Imagine spending two weeks in London listening to Nobel Prize winners, visiting world-class research labs, exploring Oxford and Cambridge and making friends from 90 countries. That is what students get at the London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF), one of the world’s best-known STEM summer programmes for young people.
This guide covers the LIYSF 2027 schedule: the dates, the venue, what happens each day, what it costs and how to apply.
LIYSF 2027 at a Glance
- Dates: 18 to 31 July 2027 (14 days)
- Venue: Imperial College London, South Kensington
- Age group: 16 to 21 years
- Participants: around 500 students from 90 countries
- Royal Patron: HRH The Princess Royal
- Partners: Imperial College London and the British Council
- Programme fee: £3,450 (tuition, accommodation, meals and visits)
What Makes LIYSF Special?
LIYSF has run since 1959 and brings science to life in a way few programmes can. Students hear from Nobel laureates and leading scientists. Past speakers include Sir Venki Ramakrishnan and Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell. Students also visit real research establishments and present their own research projects. In the evenings there are quizzes, cultural shows, a sports day and parties, so the experience is about friendship as well as learning.
The LIYSF 2027 Day-by-Day Schedule
Week One: Settling In and Getting Started
Sunday 18 July – Arrival Day
Students arrive, meet each other at a mixer and attend a welcome talk followed by an orientation tour of the campus.
Monday 19 July – Opening Ceremony
The Forum officially opens with a keynote and a welcome from the LIYSF President, Professor Clare Elwell. The first Principal Lecture Demonstration follows, and the day ends with a pin exchange and the LIYSF Grand Quiz.
Tuesday 20 July – Science in London
Students visit research and scientific establishments around London, attend a Principal Lecture Demonstration and take part in the Great Crossword Treasure Hunt around South Kensington.
Wednesday 21 July – Specialist Lectures and Debate
The day includes Subject Specialist Lectures and a debate session. In the evening there is an optional visit to the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace or the London Eye.
Thursday 22 July – Oxford and Cambridge
Students take day trips to research and scientific establishments in Oxford and Cambridge, followed by a Networking Evening.
Friday 23 July – Lectures and Auditions
Two Principal Lecture Demonstrations take place, and students sign up and audition for the “Traditions of Home” evening and the International Cabaret.
Saturday 24 July – The Science Forum Bazaar
After a Principal Lecture Demonstration, students present their work at the Research Project Poster Session, known as the Science Forum Bazaar. There is also an optional guided coach tour of London.
Week Two: Exploring, Sharing and Celebrating
Sunday 25 July – Science Museum and Culture
Students visit the Science Museum. Optional trips include Stonehenge, Oxford, Cambridge, Hampton Court Palace or the Tower of London. In the evening, students share their customs and national dress at the “Traditions of Home” evening.
Monday 26 July – Alumni Lectures and LIYSF Olympics
Former participants give Alumni Specialist Lectures, followed by a Principal Lecture Demonstration and the LIYSF Olympics, a sports day with team games.
Tuesday 27 July – Careers in Science
Students make a day visit to UK research and scientific establishments and attend a session on scientific careers and PhD pathways with researchers and industry experts.
Wednesday 28 July – Specialist Study Day
A full Specialist Study Day lets students dive deeper into their chosen field. The evening brings the International Cabaret, a showcase of talent and culture from around the world.
Thursday 29 July – Science Communication
More Subject Specialist Lectures are followed by the Science Communication Forum and Research Showcase. Students can also join an optional theatre night in London.
Friday 30 July – Closing Day
The Forum ends with the LIYSF Closing Debate on Science and Society, a Closing Keynote Lecture and a Farewell Party.
Saturday 31 July – Departure
Students say goodbye and head home with new knowledge, new friends and lasting memories.
Accommodation and Safety
Participants stay for 13 nights in secure student halls at Imperial College London. LIYSF provides 24/7 on-site support and medical assistance, staff supervision and supervised travel to every visit and event, so students and parents can feel confident throughout the programme.
Fees and Scholarships
The programme fee for LIYSF 2027 is £3,450, which covers tuition, accommodation, meals and visits. Optional visits are paid for separately. Partial scholarships are available for outstanding applicants. Deposit and refund details are explained during the application process.
Can’t Travel to London?
LIYSF Virtual gives live and on-demand access to all the Principal Lectures, so students anywhere in the world can learn from leading scientists online.
Certificate
Every participant receives an LIYSF Certificate of Participation, endorsed by its partner institutions. It is a valuable addition to university applications and CVs.
How to Apply
- Check that you are aged 16 to 21 and interested in STEM.
- Fill in the online application form with your personal and academic details.
- Upload the required documents, including academic references where needed.
- Pay the deposit to confirm your place.
Final Thoughts
LIYSF 2027 packs world-class science, inspiring speakers, cultural exchange and London adventures into just two weeks. It is a chance for students aged 16 to 21 to experience science at the highest level and become part of a global community of young scientists.
For full details and the latest updates, visit the official LIYSF 2027 programme schedule.
