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Oxford IQ Preparatory Academy (ages 13-15)
Foundation & Discovery Track
Exclusive to elite students aged 13-15 years old, The Oxford IQ Academy's summer programme offers the experience of a lifetime! Step into academic rigour, conceptual exploration, and guided inquiry.
Summer 2027 Courses in Oxford & Cambridge
PPE - PHILOSOPHY, POLITICS & ECONOMICS + CLASSICS
Navigate the intricate forces that govern our world—from the ancient polis to modern global markets—with our intensive Philosophy, Politics, Economics (PPE) & Classics programme, designed specifically for ambitious future leaders. Moving far beyond the standard secondary school curriculum, this interdisciplinary course invites scholars to examine the ancient roots and contemporary realities of human society. Students will decode foundational texts from classical antiquity, engaging with the political theories of Plato and the ethics of Aristotle, and trace their evolution into modern democratic systems, macroeconomic policies, and contemporary moral frameworks. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative seminars, and simulated policy debates, participants will learn to untangle complex global issues by balancing ethical philosophy against hard economic realities and political strategy. Ultimately, this course equips young scholars with the razor-sharp logical reasoning, rhetorical eloquence, and intellectual confidence required to excel in top-tier university social science degrees and lead in the modern public square.
ENGINEERING (New for 2027)
Step into the world of innovation and problem-solving with our intensive Engineering programme, meticulously crafted for aspiring young minds. This dynamic course bridges the gap between theoretical mathematics and real-world application, challenging students to think, design, and build like professional engineers. Through a rigorous blend of academic seminars and hands-on collaborative projects, scholars will explore core disciplines such as mechanical, civil, and sustainable engineering. Participants will learn to apply 'Design Thinking' to complex global challenges, culminating in a practical capstone project where they must prototype and defend their own viable engineering solutions. Ultimately, this course equips students with the critical analytical skills, teamwork capabilities, and technical confidence required to design the technologies of tomorrow.
MATHS (New for 2027)
Unlock the universal language of the future with our intensive Mathematics programme, designed specifically for ambitious analytical minds. Moving far beyond the standard secondary school curriculum, this course invites scholars to explore the profound elegance and power of both pure and applied mathematics. Students will tackle complex, university-level concepts spanning game theory, cryptography, advanced calculus, and statistical modelling. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials and collaborative problem-solving syndicates, participants will learn how to translate abstract theorems into tangible, real-world solutions across fields like economics, physics, and computer science. Ultimately, this course equips students with the razor-sharp logical reasoning, precise analytical skills, and intellectual confidence necessary to excel in top-tier university STEM degrees and tackle the most complex data challenges of the modern world.
LAW - PREPARING AN APPLICATION TO READ LAW (New for 2027)
Step into the arena of advocacy and justice with our intensive Law programme, designed specifically for ambitious, critically minded students. Moving far beyond the standard secondary school curriculum, this course immerses scholars in the intricate mechanics of legal systems, jurisprudence, and human rights. Students will critically analyse landmark case studies, debate constitutional principles, and explore the ethical foundations that govern international relations and global justice. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative seminars, and simulated moot court challenges, participants will learn how to construct watertight legal arguments and dismantle opposing viewpoints with eloquence and precision. Ultimately, this course equips young scholars with the razor-sharp logical reasoning, persuasive advocacy skills, and intellectual confidence required to excel in top-tier university law degrees and navigate the complexities of the modern legal landscape.
BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and master the mechanics of global commerce with our intensive Business & Entrepreneurship programme, designed specifically for ambitious future founders. Moving far beyond basic economics, this course immerses scholars in the fast-paced world of startups, strategic management, and venture creation. Students will explore market analysis, financial modelling, and business plans learning how to transform innovative ideas into viable, scalable enterprises. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative syndicates, and high-stakes pitch simulations, participants will develop the strategic foresight to navigate real-world business challenges. Ultimately, this course equips young leaders with the commercial acumen, persuasive communication, and executive confidence required to excel in top-tier university business degrees and launch the groundbreaking companies of tomorrow.
