Check some of the HSSP 2025 academic and extra curricular activities!
High School Summer Program (HSSP) 2026
A world-class summer experience combining KAUST with Oxford or Cambridge
The KAUST High School Summer Program (HSSP) 2026 is a highly selective international program designed for high-achieving high school students with strong academic potential in STEM. The program blends intensive on-campus learning at KAUST with a global academic experience at Oxford University or the University of Cambridge.
Participants gain advanced STEM exposure, hands-on research experience, leadership development, and structured guidance toward top university admissions in the US and UK.
About KAUST Academy
KAUST Academy is a leading education and training provider dedicated to delivering high-impact executive and youth programs. As part of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), the Academy offers cutting-edge learning experiences designed to empower future leaders, scientists, and innovators.
Our Expertise
KAUST Academy specializes in world-class educational programs that combine:
- Advanced STEM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Leadership and Innovation Training
- Hands-on project-based learning
- Global collaboration and exposure
Our Programs
KAUST Academy offers a diverse portfolio of executive education and youth-focused programs, including:
- Executive Training: Specialized learning experiences for professionals, executives, and industry leaders.
- Youth Development Programs: Summer schools, talent development programs, and STEM-focused boot camps.
- International Exchange Opportunities: Partnerships with top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, offering global learning experiences.
HSSP 2026 – Program Overview
The High School Summer Program 2026 is a prestigious immersive learning experience designed for high-achieving high school students who are passionate about STEM, leadership, and project-based learning. This year, the program offers two international pathways that combine on-campus learning at KAUST with a global academic experience at either Oxford University or the University of Cambridge.
Level
Beginner
Duration
6 Weeks
TRACK (KAUST – OXFORD)
This track delivers a broad, interdisciplinary curriculum designed to challenge intellectually curious students and foster scientific thinking. Daily training includes:
– Mathematics & Programming
– Physics, Chemistry, & Biology
– Leadership and professional soft skills
– Collaborative scientific research projects
TRACK (KAUST – CAMBRIDGE)
This track is tailored for students with a strong interest in mathematics, computation, and analytical problem-solving, drawing on Cambridge’s historic excellence in these fields. Daily training includes:
– Advanced Mathematics
– Programming and computational thinking
– Leadership and professional soft skills
– Scientific and innovation-focused projects
ONE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE
Both tracks offer an intensive, high-impact learning journey that strengthens academic readiness, expands research exposure, and accelerates personal growth within a world-class academic setting. Students graduate from the program more confident, capable, and competitive on a global stage.
Support That Continues Beyond Summer
The program’s impact extends well beyond the summer experience. Interested participants receive sustained support throughout their university preparation journey, including:
- Remote SAT preparation during September and October 2026
- An on-campus College Admissions Preparation Camp at KAUST during the November 2026 school break
- Personalized guidance and mentorship for applications to top universities in the US and UK, continuing through final admissions decisions in March 2027
Program Structure
& Dates
The program is delivered through two tracks:
- Track KAUST – Oxford (10 July – 1 August 2026)
• Arrival to KAUST: 10 July 2026
• Departure from KAUST to Oxford: 24 July 2026
• Return to student’s home city: 1 August 2026
- Track KAUST – Cambridge (1 August – 22 August 2026)
• Arrival to KAUST: 1 August 2026
• Departure from KAUST to Cambridge: 15 August 2026
• Return to student’s home city: 22 August 2026
What Will Students Gain?
Exposure to world-class STEM education at KAUST and either Oxford or Cambridge
Develop real-world technical skills in AI, engineering, and data science
Strengthen problem-solving, critical thinking, and leadership abilities
Collaborate with like-minded peers in a challenging yet supportive environment
Enhance university readiness and career prospects
Gaining a competitive edge for future academic and professional opportunities
📅 Application Timeline
All applications must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian within the designated application window.
Only complete applications will be considered for selection.
Application Deadline: 12 April 2026
Interviews: Late April 2026
Program Fees
Track KAUST – Oxford
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Application Fee: SAR 200 (non-refundable)
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Program Fee: SAR 35,000
Track KAUST – Cambridge
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Application Fee: SAR 200 (non-refundable)
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Program Fee: SAR 40,000
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✅ The fee covers:
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Round-trip international and domestic flights
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Ground transportation in KAUST and UK
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Accommodation and full-board meals at KAUST and either Oxford or Cambridge
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Tuition, workshops, and project materials
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Curated trips and enrichment activities, offering students a well-rounded international experience beyond the classroom
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Access to campus facilities and distinguished guest lectures
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Healthcare through clinics located at KAUST
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Mentorship for college preparation throughout the program
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Step by step guidance for students interested to apply for oversees universities.
Remotely during September and October. In person during November.
📌 Note: Students will be accommodated in separate housing for boys and girls
Single rooms in UK and shared rooms on the KAUST campus -
📋 Application Requirements
To be considered for the program, parents or legal guardians must submit the following:
- Complete Online Application Form
- Recent Academic Transcripts (latest school report card or transcript)
- Copy of Passport and National ID
- Important Note: Student must be minimum 16 years old by the UK flight date
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview to better understand their academic interests and readiness for the program.
📩 How to Apply
- Parents or legal guardians must complete the application online through the program’s official website.
- Upload all required documents before the application deadline.
- Pay the SAR 200 application fee to finalize the submission.
- Await confirmation and further instructions regarding the selection process.
📌 Important: Only fully completed applications submitted within the deadline will be considered for review.
For further inquiries, please check FAQ below or contact our program support team at academy@kaust.edu.sa
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there any age requirements?
Students must be at least 16 years old by the day of travel to the UK.
How are the two tracks different?
● KAUST – Oxford Track: Broad interdisciplinary STEM focus including mathematics, programming, sciences, leadership, and research projects.
● KAUST – Cambridge Track: Focused on advanced mathematics, computation, and analytical problem-solving.
Both tracks combine learning at KAUST with an international academic experience.
How long is the program?
Each track runs for approximately three weeks:
● KAUST – Oxford Track: 10 July – 1 August 2026
● KAUST – Cambridge Track: 1 August – 22 August 2026
Is the program in-person or online?
The program is in-person, including on-campus learning at KAUST and travel to either Oxford or Cambridge. It also has online components throughout the program.
How much does the program cost?
● KAUST – Oxford Track: SAR 35,000 (excluding VAT)
● KAUST – Cambridge Track: SAR 40,000 (excluding VAT)
The fee includes travel, tuition, accommodation, meals, materials, gift items, extra curricular activities, and curated trips.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. A non-refundable SAR 200 (excluding VAT) application fee is required.
What happens after the application?
Shortlisted students are invited to interview.
Are flights included?
Yes. Round-trip international and domestic flights are included in the program fee.
Where will students stay?
Students will be accommodated in separate housing for boys and girls.
Single rooms in the UK and shared rooms on the KAUST campus.