If you’re considering joining our summer school in St Andrews, you’re probably wondering what the town is really like. Parents often ask us this—and it’s a great question.
St Andrews isn’t just one of the most beautiful university campuses in the world, it’s set in a charming and historic coastal town. With only three main streets, the town feels close-knit and easy to navigate. Everything is within walking distance, making it a safe, friendly, and welcoming place for young people to explore independently.
The town’s seaside location means stunning views are never far away—think golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful coastal paths, all just minutes from the heart of campus.
The Home of Golf
St Andrews is famously known as the Home of Golf. The town is steeped in golfing history, and it’s home to some of the most iconic courses in the world, including the world-renowned Old Course, regularly used to host The Open. ISSOS students who have an appropriate handicap can enter into the ballot to play the Old Course while they are in St Andrews. The Duke’s Course, where the ISSOS golf elective is taught, is considered to be a top training facility and a magnet for golf lovers from all corners of the globe.
A Royal Connection
Did you know that ISSOS is housed at St Salvator’s, arguably St Andrews most beautiful halls of residence and certainly the oldest but also where Prince William and Kate Middleton stayed in their first year at St Andrews University — a fun historical detail that adds to the town’s charm and international reputation.
St Andrews University
The University of St Andrews stands as Scotland's oldest university and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. Founded in 1413, St Andrews University is the UK’s top university, recently beating Oxford and Cambridge to the top spot in the Times Education Supplement. Known for its academic excellence and stunning medieval buildings, the University of St Andrews is set in one of Scotland's most beautiful and safe seaside towns.
Why St Andrews is Perfect for a Summer School
With its mix of natural beauty, rich history, and strong sense of community, St Andrews is the perfect location for a summer school experience in Scotland. St Andrews was selected not only for its beauty but for its safety, the town allows students to have a certain amount of freedom to explore the coffee shops, gift shops and the town in general. The backdrop of St Andrews, coupled with ISSOS being hosted in one of the worlds best universities - there really is not a better place to spend summer.
St Andrews really is one of a kind—and we’re proud to call it one of our ISSOS homes.
Want to Know More?
Find out more about our St Andrews campus here or explore our full list of summer school programmes.
