Physics is a field that demands curiosity, analytical thinking, and a strong foundation in mathematical principles.
For high school students passionate about physics, summer programs can be a solid way to dive deep into the subject, engage in cutting-edge research, and develop advanced skills - this comes in handy while applying to advanced research programs as an undergraduate, or looking for professional experience via internships.
If you’re interested in diving deeper into this field, here are 15 of the best physics summer programs for high school students in 2024-2025.
1. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP) - Physics Track
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas, one of which includes physics! It is one of the very few research programs for high school students that offers a choice between quantitative and qualitative research!
Once you select a particular subject track and type of research you’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar (from a top university) who will mentor you throughout your research journey. You’ll work to create a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student.
This program is a solid opportunity for you to pursue a research program in highly specialized fields, under the guidance of a top scholar. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student, as well as detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects and college applications. Apply here!
Location: Virtual
Application Date: May 21, 2024, for the summer cohort, and September 25, 2024, for the fall cohort
Program Dates:
- Summer seminar - June 24, 2024 - September 2, 2024
- Fall seminar - October 23, 2024 - February 19, 2025
- Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply 4 weeks in advance.
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 - Physics Track
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program, founded by Harvard and Oxford researchers, offers high school students the opportunity to work one-on-one with PhD mentors to develop an independent research project in their subject area. Selected students will undergo immersive sessions with their mentors, who will help them produce a college-level research paper based on their projects. Support from writing coaches will also be provided.
You can choose your subject track in the application form, such as physics, as well as a specific area of focus, such as astrophysics throughout your research experience!
Subject Areas: STEM, humanities, and social sciences
Location: Remote
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum 3.3 out of 4 GPA
Application Deadline: Summer deadlines are usually in March, April, and May.
Program Dates: June to August (summer). Fall, winter, and spring cohorts are also available.
Cost: $2,800 (12 weeks) | $5,400 (16-20 weeks). Financial aid is available.
3. Research Science Institute (RSI)
The Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT is one of the most prestigious summer programs for high school students interested in science and engineering. Over six weeks, students immerse themselves in advanced research projects, working closely with experienced mentors on cutting-edge topics in physics, mathematics, and other STEM fields. The program also includes intensive lectures, seminars, and hands-on laboratory work, providing a comprehensive research experience.
RSI is known for its rigorous selection process, admitting only the top high school juniors who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and a strong passion for scientific inquiry. Participants have the opportunity to conduct original research, often leading to significant findings that can be presented at conferences or published in scientific journals.
Location: MIT, Massachusetts
Cost: Free (travel and living expenses covered)
Program Dates: June 23, 2024 - August 4, 2024
Application Deadline: January 12, 2024
Eligibility: Rising seniors with strong academic records in science and math.
4. Perimeter Institute International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP)
The Perimeter Institute International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP) is a two-week program designed for high school students with an interest in theoretical physics.
ISSYP is highly selective, welcoming students aged 16-18 who have demonstrated strong academic performance and a deep curiosity about the fundamental laws of the universe.
Location: Waterloo, Canada
Cost: CAD 500 (financial aid available)
Program Dates: Not offered for Summer 2024
Application Deadline: Not offered for Summer 2024
Eligibility: High school students aged 16-18 with strong backgrounds in math and physics.
5. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) Applied Science & Engineering
The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) Applied Science & Engineering program is an intensive two-week summer program designed for high school students who are passionate about STEM fields. You will engage in collaborative projects, problem-solving sessions, and interactive discussions led by Yale faculty and industry experts.
YYGS Applied Science & Engineering attracts talented sophomores and juniors from around the world, providing a unique environment for intellectual growth and cultural exchange. The program not only deepens students' understanding of advanced scientific concepts but also helps them develop critical thinking and research skills.
Location: Yale University, Connecticut
Cost: $6,500 (financial aid available)
Program Dates: July 6, 2024 - July 19, 2024
Application Deadline: January 10, 2024
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from around the world.
6. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes - Physics
The Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes offers a three-week immersive program for high school students passionate about physics. This course covers a range of topics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics. Students engage in a combination of lectures, hands-on laboratory experiments, and problem-solving sessions designed to deepen their understanding of physical principles and their applications.
Location: Stanford University, California
Cost: $3,050
Program Dates: June 17 – June 28, 2024 | July 8 – July 19, 2024
Application Deadline: March 25, 2024
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-17 with a strong interest in physics.
7. Harvard Pre-College Program - Physics
The Harvard Pre-College Program - Physics provides a two-week summer course designed for high school students eager to delve into the fundamental concepts of physics. The program includes intensive lectures, engaging discussions, and hands-on laboratory work that covers key topics such as mechanics, electromagnetism, and waves. Under the guidance of Harvard faculty, you will explore the principles of physical phenomena and develop problem-solving and analytical skills.
Location: Harvard University, Massachusetts
Cost: $5,550
Program Dates: June 24, 2024 - July 5, 2024
Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
8. Cosmos Program at UC Davis
The COSMOS Program at UC Davis offers a four-week residential summer experience for high school students passionate about science, particularly in the field of physics. Participants engage in an intensive curriculum that includes lectures, laboratory experiments, and collaborative research projects focused on various physics topics such as classical mechanics, thermodynamics, and modern physics. Guided by UC Davis faculty and graduate students, you will explore complex scientific concepts, develop critical thinking skills, and gain hands-on experience with advanced scientific techniques and equipment.
