If you’ve ever wondered how companies predict trends, how Spotify recommends your next favorite song, or how public health experts track outbreaks, data science is at the heart of it all. It’s where coding, math, and critical thinking are used to solve real-world problems.
For high school students, summer programs in data science are a great way to gain experience, work with real datasets, and start thinking like a data scientist. You’ll learn to analyze information, find patterns, and develop skills that are useful in fields like tech, finance, and even public policy. Beyond technical know-how, you’ll also develop problem-solving, logical reasoning, and data interpretation skills, which are beneficial for the future.
Below, you’ll find 12 data science summer research programs that provide structured projects and mentorship. But if you’re looking for programs that won’t cost you anything, you can check out our other blog here.
12 Data Science Summer Research Programs for High School Students
1. Data Science Academy – Wharton Global Youth Program
Location: Philadelphia, USA (on campus)
Cost: Costs range from $7,899 to $9,799, depending on the particular course. There are online courses as well, which range from $329 to $4,099
Application Deadline: Priority deadline* is January 29, and the Final Deadline is April 2
Dates: Jul 13 – August 2
Eligibility: All high school students with a minimum GPA of 3.3
The Wharton Data Science Academy offers high school students a hands-on opportunity to master data science techniques while solving real-world problems. In this program, you’ll learn Data Visualization, Data Wrangling, and Modern Machine Learning, with a special focus on the R programming language – widely used in academia and industry. You’ll work under the guidance of Wharton instructors and receive support from undergraduate and graduate teaching assistants. Throughout the program, you’ll analyze real-world data, engage with guest speakers from the field, and collaborate on a team project. At the end of the program, you’ll share your project findings with Wharton faculty and peers.
2. Pre-College Data Science Programs – Harvard Summer School
Location: Harvard University Campus
Cost: $5,800 + $75
Application Deadline: February 12, and the late application deadline is April 9. Course registration for accepted students must be completed by June 2
Dates:
Session I: June 22–July 3
Session II: July 6–18
Session III: July 20–August 1
Eligibility: All applicants must be high school students
The Harvard Pre-College Summer Program allows high school students to dive into university-level computer science courses, providing a deeper understanding of Data Science, Quantum Computing, and Computational Analysis. In the Introduction to Data Science with a Focus on Visualization, you will learn to collect and analyze data using Python, creating visualizations to communicate findings effectively. In the process, you will develop proficiency in web scraping, data cleaning, and data visualization using both Python and JavaScript. In the Quantum Information and Quantum Computation course, you will explore the fundamentals of Quantum Mechanics, learning how spin states function as qubits and how quantum systems transform information processing. Throughout the program, you will work collaboratively in small groups, apply what you have learned, and take part in co-curricular activities designed to broaden your academic and personal growth.
3. DSI Summer Lab, University of Chicago
Location: John Crerar Library at the UChicago Hyde Park campus
Cost: No cost, stipend for the 8-week program in previous years was $4,800
Application Deadline: January 12. Applications closed currently
Dates: June 16 – August 8
Eligibility: Applicants in High school must be located in the Chicago area, international students must provide authorization to pursue employment in the United States, and the students must be familiar with at least one programming language
The Data Science Institute Summer Lab at the University of Chicago is an 8-week paid research program designed for high school and undergraduate students seeking real-world experience in data-driven research. You will work closely with mentors across fields such as Computer Science, Social Science, Climate Policy, and Biomedical Research. No prior research experience is required; however, familiarity with programming languages such as Python and Java, and coursework in computer science, statistics, or math is preferred. You’ll develop research skills, teamwork, and technical expertise as you go along.
