If you’re a high school student in College Station, Texas, there are great ways to deepen your skills outside the classroom. The city is home to Texas A&M University and several other institutions that offer significant learning opportunities each year. These programs span subjects like engineering, computer science, leadership, and more. You’ll get hands-on experience, work with real tools, and learn from experts in the field.
And if you live in or near College Station, choosing a local program can be a smart financial decision. You’ll save on travel and housing costs, and many of these programs offer scholarships or free admission. Whether you want to boost your college applications or just explore a subject in depth, here are 15 programs for high school students in College Station worth checking out.
1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies depending on program type; full financial aid is available
Dates: Varies by cohort: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year. Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June – August), Fall (September – December), Winter (December – February), and Spring (March – June)
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort—Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November); August 24 for the upcoming Fall cohort
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in high school, with a high level of academic achievement
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers a rigorous, individualized research experience for high school students. You’ll be paired 1-on-1 with a Ph.D. mentor to develop a research paper over 12 weeks. Topics span disciplines like computer science, engineering, psychology, physics, chemistry, international relations, and more. It is a solid option if you’re aiming to explore academic research and build a strong writing sample for college. You can review application details here.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Online
Cost: Varies by program; financial aid available
Dates: Multiple 12–15-week sessions offered year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling—Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November); August 31 for the upcoming Fall cohort
Eligibility: Open to high school students; prior experience with Python or AI is recommended for the Fellowship
Veritas AI runs specialized programs in AI and machine learning designed for high school students. If you’re just starting, the AI Scholars program introduces core AI and data science concepts through a 10-session boot camp. For more advanced learners, the AI Fellowship offers 1-on-1 mentorship on an independent research project, with the opportunity to publish your work. You’ll also gain feedback from experts and get to showcase your final project. Past topics have included healthcare, finance, robotics, and computer vision, among others.
3. Texas A&M’s Camp ARCH
Location: Online (hosted by College of Architecture, Texas A&M University, TX)
Cost: $1,500
Dates: July 7 – July 12
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students; Class of 2025 graduates ineligible
At Camp ARCH, you’ll dive into hands-on learning in architecture, construction science, landscape architecture, or urban planning, mirroring real studio experiences at Texas A&M. Each student chooses one focus area, and your week includes expert-led workshops, design challenges, and collaborative projects. You’ll stay in dorms, join social events, and get a taste of college life while building technical and creative skills. The application process includes an essay, a transcript, and a recommendation letter, with extra credit for originality and creativity. If you’re serious about design and want early exposure to the College of Architecture, this program is a competitive way to explore your future.
4. Aggie STEM Overnight Camp
Location: Texas A&M University, College Station, TX (Overnight)
Cost: $1,699 for high school overnight camp; $375 for elementary day camp
Dates: May 31 – June 27 (Multiple weekly sessions)
Application Deadline: April 25
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–12
Aggie STEM hosts weeklong summer programs focused on hands-on STEM learning through project-based activities. You will stay overnight in dorms and take part in classes that explore engineering design, mathematical modeling, and advanced technology. Each summer introduces a new set of topics and experiences, depending on instructor availability. Campers work with Texas A&M faculty and STEM professionals in a university setting that supports both academic growth and fun. All overnight students are provided private rooms, meals, and the option to request roommates. This program is ideal if you’re an academically motivated student with a strong interest in STEM.
5. Camp SOAR (Summer Opportunities in Aerospace Research)
Location: Texas A&M University’s Department of Aerospace Engineering, College Station, TX
Cost: $35 application fee, includes room, board, and activities
Dates: Summer 2026 (Exact dates to be announced in Fall 2025)
Application Deadline: Unavailable
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors (Fall enrollment); open to out-of-state students
Camp SOAR is a selective, five-day aerospace engineering camp that gives you hands-on access to Texas A&M’s cutting-edge research and labs. You choose from one of three tracks— airplanes, helicopters, or space—and work on a team design-build project while learning the fundamentals of the engineering design process. The program includes guided tours of labs like the Hypersonics Facility and the Vehicle Systems & Control Lab, as well as lectures from world-renowned aerospace faculty. You’ll stay in campus dorms and experience college life while developing technical skills and deepening your interest in aerospace research. It’s a great option if you’re considering aerospace engineering as a college major or career path.
