Fall (September to December), offers high school students a chance to continue exploring their interests beyond the classroom. During this season, many universities and organizations host programs that introduce advanced topics, promote research-based learning, and encourage analytical thinking.
Why Choose a Fall Program?
Fall programs differ from summer opportunities in both structure and pacing. Since they run alongside the academic year. This schedule encourages consistent engagement with the material over several weeks or months, allowing concepts to develop gradually rather than in an intensive, short-term setting.
Here is a list of 12 fall science programs for high school students to consider.
12 Fall Science Programs for High School Students
1. Harvard-MIT Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP)
Location: Harvard or MIT campuses (virtually available too)
Stipend: Paid
Application Deadline: May 1 – 10 (tentative)
Dates: September – May
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors (including U.S. and international students)
The SRMP program immerses you in year-long original research projects in astrophysics or climate science. You will learn scientific research methodologies and data analysis while working in a small group setting, guided by mentors from these institutions. Weekly meetings include research check-ins, seminars, and interactive discussions with scientists, providing continuous professional collaboration and intellectual engagement. The program culminates in a formal presentation at a Harvard-hosted symposium, where you will gain experience in communicating scientific findings to a professional audience, reinforcing both your research and presentation skills.
2. MIT PRIMES
Location: MIT, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: December 1
Dates: Year-long (January – December); scheduled in four research phases covering the fall season as well
Eligibility: Greater Boston high school juniors and sophomores; More details here
The MIT PRIMES program is a year-long research opportunity where you will work on advanced problems in pure and applied mathematics or computational biology under the guidance of MIT researchers. You will learn to engage in individual or collaborative research, develop algorithms, use computer algebra systems such as Mathematica and SAGE, and apply theoretical problem-solving techniques. You will gain experience in writing research papers, submitting work to professional journals, preprinting archives, and presenting your findings at an annual conference. Additionally, you will develop skills to prepare for national science competitions.
3. Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program (ASDRP)
Location: Fremont, CA (in-person and remote options available)
Cost: $1,070
Application Deadlines: May 1 – July 15 (priority), August 15 (final)
Program Dates: September 1 – January 15
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 in the Bay Area; No prior research experience required
The ASDRP program provides a year-round opportunity to engage in original research projects across disciplines such as cancer biology, artificial intelligence, drug discovery, psychology, urban sustainability, and radio astronomy. You will learn to conduct rigorous research under the guidance of experienced mentors from both academia and industry, developing skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Hands-on experience includes contributing to projects with potential for publication, conference presentations, or patent applications. The program incorporates weekly research colloquia, structured mentorship, and professional development workshops, fostering collaboration within a community of peers and professionals, and culminating in opportunities to present your work in formal academic or industry settings.
4. California Academy of Sciences: Careers in Science (CiS)
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
Stipend: Paid
Application Deadline: February 1 – April 1
Dates: Year-round
Eligibility: 9th or 10th graders in SFUSD (San Francisco Unified School District) with at least a 2.5 GPA and a C or higher in science and math
The CiS Intern Program provides an immersive experience in environmental science and research specifically for San Francisco public school students. You will learn practical fieldwork techniques, contribute to sustainability projects, and assist in public science education initiatives. The program develops skills in science communication, data collection, and foundational financial literacy, complemented by workshops on college preparation. Through collaboration with professional scientists and educators, you will gain hands-on experience and have opportunities to present your work at local STEM events and conferences, fostering both scientific understanding and outreach capabilities over an extended commitment.
5. Alley Pond Environmental Center: Field Biology Internship (FBI)
Location: Alley Pond Park and other sites in Queens, NY
Cost: $150 (financial aid available upon request)
Application Deadline: August 1
Dates: Saturdays from September 27 – November 9
Eligibility: High school students (14+)
The Field Biology Internship (FBI), focused on urban ecosystems in Queens, introduces you to ecological fieldwork through direct research in locations such as Alley Pond Park. You will learn essential skills, including data collection, species identification, water and soil sampling, observational logging, experimental design, record keeping, and environmental communication. The program provides hands-on experience in applying classroom concepts to real-world environments. It also fosters collaboration with local environmental scientists, who provide professional insights into biology and conservation careers. By engaging in these activities, you will build a strong foundation in research methods and ecological science, with opportunities to present your findings and prepare for advanced STEM programs and college-level study.
6. DNA Learning Center Urban Barcode Research Program (UBRP)
Location: DNA Learning Center, Brooklyn, NY
Stipend: $500
Application Deadline: May 27
Dates: Varies, with lab training generally in August and continuing in fall and through the school year
Eligibility: NYC high school students (13+) in grades 9-12
The Urban Barcode Research Program (UBRP) provides a fall research experience focused on urban biodiversity for NYC high school students. You will learn to use DNA barcoding techniques to identify and study species native to New York City, developing skills in molecular biology, data analysis, and scientific research. The program includes workshops and an introductory lab course that build foundational research abilities, followed by an independent project guided by expert mentors. With hands-on experience spanning at least 55 hours, you will conduct original research on a variety of organisms. You’ll also have the opportunity to present your findings at a formal spring symposium, fostering collaboration with professionals and experience in scientific communication.
