Program Overview

Introduction to the Summer School Programme

The Summer School programme is a two-week experience in the heart of Europe, designed to provide participants with new experiences, insights, and excitement. The programme takes place from July 6 to 17, 2026, and is held on campus at the SQUARE, in the city, and in the picturesque setting of Eastern Switzerland.

Programme Overview

The programme is designed for high school graduates and students who have already reached the age of 18. However, outstanding 17-year-old candidates may also be considered. The programme provides an immersive experience into the core of European business culture, equipping participants with a comprehensive understanding of Europe's entrepreneurial spirit.

Programme Structure

The Summer School structure consists of input sessions, application sessions, and social events. The input sessions will equip participants with information to complete assignments, while the application sessions will provide time for group work, small workshops, and company visits. Social events will allow participants to get to know each other better and make contacts for life.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes different input blocks surrounding the St.Gallen Management Model, providing participants with the tools and methods to master various subjects. The topics covered include:

• Sustainability
• Strategy
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• Marketing
• Innovation Management
• Operations
• Supporting Tools & Methods

Modules

The programme consists of two modules:

Module 1 Entrepreneurship

The first module introduces participants to the topic of entrepreneurship, covering topics such as idea generation, formalization, and evaluation, as well as team work and product development. Participants will develop an entrepreneurial idea in their group, which will be pitched to the class at the end of the week.

Module 2 Finance

The second module introduces participants to the world of finance, covering topics such as mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and family office. Participants will create a funding strategy for their entrepreneurial idea in their group, and the overall results will be presented on the last day of the programme.

Fees and Discounts

The course fee is CHF 3,750, which is presently VAT exempt. Payment is fully refundable in case of official government-issued travel restrictions to and from Switzerland. Exclusive discounts are available, including:

• HSG Alumni discount: 10% discount for immediate family members of HSG graduates
• Group discount: 5% discount for participants who sign up with at least one other person
• Early bird discount: 5% discount for participants who sign up until December 24th, 2025

Accommodation and Travel

Accommodation is not part of the course fees, but St.Gallen offers accommodation options for every budget. Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements, and it is advisable to arrive at least three days before the start of the Summer School to minimize any potential effects of travel interruption and jet lag.

Certificate and Feedback

Participants will receive a certificate of attendance upon successful conclusion of the two-week programme. Groups will receive feedback from the programme director and instructors, but there will be no grades given.

Dress Code and Equipment

While there is no formal dress code for the programme, participants are expected to dress appropriately for class time and company visits. Participants are also required to bring a small personal laptop computer or tablet for online research, group work, and presentations.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What exactly does the course fee include? The course fee includes 2 weeks of classes, company visits and excursions, most transportation to and from the companies and institutions visited together, and selected social events.
• I am under 18. Can I still participate in the Summer School? The Summer School programme is designed for adult high school students and recent graduates, but outstanding 17-year-old candidates may also be considered.
• What about accommodation? Where can I stay? Accommodation is not part of the course fees, but St.Gallen offers accommodation options for every budget.
• Will there be grades and exams? No, there will not be any grades given. However, groups will receive feedback from the programme director and instructors.
• Will I receive a certificate? Yes, participants will receive a certificate of attendance upon successful conclusion of the two-week programme.
• Should I bring a computer? Yes, please bring a small personal laptop computer or tablet for online research, group work, and presentations.
• What is the dress code? While there is no formal dress code for the programme, participants are expected to dress appropriately for class time and company visits.