Are you bored of sitting in the same classroom and looking at the same familiar faces every single day? Do you find yourself longingly daydreaming out the window about what life would be like across the pond? If you are nodding along with excitement, then don’t stop now! There are surprises in store that will turn dreams into reality. It all begins with a look into one of the most diverse cities in the world—London, England, of course! So sit down, relax, and make yourself a cup of tea. You’re in for something sweet!
A summer abroad in London will NEVER disappoint!
If you have already decided you want a summer study abroad in London — congratulations! You’ve managed to get past the first step on your own. *high five* Now you may be asking yourself the harder questions.
What kind of classes can I take in London? Where will I be studying? Is my bank account going to survive the hit? These are normal questions for students to ask, and it’s good to understand that studying in another country is a big deal. It’s also good to understand just how FUN it’s going to be!
The culture in London is vibrant and can be seen in street art, street fashion, street food, and even the houses! With its cosmopolitan streets, iconic double-decker red buses, magnificent underground transportation, and countless historical landmarks older than anything in the US, it is sure to charm you.
The accents are sure to charm you too! Grab a napkin now because you might be drooling. If the hustle and bustle begin to be too much, you’ll find folks plopped down in one of the many parks and gardens. Sometimes it’s so quiet you forget you’re in one of the biggest cities in the world. What a perfect spot for a study break!
We’ve got our London eye on you!
There are countless summer programs in England for college students. You may need a little nudge toward the right one for you, and that’s where this handy dandy list comes into play. Take a peek at these summer study abroad programs in London and discover all the city has to offer!
- API: Study Abroad and Experience London
- USAC England: London – University of Roehampton
- IES Abroad: London Summer – UK Today
- IFSA: Summer in London
- Sotheby’s Institute of Art: Summer in London
- CEA CAPA: Education Abroad in London
- WorldStrides: Study Abroad in London
What makes these programs the “best”
GoAbroad specializes in collecting real stories, feedback, and insights from past student travelers about their experiences in study abroad programs. We take their reviews very seriously and hope these snapshots of life abroad can help inform and educate future student travelers with reasonable expectations for their own experience abroad. While there are dozens of excellent organizations offering summer programs in London, some just rise above the rest.
Typically, the best summer study abroad programs in London tick off all of the following boxes:
- Positive feedback. What do reviews and other alumni have to say about their experiences? Though your needs might not be theirs, you can give some level of credibility to the “horse’s mouth.” Consider their feedback as you discern your options for college study abroad programs in England.
- Clarity and availability of information. If you have to hunt down basic program details, there might be something fishy going on.
- Organizational partnerships—most are partnered with or work with other respected national, local, or international organizations.
- Resources for alumni, like how to put your experience on your resume or keep building on your time abroad so it’s not an isolated experience.
- Demonstrated respect and care for local culture, environment, and individuals. You can get a feel for this in the photos and language they use to market themselves. No elephant riding, no exploitative photos with children, etc.
- Level of support and assistance. Do they email you back promptly? Are you confident in their safety rating and the level of support you’ll get before, during, AND after your program?
- Respect within your field of study. Consider a program that makes people that you look up to go “Wow.”
A sneak peek into your future
7 best London study abroad programs for next summer
1. API: Study Abroad and Experience London
Experience London's vibrant academic and cultural scene through a short-term study abroad program offering courses at renowned institutions, including the University of Westminster, University College London, Kingston University, and Richmond American University London.
You can explore diverse academic interests, gain international perspectives, and connect with a global student community through engaging coursework and internship opportunities. Designed for students seeking an affordable experience, the Jan Term program allows participants to earn academic credits in just a few weeks while studying English literature or British history.
- Cost: Starting at $6,999
- Duration: 3-14 weeks, depending on the program
- School: Multiple host universities
- More program info
2. USAC England: London – University of Roehampton
Looking for a summer abroad that combines a traditional university campus with easy access to London? USAC offers short-term study at the University of Roehampton, a parkland campus in southwest London. You can take subjects such as business, psychology, literature, and London studies, with courses incorporating field visits, walking tours, and other hands-on activities.
Choose a three-week session in June or July, or combine both sessions for additional academic credit. You'll have the chance to experience campus life while discovering London's museums, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions.
