15 STEM Programs for High School Students
If you’re a high school student interested in science, technology, engineering, or math, joining a STEM program can help you explore real-world applications in these fields. You don’t need to wait for college, as many STEM programs for high school students show you how professional research works. These programs help you gain skills, find mentors who guide you, and learn the kind of career that might suit you someday. By participating, you can also enhance your college applications by signalling your interest in STEM.
Many universities and organizations like MIT, NASA, and Stanford offer STEM programs for high school students. They often include lab work, teamwork, and project-based learning, and participating can strengthen your problem-solving and analytical skills. To help you choose between the options, we’ve put together this list of 15 STEM programs for high school students. We’ve gathered a list of the best ones, including research opportunities, online internships, and lab programs, so you can pick what suits you best.
15 STEM Programs for High School Students
1. MITES Semester
Location: Online (with an in-person conference at MIT)
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: June – December
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: High school juniors with U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
In the MITES Semester, you get to study topics such as Astrophysics, Thermodynamics, and Computer Science through online classes run by MIT. You’ll work closely with mentors and instructors who guide you in improving your academic and research skills. There’s also a strong college prep component, including mock interviews, essay help, and advice on applying to top schools. You’ll end the program with an in-person conference at MIT, where you’ll meet students and scientists face-to-face. It’s one of the most competitive STEM programs for high school students, but also one of the most rewarding if you want to grow academically and get ready for college life.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies according to program type; financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10 – 25%
Dates: 8–12 weeks, multiple cohorts (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; Winter Cohort: November 16
Eligibility: High school students, undergrads, and gap year students who can work for 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks
Through Ladder Internships, you’ll get to intern with start-ups doing real projects in tech, AI, journalism, consulting, and other fields. You’ll spend about 10–20 hours weekly working with company managers and a mentor known as a Ladder Coach. At the end, you’ll present your project to the team and share what you’ve done. It’s a hands-on internship where you actually contribute, not just observe, and since it’s online, you can join from wherever you are. You will be part of a fast-growing company, where you will get to see how young companies adapt to challenges in real time. Click here to apply.
3. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research (SIMR) Program
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost/Stipend: None / Stipend paid, amount not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Less than 3%; 50 students
Dates: June 8 – July 30 (tentative)
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: Current high school juniors or seniors | At least 16 years old | U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Stanford’s SIMR is an intensive eight-week summer research experience that pairs high school students with university labs to pursue original projects in biomedical science. You delve into diverse fields such as bioengineering, bioinformatics, neurobiology, and cancer biology while developing skills in molecular biology, data analysis, and scientific presentation. Guided by Stanford faculty members and graduate mentors, you gain firsthand exposure to advanced research practices and professional lab environments. The program also features expert lectures and networking opportunities within Stanford’s research community. With an acceptance rate below 3 percent, SIMR ranks among the most competitive and distinguished STEM programs for high school students in California.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies according to program type; financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: Multiple cohorts (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; Winter Cohort: November 16
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in high school | Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. (Note. students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
If you’ve ever wanted to do real research like college students do, the Lumiere Research Scholar Program allows you to do just that. You’ll work one-on-one with a Ph.D. mentor to design and complete your own research project in topics like computer science, psychology, engineering, or economics. You don’t simply learn theory; you write a full research paper at the end! The program is remote, enabling you to participate from home, and the sessions are flexible throughout the year. It’s one of the most respected STEM programs for high school students, especially if you’re thinking about research or academia in the future. You may also be eligible for a UCSD credit at the end.
5. Carnegie Mellon University’s AI Scholars
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: June 20 – July 18
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: High school juniors who are 16 or older and are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or registered with DACA
At Carnegie Mellon’s AI Scholars program, you spend four weeks living on campus immersed in artificial intelligence studies through a mix of lectures and team-based projects. The curriculum covers foundational AI topics such as machine learning, neural networks, and data-driven systems, guided closely by faculty and expert researchers. You collaborate in groups to design and execute an AI project addressing a real-world issue, culminating in a final presentation to peers and instructors. Alongside technical training, the program encourages dialogue on ethical considerations, fairness, and the societal impact of AI. This mix of rigorous academics and practical research equips you with a thorough understanding of AI theory and its real-world applications.
