Downing College International Winter Programme

The Downing College International Winter Programme brings international students aged 15 to 18 to the centre of Cambridge, England, for a two-week residential academic experience in January. The camp is run through the International Programme of Downing College, a constituent college of the University of Cambridge, and teaching sessions are held across the University, giving students an authentic feel for Cambridge academic life. On arrival, each student follows one of two academic pathways. The STEM pathway spans Biological Natural Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science and Physical Natural Sciences, introducing undergraduate-level concepts in biology, chemistry, medicine, engineering, mathematics and physics through expert-led lectures, workshops and laboratory-focused excursions. The Humanities pathway covers Arts and Literature, Economics, Education and Psychology, and International Relations, encouraging critical engagement with primary texts, historical sources and real-world case studies. Both pathways develop transferable academic skills in writing, debating and presenting, and both are taught by University of Cambridge Fellows, lecturers and researchers. Students live in College accommodation at Downing College with bed linen, towels and cleaning services provided, and take three meals a day in the historic College Dining Hall, including the opportunity to attend a formal hall dinner. Evenings feature social activities such as trivia and sports, while accompanied day trips take students to London — with visits to landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the National Gallery and the British Museum — and on Cambridge excursions including guided punting, the Fitzwilliam Museum and King’s College. Continuous academic and pastoral support runs throughout the stay. Admission is selective: applicants complete an online form and a short interview that assesses English proficiency and motivation, after which successful candidates receive an unconditional offer. The programme fee is all-inclusive, covering tuition, accommodation, meals, activities and excursions; flights, visas, airport transfers and travel insurance are arranged separately by families. The programme closes with a graduation ceremony where students receive a final grade and certificate — a meaningful addition to future university applications. Families can compare dates, prices and availability and submit an enquiry directly through CampsBooking. Information should be confirmed directly with the camp provider; dates, prices and availability may change.