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Durham University

Pre-University Summer School 2025

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

Exterior of the Dawson Building on the Durham University campus

What? Pre-university Summer School

When? 10-23 August 2025

Where? Durham University, Durham, UK

Who? Pre-university students aged 16-18

 

Scenic shot of Elvet Bridge in Durham

Apply Now

Spaces still available for the 2025 Pre-University Summer School - Contact the CPD (Summer School) Enquiries Team to apply.

Summer School Enquiries

 

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.

The courtyard of Durham Castle on a bright day with blue sky.

 

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

Students chatting in the Teaching & Learning Centre

 

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

Durham Castle Dinner

 

Fees

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

Course fee: £4000 *

* (Fees are shown in UK £ Sterling)

Visa Support Letters Available Upon Request

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Key dates for 2025

  • Programme: 10-23 August 2025
  • Application Deadline: Places still available – Apply now
  • Final Payment Due: 1 August 2025

 

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.

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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.

 

Scenic shot of Elvet Bridge in Durham

Apply Now

Spaces still available for the 2025 Pre-University Summer School - Contact the CPD (Summer School) Enquiries Team to apply.

Summer School Enquiries
A picture of two female students looking at a laptop.

Undergraduate Study

See everything that Durham University has to offer by exploring the courses you can apply for.

Discover our undergraduate courses International Students