6. Summer@Brown Online Program
Location: Online
Cost: $3,218 – $6,238, depending on course duration; financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: Multiple two to six-week programs between June 16 and July 25
Application Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: High school students worldwide in grades 9 to 12, aged 14 to 18 by June 15
The Summer@Brown Online program offers more than 50 courses across subjects like Biological Sciences, Engineering, Medical Studies, and Physical Sciences, all inspired by Brown University’s Open Curriculum. You can pick courses that really interest you, and since classes are available in different formats (asynchronous, blended, or mostly asynchronous), you can learn at your own pace. The instructors encourage independent thinking and creativity, and you can also join workshops or enrichment sessions to go deeper into topics you enjoy. Upon successful completion, students earn a Certificate of Completion and a Course Performance Report.
7. Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: $850 + $40 application fee; financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: June 16 – 27
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: High school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents | 14 years or older by the program's start
This program introduces participants to the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare and medical imaging through a mix of lectures, mentorship, and research experience. You learn directly from Stanford faculty and researchers about key topics such as machine learning, image recognition, and data analysis as they apply to medicine. Working in small, mentored teams, they contribute to real-world research projects focused on challenges like enhancing diagnostic imaging or interpreting clinical datasets. In addition to interactive sessions and talks with professionals from academia and industry, the program provides guidance for career development and the chance to continue pursuing an independent research project beyond the program’s completion.
8. Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science Summer Research Program
Location: Rutgers Institute, New Jersey
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Third week of June until the second week of August (8 weeks)
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: High school students entering sophomore, junior, or senior year| At least 16 years old | Minimum GPA of 3.0
In this program, you become part of active research teams, engaging in experimental design, data analysis, and practical laboratory work under the guidance of experienced scientists and faculty mentors. Through hands-on experience, you gain a deeper understanding of biomedical sciences and what pursuing advanced studies in the field entails. The program emphasizes authentic research projects where students conduct experiments, interpret results, and share outcomes through reports and presentations. Along the way, they receive comprehensive instruction in lab safety, ethical research practices, and scientific techniques. This experience not only refines their research and communication skills but also helps them identify the type of college setting that best suits them.
9. NASA OSTEM Internships
Location: Virtual & On-Site NASA Centers
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend amount unspecified, but provided based on academic level and session duration
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 0.5-2%; Over 2,000 students participate annually
Dates: Spring (16 weeks, mid-January to early May) | Summer (10 weeks, late May/early June to August) | Fall (16 weeks, late August/early September to mid-December)
Application Deadline: Spring: September 12; Summer: February 27; Fall: May 22
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16 years old | U.S. citizens | Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
NASA’s OSTEM internship offers a unique experience that places you alongside top aerospace experts, including engineers and research scientists, to take part in the agency’s work in space exploration, technology, and science. Through its integration with live NASA missions, the program allows you to engage in hands-on projects such as developing innovative technologies, analyzing data, and designing experiments. Its mentorship network and connection to active space initiatives set it apart, providing exceptional insight into real-world aerospace challenges. Designed for accessibility, the program’s virtual format maintains high-quality engagement and mentorship, enabling you to gain valuable technical and research experience.
10. NASA GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS)
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None / Small stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not selective
Dates: June 2 – August 29
Application Deadline: April 9
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 who are entering 11th or 12th grade | Minimum GPA of 3.0 | Must have taken at least one high school biology course | U.S. Citizens or permanent residents
NASA’s Ames Research Center offers the GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS), a free 12-week asynchronous summer program designed for rising U.S. high school juniors and seniors. You explore omics datasets to investigate how spaceflight influences biological systems, while developing coding and data analysis skills through interactive labs and expert-led sessions in genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. Working in teams, you complete a research project and present your results to NASA scientists, with outstanding groups earning the chance to showcase their work at a national conference. The program also features virtual career talks and field trips that allow students to engage directly with NASA researchers and gain insight into space bioscience careers.
