International relations (IR) is a multidisciplinary field that examines global politics, diplomacy, economics, and law. For high school students interested in understanding how nations interact and addressing pressing global challenges, international relations programs offer a structured way to develop key skills and gain hands-on experience. Unlike research-focused opportunities that primarily enhance college applications, these programs emphasize practical learning, professional development, and real-world engagement.
Through coursework, simulations like Model UN, policy analysis, and mentorship from experts, students can refine critical thinking, negotiation, and communication skills — essential for careers in diplomacy, government, international business, and beyond.
This blog explores 10 free international relations programs for high school students!
1. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)-International Relations Track
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as international relations, data science, machine learning, political theory, and more! Horizon is one of the few research programs for high school students that offers you the choice to engage in either quantitative or qualitative research.
Once you select a particular subject track, Horizon pairs you with a professor/PhD scholar who acts as a mentor throughout your research journey. As a participant, you will be expected to develop a 20-page research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student.
The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student and detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Financial Aid available
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer, and Fall cohorts.
Program Dates: The spring and fall cohorts run 15 weeks, while the summer cohort runs 10 weeks (June – September).
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here.
2. Lumiere Research Scholar Program – International Relations Track
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler, including international relations.
The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can find more details about the application here.
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Cost: Financial Aid available
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June – August), Fall (September – December), Winter (December – February), and Spring (March – June).
Eligibility:
- You must be currently enrolled in high school
- Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
- No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!
3. Pasquines Internship
The Pasquines internship offers high school students hands-on experience in policy, politics, and journalism, with a focus on U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa. As a volunteer-driven non-profit, Pasquines aims to bring greater visibility to these often-overlooked regions in national policy discussions.
For students interested in international relations, this internship provides insight into the governance and political challenges of territories that occupy a unique position within the broader U.S. framework. You will develop research, writing, and analytical skills by reporting on key regional issues and working with peers to examine the systemic and political factors affecting these territories.
With a flexible schedule and continuous availability, this internship is well-suited for students eager to explore the connections between policy, governance, and global affairs while gaining practical experience in media and advocacy.
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: No cost; unpaid
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Program Dates: Ongoing (internships available year-round)
Eligibility: Open to all high school students
4. Foreign Policy Research Institute Internships
The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) provides high school students with the chance to gain hands-on experience in international relations and foreign policy. As an intern, you will work alongside experts to build skills in research, communication, and teamwork while engaging in real-world policy discussions.
You can attend foreign policy seminars, career development workshops, and FPRI events, gaining insight into global affairs and professional pathways in the field. The program offers several tracks, including research, special events/development, communications, and operations, allowing interns to tailor their experience to their interests. Whether assisting with research projects or contributing to event planning, you can develop a deeper understanding of international policy and the complexities of global governance through the program.
Location: Remote or in-person (Philadelphia, PA)
Cost: Free; 10 paid internship spots available
Application Deadline: Summer session applications open February 3
Program Dates:
- Spring: February–May
- Summer: June–August
- Fall: September–December
Eligibility: Open to high school students authorized to work in the U.S.
5. University of London: Global Diplomacy – Diplomacy in the Modern World
While not a traditional international relations program, the Global Diplomacy – Diplomacy in the Modern World course from the University of London offers a valuable learning opportunity for students interested in diplomacy, foreign policy, and global affairs. This self-paced online course provides an in-depth introduction to diplomacy, covering key diplomatic principles, international negotiations, and the evolving role of diplomacy in modern geopolitics.
Developed by the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy, which has over 25 years of experience in diplomacy education, the course is based on research-led teaching and draws from the University of London’s Global Diplomacy MA program. Through a mix of video lectures, case studies, and interactive exercises, you will explore historical and contemporary diplomatic strategies while gaining insights from scholars and foreign policy experts.
Location: Online
Cost: Free (with optional paid certificate)
Application Deadline: Open year-round
Program Dates: Self-paced
6. HarvardX: Religion, Conflict, and Peace
This online course explores contemporary conflicts across different regions, focusing on the role of religion in both exacerbating and mitigating violence. Through critical analysis, students will examine how religious ideologies intersect with political, economic, and cultural factors, challenging the common perception that religion operates independently from other societal forces.
In addition to studying conflicts themselves, the course investigates their broader societal effects, including impacts on public health, education, and commerce. By exploring these intersections, students will gain a deeper understanding of how religion shapes civic life in times of conflict.
For those interested in international relations, this course offers key insights into the influence of religion on global events and governance. This knowledge is useful for understanding complex international issues in diplomacy, conflict resolution, and policy-making.
Location: Online
Cost: Free (with optional paid certificate)
Application Deadline: Open year-round
Program Dates: Self-paced
7. NYU Democracy Scholars
The NYU Democracy Scholars program is a 3-week, fully funded summer residential experience designed for high school juniors passionate about political philosophy, social justice, and civic engagement. Hosted at NYU’s campus, this immersive program allows students to live and learn in a college setting, engaging in discussion-based seminars led by NYU faculty.
Over the summer, you will engage in small, discussion-based seminars led by NYU professors, honing college-level reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. In addition to the academic component, students receive ongoing mentorship throughout their senior year, supporting their college application process and providing guidance for civic engagement projects. Whether you’re interested in global justice, diplomacy, or political activism, NYU Democracy Scholars offers a rigorous and enriching foundation for students looking to make an impact in government, law, or international affairs.
Location: NYU campus, New York, NY
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: Early 2025 (Exact date TBD)
Program Dates: July 6 – July 26
Eligibility: Current 11th-grade students attending high school in New York City with strong academic records
8. Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship | Purdue University
This month-long exchange program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, brings together students from the U.S. and around the world to explore international relations, civic engagement, and media literacy. As a participant, you will engage in seminars, debates, and collaborative projects that enhance your understanding of global issues. The program includes a Model UN, hands-on leadership training, and cultural immersion through homestays and site visits.
With a curriculum rooted in diplomacy, democratic values, and service, BFTF fosters cross-cultural connections and prepares students to be active global citizens.
Location: Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: TBA
Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens ages 16–18; international students should apply through their local U.S. Embassy or Consulate
9. Political Science Summer Institute | UCLA
This intensive three-week program immerses students in political science, exploring government structures, political behavior, and policy-making in-depth. You’ll strengthen your analytical skills through lectures, discussions, and research projects while studying topics like international relations and comparative politics. The curriculum combines historical perspectives with modern political issues, equipping you with essential research methods used in social sciences. A career panel featuring political experts provides insight into pathways in government, law, and policy. Additionally, students earn five units of college credit.
Location: In-person at UCLA’s Department of Political Science
Cost: $461, with scholarships available for eligible California high school students
Application Deadline: June 13
Program Dates: June 23 – July 11
Eligibility: California high school students (grades 9–11 in Spring 2025), at least 15 years old, with a family income of $100,000 or less
10. Youth Leadership Academy | ILF
The ILF Youth Leadership Academy equips high school students with leadership skills and policy knowledge relevant to the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Through weekly workshops, mentorship, and discussions led by professionals, you will strengthen public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork. The program offers direct exposure to policy-making processes and public service careers, making it particularly valuable for students interested in international relations (IR). By exploring real-world political challenges and engaging in leadership training, you’ll gain a strong foundation in diplomacy, governance, and global affairs.
Location: Virtual and Washington, D.C.
Cost: $500, with full financial aid and need-based scholarships available
Application Deadline: Opens March 2025
Program Dates: July 13 – July 29 (tentative, based on previous year)
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a 3.0+ GPA and community service experience
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