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Summer schools are short programmes where students can broaden or deepen their knowledge in an interesting and dynamic environment abroad. It’s a great opportunity for students who can't study abroad for an entire semester due to time, financial or other constraints. 

1. Introduction

What is a summer school/programme? 

Summer schools or summer programmes are short programmes during the summer break, which provide students with the opportunity to broaden or deepen their knowledge in an interesting and dynamic environment abroad. Most students who consider partaking in summer school or short-term summer programmes are proactive students who wish to expand their learning experience by studying broadening or very specialised topics in a different environment over the summer. Studying abroad in summer is not only for the few very keen students, it is actually a great opportunity for students who simply can't study abroad for an entire semester due to time, financial or other constraints. Below we explain several of the options.

Credit-bearing or extracurricular?

AUC students may take a maximum of 42 off-campus credits to be counted toward the 180 ECTS degree requirements and are encouraged to take advantage of this policy (study abroad courses also count toward this 42 credit maximum). Permission from the Board of Examiners (BoE) is required when taking any off-campus course (including summer courses/ programmes) that contributes to the AUC degree. The BoE determines which AUC degree requirement(s) the off-campus course(s) or summer programme may fulfil. All information about off-campus courses is contained in the AUC Academic Standards and Procedures (AS&P; see AS&P article 2.12 for full details) and in the Board of Examiners Rules and Guidelines.

AUC students wishing to have summer school course credits transferred to AUC will have to request this with the BoE well in advance.  

Who can apply?

In principle, all AUC students may apply for a summer school. Universities that offer a summer school may, however, have additional credit or GPA requirements. 

Students wishing for the summer course credits to be counted towards their AUC degree should note that off-campus courses (including summer courses) can only be taken by students in their second year and beyond (AS&P 2.12.2). 

2. Summer programmes 2025

  • 2.1 Netherlands-Asia Honours Summer School [Hong Kong/Vietnam]

    Each year, the Netherlands-Asia Honours Summer School (NAHSS) grants a group of ambitious students of all disciplines and Dutch universities the opportunity to participate in their programme. By conducting a consultancy project for one of the NAHSS partners, following lectures by Southeast Asia and China experts, participating in a summer school, and a trip to Southeast Asia; students are prepared for the Asian academic world, business life and culture.

    For 2025, AUC may select 1 AUC students to partake in the NAHSS. The selected students will visit Hong Kong and Ho Chi Minh City. The NAHSS theme for 2025 will be 'Sustaining Supply & Innovation’.

    Location
    The Netherlands, China and Vietnam

    Period
    March-June 2025 – Preparatory work in the Netherlands
    July-August 2025 – Programme in Southeast Asia
    August-September 2025 – Completing consultation project in the Netherlands

    Programme
    Visit https://www.nahss.nl/en/programme/ for the full programme

    Eligibility

    • Second- or third year students
    • Fluent in English in speaking and writing
    • Affinity with Southeast Asia and China
    • Ambitious, social, active, open-minded and entrepreneurial
    • Excellent student (the student meets at least one of the following criteria):
      • Honours student*
      • Extracurriculair activities
      • Above average GPA (7.5 out of 10)
         

    * All AUC students are honours students

    Registration/Application
    Please refer to the NAHSS factsheet for detailed application criteria. Students should apply for this programme through the NAHSS website.

    Application deadline
    1 December 2024 – 9 January 2025

    Selection
    Selection for the NAHSS consists of two rounds. The first round of selection is conducted by the AUC International Office. AUC will make a shortlist. The selected students are nominated for the second round of selection. This selection is conducted by a team of delegates from NAHSS partners. This second selection round results in the final group of students who will participate in NAHSS.

    Fees
    The NAHSS is largely funded by its partners: Dutch universities, ministries and a large number of companies. In addition, participants of the NAHSS 2025 are expected to make their own contribution of €1275. For this price, the NAHSS provides its participants with the flight to Asia, accommodation during the entire summer program (in the Netherlands and Asia), events, company visits, training, guidance during the projects and access to the exclusive NAHSS network. Expenses for food, drinks and activities on your own initiative in Asia are at your own expense.

    Credits
    You will not receive credits for this programme.

    More information
    For more information check this factsheet, this magazinewww.nahss.nl and learn about experiences from other students.

  • 2.2 Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Summer Undergraduate Research Programme (SURP)

    The Summer Undergraduate Research Programme (SURP) provides an opportunity for international students to undertake research attachments for eight weeks during the summer. Students will be actively engaged in research under the supervision of a CUHK faculty member and earn three credits upon successful completion of the programme. In addition, a series of structured learning activities will be organised to enhance the students’ research experience. Students will also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture through various social activities and excursions.

