London is a great study abroad destination year round, including during summer semester! For students who want to make the most of their summer, study abroad in London offers academic and cultural benefits, networking, and much more. Summer study abroad programs in London can absolutely influence your education in and outside the classroom.
Summer might just be the best time of year to explore London.
Whether you're interested in history, business, the arts, or technology, London is a fabulous choice for students seeking an intriguing adventure, particularly during the summer months. A city with such ageless appeal and numerous options, London is unmatched for intellectuals and progressives due to its academic quality, multiculturalism, and rich history. There is no wonder as to why London’s migrant population has reached a whopping 9.5 million as of 2022.
Still need convincing? We’ll explore the many reasons why studying abroad in London during the summer is the perfect step to take towards gaining academic achievement and having an immersive, transformative educational experience.
14 reasons to do summer study abroad in London
Whether you’re unsure you want to choose London as your summer study abroad destination, or are on the fence about summer study abroad altogether, we’ve got over a dozen reasons why studying abroad in London for the summer is the right move for you.
Walk, bike, drive—there’s no wrong way to see this city.
1. Academic Excellence
One compelling reason to choose summer study abroad in London is the city's reputation for academic excellence. London is home to prestigious universities like the University of Roehampton, University College London (UCL), and the London School of Economics (LSE), which offer a wide range of courses and academic resources.
The top-notch faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and exciting research opportunities available to you in London will significantly enhance your educational experience. Additionally, many summer study abroad programs in London provide internship opportunities, allowing you to get work experience and academic credit simultaneously.
2. Cultural Diversity
London's renowned cultural diversity makes it a great place to learn about other ways of life throughout the world. Hands down, one of the best reasons to study abroad in London during the summer is that interacting with people from all over the world can broaden your horizons, enrich your cultural understanding, and prepare you for an increasingly interconnected professional world.
As a student, you'll have plenty of opportunities to interact with Londoners, practice English (if it isn’t your first language), and learn about cultures from all around the world. Many summer programs also involve field trips to other parts of the UK or Europe, providing you with a broader perspective on the culture and history of the region.
3. Historical Significance
London's extensive historical background provides an exceptional setting for scholarly research. The historical sites of the city, ranging from the Tower of London to the British Museum, offer innumerable prospects for exploring the past, rendering it an outstanding setting for students specializing in history, archaeology, and anthropology.
In fact, Roehampton's London Studies classes include both classroom time and field trips. This way, students can learn about London in a way that is relevant to them while still getting academic credit. Plus, summer students at Roehampton don't have class on Fridays, making it possible to travel over the weekend and soak in as much history as possible.
4. Literary Legacy
London is a fantastic place to visit if you're interested in literature or are currently studying English in college. You may immerse yourself in the city's literary culture by attending events and perusing bookshops, as well as by touring the houses of authors like Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf. You'll be following in the footsteps of literary titans like Shakespeare and countless others as you complete your summer study abroad in London.
The personalities and stories that have graced the pages of classic novels have come to life on the streets. Beyond the pages, London's burgeoning modern literary culture is a bustling creative metropolis that welcomes aspiring writers, poets, and wordsmiths. You can discover your muse in the city's parks, cafes, and libraries, as well as attend readings, book launches, and debates.
Your academic and professional future will flourish!
5. Internship Opportunities
London's status as a global business and financial hub means there are abundant internship opportunities available for students studying subjects like business, finance, and marketing. This is an excellent reason to study abroad in London during the summer—gaining practical experience in one of the world's major economic centers can be invaluable for your future career.
By taking advantage of the vibrant employment market while studying abroad, you can expand your education beyond the classroom. London is a great place to get international experience and build your portfolio through internships in a variety of fields, including business, design, media, and the arts. Developing your professional network and set of skills in this global hub might be a game-changer.
6. Language Immersion
Learning a new language in London is a great idea. London provides the ideal natural setting for students of English to acquire or refine their language skills. Interacting with people and taking English classes are great ways to improve your language skills.
Additionally, due to the city's large immigrant population, you will hear speakers of many different dialects and accents. Your language and cultural abilities will advance more quickly if you interact with native speakers, take part in social activities, and manage your day-to-day life in London.
7. Access to World-Class Libraries
London boasts some of the world's most renowned libraries, including the British Library and Senate House Library. These institutions house vast collections of books, manuscripts, and research materials that can greatly aid your academic pursuits.
During your summer study abroad programs in London, you will have exclusive access to these knowledge repositories. You can conduct research, broaden your academic horizons, and get insights that may not be available elsewhere. Libraries in London are havens for scholars, providing a calm area for both study and thought, and supporting academic progress and inquiry.
8. Art and Museums
Students studying art, art history, or museum studies will find London to be a treasure trove of artistic inspiration. The city is home to iconic museums such as the Tate Modern and the National Gallery, where you can get lost in works of art from across the ages.
