Frequently asked questions

Got a question? Take a look at our frequently asked questions below.

About the 16-18 programme

Who can apply for the programme?

This programme is designed for secondary students aged 16-18 years old from around the globe. A high level of English fluency is required to attend.

What is the level and demand of each course?

Beyond the theoretical challenges of academic work, the course also aims to facilitate debate and critical thinking skills necessary for success at top universities around the globe. Though each course is designed to be academically challenging, the close-knit support network and accessible supervisors will ensure everyone can participate.

Who are the lecturers?

Lecturers are from the University of Cambridge community with extensive experience in their fields. Undergraduate Teaching Assistants will also be on hand to ensure you make the most of the lectures by forming study groups. All instructors are chosen by the Fellows and faculty of Downing College.

Is there any required preparation before the course?

The four-week course will include two weeks of virtual coursework and two weeks of residential courses at Downing College. Depending on the student’s chosen in-person subject, they will attend online classes related to pure maths, applied maths, essay writing, and/or research methods. This online component will run as a precursor to the in-person summer school, ensuring students are prepared to fully delve into coursework upon arrival.

Are there any social events?

Teaching Assistants will organise evening social events and outings within Cambridge. Some social events will be scheduled, such as the evening BBQ and Formal Hall, whereas other events may be tailored to student interest. Weekend excursions will be organised by the College. In previous years, these have included trips to London, Audley End, and/or Oxford.

I can’t make the first day / the last day of the programme. Can I still attend?

Whilst we encourage you to attend the full duration of the programme, we understand that on occasion this might not be possible. Please email us (summer@dow.cam.ac.uk) the dates you cannot make, and we will review your request on a case-by-case basis.

I would like to enrol in more than one course. Can I attend more than one cohort?

Students may attend more than one two-week in-person cohort. In this case, they will choose a different academic course to study for the second session and receive a discounted programme fee of £16,000 for a four-week residential.

What is included in the fees?

Programme fees include:

The cost of the programme (lecturers, study pack, workshops)
Food (three meals a day, Monday - Friday; weekend breakfast)
Accommodation (bed and study table, bedding, shared bathroom)
Social activities & excursions
Travel to excursions and activities within Cambridge
Facilities in College

What is not included in the fees?

The fees do not cover anything outside of the programme within Downing. This is not an exhaustive list, but includes:

Travel to and from Downing College
Costs associated with visa applications
Souvenirs
Food from outside College

Will I be given a certificate?

You will be given a certificate with a final grade that states you completed the Downing College Summer Programme. Certificates will be handed out at the award ceremony, which will take place on the last day of the programme. Top performing students in each course will receive a letter of recommendation from the Programme Director.

Will I become a member of the University of Cambridge?

During your programme, you will be a temporary member of Downing College, experiencing summer as a student at Cambridge. You will not be a temporary member of the University of Cambridge. Only students that have been officially ‘Matriculated’ (formally admitted) are full members of both Downing College and the University of Cambridge.

International students

Will you provide help in applying for a visa?

We will be able to provide a letter in support of your visa application. We would not be able to advise on which visa you will require, so please read your government’s policy and visit the visa information page on the UK government’s website.

Although we cannot assist with visa questions, the University has a dedicated team specialising in visa enquiries, which you may find useful.

What are the English language requirements for the programme?

A high level of fluency in English is a prerequisite for attending the programme. If you are not a native English speaker or you are not studying at an English-speaking university, the English Language Requirements are indicated below.

English Language Requirements without attending the IELTS course beforehand:

GCSE in English Language/IGCSE English Language (as a first language): at grade C or above; or
IELTS: normally a minimum overall grade of 7.0, usually with 7.0 in each element; or
Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English: at grade A; or
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English: at grade A or B; or
TOEFL Paper Based Test: 627; or
TOEFL Computer Based Test: 263; or
TOEFL Internet Based Test: 107 (including a minimum of 25/30 in each component).

Do I need international health insurance?

Please note that if you are coming to this programme from outside the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides free emergency medical treatment to those that are visiting the UK. Medical treatment and the costs of repatriation after a serious accident are not covered by the NHS so you must ensure that you have insurance to cover all medical expenses internationally and disruptions to travel. If you have any queries about health care provision, we suggest that you contact your home health care provider for advice, as it is your responsibility to ensure you are covered for international health insurance.

Contact us

If you are still looking for an answer to your query, please email the Summer Programme Coordinator at summer@dow.cam.ac.uk.