<p>Have you been dreaming of traveling the world, checking off bucket list experiences, all while boosting your resume and filling your big brain with juicy bits of knowledge? <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/study-abroad" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>Studying abroad</ins></a> is an incredible experience that can satisfy all your cravings for learning, growth, personal development, and wanderlust!</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style="">  <img style="" src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/images2/program_content/zBm1bC4eUfPM5UsuaXFTV3N6o3mC70FSRmt2xTs2.jpg" alt="three people hugging on a sunny beach"><div class="caption"><p>All those benefits plus great weather? Sign us up!</p></div></div>
<p>If you’ve been thinking of studying abroad, it’s important to consider what type of program works best for you, your studies, and your needs. While it’s common to study for a semester overseas, summer travel programs for college students are not as commonly explored.</p>
<p>But the option to <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/study-abroad/search/summer/study-abroad-1" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>study abroad in summer</ins></a> should not be overlooked. Not only do summer programs offer all the benefits of a semester abroad, but they also have many perks you won’t get in a semester program.</p>
<p>Is studying abroad in the summer worth it? Here’s why you should study abroad over the summer instead of taking a semester abroad.</p>
<h4 style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/courses/international-summer-programmes" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank" class="link"><ins>University of Cambridge is accepting summer program applications until June 26</ins></a></h4>
<h2>How long is study abroad in summer?</h2>
<p>One of the perks to study abroad summer programs for college students is the length. While semester programs are set to last for three to four months, summer programs offer more flexibility.</p>
<p>Depending on your program, you could choose to study abroad in summer anywhere from one week to three months. If you’re having trouble committing to an entire semester away from home, this could be the perfect solution to ease your nerves while still getting a taste of the study abroad experience.</p>
<p>It’s a good idea to <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/study-abroad/how-long-should-i-study-abroad#:~:text=3.,right%20fit%20for%20some%20students." rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>consider what programs are out there and their offerings</ins></a>. Many universities, like the <a title="University of Cambridge" href="https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/course/summer-programme-2022" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=6&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=5745&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=4603" data-ga-client="University of Cambridge" data-contentlink=""><ins>University of Cambridge</ins></a>, offer flexible programs that you can tailor to create a personalized experience. For example, their <a title="University of Cambridge" href="https://www.ice.cam.ac.uk/courses/international-summer-programmes" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=6&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=5745&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=4603" data-ga-client="University of Cambridge" data-contentlink=""><ins>summer programs</ins></a> range anywhere from one week to one month, with the possibility of taking courses in a wide range of subjects, from arts and humanities, to sciences, business, or global studies.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/best-summer-travel-programs" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>Other summer travel programs</ins></a> for college students offer the opportunity for an entire summer abroad. These will be closer in length to semester programs, but with beautiful summer sunshine!</p>
<h2>Study abroad semester vs. summer: 5 differences</h2>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style="">  <img style="" src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/images2/program_content/OH8Qn6e70tGzd872HAAull4L4MUTcXFi4WUk8nFN.jpg" alt="group of people silhouetted by a sunset"><div class="caption"><p>We’re confident in saying that summer study abroad suits practically everyone.</p></div></div>
<p>So you know you want to study abroad, but you’re considering a study abroad semester vs. summer program. Which one is the better option? Here are the biggest differences between semester and summer study abroad programs.</p>
<h3>1. The program length.</h3>
<p>While summer study abroad programs are quite flexible in length, they will always be shorter programs than semesters abroad. For some students, this is a deciding factor when comparing a study abroad semester vs. summer program.</p>
<p>Spending an entire semester abroad can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never traveled overseas on your own. With a shorter and more flexible program length, summer travel programs for college students are the perfect option for you to study abroad without overcommitting yourself to months away from home.</p>
<h4 style="text-align:center;">READ: <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/study-abroad/how-long-should-i-study-abroad" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>How Long Should I Study Abroad?</ins></a></h4>
<h3>2. The price.</h3>
<p>With shorter program lengths often comes a smaller investment. If you’re working with a tight budget and have a fear of burning through your savings, summer programs may be a better option cost-wise. However, depending on your program, that may not necessarily be the case—so if you have a restricted budget, be sure to do your research on program costs.</p>
<p>Usually, not only will you be away from home for a shorter amount of time (and therefore spend less money), but many study abroad summer travel programs for college students include room and board. That’s one less cost that you’ll need to factor into your budget outside tuition!</p>
<h3>3. The people.</h3>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style="">  <img style="" src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/images2/program_content/FlVsRBcPkQNNI55IsYKWS9IDEPYBrc6dC9MHB54z.jpg" alt="group of young people looking at a map in a forest"><div class="caption"><p>Your summer study abroad group will share a lifelong bond!</p></div></div>
<p>Summer study abroad programs attract a different crowd than semesters abroad. Because you’ll have the chance to study different subject areas during a summer program than you would during a semester, you’ll meet new people and easily make friends across different fields.</p>
<h4 style="text-align:center;">READ: <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/how-to-make-friends-while-traveling" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>9 Strategies for Making Friends While Traveling</ins></a></h4>
<h3>4. The class sizes.</h3>
<p>Fewer students choose to study abroad in summer. What does that mean for you? Class sizes are smaller. Both semester and summer study abroad programs may find you in lecture halls, but summer programs are typically more intimate, allowing a more personalized study experience.</p>