- Cost: Starting at $5,780 per summer term
- Duration: 3 or 6 weeks
- School: University of Roehampton
- More program info
3. IES Abroad: London Summer – UK Today
Want to understand British culture beyond the usual tourist attractions? IES Abroad's London Summer – UK Today program uses the city as an extension of the classroom. You can study British history, literature, society, media, and other subjects through academic courses and related field experiences.
Visits to cultural institutions, historic sites, and local organizations help connect classroom concepts with everyday life in London. The program also provides accommodation, orientation, academic advising, and on-site student support, making it a strong option for students who want a structured summer learning experience.
- Cost: ~$8,477
- Duration: Around 6 weeks
- School: Courses are taught at the IES Abroad Center by distinguished British and international faculty
- More program info
4. IFSA: Summer in London
Interested in exploring London through subjects that connect directly to contemporary life? IFSA Summer in London offers courses in business, media, psychology, social sciences, and related fields. The six-week program combines classroom learning with activities that introduce students to the city's history, neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. You can also visit destinations beyond central London through organized excursions.
With housing, academic support, insurance, and program activities included, IFSA offers a structured experience for students seeking a balance between studying and exploring.
- Cost: Starting at $7,495
- Duration: 6 or 12 weeks
- School: IFSA London Study Center
- More program info
5. Sotheby's Institute of Art: Summer in London
If you're passionate about art, museums, or the business side of the creative industries, Sotheby's Institute of Art offers a distinctive way to spend your summer in London. Its intensive courses introduce students to areas such as the international art market and curatorial practice through expert-led instruction, site visits, and practical projects. Students can explore galleries, museums, and other cultural institutions while learning from professionals working in the field. The experience is especially relevant to aspiring art historians, curators, and creative industry professionals.
- Cost: Starting at £5,600 (~$7,410)
- Duration: 4 or 8 weeks
- School: Sotheby's Institute of Art, London
- More program info
6. CEA CAPA: Education Abroad in London
Looking for a London summer program with a wide range of academic choices? CEA CAPA offers direct enrollment at the University of Westminster, where you can study subjects such as business, fashion, history, psychology, and cultural studies.
The university's campuses place students close to many of London's major attractions, making it easy to connect coursework with the city's history and contemporary culture. Choose a three-week session or combine two sessions for additional credits, with CEA CAPA providing assistance before departure and support during the program.
- Cost: Starting at $7,395
- Duration: 3 or 6 weeks
- School: University of Westminster
- More program info
7. WorldStrides: Study Abroad in London
Want to study at a leading London university while exploring subjects connected to your future career? WorldStrides offers a summer program at various institutions, with courses in fields such as global health, international studies, humanities, and science. Classes are taught by international faculty, and students can choose a single summer session or extend their stay by combining sessions.
The program also includes accommodation, orientation, cultural activities, and local support, giving you opportunities to experience both university life and the city's diverse cultural offerings.
- Cost: Starting at $6,990, depending on host university and program duration
- Duration: 1 or 2 summer sessions (lasting 2, 3, or 3.5 weeks, depending on host university)
- School: University of Westminster
- More program info
[Not done looking? Browse ALL Summer Programs in England for College Students]
You’re ready to have a blast during your summer abroad in London!
Let’s do this!
Alright loves, ready to pack your bags and fly to the land of pubs, pints, and pudding? (Not the American pudding, of course!). Although there are many programs to choose from in London, the perfect summer study abroad in England for you DOES exist. Whether you’re interested in art, business, science, or want to dip your toes in a mix of British culture and education, London has countless opportunities for all you adventure seekers.
Once you find your program, you’ll be able to begin planning exactly how you want to spend your time abroad. Want to visit other countries? You’ve got it! London is a hub for travelers and makes catching flights to other destinations a piece of cake. Want to visit English cities? You’ve got that too! Get a train from central London to the outskirts of England if that’s what your heart desires. You’ll be saying “Ello poppet” to people from all over the world!
Make your dreams come true with a summer study abroad in England that will open your eyes, mind, and heart to unforgettable experiences. London is only a hop, skip, and jump away. Taking a plane is highly recommended. Cheers!
