Summer programs for high school students in Michigan offer a great opportunity to develop advanced skill sets, explore academic interests, and gain meaningful hands-on experience outside the traditional classroom setting. From science and technology to the arts and public service, these programs are designed to challenge high school students intellectually while helping them grow personally and professionally. Michigan is home to a wide range of universities, research centers, and nonprofit organizations that offer free or fully funded summer opportunities specifically tailored for high schoolers each year.
If you’re living in Michigan, choosing a local program can also be a financially smart decision, cutting down on travel and accommodation costs while still providing high-impact learning experiences. Additionally, several online programs now allow students to participate remotely, offering greater flexibility and accessibility regardless of location. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 15 free summer programs for high school students in Michigan:
16 Free Summer Programs for High School Students in Michigan
1. Physics of Atomic Nuclei (PAN)
Location: Michigan State University
Dates: July 20–26
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 24-25 students annually
Application deadline: Early December – early March
Eligibility: Open to U.S. students who are currently at the high school level
The Physics of Atomic Nuclei (PAN) program at Michigan State University gives you the chance to explore the fundamentals of nuclear physics over one week in a fully funded, residential setting. Hosted at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams, this program combines lectures from research scientists with hands-on experiments that introduce you to radiation detection, cosmology connections, and nuclear modeling. You’ll take part in mini-research projects, such as mapping nuclide charts or simulating particle interactions, while living on campus with students from across the country. The program also includes lab tours and discussions on topics like antimatter and measurement precision. Designed for students with an interest in advanced science, PAN allows you to experience the intersection of research and education in a real lab setting.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Moderately selective
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
Veritas AI offers structured pathways into artificial intelligence for high school students with different levels of experience. You can start with the AI Scholars program, a live, 10-session course that introduces you to neural networks, natural language processing, and the real-world use of AI systems. If you already have a foundation in AI or want to go further, the AI Fellowship lets you complete a mentored research project, which may be eligible for publication in a student journal. Along the way, you’ll receive project feedback, editorial guidance, and mentoring from graduate students or researchers. The program focuses on both technical knowledge and practical applications, allowing you to work through problems independently or in collaboration with peers. Sessions are held virtually, making it widely accessible regardless of location.
3. University of Michigan’s Aspirnaut Program
Location: University of Michigan
Dates: June 16–July 25
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 5–10 students accepted annually
Application deadline: February 16
Eligibility: Open to rising seniors who are at least 16 years old. Preference is given to students from socio-economically disadvantaged communities.
If you’re a high school student from a rural or under-resourced Michigan community with a strong interest in the life sciences, the Aspirnaut Program at the University of Michigan could be a good fit. You’ll work in a professional research lab on U-M’s Ann Arbor campus for six weeks, participating in an individual research project alongside experienced scientists. The program includes a stipend, housing, meals, and access to academic resources, as well as college readiness activities such as standardized test prep and mentorship. You’ll engage in lab-based learning during the day and community events in the evenings. At the end of the program, you’ll present your findings to peers and faculty, gaining both scientific experience and confidence in communicating your work.
4. Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Cost: The program is fully funded!
Application Deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Vary based on yearly cohort. Multiple 12-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Eligibility:You must be enrolled in high school or plan to enroll as a freshman in college in the fall and must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement.
The Lumiere Breakthrough Scholar Program is the equivalent of the Individual Research Scholar Program at Lumiere Education. In the flagship program, talented high-school students are paired with world-class Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll develop an independent research paper. You can choose topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. This program is a solid option if you are interested in interdisciplinary research and want to create an individual research paper. You can apply here!
5. Wayne State University’s Discovery to Cure High School Internship Program
Location: Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit
Dates: June 23 – August 15
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 25 students annually, less than 12%
Application deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Open to open to rising seniors at least 16 years of age
This eight-week internship at Wayne State University immerses you in biomedical research focused on areas such as cancer, reproductive biology, and precision medicine. Working in a lab at the C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, you’ll be mentored by faculty or research staff while conducting experiments, analyzing data, and attending weekly scientific seminars. The program requires about 40 hours a week, closely reflecting the pace and structure of academic research. You’ll gain insight into the day-to-day work of scientists and build practical lab skills in a professional environment. At the conclusion of the program, you’ll present your work, sharpening your communication and critical thinking abilities.