<h3>5. The learning opportunities.</h3>
<p>When studying abroad for a semester, most students choose courses in alignment with their degrees. It’s common to branch out more during summer study abroad, as many programs offer diverse course options. If you have been wanting to explore new areas of interest, a summer abroad may be the perfect opportunity to learn outside of your comfort zone.</p>
<h2>So…is studying abroad in the summer worth it? 6 reasons pointing to YES</h2>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style="">  <img style="" src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/images2/program_content/CrbxlEa2lJwOsZT6Th0sX94gyk6EUNqotNsSC4ob.jpg" alt="person sitting on a rock overlooking the ocean in spain"><div class="caption"><p>This beats a summer at the local pool, no?</p></div></div>
<p>While every study abroad experience is different and every student has different goals and desires when it comes to studying abroad, summer programs are <em>definitely </em>worth it. Here are all the reasons you need to experience study abroad in summer at least once in your study career.</p>
<h3>1. You can earn more credits in less time.</h3>
<p>If you choose to study abroad in summer, you’ll be able to earn more credits outside of your standard semester credits. Why is this important? Well, for some it’s an opportunity to get ahead in their studies and advance through their degree faster. For others, it opens the door to exploring new interests.</p>
<p>If you don’t have enough time in your standard semesters to take electives, a summer study abroad experience could be the perfect solution to take classes that interest you, even if they don’t apply to your major.</p>
<p>Either way, you’ll collect more credits, which gives you greater flexibility as you advance through your degree.</p>
<h3>2. You can soak up more of that university lifestyle.</h3>
<p>Have you ever left campus for the summer with an intense feeling of FOMO lingering in your core? You’ve grown used to the independence, the never-ending social activities, the constant presence of your best friends.</p>
<p>Instead of going home for the summer, summer study abroad programs give you the chance to soak up even more of that university lifestyle. You may be in a new environment with new people, but you’ll have the chance to stay involved on a college campus all year round.</p>
<h4 style="text-align:center;">READ: <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/degree-abroad/top-15-us-universities-with-international-campuses" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>Top 15 American Universities with International Campuses</ins></a></h4>
<h3>3. You’ll expand your network of friends.</h3>
<p>Two of the best ways to meet new people are through study and travel. While you’ll make new friends no matter when and <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/where-to-study-abroad-for-a-summer" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>where you study abroad</ins></a>, a summer abroad experience will introduce you to a whole new circle of friends you wouldn’t find anywhere else.</p>
<p>Because summer study abroad attracts a different crowd and you have the opportunity to take courses you wouldn’t take in a standard semester, your social circle will expand to include friends with different interests.</p>
<p>Not only will this help to broaden your horizons, but it will also leave you with lots of new friends to visit in new countries after your study abroad experience.</p>
<h3>4. The weather is amazing.</h3>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style="">  <img style="" src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/images2/program_content/aD7t55SbkUG0S3i22IDYNnJzSZx2HEUlPgeyh5cb.jpg" alt="group of people smiling and laughing"><div class="caption"><p>You’ll love sunny walks to class and warm evenings with friends.</p></div></div>
<p>If you choose to study abroad in the Northern Hemisphere, summer programs give you the opportunity to study abroad while the weather is perfect.</p>
<p>Instead of spending a semester trudging through cold and snow, why not spend your study abroad experience amidst sunshine, warmth, and long summer nights?</p>
<p>The entire vibe is different when you study abroad in summer. Yes, you’ll need to work hard, but you’ll also have more opportunity to play.</p>
<h3>5. You’ll boost your resume.</h3>
<p>Summer travel programs for college students are unique. It’s not the most obvious choice.</p>
<p>Anyone can study abroad during a semester, but choosing to spend your summer traveling meaningfully, collecting credits, and expanding upon your studies makes you stand out in the crowd.</p>
<p>If you’re considering ways to boost your resume and look good to future employers, a summer abroad will make you shine.</p>
<h4 style="text-align:center;">READ: <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/how-to-include-international-experience-on-resume" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>How to Include International Experience on Your Resume</ins></a></h4>
<h3>6. You can see more of the world.</h3>
<p>If you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, why wouldn’t you consider study abroad over the summer? Instead of spending your summers at home, you can see parts of the world you may not have the opportunity to see otherwise.</p>
<p>Because the programs are much shorter, you may even have the opportunity to squeeze a few destinations into one summer, visiting some of your top destinations for the cost of spending just one semester abroad.</p>
<h3 style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/onlineadvisor" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>Get matched with 5 summer study abroad programs for FREE</ins></a></h3>
<h2>Study abroad over the summer for an unforgettable experience!</h2>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style="">  <img style="" src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/images2/program_content/NHVSNRlQ4XO2wxjLEHz3uSTXWObgM3Xl4rM6K4Fj.jpg" alt="group of students overlooking valley at sunset"><div class="caption"><p>Ready for the best summer yet?</p></div></div>
<p>Studying abroad in the summer offers a completely different experience from a semester abroad.</p>
<p>Choose to study abroad in summer, and you’ll have a study abroad experience filled with added flexibility, new people, a variety of course options, and sunny days that make exploring your new city even more exciting.</p>
<p>Is studying abroad in the summer worth it? You know it! What more could your wanderlusting heart want?</p>
<h3 style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/study-abroad/search/summer/study-abroad-1" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>Explore ALL Summer Study Abroad Programs on GoAbroad.com</ins></a></h3>
<p><em>This article was written with help from the </em><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/university-of-cambridge" rel="" target="_self" class="link"><em><ins>University of Cambridge</ins></em></a><em>. The University of Cambridge offers a prestigious academic experience for international students. Their Summer Programme allows a completely unique, customizable experience, with over 100 one-week courses to choose from.</em></p>