6. PATHS-UP Young Scholars Program – Texas A&M University
Location: Texas A&M University, College Station (Hybrid: In-person and virtual components)
Cost: Free to attend; students receive a $2,000 stipend
Program Dates: June 9 – July 27
Deadline: April 4
Eligibility: Sophomores or juniors at Los Fresnos CISD, Sharyland ISD, or South Texas ISD; age 16 or older
If you’re a high school sophomore or junior in South Texas, the PATHS-UP Young Scholars Program offers a hybrid biomedical research internship grounded in real-world impact. Over seven weeks, you’ll conduct hands-on lab work in healthcare engineering at Texas A&M and participate in virtual seminars and lectures led by experts from top institutions. You’ll also learn how to search literature, read scientific papers, and give research presentations, building skills that align closely with college-level STEM work. Along the way, you’ll create a research poster, help launch a science club at your school, and engage with peers and faculty in a collaborative research community. The program aims to prepare future scientists and engineers to tackle health challenges in underserved communities.
7. YAP C: BioFORCE (Youth Adventure Program)
Location: Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
Cost: $1,299 (scholarships available)
Dates: July 20 – 25
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th-grade students who are at least 15 years old by July 20
BioFORCE is a one-week residential STEM program focused on the biomanufacturing industry. You’ll explore how scientific discoveries turn into real-world treatments through lectures, lab experiments, and industry tours. Activities include bacterial transformation, cleanroom gowning, and using lab tools like liquid chromatography. You’ll also dive deeper into biology and chemistry topics beyond the high school level. Classes are taught by Texas A&M faculty and professionals, offering strong mentorship and hands-on experience. The program is part of the Youth Adventure Program (YAP) and includes full residential support on campus.
8. Harvard Pre-College Summer School Program
Location: Harvard campus, Cambridge, MA
Program Dates: June 21 – July 2; July 5 – 17; July 19 – 31
Deadline: Early Application & Priority Financial Aid: January 7; Regular: February 11; Late: April 1(or earlier if full)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors (graduating in 2027 or 2028); must be 16 years old by June 21, 2026, and not turn 19 before July 31, 2026
At Harvard’s Pre-College Summer School, you spend two weeks immersed in a single college-level course taught by Harvard instructors. Each class averages just 15 students, allowing for close mentorship and discussion. Courses cover a wide range of disciplines, from psychology and medicine to politics, leadership, and STEM. You’ll live on campus, take part in co-curricular activities, and gain exposure to college-level expectations. Instead of letter grades, you receive a narrative evaluation and an official Harvard transcript, making this experience valuable for future applications. The program blends rigorous academics with community-building, giving you an authentic preview of Ivy League student life.
9. ELEVATE High School/Junior High Strength Program
Location: Twelve Training Facility, College Station, TX
Cost: $350
Dates: June 3 – July 31 (Tuesdays and Thursdays only; off week of July 4)
Application Deadline: Unavailable
Eligibility: Students in grades 7–12 in Spring 2025
ELEVATE’s strength training program delivers evidence-based athletic development designed specifically for middle and high school athletes. Built on over 35 years of combined experience and led by coaches with advanced degrees and national certifications, this summer training series focuses on performance, injury prevention, and long-term athletic progression. You’ll train twice a week with guidance from coaches certified by the NSCA and Collegiate Strength & Conditioning Coaches Association. Whether you’re prepping for your school season or looking to build foundational strength, ELEVATE’s approach is grounded in sport science and real-world coaching experience.
10. CSISD High School Summer School
Location: College View High School, College Station, TX
Cost: $120 per ½ credit (traditional); $160 per ½ credit (hybrid); reduced fees available for qualifying students
Dates: May 28 – June 27
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: High school students in CSISD
CSISD’s Summer School offers a flexible and modular curriculum through Edmentum, a web-based program that allows you to work at your own pace from anywhere. Courses are divided into self-contained modules, and you’ll take unit and final exams to earn ½ credit per semester course. Subjects include core requirements like English, Health, Government, and Algebra. Teachers provide in-person support during school hours, but most learning is done independently online. If you’re enrolled in hybrid courses, you’ll attend an orientation. Whether you’re catching up or getting ahead, this is a practical option for earning high school credit during the summer.
