A two-week academic experience in Cambridge
The Seti Pre-University Programme is a two-week residential experience in Cambridge for students aged 14 to 18. Students live at Churchill College, explore university-style subjects, develop academic skills, and gain a clear understanding of what studying in the UK requires.
Programme at a glance
The facts parents and students need to know — at a glance, before reading further.
Age range
14 – 18
Duration
Two weeks
Location
Cambridge, UK
Accommodation
Churchill College
Academic teaching
15 hours of subject teaching led by expert lecturers
University preparation
8 hours of study skills and admissions guidance, including mock Oxbridge interviews
Programme dates
26 July – 9 August 2025
15 hrs
Academic teaching
Academic structure with real context
Students follow a structured academic programme designed to reflect how subjects are taught at leading UK universities.
Each student explores a subject pathway through small-group teaching sessions designed as academic “taster” experiences. These are paired with practical activities, such as visits to research centres, courtrooms, and other real-world settings, helping students understand how each subject is applied beyond the classroom.
Alongside subject learning, students take part in university preparation sessions covering study skills, academic writing, and the UK admissions process. These sessions, and the wider programme, are designed to help international students adapt quickly to the expectations of UK education and avoid the common drop in performance during the early stages of study.
Across the two weeks, students work towards a final project, applying what they have learned and presenting their work at the end of the programme.
This structure combines academic exploration, practical experience, and preparation for university study, giving students a clear understanding of both subject choice and what is required to succeed in the UK system.
Explore subjects taught in a UK-style learning environment
Six subject strands, each delivered through small-group sessions that encourage discussion, problem-solving, and independent thinking. Lessons are paired with practical visits and real-world exploration.
Law
Explore the principles of law, debate techniques, and the structures of international legal systems through case-based discussion.
Business and Management
Analyse global markets, strategy, and innovation, with a focus on the thinking required at top business schools.
Medicine and Life Sciences
Discover the foundations of medical science, biology, and human physiology, with insights into pathways to study Medicine in the UK.
Computer Science and IT
Engage with algorithms, AI concepts, and computational thinking — the foundations of how modern technology shapes industry.
Engineering
Apply mathematics and physics to real engineering problems, from systems design to mechanical and civil thinking.
Social Sciences
Examine human behaviour, society, and global issues, developing critical perspectives required at university level.
01
Academic writing
Develop the structured academic writing style expected at UK universities, with focused practice and feedback.
02
Study skills
Learn the independent study habits, note-taking systems, and time management used by UK university students.
03
UK admissions process
Understand UCAS, personal statements, and how to present yourself effectively to top UK universities.
04
Mock Oxbridge interviews
Practice with real Oxbridge-style interview formats, designed by a Cambridge interviewer.
Build the skills needed for university study
Students take part in dedicated university preparation sessions covering academic writing, study skills, and the UK admissions process.
The programme includes guidance designed by Dr Benjamin Krishna, a Cambridge interviewer. Students take part in structured sessions on applications and personal statements, as well as mock interview practice based on real Oxbridge-style formats.
These sessions are designed to help students understand what universities are looking for and how to present themselves effectively.
The programme also supports international students in adapting to UK academic expectations, helping them build confidence early and avoid the common challenges faced when starting university abroad.
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Designed by a Cambridge interviewer
Programme guidance shaped by real Oxbridge experience — not generic admissions advice.
Dr Benjamin Krishna
Cambridge interviewer · Programme advisor
The journey to the Pre-University Programme
Five guided steps, with support from the Seti team at every stage. Most applications are reviewed and confirmed within a few days.
01
Submit enquiry
Send your enquiry or application — Seti will be in touch shortly.
02
Submit enquiry
Send your enquiry or application — Seti will be in touch shortly.
03
Initial interview
Speak with our team to assess fit, academic level, and English ability.
04
Receive offer
Get your offer letter and confirm your place on the programme.
05
Prepare to arrive
Visa support, pre-departure briefings, and packing guidance ahead of arrival.
What's included
- Accommodation at Churchill College, University of Cambridge
- All meals, including during excursions
- Academic teaching and materials
- University preparation sessions and mock interviews
- All excursions and organised activities
- Cambridge-based experiences and college visits
- Airport transfer to Churchill College
- Insurance
- Full on-site staff supervision and support
What's not included
- Flights to and from the UK
- Visa costs
- Personal spending during the programme
Payment schedule
50% deposit required to secure a place. Remaining balance due 8 weeks before arrival.
Cancellations
If plans change, cancellations made well in advance may be eligible for a partial refund. Full details are provided during the application process.
Fees and what is included
One transparent fee covering all core elements of the two-week programme. No additional academic or accommodation costs.
"
£4,700
For the full two-week residential programme in Cambridge — accommodation, meals, teaching, excursions, and support all included.
See the city, the colleges, and student life up close
Students live and study in Cambridge, experiencing daily life within a university environment. The programme combines academic focus with community, independence, and structured social activities.
Churchill College
Live and study where Cambridge students do
King's & Trinity
College tours and academic visits
Punting on the Cam
Cambridge tradition
London · Oxford · Windsor
Curated excursions
Evening activities
Community and connection
- Guided city tours and college visits
- Excursions to London, Oxford, and Windsor
- 24-hour porter system at Churchill College
- Seti staff on site throughout the programme
- All meals served in the college dining hall
- Structured evenings, social events, and rest time
A simple, guided application process
Applying is a straightforward process, with support from the Seti team at each step. Places are limited and allocated based on suitability and availability.
01
Submit an enquiry
Submit an enquiry or application online to start the process.
02
Speak with the team
Assess fit, including academic level and English ability.
03
Receive an offer
Receive an offer and confirm your place on the programme.
04
Pay the deposit
Pay the deposit and complete the required enrolment forms.
05
Prepare for arrival
Receive guidance from the Seti team in the weeks before arrival.
Visa guidance
Full visa guidance and supporting documents from the Seti team.
Pre-departure briefings
In-person or online briefings before the programme begins.
Packing guidance
Detailed preparation and packing checklists for the UK climate