UCL Summer School
The UCL Summer School is a globally recognised academic programme designed for ambitious students who want to experience world-class education in a short, intensive format.
Hosted by University College London, the programme blends rigorous academics with cultural exploration in one of the world’s most influential cities.
Each summer, students study alongside peers from dozens of countries, creating a truly international classroom environment.
With its strong academic reputation and central London location, the UCL Summer School offers an enriching experience that goes far beyond traditional summer learning.
growth, gaining valuable insight into future university and career pathways.
Program Overview
The UCL Summer School runs annually during the summer months, welcoming undergraduate, postgraduate, and select professional learners from across the world.
Students can choose to attend one or two sessions, each lasting three weeks, depending on their academic goals and availability.
Teaching is delivered face-to-face by UCL academics, many of whom are leading researchers in their fields.
The programme is structured to provide both academic depth and flexibility, allowing students to focus on one subject per session.
Academic Structure & Subjects Offered
Academically, the programme is divided into two intensive sessions, with each module designed as a full-time commitment.
Classes are typically held Monday to Friday, with an average of four to five contact hours per day.
Each module includes 45 contact hours and approximately 100 hours of independent study, ensuring a strong balance between guided learning and self-directed research.
UCL offers a broad and interdisciplinary range of subjects, allowing students to align their studies with academic or career interests.
Broad Courses Offered :
Brain Sciences
Computer Science
Economics, Business and Management
Culture, Literature and the Arts
Education and Research
Engineering
English for Academic Purposes
Geography and the Built Environment
Health
History and Philosophy
Law
Linguistics
Medical Sciences
Politics and International Relations
Science and Mathematics
These subjects align closely with competitive university pathways and are designed to help students explore academic interests at an advanced level before making long-term study decisions.
Program Features & Learning Outcomes
The program is designed with a clearly structured, level-based academic framework that allows students to choose modules aligned with their existing knowledge and future goals.
Most offerings are Level One modules, academically comparable to first-year undergraduate study, and are purposefully created for students who may be exploring a subject for the first time, with no prior subject-specific background required beyond standard entry criteria.
These introductory modules emphasise interdisciplinary learning, enabling students to connect ideas across fields while examining global issues through the distinctive academic and cultural context of London.
Students with prior academic exposure can select Level Two and Level Three modules, which provide a more advanced learning pathway, requiring defined prerequisites and building directly on existing subject knowledge.
These higher-level modules are structured to deepen analytical thinking, enhance subject-specific expertise, and strengthen academic confidence at an undergraduate and pre-graduate level.
Across all levels, students develop critical reasoning, independent learning skills, and an expanded academic perspective, outcomes that are widely recognised as essential for success in further higher education and internationally competitive career paths.
Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Immersion
Beyond academics, the programme places strong emphasis on cultural engagement and social connection.
London itself becomes an extended classroom, with many modules incorporating site visits and city-based learning.
Students can participate in a vibrant social and cultural programme that includes welcome receptions, quizzes and karaoke nights, sports activities, and scenic walks along the River Thames. Cultural experiences such as attending Shakespeare plays and enjoying iconic London sunsets add depth to your stay.
Weekend trips to historic destinations like Oxford, Bath, and Stonehenge further enhance the experience, making your time at UCL truly unforgettable.
These experiences help students build lifelong friendships while gaining firsthand exposure to British culture and history.
Eligibility Criteria
The UCL Summer School is primarily intended for students who have completed at least one year of undergraduate study.
Most participants are in their second or third year, though applications are also welcomed from postgraduate students and a limited number of professionals.
Applicants under the age of 18 are considered only if they meet academic requirements and have a parent or guardian residing with them in London throughout the programme.
What’s Included in Fees
The tuition fee covers academic instruction, access to UCL facilities, and participation in selected social and cultural activities.
While accommodation is charged separately, UCL guarantees eligible Summer School students a place in university-managed housing at a discounted rate, offering both convenience and value in central London
Accommodation & Student Support
Students are accommodated in UCL residences located close to the main Bloomsbury campus. Avail residence at Astor College, Goldsmid House, James Lighthill House, New Hall, and Schafer House.
Options range from standard single rooms to en-suite rooms and studios, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Living in UCL accommodation allows students to experience campus life fully, with access to libraries, study spaces, and student facilities.
Dedicated student support services are available throughout the programme to assist with academic guidance, wellbeing, and practical matters.
Awards, Certifications & Academic Recognition
On successful completion of the programme, students receive an official UCL academic transcript detailing their module results and credits earned.
Students earn from 15 UK credits per module, equivalent to 4 US credits or 7.5 ECTS credits in Europe.
Each completed module contributes formally recognised academic credit, transferable subject to home institution approval.
Additionally, students are granted UCL Associate Alumni status, providing long-term value through academic recognition and global alumni connections.
Program Details
Start & End Months
- Session One: June to July, while
- Session Two: July to August.
- Duration: Each session lasts 3 weeks. 6 Weeks for both sessions
- Age: Typically, 18 years and above, with limited exceptions for under-18 applicants meeting specific conditions.
- Fees: One session: £2,995 and Both sessions: £4,995
- Location: University College London, Bloomsbury Campus, 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.
