If you are a high school student in New York interested in developing advanced skills in a particular field, consider signing up for a summer program. Many universities, institutes, and organizations in New York, specifically, offer comprehensive summer programs that allow you to work directly with professionals, researchers, and industry experts.
Summer programs can give you access to specialized resources, cutting-edge technologies, and valuable networks. Whether you are interested in science, technology, business, arts, or social sciences, these programs can help you refine your expertise and prepare for future academic and career opportunities.
Below is a list of 15 free summer programs for high school students in New York that can help you explore advanced topics, develop technical skills, and engage with real-world applications.
1. Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) at NYU
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 6 – August 21
Application Deadline: March 1
Location: New York University, New York, NY
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors from New York City high schools
ARISE offers authentic research experiences across various scientific disciplines. The program begins with two weeks of preparatory workshops, during which you will gain foundational knowledge in research methodologies, data analysis, and subject-specific software tools. This is followed by five weeks of intensive lab work alongside NYU faculty, working on projects ranging from computational neuroscience to civil engineering.
As a participant, you will not only develop technical and analytical skills but also receive a $1,000 stipend upon completing the program. The experience culminates in a final presentation, where you will showcase your research findings to peers and faculty.
2. Columbia University’s Freedom and Citizenship Program
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 6 – August 1
Application Deadline: March 15
Location: Columbia University, New York, NY
Eligibility: Rising seniors attending New York City public high schools
The Freedom and Citizenship program at Columbia University is a free, four-week residential summer program where you will study political philosophy through intensive seminars, engaging with thinkers like Plato and Locke. You will develop critical thinking and analytical writing skills while exploring the meaning of citizenship.
After the summer, you will work on a year-long civic leadership project, researching political issues and creating advocacy initiatives. You will also receive college application support, mentoring from Columbia undergraduates, and a recommendation letter from your professor, helping you prepare for college and active civic engagement.
3. The Wooster Group’s Summer Institute
Cost: Free (includes lunches and Metrocards)
Program Dates: July 13 – August 7
Application Deadline: April 15
Location: The Performing Garage, New York, NY
Eligibility: New York City public middle and high school students
The Wooster Group’s Summer Institute is a free, three-week performance workshop designed for New York City public high school students aged 12 and above. Founded by Wooster Group members Kate Valk and Ariana Smart Truman, the program immerses you in various aspects of theater and performance art, including acting, movement, voice training, writing, and video production.
Under the guidance of professional teaching artists, you’ll collaborate on original works, developing skills in scriptwriting, stage design, and digital editing. The program culminates in three public performances at The Performing Garage, allowing you to showcase your creations to supporters, friends, and family.
4. Summer Rising
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 6 – August 21
Application Deadline: Applications open in April
Location: Various NYC public schools
Eligibility: All NYC students entering grades K-8
Summer Rising is a free New York City program that blends academic support with enrichment activities like arts and outdoor recreation. While it’s mainly for younger students, you can participate as a mentor or volunteer, gaining hands-on leadership experience.
You’ll develop skills in mentorship, communication, and community engagement while working with students in a structured learning environment. This is a great opportunity to build leadership abilities and make a meaningful impact in your community.
5. Kopernik Observatory & Science Center Summer Programs
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 13 – August 7
Application Deadline: May 1
Location: Vestal, NY
Eligibility: Students entering grades 1-12
The Kopernik Observatory & Science Center in Vestal, NY, offers weeklong Link Summer STEM Exploration camps for students entering grades 2-12. These camps provide hands-on, high-tech adventures in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Additionally, Kopernik offers a High School Internship Program where you can gain valuable work experience, receive training on telescope setup and usage, assist educators during camps and classes, and interact with the public, enhancing your resume for future educational pursuits.
6. Harlem Children Society Summer Science Internship Program
Cost: Free (includes stipend)
Program Dates: July 6 – August 28
Application Deadline: April 30
Location: Various research institutions in NYC
Eligibility: High school students from under-resourced communities
Through the Harlem Children Society Summer Science Internship, you can conduct independent research in biomedical sciences and engineering at institutions like Memorial Sloan-Kettering and Columbia University. Over eight weeks, you’ll gain hands-on experience in lab techniques, scientific communication, and data analysis. The program also offers an option to continue research during the academic year and present findings at a community science fair. Performance-based scholarships are available to support your work.
7. Horizon Academic Research Program
Cost: Full need-based financial aid available
Program Dates: June 24 – September 2 (Summer) | October 23 – February 19 (Fall)
Application Deadline: March 23 (Summer Cohort) | September 25 (Fall Cohort)
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: High school students (typically 10th & 11th graders) with a GPA >3.67/4.0
Horizon offers a trimester-long research experience in which you can explore subjects like data science, political theory, neuroscience, and more. You’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar from a top university to develop a 20-page research paper that can be submitted to prestigious journals. This program provides structured mentorship, detailed project feedback, and a letter of recommendation, making it a great opportunity to build research experience for college applications.
8. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
Cost: Free (participants receive a paid internship)
Program Dates: 8-week internship, inclusive of a week-long summit in Washington, D.C. (July 21–26)
Application Deadline: January 15
Location: Various nonprofit organizations across the United States; summit held in Washington, D.C.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors in good academic standing; must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship through the end of September; able to participate in an eight-week paid internship at a local nonprofit, working 35 hours per week; able to attend the week-long Student Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C.
The Bank of America Student Leaders Program provides an eight-week paid internship at a local nonprofit, where you’ll gain hands-on experience in community engagement and leadership. As part of the program, you’ll also attend a week-long summit in Washington, D.C., connecting with peers and industry leaders to discuss social issues and civic engagement. Open to high school juniors and seniors, this program helps you develop workplace skills while making a tangible impact in your community.
9. Row New York Summer Program
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 6 – August 21
Application Deadline: May 15
Location: Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, and the Harlem River at Manhattan’s Peter Jay Sharp Dock
Eligibility: High school students from under-resourced neighborhoods
In the Row New York Summer Program, you’ll train in rowing while building teamwork, leadership, and endurance. Open to high school students from under-resourced neighborhoods, this free program combines intensive rowing sessions with academic support, including college prep and career counseling. Training takes place at Meadow Lake in Queens and the Harlem River in Manhattan, offering a unique blend of physical and academic growth in a supportive team environment.
10. NYU High School and Middle School Programs
Cost: Free and reduced-cost options available
Program Dates: Various sessions throughout the summer
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Location: New York University, New York, NY
Eligibility: Students in grades 5–12
NYU’s High School Programs offer immersive summer experiences across STEM, arts, and humanities. You’ll take workshops and courses led by university faculty, gaining subject-specific skills while accessing NYU’s resources and facilities. With both free and reduced-cost options, these programs provide hands-on learning opportunities that strengthen your academic foundation and practical expertise in a college setting.
11. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Cost: Full financial aid is available for eligible students.
Program Dates: June to August (summer). Fall, winter, and spring cohorts are also available.
Application Deadline: Summer deadlines are usually in March, April, and May.
Location: Remote
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum GPA of 3.3 out of 4
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers you the opportunity to explore a subject you’re passionate about through rigorous, mentor-guided research. You’ll develop critical thinking skills, gain hands-on experience in academic inquiry, and produce a high-quality research paper that can strengthen your college applications. The program culminates in a symposium, where you’ll present your findings and have the potential to pursue publication, showcasing your work on a larger stage.
12. InsideSchools Free Programs
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Various sessions throughout the summer
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Location: Various locations in New York City
Eligibility: New York City students
InsideSchools curates a list of free summer programs across NYC, offering opportunities in museum internships, science research, and the arts. You can explore hands-on experiences that build academic and practical skills while working with experts in your chosen field. With programs in various locations, this resource helps you find the best fit for your interests and goals.
13. Summer Programs in New York City by TeenLife
Cost: Free and low-cost options available
Program Dates: Various sessions throughout the summer
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Location: Various locations in New York City
Eligibility: Middle and high school students
TeenLife provides a curated list of free and low-cost summer programs in NYC, covering academics, STEM, and the arts. You can develop new skills, gain hands-on experience, and explore career paths through structured workshops and projects. With opportunities across various fields, these programs help you build expertise while engaging with professionals and peers.
14. The Metropolitan Museum of Art Teen Summer Programs
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Various sessions throughout the summer; specific dates to be announced
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Eligibility: High school students
The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers free summer programs where you can explore art, culture, and museum careers. You’ll engage in hands-on workshops, art-making activities, and discussions that deepen your understanding of art history and contemporary practices. If you’re a rising junior or senior, you can also apply for a paid internship to gain professional experience at one of the world’s most renowned museums. These programs help you develop critical thinking and creativity while connecting with peers who share your interests.
15. Cooper Union Summer Art Intensive
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 6 – August 7
Application Deadline: April 1
Location: Cooper Union, New York, NY
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with a strong interest in visual arts
The Cooper Union Summer Art Intensive gives you hands-on experience in drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. Through studio practice and critiques, you’ll refine your technical skills and develop a stronger conceptual approach to your work. The program culminates in a student exhibition, where you’ll gain experience presenting and discussing your artwork in a professional setting. This intensive is a great option if you want to build a portfolio and deepen your understanding of contemporary art practices.
Image source: New York University
