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Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about our TED Summer School courses.
General information
Yes. Students can choose to apply as commuter participants. This means accommodation is not provided, but all other aspects of the summer school remain the same. These courses are available at a lower cost than their residential equivalents.
TED Summer School is a two-week transformative summer school designed to help students develop confidence, creativity, and leadership skills to communicate ideas that matter.
Created in partnership between Immerse Education and TED, the course 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, Singapore, and Sydney, 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 summer school is designed for ambitious high school students aged 15-18 (age range may vary by location and dates, please check upon application). Online courses are available for students aged 14-18.
Unlike traditional subject-based courses, TED Summer School focuses on idea development, storytelling, public speaking, and leadership skills. The course 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 course 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, Singapore and Sydney.
Applications & admissions
For residential TED Summer School, applicants must be aged 15–18 at the start of their chosen session (or 14-18 in the case of online programmes) 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.
Students can join TED Summer School by submitting an online form together with their parent or legal guardian.
To complete your application, you’ll need to access the online application form on the Immerse website, which will redirect you away from the TED Summer School site.
After completing the form with personal details, academic background, and parent/guardian information, you'll pay a deposit (£1495) to secure your place. Within 48 hours of submitting details and paying the deposit, you will receive an email formally confirming your enrolment.
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 course.
Places are limited, with small class sizes. Admission is competitive, but the process is designed to identify students who will benefit most from the course, not only those with prior speaking experience.
Course Experience
Residential courses provide 24-hour pastoral care, with trained staff, secure accommodation, and clear curfews.
The course 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 course delivery.
- Dedicated Mentors – current students or recent graduates from leading global universities (at host location), supporting students throughout the whole course
- 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 commuter option.
The residential option, which includes accommodation, is priced at £7,495.
- 13 nights of secure accommodation*
- 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 personalized portfolio of your final talk, script, and personal feedback
- A formal certificate of completion
- 24/7 pastoral support from our staff
*For commuter students, accommodation is NOT included in the course 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 in our courses.
Financial Aid applications are reviewed once per year as part of a structured annual cycle. To be considered, students must submit a Financial Aid application together with a parent or legal guardian before they submit their TED Summer School application.
The annual application deadline is 31 March, with decisions released by 30 April.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Not sure which course is right for you?
Speak with one of our education consultants.