If you are a high school student interested in computer science and a future in tech on your mind, an internship is one of the smartest moves you can make at this stage. It takes everything you have been learning in the classroom and puts it to work inside a professional environment.
If you happen to be based in New York City, you are already in a better position than you might realize. The city has one of the most active tech ecosystems in the country, and a growing number of internship programs have been designed with high school students specifically in mind.
Why choose NYC for a computer science internship?
Nowhere else gives you this many options concentrated in a single place. New York’s tech industry stretches across finance, healthcare, media, education, government, and retail, which means you are not boxed into one type of company or one type of role; you get to explore what actually excites you.
Beyond the variety of industries, the city has also built a well-developed pipeline of programs dedicated to connecting high school students with legitimate tech opportunities, many of which are paid and affiliated with universities or city agencies. A good number of them also make a deliberate effort to recruit from communities and boroughs that larger tech companies tend to overlook, so if you are willing to show up and put in the work, there are programs here genuinely designed to meet you where you are.
With that, here are 15 computer science internships in NYC worth exploring as a high school student! If you are looking for a shorter commitment during high school, consider these computer science camps for high school students.
15 Computer Science Internships for High School Students in NYC
1. CS4CS (Cyber Security for Computer Science – NYU Tandon)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NYC
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (80–100 students)
Dates: July 13 – August 7
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Current 8th–11th graders; residing in NYC or neighboring cities, such as Jersey City, Newark, or Hempstead
In this program, you’ll learn cybersecurity by actually doing it, not just studying theory. You’ll participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, real-world security challenges, and hands-on labs covering cryptography, scripting, and digital forensics. You’ll also work on research projects and present your findings, giving you early exposure to academic CS work. The program is led by experts like Nasir Memon, ensuring strong technical depth. You’ll build a portfolio of practical cybersecurity projects that you can showcase later. By the end, you’ll have real experience in offensive and defensive security concepts, not just classroom knowledge.
2. ARISE (Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering – NYU Tandon)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NYC
Cost: Free + $2,000 stipend (funded by Pinkerton Foundation)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective (10–15%)
Dates: June 1 – August 14
Application Deadline: February 27
Eligibility: Rising 11th–12th graders; full-time NYC residents attending NYC schools
In this program, you’ll conduct real research in an NYU lab, working directly with faculty and mentors across fields like machine learning, AI, and data science. The program starts with 4 weeks of structured training (research methods, coding, safety, and writing), followed by 6 weeks of in-person lab work on active research projects. You’ll gain 150+ hours of hands-on experience. Throughout the program, you’ll build technical skills while contributing to real-world research problems. You’ll also present your work at a formal colloquium and major symposium, giving you strong academic exposure. By the end, you’ll have research experience, mentorship, and a high-impact project for college applications.
3. AEOP High School Internships (U.S. Army Educational Outreach Program)
Location: In-person at partner labs (including NYC-area placements)
Cost: Paid (stipend varies by location & duration)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 15%
Dates: Typically 6–10 weeks (summer); varies by position
Application Deadline: Varies by position
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents; high school students (grades 9–12)
AEOP places you inside Army-funded research labs and university research centers where you work on real STEM projects under the supervision of scientists and engineers. If you apply for computer science-related placements, your work may involve areas like cybersecurity, data analysis, software systems, artificial intelligence, computational modeling, or defense-related technology research, depending on the host lab. The internship is highly research-oriented, so much of your time goes into solving technical problems, analyzing data, testing systems, or contributing to ongoing projects alongside professional researchers. You also receive mentorship throughout the program and attend workshops connected to STEM careers, research methods, and professional development.
4. TECH360: Intro to AI (AOT – America On Tech)
Location: Hybrid (NYC cohort with required in-person sessions in Midtown NYC)
Cost: Free + $500 stipend upon completion
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (priority for underrepresented students)
Dates: Cycle 1: June 29 – July 16; Cycle 2: July 27 – August 13
Application Deadline: Priority: May 3 | Final: May 24
Eligibility: Rising 11th–12th graders attending NYC high schools
In this program, you’ll learn how AI actually works, from machine learning and data science basics to generative AI tools. You’ll explore how AI models are built, trained, and used in real-world applications. Throughout the program, you’ll work on hands-on projects and collaborate in teams to solve real problems. The experience culminates in a final project where you pitch an AI-powered product to mock clients. You’ll also learn how to use AI tools ethically and effectively, which is a major focus. By the end, you’ll have practical AI knowledge, a project for your portfolio, and exposure to tech careers.
