If you’re a high school student looking to build advanced skills and gain hands-on experience in a specific field, attending a summer program in Washington, D.C. is a great opportunity. These programs provide in-depth, immersive experiences, allowing you to work on real-world projects, collaborate with professionals, and develop specialized skills in areas like science, politics, technology, and the arts.
Many universities, research institutes, and organizations in Washington, D.C., offer summer programs that give students access to industry experts, state-of-the-art resources, and networking opportunities. These programs help students deepen their knowledge and build a strong foundation for future academic and career paths.
This blog highlights the 15 best Washington, D.C. summer programs + internships for high school students! These programs cover a range of fields, from STEM and business to law, journalism, and public policy.
1. Horizon’s Academic Research Program (HARP)
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more! 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 on college applications. Apply here!
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: May 21 for the summer cohort, and September 25 for the fall cohort
Program Dates:
- Summer seminar – June 24 – September 2
- Fall seminar – October 23 – February 19
- 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
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
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!
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.
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 choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more.
You can find more details about the application here.
3. NASA Office of STEM Engagement Internship Programs
Location: NASA facilities across the U.S., including NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Application Deadline: January (Fall) | August (Spring) | October (Summer)
Program Dates:
- Fall: 16 weeks (late August/early September – mid-December)
- Spring: 16 weeks (mid-January – early May)
- Summer: 10 weeks (late May/early June – August)
Eligibility: Open to full-time high school students with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Stipend: Provided based on academic level and internship duration
If you’re passionate about space, technology, and scientific exploration, the NASA OSTEM Internship offers a hands-on opportunity to work alongside top professionals in engineering, aeronautics, technology, space microbiology, environmental science, business, and communications. Under the guidance of a NASA mentor, you’ll engage in meaningful projects that contribute to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations.
Depending on your placement, you might design experiments, analyze space mission data, develop new technologies, or contribute to NASA’s public outreach efforts. Whether you’re investigating planetary ecosystems or working with aerospace technology, this experience allows you to develop critical thinking, research, and technical skills while immersing yourself in NASA’s work.
4. NASA Pathways Internships
Location: Various NASA locations; students in Washington, D.C. can apply for positions at NASA Headquarters
Application Deadline: Varies by location
Program Dates: Long-term, running alongside the school year
Eligibility: High school students 16+ years old with a minimum 2.9 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). Applicants must be able to complete at least 640 hours of work before finishing their degree or certificate.
Stipend: Paid (amount varies by role)
If you’re looking for a long-term, immersive experience in space exploration, science, technology, or business, the NASA Pathways Internship Program is a great choice. This multi-semester paid internship provides the opportunity to work on real NASA projects while receiving mentorship from top scientists, engineers, and professionals in the field. Unlike short-term internships, this program is designed to help you build a pathway toward a future career at NASA, with the possibility of transitioning into a full-time role.
Internships are available in a variety of STEM and business fields, covering everything from engineering, aerospace, and technology to program management, accounting, communications, mathematics, and statistics. Each position has unique deadlines and requirements, so be sure to explore available opportunities on USAJobs.gov. For more details, check out the NASA Pathways Internship Program: Applicant Guide.
5. Internships at the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (APAC)
Location: APAC Office, Washington, D.C.
Application Deadline:
- Summer Internship: February 7
- Fall Internship: May 9
- Spring Internship: October 3
Program Dates: 10 weeks, part-time (approximately 20 hours per week)
Eligibility: Open to high school students and recent graduates
Stipend: During the Spring and Fall cycles, interns will receive a stipend of $24/hour. For the Summer cycle, the stipend is $850 per week.
If you’re passionate about Asian-Pacific American history, culture, and community engagement, this internship at the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (APAC) is an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects. APAC challenges the traditional museum model, striving to create dynamic, community-driven spaces that foster civic engagement, dialogue, and social justice. As an intern, you’ll actively participate in curatorial projects, public programming, research, and community outreach, helping to amplify the voices and experiences of Asian-Pacific American communities.
