Durham University

Pre-University Summer School Coming in 2026

[Applications have now closed for August 2025 - read on and register interest for 2026]

Explore academic life at one of the UK's most historic and prestigious universities.

What? Pre-university Summer School

When? August 2026

Where? Durham University, Durham, UK

Who? Pre-university students aged 16-18

Overview

Spend 10 unforgettable days at Durham University – studying, socialising, and discovering life at a world top-100 university in a UNESCO World Heritage city.

Our Pre-University Summer School gives ambitious students aged 16–18 a chance to explore university-style learning, make global friendships, and gain inspiration for their academic future.

Academic Instruction

Our programme offers 24 hours of academic instruction, delivered by Durham University academics.

A Taste of Social Sciences

Explore major disciplines:

• Law: how laws shape societies
• Politics: climate ethics and global power
• Philosophy: do we have a right to be loved?
• Sociology: social inequality and identity
• Education: critical perspectives on learning

You will get

• 10 nights in en-suite accommodation (Durham University student accommodation)
• Breakfast and evening meals daily
• Welcome event, team-building, games night, sports centre access and a farewell dinner
• Full academic programme (lectures, seminars, and group work)
• Full-day trips to Edinburgh and York (includes travel, meals, entry to attractions)
• Travel insurance and 24/7 welfare support
• Durham certificate of attendance

Fees

Application process fee: £50 * (non-refundable)

Course fee: £4000 *

^{* (Fees are shown in UK £ Sterling and may change for 2026)}

Visa Support Letters Available Upon Request

Key dates for 2026

• Programme: tbc August 2026
• Application Deadline: Register your interest now
• Final Payment Due: 1 August 2026

Entry requirements

• Must be 16 to 18 years old throughout the programme
• English Level B2 (or B1 for English Language & Culture track)
• Short personal statement (~300 words)
• Latest school transcript or report
• Parental/guardian consent and emergency contact information

Safety and Support

• Pre-arrival
  • Visa Support Letters Available Upon Request
  • Pre-departure Zoom Q&A and briefing
• After arrival
  • 24 hour on-site pastoral care and safeguarding team
  • One Durham Student Ambassador for every twelve students
  • Secure campus with ID-controlled access
  • 24 hour campus safety team

Getting here

Durham is easily accessible by rail and road and the closest airports are:

• Newcastle International (1 hour)
• Manchester International (2.5 hours)
• London Heathrow (3 hours by train)
• Edinburgh Airport (3 hours by train)

Group airport pickups can be arranged on arrival/departure days. Details provided upon registration.

Why choose Durham?

• Top 10 UK university (Guardian 2024)
• #78 worldwide (QS World University Rankings)
• Learn on a medieval campus with a world-class collegiate system
• Personalised learning in small seminar groups
• Diverse international community
• Authentic student experience with real Durham undergraduates

Have a look around using the Durham University Virtual Tour.