Here’s Why an International Summer School Is the Best Investment in Your Future

Would you like to improve your chances of getting into your dream university, while meeting people from all over the world? 

If your answer is yes, an international summer school could be an excellent way for you to invest in your future.

Summer schools are a great opportunity to take a sneak peek into university life, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

As well as having a great time, there are many benefits of attending a summer school abroad – we’ve highlighted some of the longer-term benefits in today’s article.

Academic Benefits of International Summer Schools

Study on the world’s leading university campuses

Many international summer schools use the facilities of world-class universities. This means that during your programme, you’ll spend time in an inspiring education setting and get a taste of real student life.

This can also be an excellent opportunity to get familiar with universities you’d like to apply to in the future. Our programmes at the Oxford Scholastica Academy take place on the University of Oxford’s campus (we are an independent summer school which uses the university’s facilities).

Choose from a wide range of topics for your study programme

International summer schools let you choose from specialised programmes that you might not be able to study at school. This offers you an insight into a subject to help you decide whether you would like to study it at degree level.

For example, our Experience Medicine Academy for 15-18-year-olds allows students to get a taste of medical study before committing to a 6-year degree.

Learn from renowned academics and experts from around the world

As a secondary school student, attending university-style classes and workshops given by expert professors is an invaluable academic experience.

Not only will this help you learn more about your chosen course, but it will also develop your interdisciplinary skills, such as communication, academic research, and critical thinking skills. If you’re an international student considering studying in the UK, a British summer school is a great opportunity to learn more about the UK’s higher education system.

Cultural Benefits of International Summer Schools

Meet people from different cultural backgrounds

As our world becomes more international, developing cross-cultural awareness and empathy skills is crucial to future success.

At an international summer school, you will meet academics and students from different cultural backgrounds, which will help you develop an international worldview and relate better to different perspectives.

Attend cultural activities and discover the local culture

International summer schools are not only about academics — they’re also about discovering the local culture through day trips and fun activities. For example, Oxford Scholastica students visit Windsor Castle, the largest occupied castle in the world, and explore Oxford, a city that inspired so many great minds, including J.R.R. Tolkien.

Get a glimpse of independence before you go to university

Most international summer schools on university campuses are designed to make your university student experience as authentic as possible. For example, at Oxford Scholastica, our students stay in Oxford University student accommodation, and take responsibility for their own independent study tasks.

Additionally, students are given free time in which to explore the city with their new friends, adding a level of independence to the trip which will prepare you perfectly for your first year at university.

Career Benefits of International Summer Schools

Add to your personal statement and college applications

Summer programmes make excellent additions to college applications in personal statements and personal essays, as they demonstrate a vested interest in your subject. 

They also prove that you’re willing to go above and beyond, dedicating your free time to further study. These are all things that universities are looking for in their prospective students. 

Broaden your skill set

An international summer school is an excellent opportunity to develop lots of different skills. This includes both soft skills such as intercultural skills and empathy, and hard skills such as industry knowledge depending on your field.

As well as boosting your university applications, these new skills can set you apart during future job applications, and they’re also helpful skills beyond the bounds of school and work.

Ready to attend an international summer school? 

Attending an international summer school will give you a feel for student life way before many of your peers. It will also help to clarify the subject(s) you want to study beyond school, and you’ll leave with skills and friendships that will last a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for?