Online science summer programs for high school students offer a flexible, accessible way for you to develop technical skills, explore advanced topics, and gain experience with tools used in real research and scientific analysis. Whether you’re diving into bioinformatics, data science, or environmental modeling, these programs can help you go beyond the classroom and build a serious academic portfolio.
With options spanning various scientific disciplines, these virtual programs make it easier than ever to work on your interest in science and connect with a community of like-minded students, without breaking the bank.
To help you get started, we have compiled 15 online science summer programs for high school students that offer rigorous training, research exposure, and the chance to connect with like-minded peers and mentors.
1. Horizon Academic Research Program – Science Track
Cost: $5,950 (financial aid available)
Location: Virtual
Program Dates: 10-week summer cohort in June–September and 15 weeks for spring and fall cohorts
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year
Eligibility: High school students (typically 10th/11th graders) with GPA > 3.67; some tracks may have prerequisites
Horizon’s science-focused research tracks allow you to conduct independent research under the guidance of a PhD researcher or professor. Based on the subject, you will utilize either quantitative or qualitative approaches. The program offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, and more!
The project ranges from experimental design and statistical analysis to literature-based synthesis. You’ll work toward producing a 20-page research paper, which can be submitted to academic journals. The program includes personalized mentorship, structured feedback, and a letter of recommendation..
2. Veritas AI
Cost: $2,290 (AI Scholars), $5,400 (AI Fellowship), $6,900 (Combined)
Location: Virtual
Program Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: Open to high school students globally; AI Fellowship applicants must have prior experience with Python or AI concepts
Veritas AI offers two structured tracks for students interested in artificial intelligence and data science. The AI Scholars Program is an introductory bootcamp covering supervised learning, neural networks, and model evaluation through guided Python-based projects.
For advanced students, the AI Fellowship includes one-on-one mentorship with researchers and culminates in an independent project and potential journal submission. Tools used may include scikit-learn, TensorFlow, and GPT-based APIs. You will receive research feedback and access to Veritas’s internal publication team.
3. Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship
Cost: $850 + $40 application fee
Location: Virtual
Program Dates: June 16 – 27
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: High school students aged 14+ residing in the U.S. (Student leads must be CA residents; undergraduate CS students may apply as leads)
This two-week virtual internship explores how artificial intelligence is integrated into medical diagnostics and clinical workflows. You will attend technical lectures given by Stanford faculty and engage in collaborative projects with AIMI researchers.
You will participate in “Lunch and Learn” sessions with professionals from academia and government. The curriculum emphasizes real-world AI tools used in radiology and clinical imaging, with mentorship from engineers and postdocs. You will complete a group research project and receive a certificate of completion.
4. Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Cost: $25 application fee (waivers available)
Location: Virtual and in-person options
Program Dates: June 18 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: High school students aged 15+ (virtual/in-person computer lab); age 16+ for wet-lab internships
ASSIP offers an 8-week research experience in disciplines such as electrical engineering, cognitive science, and cybersecurity. You’ll work with George Mason faculty on projects involving agent-based modeling, applied statistics, or computational simulations.
The program includes structured training in scientific communication, experimental design, and data interpretation. You will use tools like MATLAB, NetLogo, or R, depending on the research focus. Virtually, you will complete collaborative research and present your work in a final symposium.
5. GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS)
Cost/Stipend: Free; participants receive a stipend
Location: Virtual
Program Dates: June 2 – August 29
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: High school juniors/seniors (age 16+ by Dec 31) with ≥3.0 GPA and one biology course completed
GL4HS is a four-week bioinformatics internship focused on space biology and omics data analysis. You will use the GeneLab Data System to explore transcriptomic and proteomic changes in microgravity and apply machine learning tools for pattern discovery in NASA datasets.
The curriculum features modules such as “Molecular Biology and the Omics Revolution,” along with collaborative research that concludes in a competitive evaluation. Top projects are invited to present at the American Society for Gravitational and Space Research annual meeting. Coursework is reinforced by expert lectures and virtual site visits.
