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University Taster Summer Schools 2025

The Cambridge International Academy University Taster Summer Schools offer a valuable opportunity to experience first-year undergraduate courses in Cambridge. The Summer Schools are hosted at Clare College, the University of Cambridge.

All academic courses are taught by Cambridge academics, PhD researchers or scientists. The summer schools are ideal for:

  • high school students planning to study at university,

  • university students seeking a Cambridge experience,

  • adults looking to re-engage with academic learning.

We contract Clare College for the use of facilities but otherwise have no connection or association with Clare College or the University  of Cambridg

What our students and parents say...

Discover Canadian Olympian Aiyanna’s Enlightening Experience in Cambridge
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Discover Canadian Olympian Aiyanna’s Enlightening Experience in Cambridge

Join Aiyanna Stiverne, a Canadian Olympian, as she shares her enlightening experience at the Cambridge International Academy Summer School. Learn how this unique experience has deepened her passion for psychology, inspired her career pivot into user design, and reignited her love for learning in an intimate, world-renowned academic setting. Why Psychology: For Aiyanna, psychology isn’t just about the human mind; it’s also a crucial component in understanding user behaviour, which is key to her interest in user design. She dives into how the course connects psychology to real-world applications, like marketing and product design, making it an essential step in her career pivot. Learning in an Intimate Setting: Aiyanna reflects on the close-knit learning environment, where small class sizes allow for personalised feedback and deep discussions. The hands-on teaching style has helped her reconnect with the subject and build confidence in ways she hadn’t anticipated. Expanding Knowledge: From exploring mental health to understanding the biological underpinnings of behaviour, Aiyanna discusses how the course delves into complex topics that have reshaped her view of psychology and its relevance today. Inspired by Cambridge: Aiyanna talks about the "magic" of studying at a historic institution like Cambridge and how her time here has reignited her love of learning. She’s now considering applying for a master's degree, inspired by the academic environment and the vibrant community. Discover how Aiyanna’s experience has fueled her passion for psychology and design, and why she believes this summer school is more than just a learning experience - it’s a place where you can rediscover yourself.
Mastering Debate
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Mastering Debate

Join Rain Chen from Beijing, China, as he shares his transformative experience of our British Parliamentary Debating course at the University Taster Programme. Rain delves into what makes this debating class stand out and how it has shaped his academic and career ambitions. Enhanced Debating Skills - Rain valued the need to debate in either the proposition or opposition team for a position he might not personally agree with. This deepened his understanding of complex topics, enhanced his persuasive skills and helped build friendships along the way. Favourite Activity: Rain’s top highlight was the dynamic ‘where do you stand’ activity, where every student actively participates by standing in a position, sparking lively discussions and equal opportunities to improve their debating skills. Most Interesting Topic – Should We Keep the British Monarchy?: Rain recounts a memorable debate on the future of the British monarchy, a topic that resonated deeply given the Cambridge setting and the mix of British and international perspectives in the room. Academic and Career Aspirations: Aspiring to work in international relations or at the United Nations, Rain emphasises how these debating experiences have sharpened his communication skills, preparing him for a future in diplomacy. Watch Rain’s inspiring review of the British Parliamentary Debating course and see how debating is not just about winning arguments - it’s about broadening horizons, building confidence, and preparing for the future!
Navigating International Relations
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Engineering Unlocked
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Engineering Unlocked

Join Luke from Cambridge as he shares his experience of the Engineering course at our University Taster Programme. Hear how this hands-on course deepened his understanding of engineering, boosted his confidence, and inspired his future academic ambitions. Diving Deep into Engineering: Luke talks about exploring various engineering disciplines—mechanical, civil, biomedical, and more. This in-depth approach has given him a clearer view of the entire industry, revealing the many paths available within the field. Building Skills and Confidence: Luke reflects on how the collaborative environment and small class size have helped him bond with peers, step out of his comfort zone, and tackle real-world challenges like building a bridge to support a car. With one-on-one time with a Cambridge academic, he’s gained insights that have enhanced his problem-solving skills and overall understanding of complex concepts like Thermodynamics. Cool Moments: One highlight? Learning the mechanics behind a Formula One car! This experience has solidified Luke’s passion for engineering and motivated him to pursue it at top universities like Cambridge. Advice for Future Students: Luke encourages prospective students to dive in with an open mind. From learning and making lifelong friends, these stories and experiences will stay with you forever. Discover how the University Taster Programme helped Luke find his path in engineering and why he recommends it to anyone looking to explore this exciting field! 🚀
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Summer School Key Features

Fees: £5,980

06-19 July 2025 (13 nights)

20 July - 02 Aug 2025 (13 nights)

Course structure

2 Academic courses 

2 Enrichmemt courses 

Enrichment activities and day trips

Tuition

40 hours

Class size: max 10 people

Lecture & seminar styles

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Activities & Trips

While we believe in working hard, we equally value having fun. That’s why, alongside your studies, you’ll participate in a range of educational, cultural, and fun activities.