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Studying abroad in the summer can last from one week to three months. Your program will help you build your resume, make friends, and earn college credit.

Study Abroad in Summer: Is it Worth It?

Is Studying Abroad in the Summer Worth It?

Before You Go

University of Cambridge International Summer Program

The University of Cambridge's official International Summer Program offers over 140 one- and two-week courses across four weeks, allowing you to combine courses from a wide range of subjects across five core streams: 1) Business & Innovation, 2) Global Challenges, 3) History, 4) Literature, Philosophy, and the Visual Arts, and 5) Science.

Have the flexibility to build a personalized study program lasting from one to four weeks. Courses are taught by a combination of leading Cambridge academics and guest subject specialists from beyond the University.

You can stay in one of 5 beautiful Cambridge Colleges and participate in various cultural and social events.

University of Cambridge

Sales Wolves

The University of Cambridge aims to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning, and research at the highest levels of excellence. We offer a wealth of study opportunities for individuals from around the world. We admit talented students from around the world to our undergraduate and graduate programs. The 19,000-strong student body includes more than 3,700 international students from more than 120 different countries. An understanding of other regions and cultures is inherent in every discipline we teach.

The University of Cambridge aims to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning, and research at the highest levels of excellence. We offer a wealth of study opportunities for individuals from around the world. We admit talented students from around the world to our undergraduate and graduate programs. The 19,000-strong student body includes more than 3,700 international stude...