6. CS@Mines Internship Program
Cost: $100
Location: Virtual or in-person (hybrid option available)
Program Dates: June 1 – August 6
Application Deadline: April 18
Eligibility: High school students interested in CS and mathematics
The CS@Mines High School/Community College Interns Program offers two distinct pathways for students to engage in computer science:
- Research Track: A chance for students to work together on computer science research projects with guidance from CS@Mines faculty. Participants engage closely with a small team, obtaining practical experience in research methods and contributing to active studies.
- Computing for Good (C4G) Track: This track focuses on leveraging technology for social impact. Students work in teams led by Mines undergraduate mentors to develop computing solutions addressing real-world challenges.
Throughout the 6-week program, participants can expect to dedicate approximately 5–20 hours per week, engaging in team meetings, project development, and mentorship sessions. While prior computer science experience is not required, a strong interest in the field and a commitment to collaborative learning are essential.
7. Online Engineering Programs – Johns Hopkins University
Cost: $3,800 (EEI, BMEI) + lab kit ($269.47–$320); $1,265 (Intro to Python); application fees: $50 (EEI/BMEI), $25 (Python)
Location: Virtual
Program Dates:
- Engineering Innovation (EEI): June 30 – August 1
- Biomedical Engineering Innovation (BMEI): June 23 – August 1
- Intro to Python: May 19 – June 30 or June 30 – August 11
Application Deadline: May 17
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with strong math/science grades (Algebra II, Trigonometry, and at least one lab science required)
The Engineering Innovation (EEI) is a college-level course that introduces students to various engineering disciplines, including civil, chemical, mechanical, and materials science. Participants engage in hands-on projects such as designing and testing bridges, creating electronic devices, and exploring chemical processes.
Biomedical Engineering Innovation (BMEI) offers an opportunity to delve into biomedical engineering by modeling biological systems, designing experiments, and applying engineering principles to solve medical and physiological problems. Projects include designing biosensors, modeling the human arm and circulatory system, and developing independent research projects. The course is primarily asynchronous with scheduled deadlines and optional live sessions for support.
The Intro to Python is a six-week, asynchronous course designed for beginners. Students focus on Python programming basics, encompassing syntax, logic, and debugging techniques. Assignments are evaluated every 1–2 days, and support is available via Microsoft Teams and optional live sessions.
8. Summer@Brown Online
Cost: $3,218 – $6,238 (varies by course length)
Location: Virtual
Program Dates: June 16 – July 25
Application Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: High school students worldwide in grades 9–12, aged 14–18 by June 15
Summer@Brown Online provides over 80 non-credit courses in various scientific fields, such as biology, environmental science, and health studies. You’ll engage with course material in asynchronous or blended formats, completing discussion posts, problem sets, and independent projects.
Some options fall under Course-Based Research Experiences (CREs), allowing you to simulate academic inquiry and data interpretation. The program emphasizes self-directed learning and includes enrichment activities such as research skills workshops and faculty Q&As.
9. OSTEM Internships – NASA Office of STEM Engagement
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual and on-site (NASA centers nationwide)
Program Dates: Varies by project; most summer roles run June–August
Application Deadlines: February 28 (Summer) | May 16 (Fall)
Eligibility: U.S. citizens; high school students with ≥3.0 GPA
NASA’s OSTEM program places you in technical research roles alongside scientists and engineers at NASA centers. Projects may involve space systems engineering, robotics, computer vision, or machine learning for Earth and planetary science.
You will receive mentorship, access to advanced research tools, and exposure to real-time mission operations. Positions are available remotely or in hybrid formats, with stipends varying based on project scope and duration. You can browse available roles by field or location via the OSTEM portal.
10. Project SEED Summer Program
Cost/Stipend: Free; up to $4,000 stipend provided
Location: Virtual and in-person options
Program Dates: June – July
Application Deadline: April 12
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recent grads; must have completed a chemistry course and meet income eligibility (≤300% Federal Poverty Guidelines)
Project SEED provides immersive chemistry research experiences, pairing students with mentors to work on lab-based or computational research projects. You’ll engage in techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, or molecular modeling, depending on the lab.
