ISSOS – International Summer Schools: Where Adventure Meets English Excellence
Ever dreamed of learning English in the breathtaking surroundings of St Andrews or Cambridge while forging friendships from around the globe? ISSOS delivers exactly that—a transformative language experience infused with culture, creativity, and fun.
School Setup & Locations
Founded in 2005, ISSOS has grown into one of the UK’s premier summer schools for ages 13–18. Their distinctly immersive programmes operate across three prestigious campuses:
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St Andrews, Scotland
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Cambridge, England
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Yale, USA (though not UK-based, it enriches their legacy)
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Each three-week, all-inclusive session—comprised of academics, electives, and cultural excursions—is set within inspiring university towns, designed for rich learning and unforgettable memories.ISSOS+2ISSOS+2
History & Values
ISSOS began with a single goal: “to create a safe place for people to learn and grow.”ISSOS+1 From its start in St Andrews with just 51 students in 2006, it’s now a global family with over 80 nationalities represented and a remarkable 45% return rate.ISSOS+1
Their award-winning ethos—welcoming diversity (capping any single nationality at 10%), mixing native and non-native speakers, and nurturing friendships—makes ISSOS stand apart.ISSOS+1
Academics & Curriculum
Students choose one academic course and one enrichment elective, both taught by highly qualified professionals:
Academic Options Include:
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English Language
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Debate
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Business & Entrepreneurship
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Youth Leadership
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Creative Writing
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Journalism
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Study Skills
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IB Extended Essay
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Elective Options Include:
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Tennis, Golf, Outdoor Leadership
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Film, Art, Photography
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Theatre, Creative Writing, Journalism
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Classes run for 3 hours each weekday morning, with electives in the afternoons.ISSOS+1
Student Experience & Culture
ISSOS prides itself on crafting more than just lessons—they build an international student family strengthened by:
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“Clans”—fun, team-building groups that compete in spirited challenges and Highland Games.
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Evening programs and cultural trips, shaping well-rounded experiences beyond academics.
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Students leave with improved English confidence, lifelong friendships, and cherished global memories.ISSOS+1
What Sets ISSOS Apart
| Feature | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|
| Iconic university locations | Learn in historic towns like St Andrews & Cambridge |
| Highly qualified tutors | Expert-led academic and arts programs |
| Balanced and safe structure | Academic mornings, creative afternoons, cultural evenings |
| Global, inclusive community | Students from 80+ nations; no single nationality exceeds 10% |
| All-inclusive excellence | Accommodation, meals, excursions, and insurance included |
| Oxbridge Summer Courses GuideISSOSSummer Schools |
Practical Details
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Duration: 3-week sessions during summer (e.g., Cambridge: 9–29 July 2026)ISSOS
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Price: Approximately £6,900 for UK campuses; $8,900 for YaleOxbridge Summer Courses Guide
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Inclusives: Tuition, academic materials, exams, boarding, meals, activities, insurance, airport transfersOxbridge Summer Courses Guide
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Support: Safe environment, low staff-to-student ratio, on-campus counselorsWorldTeachersISSOS
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Contact: ISSOS Glasgow office
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Address: 69 St Vincent St, Glasgow G2 5TF
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Phone: 0330 077 7247
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Hours: Mon–Fri 9 am–5 pmBizSeekChamber of Commerce UK
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Final Thoughts
For ambitious UK students dreaming of a summer that blends English fluency, academic depth, and cultural immersion, ISSOS International Summer Schools delivers an unmatched pathway. With its safe, inclusive, and enriching setup, it’s more than just learning—it’s the ultimate experience of a lifetime.
Picture yourself enhancing your English while punting in Cambridge, debating in St Andrews, or forging friendships from across the globe—that’s the ISSOS promise.