5. STEM Research Academy (CUNY STEM RA)
Location: Multiple City University of New York campuses across NYC
Cost: Free + stipend + MetroCard
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (cohort-based across campuses)
Dates: Spring semester (pre-college course) + 6-week summer research
Application Deadline: Varies (typically winter–spring)
Eligibility: NYC public high school students in the 10th or 11th grade during the spring semester
In this program, you’ll learn how real research works before actually doing it, starting with a spring pre-college course on research methods and scientific thinking. In the summer, you’ll work in a CUNY lab on hands-on research projects, including areas like computer science, engineering, and data analysis. You’ll be mentored by faculty and researchers, gaining exposure to real academic workflows. The experience is fully immersive, with lab work, collaboration, and skill-building in STEM fields. You’ll also present your research at a major exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History. By the end, you’ll have research experience, college credit exposure, and a strong academic project for applications.
6. SRMP (Science Research Mentoring Program – American Museum of Natural History)
Location: American Museum of Natural History
Cost: Free + $2,500 stipend + optional college credit (CUNY)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective (10–15%)
Dates: August – June
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: NYC high school students (grades 10–11); must meet program/school criteria.
In this program, you’ll work on a year-long original research project with a museum scientist, not on pre-designed assignments. You’ll learn to code (Python/R), analyze data, and apply scientific methods to real-world problems. The program is hands-on and mentor-driven, with you meeting twice weekly to actively develop your project. You’ll also build research, writing, and presentation skills while collaborating with peers. By the end, you’ll present your research and become part of a professional scientific community. You’ll walk away with real research experience, coding skills, and a strong project for college applications.
7. TKS (The Knowledge Society – NYC Cohort)
Location: NYC (in-person cohort sessions + additional events)
Cost: $639/month + $1,000 deposit (financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (40 students per cohort)
Dates: September – June (10 months)
Application Deadline: Rolling (apply early)
Eligibility: Ages 13–17; English proficiency required
In this program, you’ll work on real-world tech projects in areas like AI, innovation, and emerging technologies, not just classroom exercises. Through the “Focus Process,” you’ll identify your interests and build projects with guidance from mentors and industry experts. You’ll also solve real challenges from global organizations like the United Nations, Google, and Microsoft, applying structured problem-solving frameworks. The program emphasizes first-principles thinking, building ambitious “moonshot” ideas, and developing a strong personal portfolio. You’ll receive 1-on-1 coaching, mentorship, and exposure to startup and tech ecosystems. By the end, you’ll have projects, skills, and industry exposure that go far beyond typical high school programs.
8. Science Honors Program (SHP – Columbia University)
Location: Columbia University (Morningside Heights, NYC)
Cost: $900/year ($450/semester) for incoming students; $50 application fee (financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: September – May
Application Deadline: April 15
Eligibility: Grades 10–12; must live within 75 miles of campus
In this program, you’ll take advanced, college-level STEM and computer science courses taught by active Columbia researchers, not standard high school classes. You can study topics like Python programming, data structures, quantum computing, and data analysis, depending on your course selection. The program is rigorous and academically intense, with a strong focus on problem-solving and real scientific thinking. You’ll also learn directly from experts working on cutting-edge research, gaining exposure to higher-level concepts early. Classes are discussion-based and hands-on, often involving coding and applied work. By the end, you’ll have advanced CS knowledge and academic depth that stands out for top college applications.
9. GSTEM (Girls in STEM – NYU Summer Research Program)
Location: New York University (NYC campus + partner labs)
Cost: $5,500 tuition (scholarships available; housing extra)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective (40 students)
Dates: June 30 – August 8 (6 weeks)
Application Deadline: March 2
Eligibility: Current 11th graders (open to all who support the mission)
In this program, you’ll work one-on-one with a researcher on an independent STEM project, including areas like computer science, machine learning, and data analysis. You’ll gain hands-on lab and coding experience, not just theory, while building real technical skills. Throughout the program, you’ll develop scientific writing, programming, and presentation abilities through workshops and mentorship. You’ll also visit STEM institutions and meet professionals, expanding your exposure to real careers. The program ends with a formal research presentation at Symposium Day, where you showcase your work. By the end, you’ll have research experience, a technical project, and strong college-level exposure in CS/STEM.
