Oxford Summer Courses is collaborating with Stanford Pre-Collegiate International Institutes to give academically talented students the chance to join us at Stanford University for a 10 day or two-week introduction to American college life at a globally renowned centre for innovation.

Attending the course at Stanford is a great opportunity for students to immerse themselves in life at Stanford University, experience world-leading education, and explore a place of innovation, creativity and cutting-edge technology.

What you learn and experience at Stanford will stay with you for the rest of your academic and personal life. What sets Stanford Pre-Collegiate International Institutes apart from other summer academic programs is the focus on the American college experience. Students get a taste of life on a U.S. college campus through all the student life components.

The idea of Stanford’s pre-collegiate international institute programme is to allow participants to experience a range of subjects and expand their academic understanding, therefore the academic sessions are set and include a range of subjects from Robotics to Design Thinking and Epigenetics. Every session is taught by an expert in that field and is incredibly engaging so even if there’s a subject you don’t think is your thing, prepare to be surprised.

Activities are designed for a variety of student interests with everything from arts and crafts to sports and local excursions. Not only will students get the chance to experience the dynamic Stanford University campus, they will also have the opportunity to explore the famous Silicon Valley and surrounding Bay Area. The program takes advantage of the rich resources of the San Francisco Bay Area, and can include visits to Silicon Valley corporations, startups and top universities. Last year, we visited California Academy of Sciences, Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge as well as a field trip to a San Francisco Giants game.

Students will have an authentic experience of American college life experience by living in dormitories used by Stanford undergraduates during the academic school year. Participants are assigned to either a single, double, or triple room. Participants eat in Stanford cafeteria-style dining halls, which serve a range of healthy options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The dining halls provide vegetarian and vegan options at every meal, and special dietary needs (such as halal or gluten-free meals) can be accommodated. Mid-afternoon snacks are served daily at the residences. Special catered dinners are typically provided once per week.

FAQs

Who else will be on the programme?

The students on the course will be a group of academically talented, motivated 14-17 year olds from Europe. There will be a chaperone who travels with the group to San Francisco Airport (SFO) then you will meet the brilliant staff team from Stanford who will take you to the campus and make sure you get settled in with an induction evening. The chaperone will stay with your group for the duration of the programme so is on hand for any questions or concerns throughout..

How do you select participants to join?

We select students based on a strong personal statement and keen interest in the course and each of its elements, from the academic content to the supporting cultural and social programme. We’re looking for students who will make the most of this exciting opportunity to learn from the very best. No specific experience in any of the subject areas is necessary but it would be useful, as would a strong academic background.

How do I apply?

You can apply here. We will ask for a personal statement and details of your recent grades, and will be in touch within 2 working days of receiving your application. 

What should I bring?

The same as your would if going on a summer programme elsewhere, smart casual clothing for everyday (there’s no dress code on campus) but Stanford is a huge place so make sure you bring comfortable footwear – you’ll definitely be getting your steps in. The weather in the San Francisco Bay area can fluctuate a lot, so always be prepared with a warm coat and trousers – especially for our evening field trips, but it’s likely to also be beautifully sunny on campus!

A workbook and pens will be provided, as will a laptop for classes, although you’re free to bring your own if you’d prefer.

When do I select my subject?

The idea of Stanford’s pre-collegiate international institute programme is to allow participants to experience a range of subjects and expand their academic understanding, therefore the academic sessions are set and include a range of subjects from Robotics to Design Thinking and Epigenetics. Every session is taught by an expert in that field and is incredibly engaging so even if there’s a subject you don’t think is your thing, prepare to be surprised.