Best Summer School Programs to Study Abroad After 12th Grade
Can’t wait till the next intake to study abroad? Summer school programs might be the right call for you. Signing up for an international summer school can give you an early start on your goal to study abroad after 12th grade!
Summer school programs are an opportunity to experience learning in a prestigious international institution, improve your network, and gather new experiences with like-minded people. These programs close gaps between intermediate and advanced levels of studies and help you explore firsthand whether studying abroad is for you. So, before you commit to a degree program at an overseas university, check out summer school programs to study abroad after 12th grade for an early start.
What is a Summer School?
First things first, let us break down what an international summer school is. Summer school programs are a special kind of program that overseas education academies and universities offer during summer break – right before the most popular intake in most destinations, the fall intake. Summer school offers students a chance to take short academic programs during this break.
● Duration: Summer school typically lasts a few weeks to a couple of months
● Type of Courses: Courses range from academic subjects to skill-based workshops
● Venue: Summer school can be held on university campuses or in collaboration with other institutions
● Eligibility to Attend: Typically, for summer school programs run by universities, students from the university are eligible to sign up. These programs also accept external applicants who meet the eligibility criteria. High school students planning to study abroad after 12th grade can also apply for summer school initiatives by institutions such as Global Achievers Academy
● Academic Credit: Some summer school programs offer credits that you can transfer to future university studies
● Mode of Study: Usually involves skill-based learning and practical workshops alongside academic classes
Why Take a Summer School Program?
You might be thinking, with all the study pressure you take on during semesters, why would you sign up for classes over summer break too? But the truth is that summer school programs involve more than just a couple extra months of study. There are many reasons why thousands of students opt for summer school during their break. Some of the reasons why summer school can be a good choice, especially if you are planning to study abroad for your bachelor’s degree, include:
Opportunity to explore different fields of study:
One of the prime reasons most students choose summer school is to explore a variety of disciplines. The best summer school programs for international students give you an insight into modern, industry-focused fields, often bringing in professionals and experts to give you a real-world understanding of how these subjects are relevant outside of the classroom. Getting a taste of what learning at the tertiary level can be like, especially with programs set to yield in-demand graduates, helps you make more informed decisions when it’s time to choose what you want to study and what career paths you want to pursue.
Personal growth and independence:
Summer school is great for personal growth. These programs often pack a lot of activities that go beyond the classroom, so they are a great way to experience a new place with new people and explore whether studying abroad is something you want to pursue in the long term.
Developing practical skills:
Summer school programs tend to be skill-based and practical. Alongside classroom learning, you can participate in workshops that help you practice skills like leadership, public speaking, essay writing, networking, and more. All of these skills are transferrable across your academic and professional careers and add a lot of value to your resume.
Recovering missed credits:
Some summer schools award credits that you can transfer to a full-time degree. This provides you with a great chance to earn a few extra course credits to make up for any courses you missed or to graduate faster.
Supporting college applications:
If you are already set on studying abroad after 12th grade, summer school programs are an excellent opportunity to enhance your applications. Some programs specifically include workshops to help students write stellar statements of purpose and learn how to make their overseas education applications stand out. Plus, your summer school experience adds weight to your study profile, indicating your drive and motivation to learn and participate in higher education, within and outside the classroom.
Why Summer School is Ideal for International Students
Summer school is an ideal option for study abroad plans after 12th grade. As an international student, you can reap a lot of benefits from picking the right summer school programs. You can consider the following perks of enrolling in summer school after 12th grade:
● Starting Early: Depending on your timeline and applications, starting summer school before your undergraduate program can be a good way to get an early start. Summer school can help you transition smoothly into higher education applications for the closest intake.
● Enhance Your Application: Summer school teaches you the skills you need to enroll into an excellent overseas university. Some programs also help you gain academic credits toward the subjects you plan to learn and also add weight to your application.
● Short Commitment: Summer school allows you to experience the benefits of studying abroad without the long commitment of years of study and huge expenses. It helps you get a taste of studying abroad and decide whether this is really for you.
● Test Drive Your Future University: Joining summer school might be a good way to assess if you really like the university or country you are planning to apply to for your bachelor’s degree. You can experience college life abroad and see if it's right for you before making any big decisions.
● Confidence Building: Starting summer school after 12th grade can also help you develop the confidence to study abroad. You already know what to expect by the time you start your undergraduate program, instead of experiencing a new country for the first time.
● Networking Opportunities: You can make lifelong connections with fellow students, faculty, and professionals from different countries in summer school.
● Visit World-Famous Locations: Alongside all the career benefits, summer school is also a great way to travel. Enrolling in summer school can be an opportunity to go to some of the countries and cities on your bucket list. You can also experience the campuses of prestigious universities along the way.