International students during welcome event

The faculty at University of Cambridge ICE

International students during the Summer of 2018

a group photo during the 100th year celebration

Study for one week to six weeks at the University of Cambridge this summer. Choose from a wide range of programmes, stay in traditional College accommodation and join a vibrant community of international students. Courses are taught at the undergraduate level by leading subject specialists, with the option to write essays for credit from your home institution.
 
Programmes include Business and Entrepreneurship, Science, Literature, Creative Writing, History, Art and Visual Culture, Ancient and Classical Worlds, Shakespeare and the Renaissance, Medieval Studies and Interdisciplinary Studies.

We also offer a three-week programme in English Law and Legal Methods for law students and lawyers.

While studying in Cambridge you can take part in a range of social activities and weekend excursions.

University of Cambridge International Summer Programmes

My first experience

Do it!

Addicted to Cambridge

England

United Kingdom

Study Abroad

The University of Cambridge International Summer Programme 2025

In 2018 I got a scholarship to study the Chinese language for one month in Shanghai International Study University.
It was my first overseas experience, it enabled me to rely on myself as well as to get a new relationship with a lot of people from a different country, and discover new and different cultures.
I had a good time and I've learned a lot of things that helped me develop my knowledge and my skills.

Cambridge Summer Schools really is the most unique holiday and learning experience. To start with, Cambridge is a stunning city - groaning with history and incredibly beautiful. Then there's the opportunity to live in a Cambridge college (en-suite most definitely worth it) which tricks you into thinking you are a local. And the courses! The subjects on offer are fascinating - from medieval to modern history; philosophy and literature to Shakespeare. All depends on getting a good lecturer, but the majority, from my experience, are first class and just how you dream a Cambridge academic should be. You need no qualifications or prior learning and classes are varied in age and nationality. Lots of spare time to explore the city and the lovely pubs. So it's like combining a fab holiday with an incredible and uplifting learning experience. I've been four times and keep going back!

I am a regular. My first time in Cambridge was 2011 and it immediately became an addiction. Never in my life have I experienced anything like that. The programmes are brilliant, the lecturers are renowned in their fields, the people coming from all over the world are great! The whole package just simply broadens your horizon and there is nothing like it anywhere in the world. I have made some great friends all over the world due to Cambridge summer schools, I have learned so much with the courses there and I have had a true Cambridge experience...

Memorable two-weeks in Cambridge

My wife and I live in Melbourne Australia and we went to Cambridge in the second half of July this year. We enrolled in the "Interdisciplinary Program" and for both of us it was an amazing experience. Totally positive from every point of view. We stayed at Selwyn College, quite near where our lectures were held, and we thoroughly enjoyed college life. We met so many interesting people. In fact, the people we met came from 21 different countries in addition to quite a strong scattering of Australians - amazingly, there were even two people whom we had never met from our own street in Melbourne! We did a history subject and a philosophy subject and they were both first class. The lecturers were vibrant/interesting/knowledgeable/personable and we were delighted with our choices. The program also included visiting speakers who were obviously hand-picked and all fascinating. In addition to the lectures, the people and the college experience, there was also the ancient town of Cambridge, which is just lovely and offers a delightful environment to explore. 
The trip for us from Melbourne to Cambridge takes well over 24 hours, but as far as we are concerned, it was totally worthwhile.

Rarified Air

For two weeks, I took classes, had meals and socialized with kindred spirits from all around the globe.  The professors who taught the courses in the Shakespeare Program were passionate about their specific areas of study, they were enthusiastic about sharing their wealth of knowledge, and they were actually interested in our ideas.  The staff members and student assistants of the International Summer School Program were helpful, patient and friendly--so were the porters in the college where I stayed.  My classmates and I visited historical landmarks, took a trip to see a play at the Globe, and watched outdoor productions of Shakespeare's plays in the gardens of some of the colleges. This was such a remarkable experience, it is still having an affect on me--as a teacher and in general.  It was a gift to myself to immerse myself in serious, joyful contemplation--and riding my rented bike every day was a treat.

Participant in Cambridge International Summer Schools for 23 Years

Living and studying in Cambridge each summer for the last 23 years are highlights of each year.  I look forward to seeing the course list in December and registering for another summer study program.  

One of the best parts of this program is being able to study with people from all over the world.

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