may complete up to three courses, allowing for academic progression or interdisciplinary exploration.
Each course is taught by LSE faculty members and experienced lecturers who are actively engaged in research and policy-shaping work, ensuring that learning remains current, analytical, and globally relevant.
Located in central London, the programme places students at the heart of political, financial, cultural, and intellectual life. Beyond academics, participants gain access to a rich calendar of professional development initiatives, social events, cultural excursions, and world-class university facilities.
The result is a holistic summer experience that strengthens academic profiles, enhances employability, and builds lifelong global networks.
Academic Structure & Subjects Offered
The academic structure of the LSE Summer School is designed to replicate the intensity and quality of a full undergraduate course within a condensed timeframe.
LSE Summer School offers a broad and carefully curated range of subjects across major social science and professional disciplines. Courses are designed and delivered by leading scholars and align closely with LSE’s undergraduate curriculum.
Subjects offered
Accounting
Business and Management
Data Science
Artificial Intelligence and Research Methods
Economics
Psychology
English Language
International Relations
Finance
Law
This diversity enables students from different academic backgrounds to find courses that support their current studies or future aspirations.
Course Levels and Entry Criteria
Courses are available at three academic levels, corresponding to the UK undergraduate system.
Level 100 courses: Equivalent to first-year undergraduate study and typically do not require formal prerequisites, although some mathematical familiarity may be recommended depending on the subject.
Level 200 courses: Align with second-year undergraduate study and require prior completion of introductory university-level coursework.
Level 300 courses: Represent advanced third-year undergraduate study and require intermediate subject knowledge.
This tiered structure allows students to choose courses appropriate to their academic preparation and confidence level.
Applicants must demonstrate strong English language proficiency. Accepted qualifications include Academic IELTS with an overall score of 7.0, including at least 7.0 in all components. However, students who have completed their degree at an English-medium university in India are not required to submit an English language test certificate.
Each course is delivered in small groups. Tutorials focus on discussion, application of concepts and critical analysis, encouraging students to actively engage with ideas and develop independent thinking.
Learning Experience and Academic Outcomes
LSE Summer School offers an academically rigorous and globally focused learning experience that goes beyond traditional lectures. The programme is designed to challenge students intellectually while helping them apply theory to real-world issues.
Teaching at LSE is intensive, interactive, and discussion-led, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, evidence-based analysis, and problem-solving. Students are encouraged to question ideas, engage in debates, and connect academic theory to contemporary global challenges.
Courses are delivered through a structured timetable, with lectures typically scheduled in either the morning or the afternoon. This allows students to balance focused academic study with independent learning, networking, and exploration of London.
A key strength of LSE Summer School is its international classroom environment. Students study alongside peers from across the world, gaining exposure to diverse perspectives that enrich discussions and prepare them for global academic and professional careers.
LSE faculty members bring real-world expertise into the classroom. Many are actively involved with governments, international organisations, policy institutions, and leading global companies, ensuring that teaching remains relevant, practical, and connected to current global developments.
Each completed Summer School course is academically equivalent to one undergraduate course at LSE. Courses typically carry 3–4 US or Chinese credits and 7.5 ECTS credits, highly valuable for students seeking transferable academic credit.
In addition to subject knowledge, students leave the programme with stronger academic communication skills, improved analytical ability, and a deeper understanding of their chosen field in a global context.
Professional Development Through Spark
A defining feature of the LSE Summer School experience is Spark, LSE’s professional skills and enrichment programme. Spark runs alongside academic courses and social activities, offering students structured opportunities to build career-ready skills.
Spark includes workshops, bootcamps, panel discussions, and networking events across six key areas:
- Digital skills
- Entrepreneurship
- Industry insights
- Job search skills
- Postgraduate study preparation
- Wellbeing
Students engage with industry professionals, business leaders, and career experts from within the LSE ecosystem. Many Spark events are free, ensuring equal access to professional development opportunities.
Through Spark, students develop practical skills such as CV writing, interview preparation, data literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and professional communication, helping them confidently articulate their skills and global outlook in academic and professional settings.
Social Programme and Cultural Immersion
The LSE Summer School social programme is designed to help students build friendships, explore London, and experience British culture. Events include welcome receptions, farewell parties, guided city walks, themed social evenings and cultural tours.
Students can participate in organised day trips to historic destinations such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Windsor, gaining insight into the UK’s academic heritage and royal history.
Unique experiences such as a sunset cruise on the River Thames and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter add memorable highlights to the summer.
Regular social activities such as pub quizzes, photography tours, and guided heritage walks encourage informal interaction and community building.
These experiences help students feel connected, confident, and culturally enriched during their stay.
Fees and What’s Included
Course fees for LSE Summer School 2026 vary depending on the number of sessions selected.
- One three-week session- £3,350 (Student rate)
- Two sessions- £5,550 (Student rate)
- Three sessions- £6,450 (Student rate)
- One week Prep English course- £1,101
Standard rates apply to non-student participants.
Fees include tuition, access to LSE facilities, academic materials, online learning platforms, selected social events, and participation in the professional skills programme. Accommodation, travel, meals, and optional excursions are typically charged separately.
Scholarships
LSE offers Academic Director’s Scholarships to outstanding Summer School applicants who demonstrate strong interest or promise in Sustainability and Development, Responsible Leadership, and Technology, Media and Society.
These scholarships aim to support talented students seeking to enhance their global outlook, academic excellence, and civic leadership skills.
Accommodation and Student Support
Students can choose from a wide range of LSE-approved residences located across central London: Butlers Wharf Residence
- Carr-Saunders Hall
- High Holborn Residence
- Passfield Hall
- Rosebery Hall
- Sidney Webb House
- urbanest Westminster Bridge
Accommodation options vary in room type, price, and atmosphere, allowing students to select what best suits their preferences.
Throughout the programme, students receive dedicated academic and pastoral support. LSE provides access to student services, wellbeing resources, and campus facilities to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
Assessment, Certification, and Recognition
Assessment at LSE Summer School is optional. Students who choose to be assessed receive a grade ranging from A+ to F, based on formal examinations or a combination of exams and assessed coursework. Successful candidates receive a graded certificate and an official electronic transcript.
Students who opt out of assessment may receive an Attendance Certificate, provided they attend at least 75% of seminar classes.
Facilities and Campus Resources
Students have access to LSE’s outstanding academic and recreational facilities, including the world-renowned British Library of Social and Economic Science, modern study spaces at the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre, and extensive online learning resources through Moodle.
Sports halls, squash courts, fitness centres and green spaces near campus support physical wellbeing and balance.
Program Details
- Start & End Months: June – August
- Duration: Three weeks
- Age Group: Open to eligible undergraduate students and graduates
- Location: London School of Economics, Central London, UK
Book a Free Consultation with ScholarshipKart today to explore the top Summer Schools in the UK. Get expert support at every step—from course selection and applications to scholarships and visa assistance. Start your global academic journey with confidence and let us help you secure the right programme, funding options, and a smooth transition to studying in the UK.