Understanding the financial aspect of your Oxford Summer Courses experience is a crucial step in preparing for your summer school adventure. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of recommended pocket money for different age groups attending our programs, along with additional financial tips to ensure you make the most of your time in Oxford or Cambridge.

Who’s Eligible to Apply to Oxford Summer Courses?

Eligibility for standard courses across all age groups (ages 9-24) requires applicants to be proficient in English and possess a keen interest in exploring the subjects they are applying for. For advanced courses in Cambridge for ages 18-24, students must have completed at least the second year of an undergraduate qualification (or equivalent) in the same area as the subject they wish to study. Apply now to check your eligibility and apply for our courses.

What’s Included in an Oxford Summer Course?

• Our tailored summer courses for ages 9-24 include:
• All teaching and academic content
• Accommodation
• Meals (including Friday night formal dinners)
• A prize-giving ceremony
• All-day trips and activities
• Airport transfers
• Access to Oxford Summer Courses Foundations
• Travel and medical insurance
• A welcome pack

These inclusions ensure that your primary needs are taken care of, allowing you to focus on your studies and enjoy your time in Oxford or Cambridge. Apply now to secure your spot in one of our comprehensive summer courses.

Budgeting for Additional Expenses

Recommended Pocket Money for Different Age Groups

• Q: How much of my own money will I need during a two-week course?
• A: For 18-24 year olds attending the Oxford Summer Courses summer school, we recommend that £300 will cover additional expenses, including lunches, souvenirs, and free time activities. For 16-17 year olds, we recommend £250. For 13-15-year-olds, we recommend £200. For 9-12-year-olds, we recommend £50 per week.

These amounts are designed to cover the cost of lunches, souvenirs, and leisure activities, ensuring that you can fully enjoy your experience without worrying about additional costs.

Tailored Recommendations for Every Age Group

We understand that different age groups have varying needs and preferences. Our recommended pocket money amounts are tailored to ensure that each age group has the resources they need for a fulfilling summer school experience.

• 18-24 Year Olds: £300 to cover additional expenses such as lunches, souvenirs, and leisure activities.
• 16-17 Year Olds: £250 for similar expenses, tailored to the slightly different needs of this age group.
• 13-15 Year Olds: £200 to ensure younger students have enough for their needs without carrying excessive amounts.
• 9-12 Year Olds: £50 per week, as their activities and needs are more closely monitored and managed.

Budgeting for Lunches, Souvenirs, and Leisure Time

The recommended amounts are designed to cover expenses such as lunches, souvenirs, and leisure activities during your two-week course. This allows you to make the most of your free time and explore the rich cultural offerings of Oxford or Cambridge. Here are some specific categories and what you might expect to spend on each:

Lunches

While some meals are included in your course fees, you may want to explore local eateries or cafes during your free time. Budgeting around £10-15 per day should be sufficient for lunches.

Souvenirs

Oxford and Cambridge offer a range of souvenirs, from university merchandise to unique local crafts. Setting aside £50-100 can help you take home memorable keepsakes.

Leisure Activities

Whether it's visiting local attractions, attending cultural events, or simply enjoying a coffee with new friends, having a budget for leisure activities ensures you can fully enjoy your experience. Expect to spend around £50-100 depending on your interests.

Practical Tips for Managing Your Money

Use a Prepaid Card

For safety and convenience, consider using a prepaid card instead of carrying large amounts of cash. This allows you to manage your spending and avoid the risks associated with carrying cash.

Keep Track of Your Spending

Use a budgeting app or a simple notebook to track your expenses. This will help you stay within your budget and avoid unexpected shortfalls.

Take Advantage of Student Discounts

Many attractions and stores offer student discounts. Always carry your student ID and ask about discounts wherever you go.

Plan Ahead

Research free or low-cost activities in Oxford and Cambridge. There are many beautiful parks, museums, and historical sites that are either free or inexpensive to visit.

Next Step: What Should I Bring With Me?

Curious about what essentials to pack for your summer school adventure? Our next FAQ provides detailed guidance: What should I bring with me?

Conclusion

At Oxford Summer Courses, we are dedicated to ensuring that your experience is not only academically enriching but also worry-free. By providing these recommended pocket money amounts, we aim to help you make the most of your time in Oxford or Cambridge. Whether it's exploring local cuisine, picking up souvenirs, or enjoying leisure activities, we want you to have a seamless and enjoyable summer school adventure. So, follow our guidelines and get ready for an unforgettable experience! For more detailed packing suggestions, refer to our FAQs. We can't wait to welcome you to Oxford Summer Courses!

Ready to Join Oxford Summer Courses?

After submitting your application, we'll be in touch very soon to inform you of the outcome. Apply now to begin your journey with Oxford Summer Courses!

About the author

Rhys Mackenzie is the Website Marketing Manager at Oxford Summer Courses. With extensive experience in SEO and digital content management, they are passionate about showcasing the best that Oxford has to offer. Their previous role at Experience Oxfordshire gave them a deep appreciation for the city's unique cultural and academic offerings. Learn more about Rhys here.