Summer
School of
Science

international
interdisciplinary
practical research
late July / early-mid August
Požega, Croatia
for highschoolers
Work on a biochemical project at S3 2019
Closing ceremony at S3 2023

About

Summer School of Science is an international summer workshop established in 2001. It is organized by the Society for Out-of-Frame Education in Požega, Croatia. The program aims at high school students and offers a diverse range of research projects and lectures in the fields of science and technology.

Summer School of Science is organized in two camps: S3 (for grades 9 and 10) and S3++ (for grades 11 and 12), where students get a chance to work in small groups on a real scientific project, guided by a mentor. This is accompanied by evening lectures from eminent scientists from all over the world. Since the scope of the School is international, its official language is English.

This year our usual S3 and S3++ camps will be merged, and held on the following dates:

28 July - 8 August, 2024

Vision

Man's mind, stretched to a new idea, never goes back to its original dimensions.

Oliver Wendell Holmes

Summer School of Science is a unique place where like-minded individuals of all ages get together to share their enthusiasm for knowledge and discovery. Talented and highly motivated students are often neglected in regular schooling. The Summer School of Science encourages them to "think big" and presents them with personal challenges that build self-confidence. It allows them to work in a controlled environment, tuned to them, and provides hands-on experience of working as a young scientist.

In an open and informal atmosphere, students and their mentors work in teams and exchange ideas freely. They grow and face scientific challenges head-on, together. They form long-lasting relationships that not only help their individual careers, but also promote international and intercultural understanding. Our creative mentors, devoted to scientific and personal excellence, teach with a passion for both science and communication. They use a personalized approach and make sure every student has the best experience possible.

Beyond science popularization, we aim to create a global network of high school students, young scientists and social entrepreneurs who are committed to building knowledge-based societies. We see the Summer School of Science as a platform for personal growth. Our community builds on its past – every new generation can lean on its predecessors to ensure the continuation of this volunteer-based project. Former participants often go on to become mentors themselves and stay involved by supporting the School in various ways. Thus, even after the event itself is over, the School continues to encourage and nurture leadership skills in young people. By bringing together young leaders from different cultures, we hope to provide a model for similar projects in other countries.

Sir Tim Hunt

London Research Institute, United Kingdom

Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2001

Perhaps the most impressive thing about the Summer School of Science is its longevity and continuity. It’s clear that the idea is good and strong, so that over the years the baton of organisation has passed seamlessly from hand to hand down generations of graduate students and there is great loyalty and support from alumni and past mentors. The organisation is an expression of a strong commitment to teaching, and a strong belief in the power of science to reach out across all kinds of boundaries of nationality and belief.

Full recommendation letter

How to apply

Participants must complete an online registration form.

When filling out the form, applicants will need to submit:

  • a text-only motivation letter,
  • the contact of a teacher or supervisor, whom we may contact about a recommendation letter.

These will be included in the application form and need to be prepared in advance.

Applicants requesting a scholarship must also include a letter explaining their financial situation. Read more under Fees.

Applications open: 22 April 2024, 00:00 CEST
Application deadline: 1 June 2024, 23:59 CEST
Extended applications: 8 June 2024, 23:59 CEST

After applications close, all applications will be reviewed by the supervisor and organizers, and a certain number of applicants will be invited for an online interview. More information can be found at the links below. The results of the final selection process will be announced during the week after interviews are held.

Some applicants may require an accelerated selection procedure. Please contact the School’s organizing team if that is the case.

Detailed instructions Selection procedure

Who can apply

The program of the Summer School of Science is intended for high school students. Applicants must have completed at least grade 9 (or equivalent) before attending the School and must not have attended university.

We require applicants to demonstrate motivation and interest, as well as a solid usage of English. We do not require previous experience with scientific research of any kind, demonstration of academic excellence or proof of English language qualification, besides successfully participating in the selection interview.

Program FAQ

Fees

Fees are income-based, and cover course material, additional activities, accident insurance, food, and accommodation for the duration of the camp. The fee does not include travel to or from Požega, visa expenses, spending money, laundry or stationery.

For more information on exact costs, as well as scholarships and exceptions, follow the links below.

More information on fees Scholarships and sponsors