The program also includes virtual sessions on college prep and careers in chemistry. Final deliverables include a research paper or poster. Standout students may be invited to present at the ACS National Meeting.
11. ASPIRE – Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual with limited in-person sessions
Program Dates: June 24 – August 21
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (age 15+), GPA ≥ 2.8, must reside in the Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area
ASPIRE matches students with APL researchers on technical projects in computer science, data science, and systems engineering. You will contribute to real-world research teams and may work with languages like Python or Java, depending on the project.
You will attend onboarding and occasional in-person events. Research topics vary but often involve algorithmic modeling, cybersecurity frameworks, or IT infrastructure. You will receive mentorship from professional engineers and deliver a final project summary.
12. Pre-College Program – University of Pennsylvania
Cost: $8,248 – $13,448
Location: Virtual
Program Dates:
- Session 1: May 27 – July 2
- Session 2: July 3 – August 8
Application Deadlines: March 30 (Session 1) | April 27 (Session 2)
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors with GPA ≥ 3.5; strong academic writing skills required
Penn’s online Pre-College Program offers credit-bearing undergraduate courses in disciplines like Oceanography, Engineering, and Mathematical Sciences. You’ll attend class with college students, engage with scientific modeling tools, and complete lab-based assignments (courses with labs carry 1.5 c.u.).
Coursework emphasizes quantitative reasoning, data analysis, and technical communication. Many classes use simulation environments to model scientific phenomena and reinforce research methods. You will complete exams, lab reports, and collaborative projects.
13. Smithsonian Science Education Center Internship
Cost/Stipend: Free; stipend available
Location: Virtual or hybrid
Program Dates: 8–10 weeks between March and May
Application Deadline: March 7
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+; also open to undergraduate and graduate students
This internship emphasizes science communication, digital content creation, and STEM outreach strategy. You could engage in social media planning, video editing, or developing educational resources for K–12 audiences.
Projects involve research, script writing, graphic design, or asset management. You will gain exposure to science education technologies and public engagement techniques used by the Smithsonian. Roles and schedules vary based on applicant interests and departmental needs.
14. Biomedical Research Workshops – Rosetta Institute of Biomedical Research
Cost: $510 – $1,070 (varies by workshop)
Location: Virtual
Program Dates:
- Medical Bioinformatics: June 2 – 13, June 23 – July 5, August 4 – 15
- Intro to Cellular and Molecular Medicine: June 9 – 20
- Medicinal Chemistry: July 7 – 18
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students interested in biology
If you’re interested in life sciences, these topic-specific workshops provide advanced instruction in biomedical science and laboratory analysis. You’ll study areas such as cancer genetics, drug discovery, and computational biology through interactive modules and online simulations.
Hands-on activities include analyzing gene expression data, designing molecular diagnostics, or interpreting case studies. While not a traditional program, the experience is structured for small-group engagement with PhD researchers, and each course emphasizes subject-specific scientific reasoning and lab modeling tools.
15. Joint Science Education Project (JSEP)
Cost/Stipend: Free; $1,500 stipend + covered travel for in-person program
Location: Virtual and in-person (Greenland)
Program Dates:
- Virtual Program: July–August
- In-Person Program: June–July
Application Deadline: Typically March
Eligibility: Virtual: U.S. high school juniors and In-Person: U.S. citizens aged 18 (but not 19) by June 1, who have completed the virtual program
JSEP provides high school students with hands-on experience in glacial geology, climate science, and polar ecology. The virtual program, hosted by Dartmouth, emphasizes remote collaboration on polar research topics and concludes with a symposium.
The in-person program in Greenland offers hands-on fieldwork, including ice core sampling and biodiversity assessments, under the guidance of research scientists. You will gain experience with geoscientific field techniques, collaborative data interpretation, and environmental systems thinking.
Image source – University of Pennsylvania