While this program is one of several Smithsonian internships, you can explore more opportunities through the Smithsonian Office of Internships.
6. U.S. Senate Page Program
Location: U.S. Senate, Washington, D.C.
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by senator; check their official website or contact their office for specific details.
Program Dates:
- Spring 2025: January 26 – June 6
- Summer Session I: June 8 – June 27
- Summer Session II: July 8 – August 1
- Fall 2025: September 1 – January 23
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors who are 16 or 17 years old by the start of the program and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B average).
Stipend: Annual salary of $37,238
The U.S. Senate Page Program offers high school juniors a unique opportunity to experience the legislative process up close while actively contributing to the daily operations of the Senate. As a page, you will assist in preparing the Senate Chamber for sessions, deliver legislative materials, support senators during roll call votes, and observe debates on critical national issues. This program not only introduces you to the inner workings of government but also allows you to engage with influential leaders and develop a deeper understanding of public service.
7. Pathways Internship Programs at the U.S. Department of State
Location: Multiple locations, including Washington, DC (e.g., Pathways Intern roles at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation)
Application Deadline: Varies by location
Program Dates: Varies; IEP internships align with academic programs, while ITEP internships run during seasonal breaks and year-round
Eligibility: Must be at least 16 years old by the application deadline and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA
Stipend: Varies by position
These internships provide hands-on experience in federal careers, allowing students to explore foreign affairs, public policy, and international relations. Interns work in offices such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Office of the General Counsel, gaining practical skills in a structured learning environment.
There are two internship types:
- Internship Experience Program (IEP): Offers eligibility for noncompetitive promotions and federal benefits.
- Internship Temporary Program (ITEP): Temporary roles that do not exceed one year or graduation date, with possible one-year extensions.
8. Robert P. Kogod Arts Internship
Location: Washington D.C.
Application Deadline: Typically mid-March
Program Dates: 8 weeks May-August
Eligibility: District of Columbia public high school students ONLY entering their junior or senior year or finishing their senior year
Stipend: $5,200
This internship is designed for DC Public high school students entering their junior or senior year or recently graduating seniors with a strong interest in the arts. Over eight weeks, you’ll work closely with mentors across Smithsonian museums, offices, and research facilities in Washington, DC.
Through various projects, you will gain practical experience in arts-related fields while exploring the nation’s largest museum complex. The program also includes opportunities to attend meetings, lectures, and public programs, providing a well-rounded introduction to the arts and museum work.
9. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) – Department of the Navy
Location: Various Navy labs nationwide; DC students can apply to the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) or the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO).
Application Deadline: November 1 each year
Program Dates: 8 weeks in the summer (exact dates vary).
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12) who are at least 16 years old by the program start date; exceptions may apply based on lab requirements.
Stipend: $4,000 (new participants) | $4,500 (returning participants)
This competitive internship provides hands-on experience in STEM fields through real-world research at Navy labs. As an intern, you’ll collaborate with top scientists and engineers, gaining exposure to fields like computer science, aeronautics, and engineering. Mentorship from industry experts will help you develop technical skills and explore potential career paths in science and engineering. With only 300 placements available each year, SEAP is an excellent stepping stone for students looking to pursue STEM careers — many participants go on to work for the Department of the Navy.
10. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
Location: Interns are placed at a local nonprofit partnered with Bank of America in Washington, D.C.
Application Deadline: January
Program Dates: 8-week summer internship, including a fully funded, week-long Student Leadership Summit. Start dates vary by location.
Eligibility: Open to current high school juniors and seniors. Additional criteria apply.
Stipend: Paid internship (exact amount not specified).
This program is designed to empower students who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. As an intern, you’ll work with a nonprofit organization, gaining hands-on experience in community service, leadership, and nonprofit management. You’ll also develop professional and interpersonal skills that will support your academic and career growth.