GLOBAL HEALTHCARE & MEDICINE
Delve into the critical intersection of science and society with our intensive Global Health & Medicine programme, designed specifically for ambitious future medical professionals and public health innovators. Moving far beyond the standard secondary school biology curriculum, this course immerses scholars in the complex challenges of epidemiology, medical ethics, and international healthcare policy. Students will critically analyse real-world case studies—from pandemic response strategies to healthcare inequalities—while exploring how leadership development runs throughout the medical field. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials and collaborative seminars, participants will learn to approach global health crises with both scientific rigour and empathetic, strategic foresight. Ultimately, this course equips young scholars with the advanced analytical skills, ethical grounding, and intellectual confidence required to excel in top-tier university medical degrees and transform the future of global healthcare.
PSYCHOLOGY (New for 2027)
Unlock the profound complexities of the human mind and human behaviour with our intensive Psychology programme, designed specifically for ambitious, analytically minded students. Moving far beyond standard secondary school curricula, this course immerses scholars in the rigorous science of cognition, social dynamics, and neurobiology. Students will critically analyse groundbreaking psychological research, decode the neurological underpinnings of decision-making, and debate the ethical boundaries of clinical and behavioural experiments. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative seminars, and real-world case studies, participants will learn how psychological principles shape everything from interpersonal leadership to global group dynamics. Ultimately, this course equips young scholars with the razor-sharp analytical skills, empathetic insight, and intellectual confidence required to excel in top-tier university behavioural science degrees and deeply understand the fundamental drivers of human action.
HISTORY (New for 2027)
Step into the past to decode the present with our intensive History programme, designed specifically for ambitious, critically minded students. Moving far beyond the memorisation of dates and standard secondary school curricula, this course immerses scholars in the complex forces that have shaped civilisations, empires, and global conflicts. Students will interrogate primary sources, debate opposing historiographical perspectives, and explore the intricate socio-political, economic, and cultural shifts that define the human story. By examining pivotal historical moments—from the rise and fall of empires to 20th-century geopolitical crises—participants will uncover how past leadership decisions continue to dictate the modern global landscape. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative seminar debates, and deep archival research simulations, participants will learn how to construct compelling, evidence-based arguments and dismantle historical myths with eloquence and precision. Ultimately, this course equips young scholars with the razor-sharp analytical skills, profound contextual awareness, and intellectual confidence required to excel in top-tier university humanities degrees and navigate the complexities of our modern world.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY I: Space, Earth Science, and Climate Change
Space technology is one the fastest growing tech segments in the world as lower costs are enabling a flood of new entrants to build and launch their own satellites. Learn about the space industry, how to position yourself for a career, and the essentials of satellite tech, space architectures, and space diplomacy from an Oxford University Tutor, our Professor of Space Technology , and a former NASA official.. Technology can be an essential thread through a large variety of professional activities in which you will engage in the adult world. We cover a number of topics and allow students to focus on their areas of interest.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY II: Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Big Data (New for 2027).
Command the technologies shaping the future with our new 2027 Science & Technology II programme: Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Big Data, designed specifically for ambitious young innovators. Moving far beyond standard secondary school computing classes, this course immerses scholars in the complex mechanics of machine learning, algorithmic design, and data science. Students will demystify how neural networks operate, debate the profound ethical implications of AI deployment, and learn how to harness massive datasets to predict trends and solve global challenges. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative programming syndicates, and hands-on coding challenges, participants will translate abstract computational theories into functional, real-world technological solutions. Ultimately, this course equips young scholars with the razor-sharp logical reasoning, advanced technical proficiency, and intellectual confidence required to excel in top-tier university STEM degrees and pioneer the digital landscape of tomorrow.
ENGLISH LITERATURE & CREATIVE WRITING (New for 2027)
Immerse yourself in the transformative power of storytelling with our intensive English Literature & Creative Writing programme, designed specifically for passionate readers and aspiring authors. Moving far beyond the standard secondary school curriculum, this dual-focus course challenges scholars to simultaneously deconstruct literary masterpieces and construct their own compelling narratives. Students will critically analyse the mechanics of rhetorical power, narrative structure, and voice across classic and contemporary texts, using these profound insights as the foundation for their own original writing. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative literary seminars, and intensive peer-review workshops, participants will hone their unique authorial voice while mastering the art of constructive critique. Ultimately, this course equips young scholars with the sophisticated analytical skills, expressive eloquence, and creative confidence required to excel in top-tier university humanities degrees and craft stories that leave an enduring impact.