4. NYU Tandon’s Summer Program for Machine Learning
Location: NYU’s Washington Square Park campus
Cost: $3,230 or $2,920 ($2,500 Tuition + $100 Materials fee + $100 Events fee + $308 Per Week for Housing (optional) + $192 Per 10 Meal Packages plus $30)
Application Deadline: April 20
Dates:
Session 1: June 17 – 28
Session 2: July 8 – 19
Session 3: July 29 – August 9
Eligibility: This program is open to high school students who have completed Algebra 2 or equivalent and have had some programming experience in any language, and with a minimum 3.0 GPA
The Summer Program for Machine Learning at NYU Tandon School of Engineering is a two-week experience that provides a strong foundation to students in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. The course focuses on Neural Networks, Linear Regression, and Model Development, offering a balance between theoretical understanding and practical application. You will explore the algorithms and mathematics that power technologies such as Autonomous Vehicles, Speech Recognition Systems, and Diagnostic Tools in Healthcare. Through hands-on projects, you will design, train, and test models while applying problem-solving approaches to address real-world challenges. You are paired with NYU Tandon faculty and graduate mentors, who provide technical guidance and academic support throughout the experience. The program concludes with a final presentation, allowing you to showcase your projects and strengthen your ability to communicate complex concepts effectively.
5. Computer Science Summer Institute – Introductory Track UCLA
Location: UCLA Campus, Los Angeles
Cost: $850 onwards
Application Deadline: June 13
Dates: June 23 – July 11
Eligibility: All applicants must be 9th-12th graders in Spring of the year of the summer program
The Computer Science Introductory Track, offered by UCLA, is a structured three-week program designed for high school students eager to build a strong foundation in computer science. Modeled after UCLA’s CS30 course, the program introduces core concepts such as Functional Decomposition, Data Types and Control Structures, using Python as the primary programming language. You will learn how to design, implement, and test programs that solve real problems, while discovering the creative potential of coding. The program combines lectures, coding exercises, discussion sessions, and lab tours. You’ll build functional programs, explore algorithms such as sorting and recursion, and work with Turtle graphics and file operations. The experience culminates in a final hackathon, where students apply their new skills to real-world challenges under the guidance of UCLA faculty and mentors.
6. MITES Summer MIT
Location: MIT Campus, Boston, MA
Cost: Free of charge
Dates: Six weeks from late June through early August
Application Deadline: Applications are open now! Apply here
Eligibility: To be eligible, students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and High school juniors
The MITES Summer Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a fully funded six-week residential course that combines academic study with applied research experiences in STEM. You will deepen your knowledge of Mathematics, Science, and Humanities, while exploring specialized electives such as Machine Learning, Genomics, and Engineering Design. Through laboratory work, field visits, and workshops, you’ll connect theory with real-world innovation. The program also offers mentorship and college preparation, equipping students to build the technical expertise and analytical skills essential for advanced study and careers in scientific and engineering disciplines.
7. CS Scholars – Pre-College Programs – Carnegie Mellon University
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh
Cost: Free of cost
Application Deadline: March 1
Dates: June 21 – July 19
Eligibility: Applicants must be between the 10th and 11th grade years in high school during the summer of the program and must be at least 16 years old
The CS Scholars (CSS) program at Carnegie Mellon University is a fully funded, four-week residential experience that introduces high school students to computer science through college-level courses, hands-on research projects, faculty lectures, and industry engagement. You will learn core programming skills in Python, including Algorithms, Data Structures, and Problem-Solving, while strengthening Computational Thinking through a pre-concepts of math course. Beyond the classroom, you’ll collaborate on a team project that applies computer science to real-world challenges, participate in workshops on college readiness and equity in STEM, and engage directly with Carnegie Mellon faculty and industry leaders.
8. Stanford AI4ALL
Location: Online
Cost: $4,000. Financial aid is available
Application Deadline: January 24
Dates: June 18 – July 2
Eligibility: All rising 10th graders who are over the age of 14 by the start of the program
Stanford AI4ALL, offered by Stanford University, is a three-week online program that introduces high school students to the world of Artificial Intelligence through faculty-led lectures, guided research, and mentorship. You will dive into fields such as Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Robotics, and Computational Biology, while also examining the societal implications of AI. Through hands-on learning, you’ll use AI tools to address real-world issues from medical diagnostics to disaster response, and poverty alleviation. Working closely with Stanford researchers and industry professionals, you’ll gain insight into cutting-edge innovations and learn how to communicate your ideas through research presentations.