Location: UC Davis, California
Cost: $5,007 (financial aid available)
Program Dates: July 7, 2024 - August 3, 2024
Application Deadline: February 1, 2024
Eligibility: High school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors with a strong interest in science.
The Fermilab TARGET Science and Engineering Program is a unique six-week summer internship designed for high school students from underrepresented groups who are interested in physics and engineering.
Hosted at Fermilab, one of the leading particle physics laboratories in the world, this program provides you with hands-on experience in scientific research and engineering projects. You will work alongside Fermilab scientists and engineers, engaging in real-world projects that cover various aspects of particle physics, accelerator technology, and computing. The program also includes lectures, professional development workshops, and field trips, offering a comprehensive introduction to careers in science and engineering.
Location: Fermilab, Batavia, Illinois
Cost: Free (students receive a stipend)
Program Dates: June 24, 2024 - August 2, 2024
Application Deadline: February 15, 2024
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from underrepresented groups in STEM fields, U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
The Princeton University Physics Department Summer Internship Program offers a rigorous and immersive research experience for high school students passionate about physics. During this eight-week program, participants work closely with Princeton faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students on cutting-edge physics research projects. The program covers a wide range of physics topics, including quantum mechanics, condensed matter physics, and astrophysics, providing students with valuable hands-on laboratory experience and exposure to advanced scientific concepts. In addition to research, you will attend seminars and workshops designed to enhance their understanding of physics and prepare them for future academic and professional pursuits in the field.
Location: Princeton University, New Jersey
Cost: Free (students receive a stipend)
Program Dates: June 17, 2024 - August 9, 2024
Application Deadline: February 1, 2024
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with a strong interest in physics and a solid academic record.
The Northeastern University Exploring Modern Physics Program is a two-week summer program designed for high school students eager to delve into the fascinating world of modern physics. Held on the Boston campus, this program offers students a comprehensive introduction to contemporary physics topics, including quantum mechanics, relativity, and particle physics. You will engage in a blend of lectures, hands-on experiments, and collaborative projects, guided by Northeastern's faculty.
The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application for their students in exploring physics.
Location: Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
Cost: $4,300 (financial aid available)
Program Dates: July 8, 2024 - July 19, 2024
Application Deadline: March 15, 2024
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a strong interest in physics and science.
The UPenn Experimental Physics Research Academy is a three-week summer program designed for high school students passionate about physics. Hosted by the University of Pennsylvania, the program offers an immersive experience in experimental physics through hands-on research projects.
Participants explore various physics domains such as quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and condensed matter physics while working closely with Penn's faculty and graduate students.
Students gain practical experience in conducting experiments, data analysis, and presenting their research findings, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they may need for future academic endeavors in physics.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cost: $9,784 (includes tuition, room, and board)
Program Dates: July 7, 2024 - July 27, 2024
Application Deadline: May 1, 2024
Eligibility: High school students currently in grades 9-11 with a strong academic background and a demonstrated interest in physics.
13. Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC) Summer Institute
The Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC) Summer Internship Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research at one of the world's leading laboratories for particle physics and accelerator research. Interns work alongside SLAC scientists and engineers on real-world projects, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as accelerator physics, astrophysics, and materials science. The program includes lectures, tours, and professional development activities, providing a comprehensive introduction to the field of high-energy physics and the operations of a national laboratory.
Location: SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford, California
Cost: Free (students receive a stipend)
Program Dates: June 17, 2024 - August 9, 2024
Application Deadline: January 31, 2024
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with strong academic records in science and math.
The Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics Youth for Astronomy and Engineering Program (YAE) provides an engaging summer experience for high school students passionate about astronomy and engineering. This program offers participants hands-on activities, interactive lectures, and mentorship from leading scientists and engineers. Students explore topics such as astrophysics, cosmology, and engineering principles, while also developing practical skills through projects and experiments.
Location: Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Cambridge, Massachusetts
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 8, 2024 - July 26, 2024
Application Deadline: April 1, 2024
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10-12 with an interest in astronomy and engineering.
15. University of Chicago Research in Astronomy and Astrophysics (REU)
The University of Chicago Research in Astronomy and Astrophysics (REU) program offers an immersive summer research experience for students passionate about the cosmos. This program allows participants to work closely with leading astronomers and astrophysicists on cutting-edge research projects. You will gainn hands-on experience with advanced telescopes and data analysis tools, exploring topics such as stellar formation, galaxy evolution, and cosmology. The program also includes seminars, workshops, and opportunities to present research findings, and should be able to provide a comprehensive introduction to the field of astronomy and astrophysics.
Location: University of Chicago, Illinois
Cost: Free (students receive a stipend)
Program Dates: June 24, 2024 - August 16, 2024
Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with a strong interest in astronomy and a solid academic record in science and math.
David Wilkinson is a freelance writer for Horizon and currently resides in the United States.