11. Texas Governor’s School – Bush School Youth Leadership Program
Location: Texas A&M University’s Bush School for Government and Public Service, College Station, TX
Cost: $400 student-secured sponsorship
Dates: June 22 – July
Application Deadline: Unavailable
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th-grade students from Texas showing strong academic potential in the program focus area
The Texas Governor’s School, hosted by the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M, offers a three-week residential summer experience for high-achieving Texas high school students. The program focuses on core academic areas such as science, mathematics, humanities, fine arts, leadership, and public policy. It aims to develop critical thinking and civic responsibility while challenging students through rigorous academic work. Activities may include seminars, collaborative projects, and exposure to public leadership topics. The exact curriculum and schedule vary by year and depend on institutional leadership and funding. For more information or to apply, you may reach out directly to the Bush School Youth Leadership Program.
12. Rice University Summer Online Scholars Program
Location: Online
Cost: $0 – $4800 (Depending on credits ranging from 0 to 4, with each credit at $1200)
Dates: May – August (6 summer blocks available)
Application Deadline: Rolling, varies by block (earliest May 5)
Eligibility: High school students with official transcripts and school approval
Rice University’s Summer Scholars program allows high school students to take online courses for college credit across 25+ courses, from research, photography, and general physics. Classes are intentionally small and led by Rice’s faculty, giving you access to a top-15 university learning environment without leaving home. The program is structured around six flexible summer blocks that range from 3 to 10 weeks, so you can choose what fits best with your schedule. Courses include both general requirements and high-interest electives, letting you explore a field before college. While not a camp, this is a highly focused academic experience designed for motivated students ready to take on university-level coursework.
13. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes
Location: Online
Cost: $3,080
Dates: Session One: June 16 – 27; Session Two: July 7 – 18
Application Deadline: March 20
Eligibility: Students in grades 8–11
This two-week online program lets you dive deep into a single academic subject in a seminar-style format. You’ll learn in small groups with academically driven peers and experienced instructors, focusing on fields like bioscience, business, philosophy, math, and more. All courses are non-credit enrichment offerings that blend synchronous classes and daily homework. Participation requires full attendance with both your mic and camera on. The program also incorporates virtual social activities, creating a well-rounded experience beyond the classroom. You may only enroll in one course per summer session.
14. MITES Semester
Location: Online (with an optional in-person conference at MIT, Cambridge, MA)
Cost: Free (students cover travel to the MIT conference)
Dates: June – December
Application Deadline: Fall of junior year
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors who are citizens or permanent residents
MITES Semester is a national, online STEM program designed to fit into your life, no matter where you live. You’ll log in for live evening classes on topics like Machine Learning, Thermodynamics, or Neuroscience, all taught by experts and grounded in real-world applications. Alongside your STEM coursework, you’ll join weekly virtual webinars in the fall focused on college prep. The online format lets you connect with peers nationwide while staying rooted in your local commitments. It’s a fully funded, rigorous program with the academic intensity of MIT.
15. Explore Engineering Innovation: Online – Johns Hopkins University
Location: Online
Cost: $3,800 + $265 lab kit fee (plus taxes & shipping)
Dates: June 30 – August 1
Application Deadline: May
Eligibility: High school students who have completed Algebra II, trigonometry, and chemistry or physics
Explore Engineering Innovation Online is a synchronous, credit-bearing summer course where you’ll dive into core engineering disciplines like mechanical, civil, electrical, and chemical engineering, all from home. Designed by Johns Hopkins University, the program mirrors its on-campus counterpart through hands-on lab kits and live sessions. You’ll design bridges with spaghetti, build a bioreactor, program a microcontroller, and pitch your own engineered device. Class options accommodate multiple time zones, and the curriculum blends real-time lectures with collaborative group projects. By the end of the course, you’ll not only earn three college credits but also gain a deeper understanding of what it means to think like an engineer.
For more such programs for high school students, you can also refer to Horizon’s blog.
Image source – Texas A&M University