Downing College International Pre-Sessional Course

We are now accepting applications for 2025!

Submit your application for the Downing College Pre-Sessional Course here.

Downing College International Pre-Sessional Course

Downing College, part of the University of Cambridge, provides students worldwide a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Cambridge's distinctive academic environment. Through intimate class settings and engaging social excursions, students can immerse themselves in the essence of Cambridge.

Offered to 15 to 18-year-olds from around the world, this pre-sessional program aims to offer students exposure to various subjects, broaden their academic horizons, and enhance their proficiency in academic English. Picture world class teaching, visits to museums, formal dinners, and leisurely punting on the River Cam: it encapsulates the quintessential Cambridge experience.

Programme aims

This program not only aims to boost students' confidence in spoken English but also provides a genuine insight into the University of Cambridge and its teaching methods.

Through a series of subject taster lectures, students will delve into popular subjects at Cambridge with a depth often inaccessible to many. Each of the eight subject taster courses includes lectures by subject specialists and researchers, who are eminent in their respective fields, including guest lectures by University of Cambridge academics.

Furthermore, students will immerse themselves in English culture and history through our English theatre and drama workshops. They will also have the opportunity to refine their English skills through participation in a British Parliamentary Debating course.

Subject Taster Sessions

Students enrolled in this programme will engage in taster sessions covering various subject areas offered at the University of Cambridge. These sessions provide students with the opportunity to explore different academic fields and consider potential options for their future university applications.

The Subject Taster Sessions offered in 2024 were:

• Chemistry: Investigating Photophysics and Photochemistry: From their Significance in Natural Systems to their Applications in Technology
• Mathematics: Gaining Insight: A Holistic Approach to Mathematics Studies at University
• Biology: The Foundations of Biology: A Comprehensive Exploration of the Cell
• Law: Human Rights and International Human Rights Law: A Critical Approach
• Engineering: Understanding Fundamental Principles in Engineering: Aerodynamics, Thermodynamics, Material Science and Automobile Design
• Economics: Game Theory: The Mathematical Study of Strategic Interactions Among Rational Decision Makers
• Computer Science: Introduction to Computer Science: From the Basics Of Computers To Machine Learning
• Psychology & Neuroscience: Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Mental Health

What can students gain from the Programme?

The Downing College International Programme, characterised by small-group teaching and memorable social outings, is not just about delving into advanced subjects but also about honing English language skills, particularly for students who require additional focus on language learning during their stay in Cambridge.

While subject taster sessions and related excursions form the primary focus of each day, afternoon sessions are dedicated to enhancing students' English expression skills, vital for those aspiring to apply to top universities such as Cambridge in the future.

English drama workshops offer students an immersive experience in the cultural heritage of the UK, delving into its literary classics and giving students the opportunity to hone their creative language skills.

Debating workshops play a pivotal role in fostering linguistic confidence through formal debate settings, allowing students to articulate and defend their viewpoints. Moreover, diverse debate topics encourage independent research and sharpen critical thinking skills.

The culmination of students' progress in debate and drama classes occurs on the final day of the program. Here, they participate in a UK-university style debating tournament and showcase a brief sketch in a drama presentation to their peers, providing a platform to demonstrate their newfound skills.

Programme fees

This is an all-inclusive programme, keeping the process simple, cost-effective, and safe for students.

The cost for attending the two-week programme is £6,500 GBP. Full payment of the programme fee is expected two weeks after receiving a conditional offer.

The fee covers:

• Two weeks in-person academic course at Downing College, including subject taster sessions and language enrichment courses.
• Academic and pastoral support from a dedicated, full-time team of tutors, TAs, and Downing College staff.
• College accommodation with bed linen, towels, and cleaning services.
• Full board catering, comprising three meals per day.
• Full schedule of evening social activities, including a BBQ, bowling, food truck, trivia, and sports.
• Cambridge University formal hall dinner following Programme graduation.
• Accompanied day trip to London, including visits to Buckingham Palace, National Gallery, Soho, and British Museum.
• Tour of Cambridge, including guided punting down the College Backs, Fitzwilliam Museum, and visit to King’s College.
• Full access to College facilities for duration of Programme.

Note: this does not include the cost of flights, visas, airport transfers and travel insurance. Programme fees are non-refundable except in exceptional extenuating circumstances. 

Week 1