Computer science supports many of today’s fastest-growing fields, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software development, and data science. Computer science programs in the UK for high school students can help you build technical skills, explore advanced concepts, and experience university-level learning before choosing an academic or career path.

Whether your interests lie in programming, machine learning, algorithms, robotics, or emerging technologies, these opportunities allow you to study beyond the traditional school curriculum. Through lectures, workshops, hands-on projects, research, and expert mentorship, you can strengthen your knowledge while gaining a clearer understanding of the technology field.

What kinds of computer science programs are available for high school students in the UK?

With so many options available, choosing the right program can feel challenging. Some programs focus on coding and software development, while others explore artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, robotics, or interdisciplinary applications of computing. Finding a program that aligns with your interests can help you make the most of the experience.

Many universities, educational organisations, and research institutions across the UK offer computer science programs designed specifically for high school students. These opportunities allow you to deepen your knowledge, connect with like-minded peers, experience university life, and gain insight into future academic and career pathways in technology.

To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of 15 computer science programs in the UK for high school students. I selected these programs based on their academic rigour, hands-on learning opportunities, exposure to university-level study, and overall value for students interested in computer science.

For related opportunities, consider the online computer science program.

Key Takeaways

• Costs range from free, as with several Sutton Trust summer schools and the University of Oxford’s UNIQ Summer Programme, to £8,995 for Oxford Saïd’s AI and Machine Learning Pioneers Summer School.
• Many free programs are restricted to UK state school students, including the Sutton Trust tracks at Cambridge, St Andrews, and Edinburgh, and Oxford Brookes’ Engage University Summer School.
• Two programs offer a guaranteed or contextual university admissions offer upon completion, including the University of Bath’s Discover Bath and the University of St Andrews / Sutton Trust program.
• Program length ranges from three days, as with the University of Bath’s Discover Bath, to three weeks, as with the University of St Andrews’ Summer Academic Experience Courses.
• Several programs combine computer science with adjacent fields, including data science and AI at Imperial College London and cybersecurity at the University of Edinburgh.
• International students are welcomed at a smaller set of paid programs, including Oxford Saïd’s AI and Machine Learning Pioneers Summer School, King’s College London’s Pre-University Summer School, and Imperial Global Summer School.
• Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School is one of the few residential options open to students worldwide aged 13 to 18, combining small classes with an independent project and full campus experience at Oxford or Cambridge.

15 Computer Science Programs in the UK for High School Students

1. University of Oxford Saïd Business School’s AI and Machine Learning Pioneers Summer School

Location: Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, Oxford, England
Cost: £8,995; scholarships are available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: July 19th – August 1st
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students ages 15-18; minimum B2 English proficiency; open to international students

University of Oxford Saïd Business School’s AI and Machine Learning Pioneers Summer School offers a two-week learning experience to high school students. You’ll gain in-depth knowledge about the fundamentals of AI and data science, such as machine learning, neural networks, data analysis, econometrics, and generative and agentic AI.

You’ll engage in hands-on learning through group projects, workshops, and real-world challenges while exploring important themes such as the AI revolution, ethics of AI, AI for social good, and more. The program will help you develop valuable skills in coding, critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and leadership. You’ll receive mentorship guidance and participate in a pitch competition, sharing your group project. 

Why it stands out: You will explore artificial intelligence and machine learning through hands-on projects, real-world challenges, and expert mentorship while developing technical, analytical, and leadership skills.

2. Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School

Location: Cambridge or Oxford (campus-based, UK)
Cost: Varies; summer school scholarship available through our bursary programme
Application Deadline: Multiple cohorts with rolling admissions
Program Dates: 2 weeks during the summer
Eligibility: Students worldwide aged 13-18 who are currently enrolled in middle or high school

Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School places you in an academically structured environment where you study foundational and advanced computing concepts with expert tutors from leading universities. You cover important topics like algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software engineering principles, as well as applications like machine learning and artificial intelligence. Small classes let you get personalized feedback and talk to tutors and classmates from all over the world on a regular basis.