11. SEES High School Summer Internship – NASA & UT Austin
Location: Virtual & in-person (Austin, TX)
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; 6 – 7 students per cohort
Dates: May to August; on-site experience is from July 6 – 19; distance learning module runs from May 19 – July 1
Application Deadline: February 22
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors who are US citizens and aged 16 years or older
The STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES) Internship allows high school students to collaborate with NASA scientists and University of Texas at Austin faculty on real research projects. You join teams devoted to areas such as Exoplanet Transits, Urban Heat Islands, Air Quality, or Earth System Explorers, engaging in data analysis, field studies, and satellite-based research using advanced software tools. The program highlights the development of skills in Python programming, visualization, and scientific interpretation. Whether participating virtually or in person, you work closely with mentors and peers to produce research, ultimately sharing your results at the Virtual SEES Science Symposium before an audience of fellow students and scientific professionals.
12. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes: Introduction to Engineering
Location: Online
Cost: $3,080 + up to $100 materials cost; financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: June 16 – 27
Application Deadline: March 20
Eligibility: Students entering grades 8 to 10 at the time of application
This program offers a broad introduction to core engineering concepts spanning several branches, with a strong focus on civil engineering. You explore areas such as materials science, infrastructure design, environmental responsibility, and structural engineering, while also gaining insight into other engineering disciplines for a comprehensive learning experience. Through hands-on components like virtual simulations, design challenges, and collaborative projects, you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. The program’s standout elements include live sessions led by Stanford faculty, access to advanced engineering tools, and a flexible mix of interactive and self-paced learning. Along the way, you strengthen their technical abilities while sharpening creativity, communication, and critical thinking skills.
13. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science (JHIBS)
Location: In-person at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, or Virtual
Stipend: Unpaid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: July – August (5 weeks)
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
The Johns Hopkins Introduction to Brain Science (JHIBS) program offers high school students an immersive five-week journey into neuroscience research and professional laboratory work. Guided by Johns Hopkins faculty, you engage in analyzing brain imaging data, exploring neurotechnology, and performing research simulations that mirror real-world scientific practice. The program combines structured mentorship, lab-based simulations, and weekly seminars to strengthen skills in data interpretation, research methodology, and scientific communication. Beyond hands-on training, you interact with leading neuroscientists and conclude the program by presenting your findings at a final symposium, gaining valuable experience in research writing and public presentation.
14. Penn Arts & Sciences - Experimental Physics Research Academy
Location: University of Pennsylvania
Cost/Stipend: $10,050 + $100 application fee; limited scholarships available for select students from the School District of Philadelphia
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive
Dates: July 11 – August 1
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Current 9th-11th grade students | Minimum 3.5 GPA
The Penn Arts & Sciences Experimental Physics Research Academy is a three-week residential summer program designed for high school students passionate about exploring the universe through the lens of modern physics. You delve into topics like mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum dynamics, and astrophysics while engaging in lectures, lab experiments, and data-driven research. Through hands-on sessions, you learn experimental design, coding simulations, and data analysis, applying scientific reasoning to real-world questions. The experience also includes interactions with researchers, visits to campus laboratories, and collaborative group projects where you present your findings to faculty and peers, strengthening both their analytical and communication skills.
15. Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: $25 application fee; waivers are available | None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective, around 10%
Dates: June 18 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: 15 years or older by June 18
The Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) at George Mason University offers high school students the opportunity to work directly with expert faculty mentors on cutting-edge research projects. You explore diverse fields such as neuroscience, bioengineering, nanoscience, cybersecurity, climate science, and more while gaining valuable hands-on experience using advanced scientific technologies. Throughout the program, you build essential skills in communication, scientific writing, and innovative problem-solving, and you have the chance to connect with accomplished professionals in STEM. Past projects have covered topics from robotics and renewable energy to exoplanet exploration and infectious disease research.
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