A key highlight is the Student Leadership Summit in Washington, DC, where you’ll connect with peers nationwide, engage in leadership training, and explore social issues on a broader scale. With all travel, lodging, and meals covered, this experience provides the tools and insight needed to drive meaningful change in your community.
11. Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) High School Apprenticeships
Location: Available nationwide; students in Washington, DC, can select a preferred location.
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Program Dates: Summer program; specific dates depend on location.
Eligibility: Current high school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Additional requirements vary by location.
Stipend: Varies by location.
This apprenticeship offers a rare opportunity to work closely with university researchers or Department of Defense (DoD) scientists on real-world research projects. As an apprentice, you’ll gain hands-on experience in advanced laboratory settings, working with high-tech equipment and learning cutting-edge techniques.
Mentored by experienced STEM professionals, you’ll develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills while contributing to groundbreaking research that tackles national challenges. The program fosters curiosity and innovation, preparing you for a future in science and engineering.
12. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
Location: Online or residential at Stanford University, CA
Application Deadline: Typically early February
Program Dates: Runs between June and July
Eligibility: Open to current 10th and 11th graders with a strong interest in mathematics
Cost: Free
For students passionate about advanced mathematics, SUMaC is a highly selective summer program offering an intensive academic experience. Established in 1994, it has welcomed students from over 50 countries, providing them with an immersive learning environment that includes lectures, guided research, and collaborative problem-solving.
You will engage with university-level mathematical concepts, refining your analytical and critical thinking skills. Beyond enhancing your understanding of math, you will also build a strong academic foundation that can bolster your college applications.
13. MITES Semester
Location: Online
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Dates: June – December (six-month hybrid program)
Eligibility: High school juniors; underrepresented, underserved, and first-generation students are strongly encouraged to apply
Cost: Free (students cover transportation costs to MIT for the conference)
The MITES Semester is a rigorous six-month hybrid STEM program designed to strengthen students’ academic foundations and college readiness. It blends structured online courses with interactive virtual webinars, providing an immersive learning experience from June to December.
You can take two science and engineering courses in fields like Machine Learning, Thermodynamics, and Astrophysics, alongside a project-based course and a core subject such as Calculus, Physics, Computer Science, or Science Writing and Communication. The program emphasizes research preparation and critical thinking, equipping students with skills vital for future STEM careers.
14. Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI) Summer Research Internship
Location: Remote
Application Deadline: February 28
Program Dates: June 16 – 27
Eligibility: U.S. high school students (14+) with strong math, programming skills, or experience in healthcare projects
Cost: $850
This two-week virtual internship offers students a deep dive into the transformative role of AI in healthcare. With only 50 spots available, the program is highly competitive, making it ideal for students eager to explore the intersection of medicine, technology, and artificial intelligence.
You will get to engage in lectures, mentoring sessions, collaborative research, and guest speaker events. Through hands-on projects and Career Lunch and Learns, students gain valuable exposure to real-world AI applications in medical imaging and diagnostics. This experience fosters problem-solving skills and prepares students for future research and careers in the evolving AI-healthcare field.
15. Harvard-Smithsonian Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP)
Location: Remote
Application Deadline: Applications expected to open in May
Program Dates: September – May
Eligibility: Open to Cambridge Rindge and Latin School students, with potential future expansion
Cost/Stipend: Fully funded with a stipend provided
The Harvard-Smithsonian SRMP is a highly selective, year-long astrophysics research program where high school students collaborate with leading scientists from Harvard University and the Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. With an acceptance rate below 5%, only 10–16 students are chosen annually and placed into small research teams, working on advanced astrophysics projects under expert mentorship.
You will get to participate in monthly workshops and lectures, designed to deepen your scientific knowledge and research skills. At the end of the program, students present their findings at a symposium, showcasing their work through posters and presentations.
Image source – NASA logo
