Machine learning is a fast-growing field, driving advancements in technology, healthcare, finance, and beyond. For high school students interested in exploring this area, machine learning programs offer a unique opportunity to develop advanced technical skills. You can develop a range of skills, from data analysis and coding to algorithm design and predictive modeling. These summer programs are designed to introduce you to both the fundamentals and specialized techniques in Machine Learning, enabling you to work on hands-on projects under the mentorship of university faculty.
This list highlights 8 awesome machine learning programs for high school students:
1. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)—Machine Learning Track
The Horizon Academic Research Program offers high school students a trimester-long opportunity to conduct in-depth research in machine learning under the mentorship of PhD scholars or professors from prestigious universities. This program allows you to explore both quantitative and qualitative research, and the machine learning courses cover important topics in algorithms, data analysis, and applied research. You will work toward producing a 20-page research paper at a university level with guidance on potential publication options.
Beyond technical skills, the program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving, helping you prepare for future studies and careers in data science and AI. You will also receive detailed feedback on your work and a personalized letter of recommendation, which could be beneficial for college applications and academic pursuits.
Location: Virtual
Application Date: 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).
Subject Areas: Machine Learning, Data Science, and more
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. Wharton Data Science Academy
The Wharton Data Science Academy is a three-week residential program designed for high school students who are interested in exploring data science. Hosted by the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, the program offers a curriculum covering data visualization, data wrangling, and modern machine-learning methodologies. You will attend lectures and work on a final project that solves a real-world case.
The program emphasizes critical thinking and empirical analysis, helping you identify relevant problems, conduct analyses, and effectively communicate your findings. By the end of the program, you will have developed a working proficiency with the R programming language, widely used by professional data scientists.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Application Deadline: April 2
Program Dates: July 13 – August 2
Subject Areas: Data Science, Machine Learning, Statistics, Data Visualization
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–11, including international students
Cost: $9,799; financial aid available
3. Veritas AI Scholars Program
The Veritas AI Scholars Program offers high school students a comprehensive introduction to artificial intelligence and machine learning through a 10-week boot camp. Designed by Harvard graduate students, the program covers fundamental concepts in AI and data science, emphasizing real-world applications across various fields. You will engage in hands-on projects, collaborating in small groups to develop AI solutions to problems.
For advanced learners, the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase provides a 15-week mentorship experience, pairing you with experts to work on individualized AI projects. This track includes guidance on publishing research in high school journals, offering a pathway to academic recognition. The curriculum is structured to build foundational skills in Python programming, neural networks, and data analysis, with opportunities to explore AI’s interdisciplinary applications in medicine, finance, environmental science, and more.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including in the summer
Subject Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Medicine, Finance
Eligibility: High school students globally; AI Fellowship applicants should have prior experience with Python or have completed the AI Scholars program
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here.
4. UCLA Computer Science Summer Institute—Generative AI Track
The UCLA Computer Science Summer Institute—Generative AI Track is a three-week commuter program designed for high school students entering grades 10 through 12. This course introduces you to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, with a focus on generative AI models. The curriculum covers key concepts in machine learning, data science, and the development of AI applications. You will engage in hands-on projects, learning to build and train generative models using Python and other relevant tools. In addition to technical skills, the course includes discussions on the ethical implications of AI and its societal impact.
Location: University of California, Los Angeles, CA
Application Deadline: June 1
Program Dates: July 1 – 19
Subject Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Generative AI, Neural Networks
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10-12 who have basic knowledge of Python
Cost: $461, scholarships available for California students
5. MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI)—Autonomous Cognitive Assistant Track
The MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI) offers an intensive four-week program through its Autonomous Cognitive Assistant Track, providing high school students with in-depth experience in machine learning and cognitive AI systems. In this course, you will delve into topics such as neural networks, Python programming, and cognitive processing, learning to create intelligent assistants capable of real-time decision-making. This track includes hands-on projects and daily lectures from instructors, equipping you with skills in machine learning algorithms, data handling, and autonomous system design.
You also explore various aspects of AI-driven applications, such as natural language processing. A final project allows you to showcase your understanding. BWSI’s project-based approach and expert mentorship make this program an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing machine learning careers or further studies in AI.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: March 31
Program Dates: July 8 – August 4
Subject Areas: Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Systems
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors attending high school in the U.S.
Cost: Free for families earning less than $150,000; $1,750 for families earning more than $150,000
6. Stanford AI4ALL
The Stanford AI4ALL program is a three-week online experience designed to introduce high school students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to artificial intelligence and machine learning. The program combines lectures, hands-on projects, and mentorship from industry experts. You engage with real-world applications of AI, covering topics like ethics, AI in healthcare, environmental challenges, and disaster response.
Each day, you will participate in project sessions, faculty-led lectures, and industry talks. Research projects allow you to apply machine learning concepts while building teamwork and presentation skills. The program’s mission is to inspire students to pursue AI for social good, equipping them with the skills to innovate responsibly in AI.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: March 25
Program Dates: July 8 – 26
Subject Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Ethics in AI
Eligibility: Current 9th-grade students (rising 10th graders)
Cost: $4,000 (financial aid available based on need)
7. University of Chicago Data Science Institute (DSI) Summer Lab
The DSI Summer Lab at the University of Chicago is an intensive 8-week paid research program for high school and undergraduate students interested in data science and machine learning. You will be paired with a mentor and work on interdisciplinary projects in fields like social science, climate policy, computer science, and biomedical research. You will engage in team projects that allow you to apply machine learning tools to real-world data, helping you develop both technical and problem-solving skills. The program culminates in a presentation where you share your research findings. The DSI Summer Lab is ideal for students who want to explore data science in depth while building a portfolio of research experience under guidance.
Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Application Deadline: January 12
Program Dates: June 16 – August 12
Subject Areas: Data Science, Machine Learning, Social Science, Biomedical Research, Climate Policy, Public Policy, and more
Eligibility: High school students from the Chicago area
Cost: Paid internship (students receive a stipend of $4,800 for participation)
8. Carnegie Mellon Pre-College AI Scholars Program
The Carnegie Mellon Pre-College AI Scholars Program is a four-week residential program designed for rising high school seniors interested in exploring artificial intelligence. Hosted by Carnegie Mellon’s School of Computer Science, the program offers a curriculum covering machine learning and data science. You will engage in project-based learning, attend lectures by faculty, and interact with industry leaders from tech companies. Additionally, you will participate in college readiness seminars and industry engagement activities, gaining a comprehensive introduction to the field of AI.
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates: June 21 – July 19
Subject Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who will be at least 16 years old by June 21
Cost: Fully funded, including tuition, housing, meals, and program-related activities
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