9. Data Science & AI Certificate – NobleDesktop at NYC
Location: 185 Madison Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York City, with a Virtual option
Cost: $3,995, which can be paid in installments
Application Deadline: No deadline mentioned
Dates: No specific dates, the program’s duration is 4 weeks full-time (weekdays), or 20 weeks part-time (evenings or Saturdays)
Eligibility: No specific eligibility criteria, except for Individuals with a strong interest in data science with Python, machine learning, data visualization, and SQL skills
The Data Science Summer Program, offered by Nobledesktop in NYC, provides an in-depth introduction to Python, SQL, automation, and machine learning. You will learn how to write efficient Python code, manage and query Databases, perform Statistical Analysis, and build Predictive Models using Scikit-learn. The program emphasizes applied learning through industry-aligned projects, where you will design interactive data visualizations and dashboards using tools such as Matplotlib and Plotly. You’ll receive personalized feedback and career guidance through one-on-one mentoring sessions with experienced data professionals, collaborate with experts in a team environment, and present your findings to strengthen both your technical and communication skills..
10. Coding Academy | Tufts University
Location: Tufts University – Medford / Somerville Campus
Cost:
Commuter: $4,225
Residential: $5,750
Application Deadline: May 1
Dates: July 20 – August 1
Eligibility: All applicants must be entering grades 10-12 or a Spring high school graduate in the program year
Tufts University’s Coding Programs for High School Students offer a two-week experience for high school students that blends coding instruction with applied data science and technology exploration. You will develop skills in Python Programming, Data Analysis, and Software Development, while exploring topics such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Cybersecurity. The program includes daily coding exercises, workshops, and team-based projects, where you’ll apply what you learn to create and present a final project. Along the way, you’ll connect with Tufts faculty and industry professionals, as well as visit Boston-area tech companies such as Google and HubSpot. With tracks from beginner (Coding 101) to advanced (Coding 301), the program ensures that your learning pace matches your current expertise.
11. CS4CS (Cyber Security for Computer Science), NYU Tandon
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Free of cost
Application Deadline: May 15
Dates: July 14 – August 8
Eligibility: This program is open to only NYC resident students currently in 10th or 11th grade
CS4CS (Cyber Security for Computer Science), offered by NYU Tandon School of Engineering, is a university-level summer program that introduces high school students to the world of cybersecurity and computer science. You will learn the fundamentals of Ethical Hacking, Cryptography, Steganography, Digital Forensics, Privacy, and Data Protection, while gaining experience through coding projects and real-world security analysis exercises. The program also features theater-based communication workshops to strengthen your ability to present technical ideas clearly and effectively.
12. UC Berkeley Pre-College Program: Data Analytics
Location: UC Berkeley
Cost: 8 week session: $15,950; 6 week session: $14,650
Application Deadline: March 10
Dates:
Session C: June 23–August 15
Session D: July 7–August 15
Eligibility: High school graduates who will be 16 or 17 years old during the summer may apply for the Pre-College Scholars Program. There are different requirements for the residential track and for international students. Check here
The Pre-College Program at the University of California, Berkeley offers summer courses in data analytics through its Foundations of Data Science curriculum. You will build skills in Data Visualization, Statistical Analysis, Computer Programming, and Data-driven Decision-Making. Through projects and case studies, you’ll analyze and interpret datasets that reveal how data science shapes industries and innovation. Working with instructors and peers helps you develop problem-solving and analytical reasoning skills, while presenting your findings builds confidence in communicating technical insights effectively.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Image source – UC Berkeley