Attending a Cambridge summer school is more than an academic opportunity. It’s also a chance to experience what it feels like to live and study in a world-leading university setting.

From the moment you step through the historic gates of a Cambridge college, you enter an environment that centuries of scholarship have shaped.

Accommodation and meals play a central role in this experience. You’ll not only gain insight into how undergraduates live during their studies but also enjoy the unique rhythm of college life.

This article explains what you can expect when it comes to your room, dining, and daily routines during your Cambridge programme.

Accommodation: Living in a Cambridge College

College Locations

Participants stay in some of Cambridge’s most renowned colleges, such as Christ’s, Corpus Christi, Magdalene, Queens’, St Catharine’s, and Sidney Sussex.

Each college combines historic architecture with modern facilities, creating an inspiring backdrop for your learning journey. Living on site means you’ll be just minutes away from your academic sessions, social events, and the city centre.

Room Setup and Comfort

Your accommodation is designed to balance comfort with authenticity. All rooms are single occupancy, giving you privacy and space to relax or study.

Bedrooms are furnished with essentials such as a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe. Participants usually share bathrooms, just as undergraduates do during term.

The college provides linens and weekly housekeeping, so you won’t need to worry about practicalities. Wi-Fi is available in college, ensuring you can stay connected with family and keep up with any additional research.

Safety and Support

Safeguarding is a top priority at Immerse Education. Immerse background checks on all staff and train them in first aid and safeguarding procedures.

You’ll also be part of a mentor family: small groups led by current undergraduates or postgraduates who act as role models and first points of contact. This creates a supportive environment where you can ask questions, share concerns, and feel at home throughout your stay.

Meals: Dining in Historic Halls

What Meals Are Included?

In our Cambridge summer school, breakfast and dinner are provided daily in the college dining hall. If you are aged 13–15, you’ll also enjoy lunch as part of your programme.

For participants aged 16–18, lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to explore the city’s cafés, restaurants, and markets during the day. This offers a chance to experience Cambridge beyond the college walls, just as undergraduates do.

Catering teams, who usually cook for Cambridge students during term, prepare all meals. So the food is high-quality and varied. Breakfast might include cereals, pastries, fruit, or cooked items.

Dinners often feature a hot main course, vegetarian alternatives, sides, and desserts. The dining experience takes place in centuries-old halls, giving you a taste of traditional Cambridge life.

The Formal Dinner Experience

A highlight of our Cambridge summer school is the Formal Dinner, a cherished Cambridge tradition that gives participants a true taste of university life.

Held in the college’s grand dining hall, the evening features a three-course meal served by candlelight, with participants dressing smartly to mark the occasion.

It’s both a celebration and a cultural experience, allowing you to enjoy the historic atmosphere, connect with new friends, and take part in one of Cambridge’s most memorable academic customs.

Dietary Requirements and Allergies

The catering team is well-accustomed to supporting different dietary needs. Before you arrive, Immerse shares your dietary information with staff so they know how to meet your requirements.

As an extra precaution, you’re encouraged to speak directly with staff at mealtimes about allergens. This ensures you can eat safely while still enjoying a wide range of meals.

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The Cambridge College Experience Beyond Food and Rooms

Historic Surroundings

Cambridge colleges serve as more than residences. They act as living museums of learning.

When you stay in them, you’ll be surrounded by landscaped courtyards, ancient chapels, and libraries that have inspired scholars for centuries. Walking through these spaces daily helps you picture yourself as part of a global academic community.

Facilities for Daily Life

Alongside accommodation and dining, you’ll have access to common rooms and study spaces within the college.

These areas encourage you to work on projects or simply relax with new friends. Many colleges also have gardens and lawns where you can unwind after a full day of study and activities.

Social and Cultural Opportunities

Living in the city during Immerse’s summer school in Cambridge means there’s always something happening outside of lessons. Organised social programmes might include punting along the River Cam, exploring museums, or attending cultural excursions.

These experiences are built into the programme, ensuring you balance study with memorable adventures.

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What’s Included in Your Programme Fee?

Your enrolment covers more than just tuition. When you enrol on Immerse’s Cambridge summer programme, the following are included:

  • 13 nights of accommodation in a central Cambridge college
  • Breakfast and dinner in College Hall (students aged 13–15 also receive lunch)
  • Laundry facilities and Wi-Fi in college accommodation
  • 40 hours of academic sessions led by tutors from Oxford and Cambridge, including 2 hours of 1:1 tuition
  • Carefully designed study and lecture materials to support your learning
  • Guidance on completing a personal project in your chosen subject
  • Mentor programme and access to support materials throughout your stay
  • All excursions and social activities, such as formal dinners, punting, and sports
  • Two coach excursions, including a trip to London
  • Graduation ceremony and a certificate to mark your achievement
  • Tutor-written assessment with personalised feedback

With this all-inclusive model, you can focus entirely on enjoying your Cambridge summer school without worrying about day-to-day costs.

Additional expenses are limited to travel to and from Cambridge, visas (if required), and personal spending money.

FAQs

Can I choose which college I stay in?

Placements depend on availability, but all participating Cambridge colleges offer a similar blend of comfort, history, and excellent facilities.

Can I stay in a room with or next to my friend?

We try to accommodate these requests, but can’t guarantee them. If you study the same subject on the same dates, we can usually place you nearby. Students aged 13–15 may share twin rooms.

What if I have special educational needs or need extra support?

Immerse welcomes many students with additional needs each year. We can arrange a call to discuss your requirements.

What do I need to bring?

You’ll get a packing list once enrolled. All participants must bring a personal laptop for academic activities.

Conclusion

Accommodation and meals are central to your Cambridge experience.

By living in a historic college, you’ll discover what it feels like to be part of one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Dining in traditional halls connects you with peers and offers a taste of authentic student life.

When you attend a Cambridge summer school, you’re not only gaining knowledge from world-class tutors but also immersing yourself in a lifestyle that has shaped scholars for centuries. From your room setup to shared meals, every detail is designed to give you confidence, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.

To learn more about what awaits you, visit the Cambridge summer school page and start planning your journey into university life.