6. Quantum Motor City Summer Camp
Location: Michigan State University
Dates: July 9 – 11
Acceptance rate/cohort size: NA
Application deadline: May 9
Eligibility: Open to students in high school
The Quantum Motor City Summer Camp introduces high school students to the principles of quantum computing through a focused three-day residential experience. You’ll learn how quantum systems differ from classical computers and apply that knowledge by writing basic programs for real IBM quantum machines. The camp combines lectures, lab tours, and hands-on projects in quantum science, mathematics, and computer engineering. Outside of academic sessions, you’ll stay on campus and interact with faculty and peers interested in cutting-edge STEM fields. The program also touches on broader applications of quantum technology in data security, encryption, and materials science.
7. Cyber Defenders Camp
Location: Northern Michigan University, Marquette
Dates: Virtual sessions: June | In-person camp: July 13–18
Acceptance rate/cohort size: NA
Application deadline: May 22
Eligibility: Open to students entering 9th, 10th, and 11th grades
Northern Michigan University’s Cyber Defenders Camp blends virtual and in-person learning to give you foundational experience in cybersecurity. You’ll start with online activities in June, followed by a weeklong residential camp in July, where instruction takes place at the Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center. Topics include ethical hacking, basic programming, and Internet of Things (IoT) security, all taught through interactive labs and real-world simulations. Evenings are reserved for group recreation, making the experience both academic and social. After the in-person portion, you’ll complete a final round of virtual projects designed to reinforce what you’ve learned. The program is especially relevant if you’re interested in tech, digital safety, or careers in cyber infrastructure.
8. Multicultural Apprenticeship Program (MAP) by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) at MSU
Location: Michigan State University
Dates: July 6 – August 1
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Moderately competitive
Application deadline: April 18
Eligibility: Open to high school students currently in 10th and 11th grades with a strong interest and aptitude in math, science, and other academic areas.
At Michigan State University, the Multicultural Apprenticeship Program connects high school students with research in agriculture, environmental science, and natural resource fields. Over four weeks, you’ll work with a faculty mentor in areas like food science, veterinary medicine, crop and soil sciences, or environmental engineering, gaining practical lab or field experience. In addition to your research, you’ll take part in leadership seminars, field trips, and cultural events designed to support both personal and academic growth. The program is fully residential and includes meals, housing, and a weekly stipend. You’ll also meet other high school students from across Michigan, creating a campus-like environment that introduces you to college life and career pathways in agriculture-related industries.
9. ANR Institute for Multicultural Students (AIMS)
Location: Michigan State University
Dates: July 20–25
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Moderately selective
Application deadline: April 11
Eligibility: Open to high school students in 9th through 11th grades
The AIMS program brings high school students to a university campus for a weeklong exploration of careers in agriculture, environmental science, and natural resource management. Through tours, demonstrations, and interactive workshops, you’ll get to see how fields like agribusiness, engineering, and conservation work in practice. The program includes structured educational and social activities, giving you a balance of hands-on learning and peer engagement. You’ll live in residence halls, dine in campus facilities, and spend time with faculty and students who can provide insight into these academic pathways. AIMS is designed to deepen your understanding of what agricultural science can look like beyond traditional farming roles.
10. High School Summer Science Program at Eastern Michigan University
Location: Eastern Michigan University
Dates: June 23 – July 14
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive, small cohort
Application deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Open to all area high school students who have completed at least one science class
At Eastern Michigan University, the High School Summer Science Program allows you to carry out a real scientific investigation in a small team. You’ll work with a faculty mentor and a university student for three weeks on a project in biology, chemistry, or physics. You’ll learn how to design experiments, collect and interpret data, and present your findings at the end of the session. The program also emphasizes lab safety, research ethics, and clear scientific communication. By the time you give your final presentation, you’ll have gained both technical experience and a better understanding of how scientific inquiry works at the university level.