When you go to a place like Cambridge or Oxford in person, you also get to experience campus life and structured activities that are similar to how you would study at a university. By completing this summer school, you gain clearer insight into how computer science is studied at the tertiary level and develop technical skills that support future academic and career decisions in computing fields. You can find more details about the application here.

Why it stands out: You’ll be taught by top faculty, work on an independent project, and live on campus, giving you a complete experience of future university life.

3. Sutton Trust Summer School Computer Science Track @ University of Cambridge

Location: University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; 30 students
Dates: August 17-21
Application Deadline: February 12th
Eligibility: Year 12 students in England or Wales, Year 13 students in Northern Ireland, or S5 students in Scotland attending non-fee-paying, state-funded schools or colleges in the UK; must have at least five GCSEs at grades 9-6, including English, at least a grade 8 in Maths, and currently be studying A-level Maths and Further Maths; not open to international students

The Sutton Trust Summer School Computer Science Track is one of the free computer science programs in the UK for high school students, offering a week-long academic experience. You’ll attend lectures on topics including quantum computing and cybercrime, develop your coding skills in programming labs, and join a small-group teaching session known as algorithms supervision.

The session will allow you to explore different types of algorithms and engage in problem-solving with peers and your supervisor. The program also includes educational field trips to places like the Centre for Computing History, and is a good option to consider if you’re interested in exploring different areas in Computer Science.

Why it stands out: You will explore diverse areas of computer science through lectures, programming labs, and small-group problem-solving sessions while strengthening your coding and algorithmic thinking skills.

4. Oxford Saïd Teen Technology and Innovation Summer Academy (University of Oxford)

Location: University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, Oxford, UK
Cost: £8,995; limited bursaries are available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; cohort size not specified
Dates: July 18-31
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students ages 15-18; open to international students

Oxford Saïd Teen Technology and Innovation Summer Academy offers a two-week in-person learning opportunity to high school students. You’ll engage in project-based learning, attend lectures led by tutors, alumni, and industry experts, while engaging in hands-on activities. You’ll get to explore a range of themes through the program, including artificial intelligence, sustainability tech and green innovation, biotech and health innovation, space technology and exploration, and Fintech and blockchain.

The program will also help you develop skills in persuasive communication and public speaking, along with immersion in cultural and social activities such as outdoor sports, college tours, and an experience of student life at Oxford.

Why it stands out: You will explore emerging technologies through project-based learning, hands-on activities, and expert-led sessions while developing innovation, communication, and problem-solving skills.

5. King’s College London Pre-University Summer School Computer Science Track

Location: King’s College London, London, UK
Cost: Varies; more information available here
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; approximately 1,500+ students across all summer programmes
Dates: July 13-17
Application Deadline: April 10th
Eligibility: Students ages 16-17 who are about to begin the final three years of high school; open to international students

King’s College London Pre-University Summer School Computer Science Track is a one-week program for high school students. The program will help you explore computer science through a first-year university-level module. You’ll gain knowledge about a range of topics, including programming principles, program efficiency, program design, and many more.

You’ll attend lectures, participate in interactive activities, work on group projects, and engage in independent research on a specific topic. The program allows you to solve computational problems by applying scientific, algorithmic, and mathematical reasoning skills. 

Why it stands out: You will gain an introduction to university-level computer science while developing programming, research, and computational thinking skills through lectures, projects, and interactive learning.

6. University of Oxford’s UNIQ Summer Programme

Location: University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; 15-60 students per week
Dates: One-week courses in the summer; late June to the end of July
Application Deadline: January 13th
Eligibility: UK and Islands state school students in Year 13 in Northern Ireland, S5 in Scotland, or Year 12 in England and Wales who are under 18 and have at least six GCSEs, or National 5s in Scotland, with at least one grade 7/A or above; not open to international students

University of Oxford’s UNIQ Summer Programme offers a fully funded learning experience to high school students. You’ll get to explore educational options and gain clarity on pursuing higher studies at Oxford. The computer science course offered by the program allows you to learn the diverse scientific, engineering, and mathematical principles involved in computing systems.

You’ll attend lectures, participate in small group discussions, and learn to write programs. You’ll develop real-world skills in computer programming and problem-solving. You’ll receive support and guidance from ambassadors while learning theoretical principles and gaining practical knowledge through the program.

Why it stands out: You will explore university-level computer science through lectures, programming exercises, and small-group discussions while developing coding and problem-solving skills and gaining insight into studying at Oxford.

7. University of Southampton’s School of Electronics and Computer Science Summer Taster Courses

Location: University of Southampton, Southampton, England
Cost: £415; reduced fee: £239; full need-based bursaries are available on a first-come, first-served basis
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; approximately 110–140 students across the pathways
Dates: July 27-31
Application Deadline: Rolling basis until the course is full
Eligibility: Year 12 or equivalent students aged 16 and above who hold mostly grades 7 or above at GCSE and are studying in the UK or are British citizens studying abroad; additional track-specific criteria are available here; not open to international students

University of Southampton’s School of Electronics and Computer Science Summer Taster Course offers you a one-week residential learning opportunity. You’ll engage in hands-on laboratory learning through participating in real experiments. The program will help you gain knowledge in research from leading faculty, interact with fellow students and recent graduates, and experience campus life.

You’ll get to attend interesting social events, explore your interest in different areas of computer science, and gain clarity about pursuing the discipline in the future while also learning potential career pathways in the field.

Why it stands out: You will explore computer science through hands-on laboratory activities, research-led learning, and campus experiences while gaining insight into university study and careers in the field.

8. University of St Andrews’ Summer Academic Experience Courses

Location: University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland, UK
Cost: £6,850; scholarships are available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: July 11th – August 1st
Application Deadline: Typically late February to March
Eligibility: High school students worldwide aged 16-18; minimum B2 level on the CEFR scale for non-native English speakers; open to international students

The Summer Academic Experience Courses by the University of St Andrews offer three-week residential learning opportunities to high school students. You’ll be taught by the University academic staff and explore courses in different disciplines, including computer science.

The physical science, mathematics, and computer science courses will allow you to learn a range of topics based on previous years, including cryptography, building circuits and programming with Arduino, forensic statistics, fluid dynamics, and more. You’ll attend lectures, engage in group work, and participate in seminars while also going on field trips and enjoying cultural enrichment activities.

Why it stands out: You will develop problem-solving and analytical skills through an interdisciplinary exploration of mathematics, computer science, and the physical sciences in a university learning environment.

9. Imperial Global Summer School: Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

Location: Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
Cost: £7,695
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; cohort size not specified
Dates: Session 1: June 29th – July 10th; Session 2: August 3-14
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Students worldwide aged 16 or 17 who have a majority of grades 9-7 (A*-A) at GCSE level or the international equivalent and hold a minimum grade 7 (A) in Maths and relevant science subjects; English language proficiency is required; open to international students

Imperial Global Summer School: Data Science and Artificial Intelligence offers a two-week learning experience to high school students. You’ll be taught by experienced staff at the Data Science Institute, attend lectures, participate in group projects, observe hands-on tutorials, and develop data analysis skills.

You’ll explore the real-world applications of artificial intelligence, understand the fundamentals of AI and data science, and receive guidance and feedback from mentors based on your group presentations. The second week of the program includes an innovative challenge led by Imperial Enterprise Lab and industry experts, and gives you a chance to develop valuable skills in group work, communication, and presentation.

Why it stands out: You will develop practical skills in data analysis, artificial intelligence, teamwork, and communication while working on projects and innovation challenges in a university setting.

10. London School of Economics and Political Science Summer School

Location: London School of Economics and Political Science, London, United Kingdom
Cost: Varies; more information available here; scholarships are available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size varies by course
Dates: Session 1: June 22nd – July 10th; Session 2: July 13-31; Session 3: August 3-21
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: High school students who have received an offer of a place at a university; open to international students

The London School of Economics and Political Science Summer School offers a three-week learning opportunity to high school students. You’ll get to explore credit-based courses in a range of areas, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. The program involves lectures, discussion sessions, and analysis of fundamental concepts in research.

You’ll gain knowledge from experienced LSE faculty and develop a range of skills in policy analysis, computational work, academic debate, quantitative reasoning, and research. You’ll engage in exercises and case studies involving real data use. The program also allows you to prepare for college and build workplace skills through participation in SPARK. 