ARCHITECTURE & SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT (New for 2027)
Shape the physical world of tomorrow with our intensive Architecture & Sustainable Urban Development programme, taught amidst the iconic, centuries-old cityscapes of Cambridge and Oxford, designed specifically for ambitious future architects and urban planners. Moving far beyond standard secondary school design classes, this course immerses scholars in the intricate intersection of structural engineering, spatial aesthetics, and environmental stewardship. Students will draw direct inspiration from their surroundings—studying everything from medieval collegiate quadrangles to cutting-edge contemporary marvels—while critically analysing how architectural history informs modern, eco-conscious city planning. Participants will tackle the most pressing challenges of the 21st century by exploring green building practices, carbon-neutral design, and smart city infrastructure. Through rigorous Oxbridge-style tutorials, collaborative design studios, and hands-on drafting workshops, scholars will learn to translate abstract spatial concepts into tangible blueprints, 3D models, and sustainable project pitches. Ultimately, this course equips young innovators with the robust spatial reasoning, creative vision, and technical confidence required to build a standout portfolio, excel in top-tier university architecture degrees, and design the resilient, sustainable built environments of the future.
The Oxford Essay: Merit Scholarship Assessment - NEXT STEPS
1) REGISTRATION FORM
You must register below and choose one or more Fields of Interest (from which the essay questions will derive). We will send you the OXFORD ESSAY PACKAGE (2027 Oxford Essay Questions & Guidance, and a 2027 Oxford IQ Academy Prospectus). You will be provided all guidance and details for writing the essay (the word count limit, how the essays are marked, writing guidance, etc.).
DEADLINE: You will have until 11:59 PM UK Time on 15 September 2026 to submit your essay. We award scholarships based on merit, and the selection criteria and amounts of scholarships will be detailed in the information..
2) Read the Guidelines, Select ONE Question, and Start Writing!
You will also be provided guidance and details for writing the essay. Contained in the information set from The Oxford IQ Prep Academy will be dates, costs, and other pertinent information regarding our courses in 2026. We award scholarships based on merit, and the selection criteria and amounts of scholarships will be detailed in the information.
3) SUBMISSION OF THE ESSAY
Upon receipt of the essay guidelines and questions, you will have until 11:59 PM UK time on 15 September 2026 to submit your essay via the action button below, or via email louise@oxford-iq.academy.
4) NOTIFICATION OF RESULTS
The Oxford IQ Academy will mark papers when they are received, and will be in touch with the Essayist by email. For the top quality essays, we offer scholarships at varying levels for Oxford IQ Academy summer courses in Oxford in 2027.
What if I haven't received the Essay Questions & Guidelines?
REGISTRATION ISSUES
Don't panic, or send us impolite emails! We have learned that some schools and countries will block outgoing emails. Also, your incoming email systems may have pushed our replies to your Junk InBox.
If you have an issue, reach out to us on the WhatsApp button above in Step 1, or email us at louise@oxford-iq.academy and we will send you a form to complete and return and possibly an extension on your essay.
The Oxford Essay: Merit Scholarship Assessment Terms & Condi
The Purpose of the Oxford Essay Assessment
Academic Credentials & Certification Policy
1. The Nature of the Assessment:The Oxford Essay serves as the primary academic assessment for admission into The Oxford IQ Academy Residential Fellowship. Participation in the competition constitutes an application for a merit-based grant and a residential placement at our contracted facilities.
2. Classification vs. Certification:
- Initial Classification: All candidates will receive a numerical classification (e.g., 2.1, 2.2) based on the independent OXIQ marking scale. This classification is provided for the sole purpose of determining scholarship eligibility and residential track placement.
- Certification of Merit: The Oxford IQ Academy does not issue "Participation Certificates" or "Classification Awards" to candidates who do not enrol in the residential programme.
- The Residential Fellowship Diploma: The official Certificate of Academic Achievement is a high-level credential awarded only upon the successful completion of the two-week residency, including the final 1:1 tutorial series and the Graduation Ceremony.
3. Intellectual Property & Feedback:To maintain the integrity of our markers’ expertise, detailed Tutor Feedback Reports are considered premium academic assets. These reports are released exclusively to enroled fellows only as part of their residential pedagogy. The Academy is under no legal or contractual obligation to provide pro-bono academic feedback or credentialing to non-enroled participants.
4. Finality of Decision:The Admissions Committee reserves the right to reallocate merit-based grants and residential spaces if a candidate fails to meet the enrolment deadlines. Once a grant is reallocated, the candidate's file is closed.
Oxford IQ Prep Academy Testimonials: Team Zeno 2025
Fatoumata (UAE)
Graduation Speech - August 2025
On the 24th of October, we first got the link to join the competition.