    Location
    Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

    Period
    22 June – 16 August 2025

    Programme
    SURP offers over 110 research topics. More information: https://www.summer.cuhk.edu.hk/surp/

    Language of instruction
    English. However, different projects may have different language requirements as set out by the supervisors.

    Eligibility
    Full-time senior undergraduate students currently registered at an overseas and non-Chinese university with good academic standing are eligible.

    Registration/Application
    For application instructions, please visit https://www.summer.cuhk.edu.hk/surp_app/.

    Please note that, although CUHK is an AUC partner university, it is not possible for AUC to nominate you for this summer school. You will have to register as a fee-paying student.

    Application deadline
    14 February 2025

    Fees
    For an overview of fees, please visit https://www.summer.cuhk.edu.hk/surp_fees/

    Credits
    Students will be registered in a 3-credit (6 ECTS) CUHK course titled ‘Independent Research on International Studies’ to conduct a research project. A transcript will be issued to their home institution upon successful completion.

    If you wish to count the credits you obtain during this programme towards your degree at AUC, please make sure to request permission with the BoE before the start of the summer programme.

    More information
    https://www.summer.cuhk.edu.hk/surp/

  • 2.3 University of Freiburg, Short-term language and culture immersion programme

    The University of Freiburg Language and Teaching Centre SLI offers a wide range of language and content courses in German, including specialized courses in Medical German, German for Natural Sciences and Engineering, German for Business and Economics, and German for the Tourism Industry.

    Location
    University of Freiburg, Language and Teaching Centre

    Period
    4-29 August 2025

    Programme
    The language courses take place from Monday to Friday, in the mornings. The summer school offers an accompanying social programme. For more information, please visit https://www.sli.uni-freiburg.de/german/intensive/summer-winter/studyprogrammejulaug25

    Language of instruction
    German

    Eligibility
    All undergraduate students are eligible to apply.

    Registration/Application
    For information about the application, please visit https://www.sli.uni-freiburg.de/german/intensive/summer-winter/august-en25

    Application deadline
    Applications for this summer school open on 4 February.

    Fees
    Course fee: € 880,-
    Accommodation fee: € 470,-

    Credits
    Up to 6 ECTS.

    If you wish to count the credits you obtain during this programme towards your degree at AUC, please make sure to request permission with the BoE before the start of the summer programme.

    More information
    https://www.sli.uni-freiburg.de/summer-winter

  • 2.4 NICE (UvA programme, hybrid)

    NICE is a university network that brings together students from around the world to develop intercultural and entrepreneurial skills. Each year, it offers the exciting opportunity to attend a one-week summer school held in a different European city. In 2025, the NICE summer school will take place at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland.

    Location
    Online/hybrid (online and optional in-person component in Edinburgh, Scotland)

    Period
    Virtual component: 3 March – 23 June
    Summer School: 28 June – 5 July (optional, in-person, in Edinburgh, Scotland)

    Programme
    Virtual International Experience - NICE offers a unique 12-week virtual programme that allows you to collaborate with students from around the globe to tackle a global challenge and develop an innovative business plan, all with the guidance of dedicated volunteers. Upon completing the NICE module, you have the (optional) opportunity to further enhance your skills by training to facilitate the next round of NICE students.

    The programme also offers an optional summer school. During the summer school, you will meet some of the peers you've collaborated with during the 12-week virtual programme. With just 10 spots available, the summer school is an exclusive opportunity to bring your ideas to life and forge lasting international connections.

    Language of instruction
    English

    Eligibility
    Students passionate about global issues, sustainability, and social impact, as well as those who may not have access to in-person international educational opportunities are encouraged to apply.

    Applicants are required to be enrolled as a full-time fee paying student at the University of Amsterdam from the moment of application until the end of the programme.

    Registration/Application
    Please visit https://student.uva.nl/en/topics/virtual-journey-and-summer-school-nice for the application instructions and information about the selection criteria.

    Application deadline
    4 February 2025

    Fees
    Partaking in the virtual programme is free. The programme fee for the summer school is covered by the UvA. 10 selected summer school students receive a scholarship to cover part of the travel and accommodation costs.

    Credits
    No academic credits are awarded. Participants will receive a certificate of completion of the programme.

    More information
    https://student.uva.nl/en/topics/virtual-journey-and-summer-school-nice

  • 2.5 U21 Global Citizens Programme (virtual)

    Looking to make a difference in the world? The U21 Global Citizens Programme is your chance to build the skills you need to tackle today’s biggest challenges and bring the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to life.

    Location
    Virtual

    Period
    10-28 March 2025

    Programme
    Engage in a multidisciplinary course addressing global challenges and fostering cultural exchange

    Language of instruction
    English

    Eligibility
    Students interested in global issues, sustainability, and social impact, as well as those who may not have access to in-person international educational experiences are encouraged to apply.

    Applicants must be over the age of 18 and are required to be enrolled as a full-time fee paying student at the University of Amsterdam from the moment of application until the end of the programme.

