Go deep into your chosen track, engage with different subjects and perspectives
Pre-University Summer School
Make Your Summer a Unique Journey
July in Lisbon. A campus in Bairro Alto, a residence twenty minutes away, and students from all over the world who have one thing in common: none of them are quite sure what they want to study yet. For two weeks, they get to find out – properly, the way it’s actually done at university, with the ocean a short train ride away for the afternoons.
Why join
the Forward Summer School?
Choosing what to study next is a big decision, so why not test it out first? That’s what the Forward College Pre-University Summer School is built for.
Choose a study track in “Politics and International Relations”, “Business and Management” or “Psychology” and over two unforgettable weeks in Lisbon you will gain insight into what studying this subject at university is like and whether it’s right for you. You’ll also learn how to use AI to study more effectively, apply everything you’ve learned to a real hackathon challenge, grow some essential human skills and leave with your own personal Higher Education Plan, greater confidence, and a clearer vision for your future.
The programme is designed for students above 15 years old, in their last 3 years of high school.
- Academics and Alumni from top universities: LSE, Columbia, UCL, HEC, Oxford, Amsterdam University College, Bocconi, Sciences Po…
- Guest speakers – a handful of experts, business leaders and successful entrepreneurs from Mc Kinsey, Apple, Google, the OECD, Harvard, LSE, the University of Cambridge…
What sets this programme apart?
Academic Clarity
Spend two weeks in a track, and find out whether it’s the right fit for you
Future Ready Skills
Develop AI fluency, develop essential human skills, and learn through real-world experience
Elite Mentorship
Learn from top academics, graduates of top universities, renowned business leaders & entrepreneurs
Memorable Experience
Live with an international community in Lisbon and its beaches
Programme
Overview
Students choose one academic track and explore their chosen subject in depth throughout the two-week programme.
Choose your academic track
- Politics & International Relations
- Business & Management
- Psychology
Learning takes place both inside and outside the classroom, combining academic sessions with practical challenges, personal development and activities around Lisbon.
09:00–15:00 | Academic activities
Learn from academics, graduates from top universities, business leaders and entrepreneurs through sessions focused on your chosen track and key skills.
15:00–18:00 | Sports, culture & Lisbon
Take part in sports, beach, cultural and social activities in Lisbon and its surroundings.
18:00–22:00 | Evenings together
Cook and chat in shared kitchens, or spend time together playing board games in our dedicated coworking space.
Schedule
What
you will
experience
Grow essential human skills that will set you apart in your future: presentation skills, non-violent communication… understand your own working style and present yourself with confidence.
Learn how to use AI to study more effectively.
The Hackathon is a 2-day team finale where students apply everything they’ve learned to prototype mobile app concepts or website mockups addressing the friction of global mobility, cultural exchange, and international sustainability, culminating in a final showcase
Do a 360° skills assessment to identify your strengths and areas of development, consolidate the two weeks into a personal Higher Education Plan
To explore Lisbon, its beautiful beaches and surroundings
Experience
Life in Lisbon
Lisbon is one of Europe’s safest, sunniest, and most welcoming cities. Set by the Atlantic Ocean, it combines the energy of a European capital with an easy, affordable pace of life – the perfect place to experience your first taste of university life.
*Inc. tuition fees, extra-curricular activities, accommodation
**Inc. tuition fees, extra-curricular activities, accommodation and meals
FAQ
Students in international high schools who want to make a more informed academic choice.
No. It is an academic orientation experience.
No. The programme is designed precisely for students who want more clarity before making that decision.
Yes.
No. AI is integrated across the programme.
Yes. Students receive a completion certificate.
Yes. Accommodation options are available for participants travelling to Lisbon.
July 5th 2027
As part of your application, you’ll submit your school transcripts, but these help us understand your profile rather than determine admission on grades alone. We’re looking for curious, motivated students who are eager to learn, engage with others and experience university life.
The easiest way is by metro: take the Red Line from Aeroporto station and change to the Blue Line at São Sebastião, getting off at Colégio Militar/Luz, then you’re a short walk (approximately 7 minutes) from the residence.
For the most convenient option, especially with luggage, you can also book a Bolt or Uber directly from the airport straight to the residence door.
FAQ
Accreditations and Award
Forward College is a Recognised Teaching Centre of the University of London (UoL). As such, our students are also students of the University of London and will graduate from the University of London […]
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Careers after Forward
Most of our graduates apply to top Master’s around the world either following the academic field they have invested in – with a natural path towards master programmes at LSE and King’s College […]
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