I thought… and thought… and thought. Until I finally told myself, “Why not?” I hadn’t really done anything memorable this year, so I applied. I didn’t expect to get in.
But fast forward to August 15 — here I am, standing at my graduation, speaking to all of you. Looking back, I realise how often we treat doubt like a friend. It becomes a shield we hide behind — all because of one comment, one look, or one fear. And when we do that, we become the thieves of our own opportunities. The thing about regret is… it’s always going to find a place in our lives. At the start of our journey, at the end — maybe both.
But regret isn’t just pain. It’s a lesson. It’s proof that we took a step, that we learned, that we grew. And maybe life is a choice between searching and staying. Staying — that’s for people who believe they’ve found what they wanted. But searching… searching is for those who wonder, “What else could there be?” Even when you have what you thought you wanted, the searching doesn’t really stop. Maybe we were meant for both because here at camp , we stayed long enough to build friendships , memories and moments that now hangs in the wall of fame And we searched for courage, for laughter, for the parts of ourselves we see in others.
I’d like to thank Louise for being the rainbow after the rain, and Craig for being the clouds. To all the parents — thank you for being the investors in our dreams. And a memorable shout-out to Khadjia — for being there and making it easy.
I'd like to end this speech with a round of applause to the teachers and the parents. Thank you for your time.
2027 Courses for 13-15 year old scholars
Political Leadership: Law, Economics, Politics & International Relations
Because many of our students come from the top schools in the world, and aspire to attend the top universities in the world, chances are high that these students will become national and international leaders. This popular course comes from the tradition of PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics). Dreaming of leading change in the world? This is the place to start.
Business Leadership & Entrepreneurship
Whether you want to run a corporation one day, or start your own company, we teach you the essential basics of business, competition, and innovation. In the past, we taught a cohort of students from Argentina how to analyse the 'business of football' with trips to Arsenal Football Club and Chelsea Football Club. You will research a 'problem,' come up with a solution, write and present a business plan in this course.
Global Healthcare & Medicine
This course is a hands-on practical course for students with an interest in pursuing a career in the global healthcare industry. You will learn the business of medicine in the city and university in which the first COVID-19 vaccine was developed (Oxford University and Astra Zeneca). We also add a rigorous medicine component to this course that covers medical technology, biotechnology, and many other aspects of the field.
Creative Writing for Aspiring Novelists and Screenwriters
Do you have dreams of writing a novel, getting it published, and perhaps selling the rights of your story for a Hollywood film or mini-series? Do you believe you are too young to even think about writing a novel? Did you know that the YA (Young Adult) market is the fastest growing genre, and that more and more teenagers are getting published? We get right to the business of writing in this course because we believe every person has a story to tell. We teach you character development, plot and story evolution, pacing, dialogue, and other essential elements of writing. You will develop an outline for a novel in this course.
Cultural Heritage
A truly cutting edge course taught at the university level. Students learn how to operate drones and interpret Geographic Information Systems in the context of discovering archaeological sites. This course is taught by Oxford archaeologists and you will learn the basics of archaeology and complete a project by the end of the course.
Science & Technology I: Space, Earth Science, Climate Change, Artificial Intelligence, and Big Data.
Space technology is one the fastest growing tech segments in the world as lower costs are enabling a flood of new entrants to build and launch their own satellites. Learn about the space industry, how to position yourself for a career, and the essentials of satellite tech, space architectures, and space diplomacy from a former NASA official.. Technology can be an essential thread through a large variety of professional activities in which you will engage in the adult world. We cover a number of topics and allow students to focus on their areas of interest.
Engineering, Maths, Physics, and Architecture
Engineering will be offered on our Cambridge course along with Maths and Physics. E-mail us for more information on registering for these courses: admissions@oxford-iq.academy
Other Courses on Offer: Psychology, English Literature, and Classics
These courses will be offered as "electives" on the enrolment forms and the Oxford IQ Preparatory Academy will select one to three of these courses in terms of popularity among students.
Oxford IQ Academy: Rewards for Hard Work in the Classroom
Dressing up for Formal Hall is always one of the highlights of the course.
The 2025 cohorts of Team Pythagoras and Team Herodotus had a blast on their study trip to London! Photo taken in front of Buckingham Palace.
Team Aristotle relaxing at Frewin Annexe Brasenose after dinner.