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Somerville College, Oxford
Oxford Summer Courses hosts students aged 16–17 at Somerville College. Students stay in on-site accommodation and use the college facilities for teaching, meals, and programme activities. Staying at this venue provides a memorable and high-quality setting for their summer experience.
The History of Somerville College, Oxford
Founded in 1879, Somerville was one of the first women’s colleges at Oxford University, created to widen access to higher education. Today it is fully co-educational and remains known for its progressive values and inclusive spirit.
Somerville has built a reputation as a place where bold ideas and diverse perspectives are encouraged. Its history of pioneering equality continues to shape its identity, making it an inspiring home for students who want to push boundaries and think independently. Apply for a summer course hosted at the renowned Somerville College.
Pricing
Payment plans are available, and you can apply for more than one course to extend your stay. For more details on what’s included, visit our what’s included page.
Life at Somerville College
Students stay in single bedrooms spread across the main college site, clustered around a large central quadrangle. Rooms are quiet and comfortable, with bathrooms shared between a small number of students. Bed linen and towels are provided, and while kitchens are not accessible in line with college policy, all meals are organised on-site.
Facilities at Somerville include shared social areas, on-site laundry and dining, and beautiful green spaces to enjoy between lessons. The combination of academic focus, independence, and pastoral support makes Somerville an ideal choice for 16–17-year-olds building confidence and independence before university.
Discover our available summer courses and prepare for the learning experience of a lifetime.
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Famous Somerville College Alumni
Somerville has a proud history of producing exceptional graduates across politics, science, and the arts. Alumni include Margaret Thatcher, the UK’s first female Prime Minister; Indira Gandhi, the first female Prime Minister of India; and Dorothy Hodgkin, Nobel Prize-winning chemist.
While Oxford Summer Courses is not part of Oxford University, staying at Somerville lets you live and learn in the same inspiring surroundings that shaped these extraordinary leaders. It’s a reminder that the right environment can spark ambition and achievement.
Why Choose Somerville College with Oxford Summer Courses
At Somerville you’ll be taught in small groups using the Oxford tutorial style, with guidance from experienced tutors and support available throughout your stay. The focus is on developing your subject knowledge, building confidence, and engaging fully in academic discussions.
Founded in 1879, Somerville College is known for its open, inclusive community and strong academic reputation. Located close to Oxford’s city centre, it offers modern facilities alongside historic buildings, providing an excellent base for both study and exploration.
FAQs about Venues and Accommodation
Your venue is assigned based on your age group, course, location and the dates you attend.
- Students aged 9–14 (Juniors and Scholars) always stay at Harrow School.
- Students aged 13–24 are placed at a venue in Oxford or Cambridge depending on their programme week.
Your admissions advisor will confirm your allocated venue before you accept your offer.
Yes. During your application, you can select from the room types available for your age group on your chosen dates and may include single rooms, twin rooms, or ensuite rooms.
If your application is successful, you’ll be allocated the room type you selected, subject to availability at the moment you applied — another reason to apply early.
You’ll stay at your assigned venue for the full duration of your course, which will be one or two weeks, depending on your age group.
If you book consecutive courses, your venue may stay the same or change, depending on the subjects, dates, and locations you’ve applied for. Our team will confirm your full schedule in advance.
After you apply, our admissions team checks availability for your dates, course, and chosen room type. Your admissions advisor will then contact you directly to confirm your venue and room assignment before you accept your offer or pay any deposit. Staying responsive at this stage helps us match you to the best available option for your programme.
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Secure Your 2026 Place Today
With limited spaces and high demand, early applications give you the best choice of course, date, and location. Apply now to guarantee your summer with our award-winning programmes.