Inspiration may be found wherever in London, from the street art of Shoreditch to the most modern galleries. A summer study abroad program in London provides endless opportunities for not only studying art but also appreciating the evolution of artistic expression.
Check off every summer study abroad goal.
9. Research Opportunities
Universities and research centers in London, like the University of Roehampton, provide access to experts in a variety of subjects and state-of-the-art research. Working with well-known academics can improve your research abilities and provide opportunities for further academic pursuits.
London's research institutions and universities offer a supportive environment for those interested in social studies, science, history, or other subjects. Work with world-class professionals, gain access to enormous libraries and archives, and take part in advanced research initiatives that will enhance your academic record.
10. Theater and Performing Arts
London is called the "Theatre Capital of the World," and rightly so—the theater district offers a transformative experience for drama and performing arts enthusiasts. This city's summer study abroad programs can offer a vibrant theater and performing arts scene, and London's stages accommodate different tastes, from West End classics to intimate experimental acts.
For example, study abroad students at the University of Roehampton can participate in the Shakespeare in London class and the Introduction to the London Stage class. These are only two of the many classes accessible to drama and acting students at Roehampton.
11. Innovation and Technology
Thanks to its abundance of tech incubators and top-tier educational institutions, London has quickly become a global hub for innovation and technology, with numerous tech companies and research centers leading a thriving startup scene. Students in STEM fields can benefit from being exposed to current trends and may find internships or research opportunities in these fields.
A summer study abroad program in London is a great way to meet influential people in the tech industry, expand your professional network, and get a first-hand look at how innovation is changing many fields.
12. Cultural Events and Festivals
London plays host to a diverse range of cultural events, ranging from film festivals to food fairs, in addition to its well-known tourist attractions. Participating in these events can provide one-of-a-kind insights into the culture of the city and enhance the quality of your visit as a whole.
Many universities in London, like the University of Roehampton, host students from all over the world during the summer, making it easy to meet and network with others. The University of Roehampton even offers a social program, which includes trips around the city.
Otherwise, get yourself an Oyster card and you’ll be able to easily explore the city's many neighborhoods, cultural events, and historical attractions when you’re not in classes!
13. Access to Experts
You’ll get the mentorship you need during summer study abroad in London!
The city of London is home to an impressive number of specialists in a wide variety of professions. From academics and industry leaders to policymakers and cultural icons, the city attracts a wealth of talent and knowledge.
London plays host to a large number of prominent professionals, speakers, and thought leaders who come for conferences and talks. Attending events like this can provide students with essential insights and the opportunity to network, particularly those who are considering jobs in academia or research.
14. Global Perspective
London's diverse environment will quickly inspire you to embrace a global perspective. In today's interconnected world, it can be quite beneficial to become a more open-minded and culturally aware person through exposure to a variety of views and cultures.
As a student on summer study abroad in London, you will be a member of an international community with the possibility to explore the diversity of London's multicultural districts, converse with peers from around the globe, and take part in cross-cultural discussions. The opportunity to expand your views and be exposed to an enhanced worldview is one of the best reasons to study abroad in London during the summer!
Get matched with 5 summer study abroad programs in London for FREE
3 summer study abroad programs in London to get you started
Ready to hop across the pond and study abroad in London for a summer? Here are some great program options to consider as you begin your search!
1. Summer School in London at the University of Roehampton
- Why? Participate in a London study abroad program at the University of Roehampton. Roehampton's semester and year-long integrated study abroad programs put you in the heart of London's vibrant culture. You will live and learn with British students and experience the best of both worlds on their one-of-a-kind campus in the heart of southwest London. The University of Roehampton also offers semester programs.
- Read University of Roehampton reviews
2. Summer Study in England with World Endeavors
- Why? This program lets students discover UK culture and history in an inviting environment. Students study their chosen subjects for four weeks and explore London's culture in the final week. Study cultural heritage and media creation, English and British culture, politics, sports, biology, or business, and experience UK culture and history in a beautiful setting at Edge Hill University!
- Read World Endeavors reviews
3. Experience London, England with API
- Why? API has fantastic course selections at a number of London universities, such as the London School of Economics, Florida State University London Study Center, and University College London. Enjoy a wide range of academic programs that allow you to collaborate with brilliant students from around the world!
- Read API reviews
Compare these programs side-by-side for FREE with MyGoAbroad
See London’s best angles when you study abroad during the summer!
Are you ready to make it a reality?
So why study abroad in London during the summer? Because this dynamic metropolis may just provide you with a life-changing learning experience, both in and outside the classroom, no matter where your academic and personal interests lie.
During the summer, many students from around the world flock to London in order to take advantage of its many opportunities for higher education, research, artistic expression, and professional networking. Will you be one of them?
This article was written with help from the University of Roehampton. Located in London, the University of Roehampton upholds high academic standards with a focus on quality assurance and a supportive, inclusive environment, combining a traditional campus experience with the vibrant opportunities of an international city.
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