Why it stands out: You will explore artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science through university-level learning while developing research, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.

11. Pre-University Summer School @ the University of Warwick

Location: University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
Cost: £5,250 + £50 non-refundable application fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: July 14-24
Application Deadline: May 31st
Eligibility: Students worldwide aged 16-17; open to international students

Pre-University Summer School @ the University of Warwick allows motivated high school students to learn from experienced University faculty. You can choose from five courses offered through the program, including science and engineering, arts and humanities, economics and finance, health, medical and life sciences, and social sciences.

Through the science and engineering course, you’ll be introduced to computer science and explore a range of topics, including microcontrollers, software programming, electronic devices, and the development of basic digital systems. You’ll engage in a Simulation-based learning environment and develop valuable skills in computer science and engineering. 

Why it stands out: You will explore university-level computer science and engineering through simulations and practical activities while developing programming and technical problem-solving skills.

12. Oxford Brookes Engage University Summer School

Location: Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, England, UK
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; approximately 100–150 students per year
Dates: Option 1: June 30th – July 2nd; Option 2: July 7-9
Application Deadline: Typically mid-November
Eligibility: Students aged 16 and above who are in the first year of a two-year Level 3 qualification, such as A Levels or BTEC, at a non-selective state school or college and meet at least one widening participation criterion, such as receiving free school meals; not open to international students

Oxford Brookes Engage University Summer School is a free, subject-focused program for high school students. The program allows you to explore a range of subjects, including computer science, biomedical science, architecture, nursing, law, crime and justice, and more. Through the computer science track, you’ll engage in hands-on learning, work in the high-spec computer laboratories, experiment with robots and gain in-depth knowledge and skills in programming.

You’ll have the opportunity to interact with peers sharing similar interests, participate in social activities and learn through a university-level curriculum. The program offers a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Why it stands out: You will explore computer science through hands-on projects, programming activities, and robotics while gaining experience with university-level learning in a supportive environment.

13. University of Bath – Discover Bath – Computer Science

Location: Bath, UK
Cost: None; travel reimbursement available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: August 5-7
Application Deadline: April 30th
Eligibility: Year 12 or equivalent students who meet specific widening participation criteria, are academically able to study their chosen subject at Bath, are studying three A-levels or equivalent including A-level Mathematics, and are likely to meet the entry requirements for a Computer Science course at Bath; not open to international students

In this program, you gain an immersive introduction to undergraduate computer science while experiencing university life at the University of Bath. You attend academic lectures, interactive seminars, and hands-on workshops delivered by university faculty, researchers, and current students. Throughout your academic engagement, you explore core computer science concepts and apply theoretical knowledge to practical problem-solving tasks.

You also participate in specialized sessions designed to improve your university application, receiving direct advice on crafting a competitive personal statement. Alongside your academic work, you engage in social activities led by student ambassadors to build connections with peers. By the end of the program, you develop essential independent study and teamwork skills needed for competitive undergraduate study.

Why it stands out: It provides successful participants with a guaranteed undergraduate admissions offer to the University of Bath, which may include a contextual offer with lower grade requirements.

14. University of St Andrews / Sutton Trust – Computer Science

Location: University of St Andrews, UK
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; 140 students
Dates: July 5-10
Application Deadline: March 5th
Eligibility: Students attending a UK state-funded school or college who are currently in S5 in Scotland, Year 12 in England and Wales, or Year 13 in Northern Ireland; under 18 at the start of the programme; on track to achieve three A Levels or four Highers, including Mathematics and one other specified science subject; must meet widening participation criteria; not open to international students

In this summer school, you explore the fundamental principles and advanced techniques of computer science. You engage in university-style lectures and hands-on practical workshops led by St Andrews academic staff, gaining a genuine sense of degree-level study. Throughout the week, you focus on problem-solving and software applications, discovering how everyday systems like mobile phones and vehicles rely on advanced computational workflows.

You build essential academic skills while collaborating with peers on structured programming exercises in dedicated laboratory sessions. Alongside your technical coursework, you receive tailored guidance on university applications, student finance, and personal statements.

