Founded in 1961, Lancaster University is located in the historic city of Lancaster (North West of England).

Lancaster is a friendly student city that is home to a diverse and welcoming community. Our central location in the UK means we are well connected to many places of interest. Within a short journey, you can explore vibrant cities, scenic coastal resorts and the beautiful Lake District.

The nearest international airport is Manchester (one hour). All students are met on arrival by LU staff and transferred directly to Lancaster University.

Lancaster University is a highly ranked global university and is among the best in the UK. We have been named the "University of the Year in the Northwest of England" in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026. We're also in the top 10 in The Complete University Guide 2026 and consistently placed in the top 15 in major UK league tables.

We have a global community of over 180,000 graduates from more than 190 countries.

Approximately one month before you arrive, we will email you further information about the programme and arrival details.

You will be given your timetable one week before the first day of the programme. A detailed timetable is not available prior this point.

You will be able to withdraw your application and may be eligible to receive a refund under certain circumstances. Please see the 'cancellation policy' section in the Terms and Conditions.

It is important that students obtain the correct visa or entry clearance to study in the UK. You will be sent detailed information about visas and immigration when you have accepted your offer and paid the fee.

Most students will need to get a Standard Visitor Visa to attend a summer school without further study.

The University does not provide insurance, you may want to explore insurance options to cover travel, loss or damage to personal possessions and medical costs.

During the summer, the UK climate is warm but mild and changeable. Therefore, we recommend packing clothes that can be layered to suit different temperatures. It often rains in Lancaster so please bring a light waterproof coat.

Umbrellas are not recommended, as they can get broken in the wind.

Some trips and activities involve walking in the countryside and sports, so please bring comfortable walking shoes and sportswear. Linen (bedding and towels) are provided in all rooms, so you do not need to bring any.

As your tuition, accommodation, and meals are paid for before entering the UK, we expect costs to be low. However, we recommend bringing a small amount of spending money.

Our Lancaster Campus occupies a beautiful 578-acre parkland site at Bailrigg, just three miles from Lancaster City Centre. Our unique campus university creates a safe, connected community of students, where students will have everything they need right on their doorstep.

Our high-quality on-campus facilities include an array of modern study spaces, a well-equipped sports centre, and plenty of places to eat and drink. We also have 24/7 security on campus, a multi-faith chaplaincy open to students of all faiths and none and a dedicated prayer room.

Our modern accommodation is comfortable, well-equipped, and designed around excellent student experience. Students are guaranteed a catered, en-suite room on campus.

Bedrooms are fully furnished with a single bed, desk and chair, wardrobe, bookshelves and their own private bathroom. Students will have some shared facilities such as the kitchen and dining area.

Take a virtual tour of Lancaster accommodation. Please be aware that the images on this page may not correspond exactly to the en-suite room you will be staying in.

Lancaster University has 24/7 security on campus and the UK is generally a safe place, but it is important to take simple precautions.

Tips for staying safe:

• Keep money, valuables and personal documents safe and secure.
• Don't leave luggage unattended.
• If you are unwell, contact a member of LU staff to let them know you will be staying at home that day.
• If you are outside at night, stay in well-lit areas with your friends.
• UK Laws:
• You must be at least 18 years old to buy alcohol and tobacco, ID may be required.
• Smoking and vaping are not allowed in enclosed public spaces.
• It is illegal to carry or supply illicit drugs or weapons including knives.

After the programme has ended students will receive an official certificate of completion. This will help them to stand out against the competition and enhance their future academic and career prospects.

We strongly advise that all students download and save or print any materials during the programme that you would like to keep. Your Lancaster University IT account will be closed shortly after the completion of the programme.

If you still haven’t found the answer to your query, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly team is on hand to help, just send us an email via the link below.

Email: preuniversityglobalschools@lancaster.ac.uk