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International Relations & Politics Course in Oxford

Oxford Summer School 2026 | Ages 15-18

Passionate about politics? The Experience International Relations, Politics and Leadership Academy offers the perfect chance to expand your knowledge and explore university life.

Debate the forces shaping global politics, examine how power and influence evolve over time, and develop your own leadership skills in Oxford this summer.

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Key Facts

Location
Oxford University campus

Ages
15-18 year olds

Class Size
Maximum 15 students

Dates
5th July - 18th July 2026
19th July - 1st August 2026
2nd August - 15th August 2026

Tutors
Typically Oxford and
Cambridge academics

Fees
£7,495

Duration
Two weeks

Graduation & Certification
Letter of Recommendation and
Certificate of Achievement

Awards & Accreditation
British Accreditation Council and
King's Award

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Experience International Relations, Politics & Leadership Academy

You’ll debate global issues, analyse political decisions and take the floor in a Model UN Council. You’ll be guided by expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.

Theories of Leadership

In the first class, you’ll explore theories of leadership and examine leaders from different times and fields. You’ll debate what makes a good leader and consider political leaders you admire.

View Curriculum

Political Change

This class will focus on types of political change and what gives rise to them. You’ll discuss examples of change over time and around the world, and debate what makes political change most effective.

Democracy

Explore the key features of a democracy, examine how democracy has developed and changed in different historical contexts, and debate whether democracies are the best type of political system for the majority of people.

Politics & the Economy

Identify key concepts of political economy in action and discuss the importance of political decisions for understanding economic systems.

International Relations

This class will cover the key processes involved in international relations. You’ll analyse examples of different processes, explore the concept of virtual diplomacy and debate which principles should guide international relations.

Global Organisations

Get to grips with important global institutions and their different roles. Then, debate which of these organisations are most influential in international relations.

Crisis & Global Governance

In this class, you’ll build upon your knowledge of global organisations to understand how global governance works. You’ll learn how countries and multilateral institutions come together to tackle crises, and evaluate the merits and limitations of current processes.

Social Media & Politics

In the penultimate class, you’ll discover why social media is relevant in politics today, debate its merits and demerits in politics, and think about how social media can shape your own leadership style.

Class X

Your final class is based on the tutor’s own expertise, offering a glimpse into the latest thinking and research shaping the field. You’ll gain insight into a cutting-edge area of politics or international relations that has high relevance to today’s world.

The Model United Nations Challenge

Your learning won’t just take place in the classroom. Beyond the daily classes, you’ll also experience an intensive, four-hour academic Challenge: a chance to put theory into practice, and a highlight for many students.

Immerse yourself in a high-stakes diplomatic challenge. Working alongside Experience Debate & Public Speaking students, you’ll step into the role of a diplomat in a simulated UN Security Council.

You will discuss the International Peace and Security crisis, representing the interests and perspectives of your allocated nation.

After researching and establishing your position, you’ll participate in a structured debate to navigate conflicting interests, negotiate solutions and build consensus.

Meet Your Tutor

Arushi Sharan

BA Hons, Master’s Diploma, MA, DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)
Arushi is currently a DPhil candidate in International Development at the University of Oxford and an Abdul Rauphu Mustafa Scholar. She holds a Master of Arts with Distinction in Political Science from Jawaharlal Nehru University and a Master’s Diploma in Conflict Transformation and Peace Building. 

Arushi has worked as a teaching fellow in Comparative Politics at Ashoka University and as a research guide with the Chief Minister’s Good Governance Associates Programme in India. Her research on policy and governance has been published in reputed academic journals.

Please note that tutors may be subject to change.

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Nurture Your Leadership Skills

Engage in real-world political discussions under an expert tutor, meet a successful professional in the field and develop strong academic skills in masterclasses.

Master Key Political Concepts

Learn key concepts such as analysing political ideologies, exploring global diplomacy and debating international policies – all under the guidance of one of our expert tutors from leading universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

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Meet a Political Professional
Gain insights from our Politics Hero, a successful young policymaker or diplomat. Discover their journey, ask all your questions about international relations, political strategy and governance, and be inspired to take the first steps toward your own future in global affairs.
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Level Up with Masterclasses
Build essential practical life skills such as public speaking, critical thinking and teamwork through our Masterclasses, developing tools that will benefit you long after the programme ends – no matter which academic path you take.
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Still Curious?
We’d Love to Talk.

Stephanie, our Head of Admissions, would be happy to answer all your questions. Let us know a time that works for you.

Arrange a Call

Build an International Network

Study and experience Oxford alongside passionate, curious and motivated young people like you from all over the globe. Our students are eager to elevate their academic ambitions and seize their future.

Pippa Manning
Pippa Manning

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: Nottingham Girls' High School

COURSE: Experience Medicine Academy

 

 
I have found the classes so insightful and interesting and have learnt more about Medicine than I ever have in school, as well as new topics I had never considered. I'm sure this knowledge will be invaluable in my application to medical school and it has made me feel much more confident in my own abilities.
Eliah Cibambo
Eliah Cibambo

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: Lycée Prince de Liège

COURSE: Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

 

 
This was a very enriching and rewarding experience both academically and socially. We explored key business concepts, which provided me with new insights into the business world. It also helped me identify and understand the challenges of tomorrow’s world, which will be very important for my future.
Adela Jung Foncillas
Adela Jung Foncillas

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: FES Lörrach

COURSE: Experience Psychology & Neuroscience Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has given me the confidence to determine my own future. I learned to step out of my comfort zone and try incredible new things, even when they seemed scary at first. I've also had the amazing opportunity to build a network of kind and open-minded people, all from different countries.
Juanita Sele-Matthew
Juanita Sele-Matthew

AGE: 15

SCHOOL: Meadowhall School

COURSE: Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has taught me to always reach for the stars. The programme has really opened my eyes to what I want my life to look like. I've learned academic skills but also social and emotional skills, like how to network, how to live away from home and how to make new friends.

Make Memories to Last a Lifetime

Outside the classroom, you'll take part in a packed schedule of social, cultural and sporting activities alongside your new friends, designed to push you beyond your comfort zone and give you a real taste of university life. Embark on an unforgettable journey.

Excursions
Socials
Sports
Graduation
Inspiring Cultural Excursions

Discover the timeless allure of Oxford as you wander its historic, picturesque streets, soaking in the city’s rich heritage and charm. Experience inspiring day trips to iconic destinations that offer a deeper connection to culture and history.

Day Trips: Visit Windsor Castle, an official residence of the Royal Family, and explore Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill
Oxford Experiences: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Oxford, discover its renowned museums, and experience a traditional college brunch. Watch a Shakespeare play in the grounds of the ancient Oxford Castle
Unique Activities: Try Scottish ceilidh dancing and go punting on the River Thames, a favourite Oxford pastime

 

Exciting Social Events

Beyond the classroom, engage in vibrant social activities designed to create lasting memories and friendships, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.

 

International Boat Ball: A highlight of the programme, this unforgettable evening takes place aboard a boat on the River Thames, celebrating friendships and experiences in true Oxford style
Oxford’s Got Talent: Take to the stage and showcase your talents in this fun and informal event
Movie, Quiz & Games Nights: Enjoy relaxing evenings in the common rooms with your new friends, and take part in a variety of entertaining activities 
Unique Sporting Activities

Stay active during your time in Oxford with a variety of sports and outdoor activities, and enjoy some friendly competition.

 

Football Tournament: Take part in the annual football game held at Oxford's historic Iffley Road campus
Lunchtime Running Club: Explore Oxford's scenic routes on our regular running club for students keen to keep their fitness up
Local Gyms: If you prefer gym workouts, you can sign up to a nearby fitness centre during your time with us

 

An Unforgettable Graduation

Celebrate your graduation with a memorable ceremony, recognising your hard work and achievements in front of friends and family.

 

Graduation Ceremony: Formally graduate from the programme in a ceremony with friends and family
Barbecue Celebration: Attend a garden BBQ, take graduation pictures and reflect on your summer memories
Ceilidh Dance: Finish the programme with a traditional British ceilidh dance and a live band. Don't worry - the band will teach you all the steps!

 

Hear From a Graduate

Alfonso Feris
Experience IR, Politics & Leadership Academy (2024)
“I have made life-long friends at Oxford Scholastica. I typically consider myself an introverted person, but over the course of the two weeks I have made friends as close as brothers. I’m sure our friendship will last a lifetime.”
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Strengthen Your University Application

You’ll leave with a Certificate of Achievement, a Letter of Recommendation and the opportunity to join our Ambassador Programme – all designed to help your application stand out to top-tier universities at home or abroad.



Celebration certificate of achievement oxford scholastica
Earn a Certificate of Achievement
All students who successfully complete the course will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.
Get a Letter of Recommendation
Students who meet our criteria will be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.
Join Our Ambassador Programme

Want to continue learning? Apply for our one-year Ambassador Programme to gain valuable skills in marketing, networking, entrepreneurship and more. With monthly virtual meetings, you'll develop practical skills to shape your future.

Your Questions,
Answered.

Still need help? Book a call
What are the entry requirements for the course?

We have three entry requirements:

i) You must be aged between 11-18 years old at the start of your chosen course.

ii) You must be motivated to learn more about the subject you wish to study (there's space for you to write a personal statement on our registration form). We find that when students are self-motivated and eager to make the most of the opportunity, the summer school can be a truly transformative experience.

iii) You must be able to speak, read and understand English well. Though we require no formal testing, our minimum English level is Common European Framework Level C1, which equates to IELTS 6.5. If you’d like to arrange a call to check whether you have the right level of English, please feel free to contact us.

What should I write in my Oxford Scholastica personal statement?
Our admissions panel reads through each student's personal statement to determine if they'd be a good fit for our programme. We welcome bright and intellectually curious students from around the world – those who are passionate about their subject and eager to challenge themselves.

We don't have any academic prerequisites, as many of our students have never been exposed to their chosen subject before, so instead we're looking for motivation and mindset.

I'm 11 years old. Can I join a course for 12-14 year olds?

We do accept bright, mature eleven year olds onto our Discover Academy courses (designed for ages 12-14), so please do submit an application here. If you’d like to discuss your specific situation, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.

I'm 14 years old. Can I join a course for 15-18 year olds?

We do sometimes allow bright, mature 14 year olds to join our Experience Academy courses (designed for ages 15-18), so please do submit an application here. If you’d like to discuss your specific situation, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.

Do you accept students who are at university?
We can only accept students who are not at university. If you've just finished school and have yet to start higher education, you're welcome to join us. Unfortunately, if you've already started at university, then we're unable to offer you a place at our summer school.
How do I secure my place?

Please click here to apply for your place and pay your deposit (£995). Our admissions panel will assess your application and will be in touch to confirm whether you have been accepted onto the programme. If for any reason you're not accepted, your deposit will be refunded in full.

Who will my tutor be?

We carefully select and train the best qualified tutors for each course. Our tutors are subject experts from world-class institutions, including the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Learn more about our tutors here.

Will I get a certificate or accreditation at the end of the course?

All students who successfully complete one of our courses will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.

Students who meet our criteria will also be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.

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