Why it stands out: It provides participants with a fully funded opportunity to experience rigorous university-level computer science instruction while gaining ongoing access to an extensive alumni network and contextual admission benefits.

15. University of Edinburgh / Sutton Trust – Computer Science (Informatics) & Engineering

Location: Edinburgh, UK
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not specified
Dates: July 13-18
Application Deadline: March 5th
Eligibility: Students attending a UK state-funded school who meet specific widening participation criteria, are currently studying Mathematics and one specified science or engineering subject at Higher, A-Level, or IB level, and have achieved at least five GCSEs at grades 9-6 or five National 5 grades at A or B; not open to international students

In this program, you gain comprehensive exposure to computer science, informatics, and engineering through experiential learning. You work alongside world-leading academics and scientists in university-style lectures, tutorials, and practical laboratory experiments. In the informatics track, you explore computational systems and artificial intelligence, engaging in hands-on workshops that may involve building a working robot.

Your coursework dives into specialized areas such as cybersecurity, machine learning, software engineering, and bioinformatics. You select one of your two chosen disciplines to specialize in for an intensive project day, applying your technical skills to collaborative group work.

Why it stands out: It provides eligible students with free, residential academic exposure to Europe’s largest informatics research center, along with potential eligibility for a contextual university offer upon completion.

Frequently Asked Questions: Computer Science Programs in the UK for High School Students

What is a computer science program for high school students?

A computer science program introduces high school students to topics like algorithms, programming, AI, and data science before they reach university. Programs typically combine lectures, coding workshops, and group projects, often hosted at UK universities including Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London. Most run between three days and three weeks. Many conclude with a group presentation, certificate, or pitch competition.

Do I need to attend a UK state school to apply?

It depends on the program. Free access programmes like the Sutton Trust tracks at Cambridge, St Andrews, and Edinburgh, along with Oxford’s UNIQ Summer Programme, are specifically restricted to UK state school students. Paid programs, including Oxford Saïd’s AI and Machine Learning Pioneers Summer School and Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School, are open to students from anywhere in the world.

How much do computer science programs in the UK cost?

Costs range from free to £8,995 for Oxford Saïd’s two-week residential academy. Free options are typically UK state school access initiatives, including the UNIQ Summer Programme and several Sutton Trust tracks. Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School falls in between, offering bursary support to help reduce costs for eligible students.

Can international students attend these programs?

Yes, several programs welcome international students, including Oxford Saïd’s AI and Machine Learning Pioneers Summer School, Imperial Global Summer School, and Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School. Most free, UK government supported access programmes, including UNIQ and the various Sutton Trust tracks, are restricted to UK state school students and not open internationally.

What age do I need to be to apply?

Age requirements vary by program, generally falling between 13 and 18. Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School accepts students aged 13 to 18 from anywhere in the world, while most UK access programmes target students aged 16 to 17, typically in Year 12.

Will these programs help with university admissions?

Some programs offer direct admissions benefits. The University of Bath’s Discover Bath can lead to a guaranteed undergraduate offer with reduced grade requirements, and the University of St Andrews / Sutton Trust program offers contextual admission benefits. Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School doesn’t offer formal admissions benefits but provides an independent project and detailed academic feedback that students can reference in applications.

What’s the difference between free UK access programmes and paid international ones?

Free UK access programmes, such as the various Sutton Trust tracks and Oxford’s UNIQ Summer Programme, are designed specifically for UK state school students and often include direct admissions guidance or contextual offers. Paid international programs, including Oxford Saïd’s academies and Immerse Education’s Computer Science Summer School, are open to students worldwide and tend to focus more broadly on technical skill building rather than admissions support for a single UK university.

Build the Skills Behind Tomorrow’s Careers

The future of technology belongs to people who can question, build, test, and adapt. Every project you complete strengthens habits that matter across industries today.

These computer science programs in the UK for high school students turn curiosity into practical experience through coding, collaboration, problem-solving, and exposure to university-level study settings.

Use these experiences to notice what excites you most: designing systems, analysing data, exploring AI, protecting information, or creating tools that improve everyday life meaningfully.

Which path could turn your strongest skills into meaningful work? Browse our Career Exploration blogs for role guides, industry insights, and your next informed step.