Oxford Scholastica Academy Explained: 2026 Breakdown for Students

Oxford Scholastica Academy (OSA) offers ambitious teens the chance to study in Oxford while gaining early exposure to university-style teaching and cultural experiences.

Founded by Oxford alumni, OSA runs two-week residential courses for ages 12–18 each July–August. 

With small class sizes, subject-based “Challenges,” and excursions to nearby landmarks, the programme has attracted students from more than 85 countries.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to Oxford Scholastica Academy in 2026.

Course Breakdown

Note: Check their official website for their current pricing.

Why Choose Oxford Scholastica Academy?

Oxford Scholastica Academy gives students an authentic taste of university life by combining academic study with residential immersion on the Oxford University campus. 

With classes capped at 15 students, participants enjoy a personalised and engaging learning environment. 

Each two-week session blends interactive teaching with masterclasses, industry “Hero” Q&As, and a hands-on Challenge. Students graduate at a formal ceremony with a Certificate of Achievement and a personalised Letter of Recommendation.

Life outside the classroom is equally central. 

Students live in Oxford college accommodation under 24/7 supervision and enjoy a lively programme of trips and activities, from Windsor Castle and Blenheim Palace to punting, walking tours, the International Boat Ball, and talent shows. 

OSA emphasises community, aiming to build confidence as well as academic skills, while fostering lasting international friendships.

Like Oxford Scholastica, Immerse Education also offers small-group teaching, Oxford college accommodation, cultural activities, and a focus on personal growth. 

The key difference is that Immerse extends these features further, with smaller Oxbridge-style tutorials, additional global locations, and online pathways for students seeking flexibility alongside academic depth.

Key Features of Oxford Scholastica Academy

Oxford Scholastica’s programmes run in three two-week blocks across July and August 2026, with the option to combine sessions for a four-week experience. 

Courses include ten classroom days delivered through small seminars capped at 15 students, supported by workshops, practical activities, and curricula designed by subject experts.

Students also take part in around twelve hours of masterclasses, industry “Hero” Q&A sessions, and an academic Challenge that applies classroom learning to real-world problems. 

The residential package covers Oxford college accommodation, breakfast and dinner, and a varied co-curricular schedule of trips and activities.

Throughout the programme, pastoral care is provided by on-site staff, ensuring a secure and supportive environment. Each session concludes with a formal graduation at St Anne’s College, where students receive a Certificate of Achievement and a personalised Letter of Recommendation.

Advantages

• Prestigious Oxford setting: Students live and study in Oxford University college facilities, gaining an authentic taste of life in one of the world’s most renowned academic cities.
• Small class sizes: With a maximum of 15 students per class, participants benefit from personalised attention, closer interaction with tutors, and more engaging discussions than many larger summer schools.
• Applied learning: The academic Challenge ensures students apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, making the experience hands-on and practical.
• Personalised outcomes: Every student graduates with a Certificate of Achievement and a personalised Letter of Recommendation, offering valuable support for future university applications.
• Strong reputation: With an average rating of 4.9/5 across 850+ reviews, OSA is highly rated by past students and families worldwide.

Disadvantages

• Limited scholarship access: Financial aid is only available through partner charities via the OxBright Scholars Programme, so students cannot apply directly.
• Limited subject range compared to larger providers: While Oxford Scholastica covers core subjects like Medicine, Law, and Business, it offers fewer niche or advanced options (e.g., AI, Architecture, or Nanotechnology).
• Lunch not included: Students must purchase their own lunches, adding extra costs and daily logistics.
• Independent provider: OSA rents Oxford University facilities but is not formally affiliated with the university, which can be a consideration for families looking for official institutional ties.

Oxford Scholastica Academy vs Immerse Education

Immerse Education offers three core pathways: Academic Insights, Career Insights, and the Online Research Programme (ORP), combining university-style learning, real-world experience, and one-to-one research mentorship across global locations.

Is Oxford Scholastica Academy Worth It?

Oxford Scholastica Academy is a strong choice for families seeking a two-week Oxford-based summer programme with small classes, pastoral care, and a rich cultural schedule. 

Its mix of seminars, masterclasses, industry Q&As, and challenges offers students an authentic taste of academic life. With 7,000 alumni and a 4.9/5 rating, it is highly regarded.

However, the £6,995 fee (or £13,690 for four weeks) makes it one of the more expensive options, especially with scholarships only limited to partner charities. Adding to this, lunch is not included, and Oxford is its only residential location.

For students wanting an Oxford experience with strong community and academic support, OSA delivers. 

But those seeking smaller tutorials, global locations, academic insights, or career-focused pathways may find Immerse Education better suited, with Oxbridge-style tutorials, multiple destinations, and flexible routes from residential courses to 1:1 research with PhD mentors.

Alternatives to Oxford Scholastica Academy

• Immerse Education – Academic Summer School: Oxbridge-style tutorials in Oxford, Cambridge, and Sydney with intensive subject depth.
• Immerse Education – Career Insights: Project-based learning with industry exposure in London, Singapore, and Boston.
• Immerse Education – Online Research Programme: 1:1 PhD mentorship for original research projects—ideal for academic preparation.
• Reach Cambridge (ages 14–18): Residential courses in Cambridge, with subject variety and cultural excursions.
• Oxford Royale Academy (ages 12–18): Large-scale summer school based in Oxford University colleges, with courses in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Politics, and more, alongside excursions and a formal graduation ceremony.

How to Apply for Oxford Scholastica Academy

1. Choose Your Course – Select your age group (12–14 or 15–18), subject, and session dates (5–18 July, 19 July–1 August, or 2–15 August 2026).
2. Apply Online – Complete the secure online form with student and parent details plus a short personal statement. Applicants must be 12–18 at the start of the course and demonstrate strong English proficiency (CEFR C1 or equivalent).
3. Pay the Deposit – A £995 deposit secures your place and counts toward the full fee. The balance is usually due by 31 March, or within seven days if applying later. If not accepted, deposits are refunded.
4. Admissions Review – Applications are assessed by OSA’s admissions team for fit and readiness. Successful applicants receive a confirmation and contract.
5. Prepare for Arrival – Before the course, families complete medical, dietary, and travel forms and arrange transport (airport transfers available at extra cost). On arrival, students check in, attend induction, and begin their academic and residential experience, culminating in a formal graduation with a Certificate and personalised Letter of Recommendation.

Final Thoughts

Oxford Scholastica Academy offers an enriching Oxford-based summer school with a strong balance of academics, cultural trips, and international friendships. Its small class sizes and recommendation letters help it stand out, while its family-style atmosphere appeals to students new to residential programmes.

That said, the premium fees with the lack of direct scholarships may be barriers. For academically ambitious students seeking closer mentorship, Oxbridge-style tutorials, and advanced pathways, Immerse Education is a stronger alternative.

With its blend of academic depth, career-focused projects, and personalised support, Immerse offers transformative summer programmes in Oxford, Cambridge, London, Sydney, and online.