10. Computer Science Summer Program NYC (NextGen Bootcamp)
Location: 185 Madison Avenue, NYC (in-person)
Cost: $3,999 tuition
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Small classes (8–15 students)
Dates: June 29 – July 30; July 20 – August 13
Application Deadline: Rolling (early enrollment recommended)
Eligibility: High school students; no prior coding experience required
In this program, you’ll learn both Java and Python through 95 hours of hands-on, project-based training, not passive lectures. The program covers object-oriented programming, data science fundamentals, and real-world coding applications, giving you practical skills. You’ll spend most of your time building projects, writing code, and solving problems like a developer. The curriculum also introduces AI concepts and how programming connects to real-world AI systems. With small class sizes and 1-on-1 mentoring, you’ll get personalized support throughout. By the end, you’ll have strong coding fundamentals, multiple projects, and a certificate to showcase your skills.
11. Java Summer Program NYC (NextGen Bootcamp)
Location: 185 Madison Avenue, Midtown Manhattan, NYC (in-person)
Cost: $2,195 tuition
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Small classes (8–15 students)
Dates: July 20 – July 30; August 3 – August 13
Application Deadline: Rolling (early enrollment recommended)
Eligibility: High school students; beginner-friendly (no prior coding required)
In this program, you’ll learn Java from scratch through 50 hours of hands-on, project-based training, not just theory. The course covers object-oriented programming, recursion, and core AP Computer Science topics, giving you a strong academic edge. You’ll spend most of your time coding, building projects, and solving real programming problems. The program also introduces AI concepts and how Java is used in modern technology systems. With small class sizes and 1-on-1 mentoring, you’ll get personalized guidance throughout. By the end, you’ll have a portfolio-ready Java project and solid programming fundamentals.
12. Python Data Science & AI Machine Learning Program (High School – NYC)
Location: 185 Madison Ave, NYC (in-person) | also available online
Cost: $2,195 tuition
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Small classes (8–15 students)
Dates: June 29 – July 17; July 20 – July 30; August 3 – August 13
Application Deadline: Rolling enrollment
Eligibility: High school students; no prior coding required
In this program, you’ll learn Python from scratch and progress to data science and machine learning, all through hands-on, project-based training. The program includes 45 hours of live instruction, where you’ll work with tools like Pandas, Matplotlib, and Scikit-learn to analyze and visualize data. You’ll also explore how Python powers AI systems and supports machine learning workflows. Classes are interactive and small, so you get personalized guidance and 1-on-1 mentoring. You’ll complete real-world projects that you can add to your portfolio. By the end, you’ll have practical coding skills, AI exposure, and a certificate to showcase your work.
13. Kode With Klossy Summer Coding Camp
Location: NYC
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (small cohorts per camp)
Dates: August 3 – August 14
Application Deadline: Varies (typically spring)
Eligibility: Ages 13–18; open to young women & gender-expansive students
In this program, you’ll learn to code through hands-on projects in AI, data science, or web development, even if you’re starting from scratch. You’ll build real applications using Python, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Depending on your track, you’ll train AI models, analyze data, or design full websites. The program focuses on practical skills, problem-solving, and understanding how tech impacts the real world. You’ll also join a strong community of peers and alumni in tech, which continues beyond the program. By the end, you’ll have a complete coding project and foundational CS skills you can build on.
14. CS@Mines Summer Internships (Computer Science – Colorado School of Mines)
Location: Virtual
Cost: Not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (30–50 spots across programs)
Dates: Late May – Early August
Application Deadline: April 10
Eligibility: High school & community college students; no prior CS experience required
In this program, you’ll work on real computer science projects in areas like AI, robotics, and cybersecurity, often as part of a faculty-led research team. Depending on placement, you may contribute to active research or build programming projects with a team. The experience is hands-on and flexible, with workloads typically around 5–20 hours per week. You’ll also gain exposure to industry and academic perspectives through guest speakers and mentorship. Some roles allow you to earn a stipend through research scholarships, adding real value. By the end, you’ll have practical CS experience and exposure to research environments.
15. Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine & Imaging Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Dates: June 16 — 27
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: High school students in the U.S. who are over the age of 14 can apply. Students with strong math or computer programming skills or experience with a healthcare project are encouraged to apply.
Stanford’s Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI) Summer Research Internship introduces you to how machine learning and AI systems are used in healthcare and medical imaging research. During the program, you work with tools and frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch while exploring topics such as deep learning, neural networks, medical image analysis, and predictive modeling. Research projects may involve analyzing datasets from X-rays, MRIs, or clinical imaging systems while learning how AI models are trained, tested, and optimized for healthcare applications. The program also introduces areas like natural language processing for clinical data and bias evaluation in medical AI systems.
Image Source: Columbia University