Criteria for Choosing a Summer School Program
Before you decide to apply, you should find the right summer school program that fits best with your study and career goals. Figuring out how to pick the right summer school programs should involve considering the following:
● The academic reputation of the host institution
● Areas of study
● Program length and structure
● Location and cultural experience
● Study and living costs
● Accommodation and student support
● Available scholarships
Top Summer School Programs for High School Graduates
You can apply to summer school programs abroad as early as after 12th grade. Many prestigious institutions around the world offer summer school programs to international students. Summer school in Europe typically takes place in the months of June to August. These courses can last between two to four weeks depending on the program. You can also opt to study in summer school in the USA and Australia.
Oxford Royale Academy
Oxford Royale Academy provides some of the most prestigious and exciting summer school programs in the world. These programs are available to students between the ages of 13 and 18. The Academy offers programs that allow students to explore the campuses of highly prestigious, world-famous universities, like the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.
With rigorous courses in subjects ranging from STEM to humanities and business, the academy combines immersive learning with cultural enrichment. You will not only benefit from expert teaching but also experience life in historic cities, such as Oxford, with opportunities for excursions, extracurricular activities, and networking with peers from around the world.
Through Oxford Royale Academy’s summer school programs, you can experience campus life at:
● University of Oxford
● University of Cambridge
● Imperial College London
● University of California, Berkeley
● Yale University
EU Business School
EU Business School offers summer school programs for high school and university students. Their international summer school program is a three-week course with programs focusing on business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. These programs take place in top cities like Barcelona, Munich, and Geneva, where students experience global business hubs firsthand.
You can learn from expert professors and industry professionals. The summer courses combine classroom learning with company visits and workshops. The program also includes cultural activities, helping students explore new countries while studying. It’s a great opportunity to gain practical business skills in an international setting.
Universities that have a partnership with EU Business School include:
● Pace University, New York
● Tecnológico de Monterrey, México
● Fisher College, Boston
● University of California, Riverside, California
● Stamford International University, Bangkok
Global Achievers Academy
Global Achievers Academy offers summer programs for high school students focusing on business, technology, and leadership. Students learn from expert instructors through hands-on projects in global cities. The program blends academics with real-world experiences and cultural immersion, helping students develop skills for future success.
You can experience the following campuses during the Academy’s summer school programs:
● Harvard University, Boston
● University College, London
The Summer Science Program
The Summer Science Program (SSP) is a top-tier residential program for high school students with an interest in STEM. It offers opportunities for hands-on research in astrophysics and biochemistry. Students work together on real-world scientific projects under the guidance of experienced faculty and researchers. SSP helps students develop skills in scientific inquiry and problem-solving. It is an intense but rewarding experience that prepares them for future STEM careers.
The course lasts up to 39 days, offering an immersive learning experience to the participants. Students join in groups of 36 or 24 with 8 faculty members guiding them. The SSP also has a large network of alumni around the world. So far in 2024, there have been 12 programs overall. The universities hosting these programs are:
● New Mexico State University
● University of Colorado, Boulder
● Purdue University
● Indiana University
● Southwestern Oklahoma State University etc.
Making the Most of Your Summer Abroad
Studying abroad isn’t just about academics. It’s also a chance to dive into a new culture, meet people from around the world, and create memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re going to summer school after 12th grade, you want to make the most of it:
● Engage with Local Culture and Peers: Take the time to immerse yourself in the local culture. Learn the language, try local foods, and visit historical landmarks.
● Join student clubs and participate in social events: These activities help you connect with locals and fellow students, making your experience more enriching.
● Travel and Explore During Free Time: Use your weekends and free time to explore nearby cities, towns, or natural attractions. Many summer programs organize trips for the whole cohort but don’t be afraid to plan your own adventures, if time allows.
● Balancing Academics with Exploration: While it’s tempting to focus entirely on travel, don’t forget your academic responsibilities. Create a schedule that allows you to keep up with coursework while also leaving time for sightseeing and fun.
● Aim for Future Academic and Career Goals: Think about how this experience can enhance your future. Whether it’s developing language skills, learning from international professors, or networking with peers, studying abroad offers unique advantages.
● Connect with Locals: Don’t just stick with fellow international students—make an effort to meet locals. Attend community events, join sports teams, or volunteer with local organizations. This deepens your cultural experience and helps you build lasting relationships.
● Capture the Moment: Document your travels through photos, journals, or blogs. Not only is this a great way to reflect on your experience, but it also helps when applying for future academic or career opportunities. Many universities and employers value international experience, and being able to share your story will make you stand out.
Rounding Up
Summer school programs are a great way to start if you plan to study abroad after 12th grade. You can gain a lot out of studying over the summer and kicking off your international student journey as early as possible. You will have the opportunity to visit and experience some of the top schools in the world. Building meaningful connections and learning new skills are also something you can look forward to. Summer school can immensely help in your application for further study abroad.