7. American Museum of Natural History: Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP)
Location: American Museum of Natural History, Manhattan, NYC
Stipend: $2,500
Application Deadline: Typically, March
Dates: Varies with summer component in August (4 weeks) and research lab sessions starting in fall (260 hours September – May); AMNH Colloquium in June
Eligibility: High school student in 10th or 11th grade, passing for the last three+ semesters, and having attended an AMNH partner school or previous AMNH programs
The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) offers a research experience that begins with a four-week summer institute focused on data science, AI, and machine learning. Throughout the academic year, you will work in AMNH laboratories on projects spanning astrophysics, anthropology, and genetics, developing technical skills in coding languages, data analysis, and scientific communication. You will collaborate closely with professional scientists, engage in data collection and interpretation, and learn how to effectively present your research findings. The program also includes workshops on teamwork, STEM equity, and professional development, culminating in a presentation of your work at the AMNH June Colloquium.
Location: Carnegie Science Center, Pittsburgh, PA
Cost/Stipend: None
Application Deadline: Varies as per positions available; August 1 for the school year session
Dates: Weekly during the school year (school year session)
Eligibility: High school student (14-18)
8. Carnegie Science Center Volunteers Program
The Carnegie Science Center offers a Fall program where you will engage as a teen volunteer across various departments, gaining practical experience while facilitating exhibitions, demonstrations, and science activities for visitors. You will learn to communicate scientific concepts effectively, develop public engagement skills, and apply your interests in areas such as the Buhl Planetarium, Animals & Habitats, the digital fabrication lab, or demo theatres. The program includes thorough training and orientation to prepare you for your role, with assignments tailored to your skills and availability. This experience provides opportunities to collaborate with science professionals, enhance your teamwork abilities, and contribute directly to science outreach in an interactive museum environment.
9. Research Scholars at UC San Diego
Location: University of California, San Diego, CA (online/hybrid available too)
Cost: $1,500 – $4,800, depending on the program and format
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Dates: Programs are available year-round, including summer, fall, and winter sessions
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12 (15+) with a minimum GPA of 3.0
The UC San Diego Research Scholars program provides an opportunity to engage in authentic research across various tracks, including Engineering in Medicine, Bioengineering, Life Sciences, Business Research, Medicine, and Marine Science. As a participant, you will learn to work within laboratory environments, analyze data, and execute projects that develop your understanding of research practices and methodologies. The program emphasizes collaboration with industry professionals and scientists, culminating in a poster session where you present your work to experts, enhancing your professional communication and networking abilities.
10. Stanford Online High School
Location: Virtual
Cost: $6,195 (one course); $30,970 (four or more courses). Need-based financial aid available
Application Deadline: January 8
Dates: August – June, but you can apply for fall semester courses
Eligibility: Students in grades 7-12
The Stanford Online High School (OHS) Program provides interactive, advanced online courses for students in grades 7-12, including subjects like Science, Philosophy, Astrophysics, and more. You will learn through live discussions, collaborating with peers and expert instructors—many of whom hold PhDs—developing critical thinking, communication, and subject-specific analytical skills. The program offers rigorous academic content alongside academic advising, college counseling, and wellness support. This structure allows you to engage deeply with complex material, refine your understanding through real-time interaction, and receive personalized guidance to support your educational and professional growth.
11. Introduction to Forensic Science
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Free to audit; Certificate purchase optional
Application Deadline: Self-paced
Dates: Approximately 2 weeks
Eligibility: All learners, including high school students
This online course gives you a strong foundational overview of forensic science, covering topics such as chemical analysis of evidence, DNA profiling, fingerprinting, toxicology, and case studies. You’ll learn via video lectures, readings, and assessments that introduce the scientific methods behind criminal investigations and how they are applied in real-world scenarios. Even though it’s short, the course helps you build skills in analytical thinking, laboratory reasoning, and forensic logic, which is useful if you’re interested in law, criminal justice, or science-based careers.
12. The Science of Stem Cells – Coursera
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Free to audit; Certificate purchase optional
Application Deadline: Self-paced
Dates: Approximately 1 week at 10 hours
Eligibility: All learners, including high school students
This online course from the American Museum of Natural History explores how stem cells work, how scientists use them to study and treat disease, and the ethical and policy issues involved. You’ll review the history and basic biology of stem cells, learn how they are used in disease models and therapies, and conclude with a module on the bioethics of stem-cell research. The program is particularly relevant if you’re interested in biomedical research, regenerative medicine, or child health science. Because you can complete it remotely, it fits around your existing schedule and adds a solid credential to your résumé.
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 – Carnegie Science Center