If you’re a high school student interested in artificial intelligence, consider participating in an AI-focused program. It’s a good way to sharpen your skills and explore the field in depth. Many AI programs are offered in the fall, which spans late August through late November or early December. These programs give students a chance to build technical skills early in the academic year and connect with mentors and peers before the year gets busy. They are often organized by distinguished organizations and universities, providing a valuable opportunity to receive mentorship and begin expanding your professional network early.
What do AI programs entail? What will I do as a participant?
AI programs for high school students usually go beyond classroom learning, giving you the chance to work on projects in areas like machine learning, data analysis, natural language processing, and computer vision. Along the way, you’ll build technical skills in Python and research methods while also learning how AI connects to industries such as healthcare, finance, and engineering.
10 Fall AI Programs for High School Students
1. Stanford AIMI Academic Year Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: $4,800 (need-based scholarships available; full or partial fee waiver possible)
Program Dates: September 29 – June 5
Application Deadline: Scholarship application: September 10; General registration first-come, first-served
Eligibility: High school students enrolled during the academic year; Priority given to alumni of AIMI Summer Research Internship or Summer Health AI Bootcamp
The Stanford AIMI Academic Year Research Internship offers high school students an immersive, hands-on experience in artificial intelligence applied to health and medicine. You’ll collaborate in small groups on projects using real-world datasets, guided by Stanford student mentors, and explore technical topics like AI model development, data analysis, and scientific writing. Non-technical avenues are also available, focusing on ethical, legal, and social implications of AI in healthcare. Weekly mentorship sessions are supplemented with independent work, fostering project management, self-directed learning, and collaborative skills. You’ll also gain broader exposure through “Meet-the-Experts” sessions, optional office hours, and a Student Showcase, where projects may be submitted for scientific conferences.
2. The Coding School: Foundations of Data Science & Machine Learning
Location: Virtual
Cost: $995; Scholarships available
Program Dates: September – December
Application Deadline: Rolling; Scholarship application deadline: August 31
Eligibility: U.S. and international high school students (18 years and under); No prerequisites
This semester-long course introduces you to data science and machine learning through live lectures, small-group labs, and hands-on projects. You’ll start by learning Python, then apply it to data exploration, visualization, and basic machine learning models. Ethical discussions on bias in AI highlight the program’s focus on building responsible leaders in technology. Beyond coursework, you’ll hear from AI experts and meet college admissions officers who share insights into academic and career paths. At the end, you’ll earn a Certificate of Completion, with the option to continue into an advanced second semester for deeper study.
3. Girls Who Code: AI-Focused Fall Programs
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Fall sessions vary; Typically during the academic year
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12; Beginner to intermediate level
Girls Who Code offers programs designed to help high school students explore coding and artificial intelligence in an inclusive, supportive environment. You’ll participate in hands-on projects that teach programming fundamentals, algorithmic thinking, and the basics of AI through real-world applications. The program focuses on collaboration and problem-solving, encouraging you to develop projects that address community challenges while learning from experienced mentors. As part of a global network of aspiring technologists, you’ll strengthen your technical confidence, creativity, and leadership skills.
4. NASA Next Frontier: Artificial Intelligence Virtual Career Connection – AI in Space Exploration
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Program Dates: October 16
Application Deadline: October 7
Eligibility: K-12 students and educators; U.S. citizens only
This virtual event offers students and educators a unique opportunity to explore how AI is transforming space missions, from robotic helpers on the International Space Station to autonomous rovers on Mars. You will engage directly with NASA subject matter experts, ask questions, and learn about educational and career pathways in robotics, electronics, and data processing. The session emphasizes hands-on exposure to AI in space exploration, inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals.
5. Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp
Location: Multiple U.S. cities, including New York, Atlanta, Houston, Denver, Miami, and more
Cost: Free
Program Dates: November 1, 8, & 15
Application Deadline: September 30
Eligibility: High school students; No prior computer science experience required
This free, three-weekend boot camp offers a twenty-hour introduction to artificial intelligence designed for high school students. You’ll learn through hands-on instruction in AI concepts, emerging technologies, and applied ethics, with guidance from mentors in your local community. Each participant develops a capstone project, exploring how AI can be applied in real-world scenarios, from entrepreneurship to career pathways. Even after the boot camp ends, you’ll continue to receive mentorship and AI learning opportunities until high school graduation.
6. Google AI Essentials
Location: Online
Cost: Free to access on Coursera; certificate available for a fee
Program Dates: Flexible, complete at your own pace (<5 hours total)
Application Deadline: Rolling enrollment
Eligibility: High school students of any grade; No prior AI or coding experience required
Google AI Essentials introduces high school students to practical applications of artificial intelligence through a self-paced, online format. You’ll explore generative AI tools and learn how to apply them to real-world tasks, such as brainstorming ideas, analyzing data, enhancing productivity, and creating content. The course is structured around five modules covering AI fundamentals, productivity tools, prompt engineering, responsible AI use, and staying current with AI trends. Hands-on exercises give you opportunities to practice AI in everyday scenarios, boosting both technical and problem-solving skills. By the end of the program, you’ll earn a Google certificate that demonstrates your competency in AI.
7. AI Camp: Year-Round Program
Location: Remote
Cost: $99/month subscription
Program Dates: Year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students; No prerequisites mentioned
This program combines AI-powered instruction with human mentorship, giving students continuous access to a comprehensive library of lessons, hands-on projects, and weekly learning sessions. You’ll receive real-time progress feedback, practical exercises, and exposure to real-world applications across industries. Flexible 24/7 access and an ever-growing content library allow you to study at your own pace. The subscription provides access to all programs, tools, and resources, supporting your development in AI, coding, and problem-solving skills, and preparing you for further education and future career prospects.
8. AI Essentials for Business
Location: Online (Harvard Business School Online)
Cost: $1,850
Program Dates: Flexible, self-paced; 4 weeks recommended completion
Application Deadline: Rolling enrollment
Eligibility: High school students with interest in business, technology, and AI; no prior AI experience required
AI Essentials for Business will introduce you to the practical and strategic applications of artificial intelligence in organizational settings. You’ll explore AI, machine learning, predictive modeling, and data science while understanding how to apply these tools ethically and responsibly. The course emphasizes developing frameworks for digital transformation, rethinking systems, processes, and roles to create AI-powered organizations. You’ll gain insights into generative AI, business intelligence, and risk management, connecting technical concepts to real-world business impact.
9. Research Girl Scientific Mentorship Program
Location: Online
Cost: $25 membership fee; Scholarships available
Program Dates: September – December (fall)
Application Deadline: Not mentioned
Eligibility: High school and undergraduate students worldwide
This mentorship program connects aspiring STEM researchers with experienced student researchers and professional scientists for 1:1 guidance. During the program, you will work with your mentors for one hour per week on personalized goals, which may include research skills, literature reviews, project development, or college preparation. You’ll also gain insights into research practices, career development, and academic advancement, while building lasting connections within the STEM community.
10. AIMI NextGen Tech Talks
Location: Online
Cost: Free
Program Dates: October 13
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: High school students interested in AI, medicine, and healthcare technology
AIMI NextGen Tech Talks is a live webinar series designed for high school students curious about the evolving role of AI in medicine. You’ll engage with leading professionals in health technology, gaining first-hand insights into their career paths and the real-world impact of AI on healthcare. Each session includes a live presentation followed by a Q&A, allowing you to interact directly with experts like Dr. David Rhew, MD, who bridges medicine and technology. You’ll learn about innovation in clinical AI, the integration of AI into electronic health records, and emerging trends in digital healthcare.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Image source – Stanford University