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Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about our TED Summer School programmes.
General information
Yes. Students can choose to enrol as non-residential participants. This means accommodation is not provided, but all other aspects of the programme remain the same.
TED Summer School is a two-week transformative summer programme designed to help students develop confidence, creativity, and leadership skills to communicate ideas that matter.
Created in partnership between Immerse Education and TED, the programme combines Immerse’s academic excellence with TED’s global philosophy that “ideas change everything.” Students can study in global locations such as London, New York, and Singapore, culminating in the delivery of their own TED-style talk.
Each residential summer school runs for 2 weeks (13 nights), with sessions available in June, July, and August 2026.
The residential programme is designed for ambitious high school students aged 15-18 (age range may vary by location and dates, please check upon enrolment).
Unlike traditional subject-based courses, TED Summer School focuses on idea development, storytelling, public speaking, and leadership skills. The programme focuses on:
- Developing and shaping original ideas
- Building confidence in communication
- Mastering delivery across formats (speeches, panels, digital presentations)
- Understanding the role of communication in leadership and future life
No. This is a unique educational programme delivered by Immerse Education, with a curriculum co-designed by TED-Ed. It is not a public TED or TEDx event. Instead, students work on their own ideas for 2 weeks in an educational setting with support of professional tutors, and deliver a TED-style talk in the end.
In 2026, TED Summer Schools will run in London, New York, and Singapore.
Applications & admissions
For residential TED Summer School, applicants must be aged 15–18 at the start of their chosen session and show strong motivation to grow as communicators. We welcome students of diverse backgrounds, with curiosity and the desire to share their voices with others.
Applications for TED Summer School are completed online and should be submitted jointly by the student and their parent or legal guardian.
You can apply through the TED Summer School Application Form.
- Provide your personal details, contact information, and preferred programme location and dates
- Share your motivation: tell us why you want to build your communication and public speaking skills. You can choose to write a short personal statement (200–250 words, in English) or share a 90-second video answering the question (in English)
- A £995 deposit is required to submit the application. The deposit will be applied toward your total programme fee if your application is successful. If we are unable to offer you a place, it will be refunded in full.
After submitting your application, our admissions team will review it carefully to assess your curiosity, potential, and readiness to contribute. You’ll hear back within one week of submitting your application.
No experience is required, just curiosity and enthusiasm. We believe everyone has an idea worth spreading, and we welcome students who are passionate about developing their speaking skills. Our model is tailored to each student’s starting point.
Students should be confident to hold discussions and presentations in English. If in doubt, we recommend submitting your motivation as a video (instead of a written format) when applying. This helps our team understand your communication style and ensure you’ll benefit fully from the programme.
Places are limited, with small class sizes. Admission is competitive, but the process is designed to identify students who will benefit most from the programme, not only those with prior speaking experience.
Programme Experience
Residential programmes provide 24-hour pastoral care, with trained staff, secure accommodation, and clear curfews.
For the best experience, we keep classes intentionally small. Workshops and daily sessions typically run with around 8 students on average (maximum 15). Every student also benefits from dedicated 1:1 feedback and coaching time.
Every student receives a professionally recorded video of their final talk. Selected students may be invited to speak at a dedicated TEDxImmerseEducation event. Some talks may be shared on Immerse or TEDx channels.
The programme is delivered by an expert team of tutors, mentors, and guest speakers who combine communication expertise, educational experience, and real-world perspective.
- Tutors – experienced educators, communication experts and professionals in public speaking and storytelling. All tutors are trained by the TED team and undergo Immerse Certification before programme delivery.
- Dedicated Mentors – current students or recent graduates from leading global universities (at host location), supporting students throughout the whole programme
- Guest Speakers – practitioners who have presented or coached on larger stages
Costs & Scholarships
Fees for the 2026 TED Summer Schools start from £5,995 for the two-week non-residential option.
The residential programme, which includes accommodation and full pastoral care, is priced at £7,495.
- 13 nights of secure accommodation* (accommodation specifics depend on the location)
- Daily meals (breakfast and dinner, with lunch options available nearby)
- Expert tuition from TED-trained instructors
- Dedicated mentors (undergraduates or graduates from top universities at host locations)
- Cultural and social activities, including day excursions and city exploration
- A professionally recorded video of your final TED-style talk
- A personalised portfolio of your final talk, script, and personal feedback
- A formal certificate of completion
- 24/7 pastoral support from our staff
*For non-residential students, accommodation is NOT included in the programme price. Participants would be expected to participate in all scheduled academic and social activities between 9:30 am and 9:00 pm on weekdays, and are welcome to join the full-day weekend excursions.
We offer needs-based Financial Aid to ensure that talented students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to participate. Applications are open year-round and reviewed monthly by our Committee.
If you’d like to be considered, please complete the Financial Aid application together with your parent or legal guardian before submitting your main programme application.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Not sure which program is right for you?
Speak with one of our education consultants.