    Registration/Application
    For application information, please visit: https://universitas21.com/opportunities/for-students/globalcitizens/

    Application period
    3-21 February 2025

    Fees
    Partaking in this programme is free for UvA students

    Credits
    No academic credits are awarded for this programme.

    More information
    https://universitas21.com/opportunities/for-students/globalcitizens

  • 2.6 INCiTE Summer School in Cambodia

    The transformative INCiTE summer school, in Cambodia this year, offers a unique opportunity for students from top universities to collaborate on innovative solutions to global challenges. Along the way, students will also sharpen their entrepreneurial skills, gaining invaluable experience in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.

    Location
    National University of Management, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

    Period
    8-24 July

    Programme
    Engage in courses in Intercultural Intelligence, Entrepreneurship (introductory), and Systems Thinking, while working on your project with your intercultural student team.

    Language of instruction
    English

    Eligibility
    All applicants must meet the following two conditions:

    • You are enrolled as a full-time fee paying student at the University of Amsterdam from the moment of application until the end of the programme.
    • You have not participated in an exchange during your higher education and have not been selected for a future exchange.

    Registration/Application
    Please visit https://student.uva.nl/en/topics/summer-school-in-asia-incite for detailed application instructions.

    Application period
    26 February – 26 March 2025

    Selection
    25 students are selected through a lottery process. For more information, visit https://student.uva.nl/en/topics/summer-school-in-asia-incite.

    Fees
    Participants receive a scholarship of around €1.800 (tbc). Accommodation and programme costs are covered

    Credits
    No academic credits are awarded for this programme. participants will earn a certificate upon successful completion.

    More information
    https://student.uva.nl/en/topics/summer-school-in-asia-incite

  • 2.7 Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Global Summer School

    The Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) Summer School offers access to overseas learning experience together with Chinese students at an internationally acclaimed research university in Shanghai, China.

    Location
    Shanghai Jiao Tong University

    Period
    30 June – 13 July 2025

    Programme
    The Global Summer School provides opportunities for students to learn  about China through academic and cultural immersion. A wide range of courses in various disciplines are provided, including Aerospace Engineering, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Solutions for Resource and Climate Management, Food Science and Global Health, and Chinese Law, with each course accompanied by Chinese language courses.

    Visit https://global.sjtu.edu.cn/en/news/view/717 for the course descriptions.

    Language of instruction
    English

    Eligibility

    • Participants must be enrolled as an undergraduate student
    • Students from non-English-speaking countries should provide an English

    Registration/Application
    Visit https://global.sjtu.edu.cn/en/news/view/717 for the application procedure

    Application period
    1 January – 30 May 2025

    Fees
    Application fee: CNY 400 (approximately 53 EUR)
    Tuition fee: varies per programme, visit https://global.sjtu.edu.cn/en/news/view/717

    Credits
    2 credits (4 ECTS).

    If you wish to count the credits you obtain during this programme towards your degree at AUC, please make sure to request permission with the BoE before the start of the summer programme.

    Accommodation
    Students can choose on-campus or off-campus accommodation, based on the location of their classes.

    More information
    https://global.sjtu.edu.cn/en/news/view/717

3. Summer and short term opportunities (UvA Network)

Apart from the semester exchange programme, the UvA also offers summer and short term programmes.

For an overview of all summer and short-term programmes offered by UvA partners, please visit the UvA World Map (summer schools & short programmes).

  • 3.1 U21 Network  

    Want to study abroad without the stress? U21 Summer School Scholarships are your ticket to global learning experiences, with destinations ranging from China to Chile! Whether you're into languages, architecture, or tackling global challenges, U21 lets you choose your adventure. UvA offers 20 scholarships (10 for Europe, 10 for destinations outside of Europe).

    Location

    Visit the UvA World Map (summer schools & short programmes > filter ‘type’ U21)

    Period

    Students select their preferred summer school dates

    Programme

    Students have the flexibility to choose from a variety of academic programmes

    Eligibility

    Varies per programme.

    Open to students passionate about global issues, sustainability, and social impact, as well as those who may not have access to in-person international educational opportunities.

    Registration/Application

    Varies per programme. Visit UvA World Map for more information.

    Application deadline

    Varies per programme

    Selection

    Lottery system

    Credits

    Yes, number of ECTS vary per programme. Pass/fail grade conversion.

    If you wish to count the credits you obtain during this programme towards your degree at AUC, please make sure to request permission with the BoE before the start of the summer programme.

    More information

  • 3.2 AIESEC

    AIESEC offers volunteer programmes and internships abroad. 

4. Summer and short term opportunities (VU Network)

The VU offers various summer programmes that AUC students may apply for. For more information, visit their website.

5. Other summer and short-term options

A range of other universities offer summer schools, for inspiration see: