St Andrews summer school

St. Andrews Summer School

Explore our Life-changing summer programme in St Andrews

Join us at the International Summer School for Teens (ISSFT) in St Andrews—a world-renowned pre-university residential summer programme for international students aged 13–18, set within the historic and prestigious University of St Andrews.

Our residential summer programme offers a dual-study structure, combining focused academic learning in the mornings with enriching sporting and creative electives in the afternoons. This balanced approach helps students gain valuable knowledge, explore new interests, and build confidence in a dynamic, supportive environment.

Morning classes include English, Global Leadership, and Study Skills, taught by expert instructors in small, engaging groups that encourage participation and personal growth. In the afternoon, students enjoy professional coaching and instruction in subjects including Tennis, Photography, and Sports Leadership—designed to inspire creativity, physical wellbeing, and teamwork.

Beyond the classroom, students take part in a vibrant social programme filled with group events, cultural excursions, and memorable experiences across St Andrews and the surrounding area. From exploring historic university buildings to making lifelong friends, ISSFT St Andrews offers an unforgettable summer.

Learn in the morning. Discover your passion in the afternoon. Experience the ISSFT difference this summer.

ISSFT student working
ISSFt Students enjoying fun on ziplines
ISSFT student taking part in fencing activity

A Typical Day at Our St Andrews Summer School

At our St Andrews summer school, no two days are the same. Students combine morning academics with afternoon electives, making each day active, stimulating, and rewarding. The fun continues with sports, clan challenges, creative sessions, and evening socials, ensuring friendships flourish. Weekend excursions complete the experience, offering students the chance to discover more of Scotland’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Reviews

Our assurance of quality our offical accreditations provide a guarantee of quality and reassurance to parents and students

BAC Accredited

ISSFT has been granted accreditation by the British Accreditation Council (BAC). The BAC is committed to the highest standards of education offered by independent colleges and to providing prospective students with an invaluable guide to quality.

Duke of Edinburgh

ISSFT is an Approved Activity Provider for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for residential stays.

CAS Hours

We can award CAS Hours to International Baccalaureate Students. CAS refers to Creativity, Action and Service and it's a mandatory component of the International Baccalaureate diploma. The International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma is an internationally accepted qualification for entry into higher education. The IB curriculum is widely recognised as the curriculum of choice for leading international schools around the world. We are delighted to work closely with a number of IB schools to help students achieve their CAS requirements.

Visas

For international students, choosing a BAC-accredited college for your studies will ensure that the institution is considered to be authorised by UK immigration officials for providing visa support documentation. ISSFT is accredited by British Accreditation Council (BAC). Visit our Visa page for more information.

Inspections Our most recent inspection by the British Accreditation Council was in July 2024. Here’s what they had to say:

The self-evaluation process and resulting action plans provide a robust system for making continuous improvements to the quality of classroom delivery and the overall experience for participants. The trainers are highly qualified and experienced and, as a result, participants are able to acquire new skills rapidly and are enthusiastic about their studies. The lesson content is ambitious and challenges participants to set themselves high standards. The level of support for participants and their access to counsellors are excellent and ensure that participants can quickly settle and enjoy their chosen studies.
British Accreditation Council
What are the dates and costs for our programmes?
One ISSFT student carrying another ISSFT student on their back celebrating
The International Summer School For unique experiences

Start your journey now 

Invest in your child’s future this summer

University of St Andrews 2026
Summer Session

session 1
11 July - 25 July 2026