11. Girls Who Code Summer Programs
Dates: Virtual Summer Immersion Program: Round One: July 7–18 | Round Two: July 28–August 8 | Pathways: June 30–August 8
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrolment
Application deadline: April 11
Eligibility: 9th–11th-grade girls and non-binary students can apply for the Virtual Summer Immersion Program; 9th–12th-grade girls and non-binary students can apply for Pathways
Girls Who Code’s Summer Programs offer a no-cost, virtual introduction to computer science for high school students of all experience levels. You can choose between the two-week Summer Immersion Program, which features live instruction on game design and user experience, or the six-week Self-Paced Program, which lets you explore topics like web development, data science, or cybersecurity independently. In both formats, you’ll build practical skills using languages like Python, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while connecting with instructors and peers from across the country. The programs also include virtual events with tech industry professionals, offering a look into real-world careers.
12. ASPIRE by Johns Hopkins
Location: Virtual
Dates: June 24–August 21
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive
Application deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors who are at least 15 years old, have a minimum GPA of 2.8, and are U.S. citizens
ASPIRE is a mentored STEM internship program for high school juniors and seniors, hosted by the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. Over the course of your experience, you’ll work on a project under the guidance of APL staff in fields like artificial intelligence, aerospace, cybersecurity, or lab-based experimental work. The program is unpaid but emphasizes learning over performance, offering support in both technical and interpersonal skill-building. You’ll choose areas and types of projects you’re most interested in, ranging from coding and software development to research, public outreach, and hardware design. Projects vary widely and are shaped by mentor expertise, so each student’s experience is unique.
13. George Mason University Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: Virtual projects available
Dates: June 18 – August 8
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive
Application deadline: February 2
Eligibility: Students who are at least 15 years old
George Mason University’s ASSIP is a full-time, eight-week summer internship that lets you conduct advanced STEM research under the supervision of university faculty. As a high school student, you’ll gain exposure to scientific methods, technical equipment, and current research in areas like neuroscience, climate science, drug discovery, robotics, or data science for social good. You’ll attend professional development seminars, learn how to write and present scientific findings, and collaborate with fellow interns and mentors in a lab setting. In some cases, your work may contribute to scientific publications or conference presentations.
14. Kode With Klossy
Location: Virtual
Dates: Multiple 2-week sessions available between June 2 and August 15
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Moderately selective
Application deadline: March; dates vary
Eligibility: Girls and gender-expansive teens between the ages of 13 and 18
Kode With Klossy is a free, two-week coding program focused on empowering high school students of underrepresented genders in STEM. You’ll take part in one of four curriculum tracks–web development, machine learning, mobile app creation, or data science–each combining instruction with hands-on projects. For example, you might build a personal website, train a chatbot using Python, or develop a functioning iOS app using Swift. The camp environment promotes collaboration and community building, with support from instructors and peers throughout the experience. In addition to technical instruction, the program encourages creative problem-solving and introduces key ideas around ethics and accessibility in tech.
15. EdReady
Location: Virtual
Dates: Varies
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrolment
Application deadline: No deadline
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 4–12
EdReady is a web-based learning platform designed to help Michigan students strengthen essential math and English skills. After taking a diagnostic assessment, you receive targeted learning paths that adapt to their individual needs, allowing them to progress at their own pace. EdReady Math covers over 400 critical concepts such as fractions, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics, supporting both foundational and advanced mathematical understanding. EdReady English, for grades 8 -12, focuses on more than 400 key language skills, including identifying main ideas, analyzing bias, developing thesis statements, using sources, and correcting grammar. Both programs reinforce academic readiness for college and careers, while also enhancing cross-disciplinary competencies like argument analysis and quantitative reasoning.
16. Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation
Location: Remote . You can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Dates: Vary based on yearly cohort. Multiple 12-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Moderately selective
Application deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Eligibility: High school students who demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
The Lumiere Breakthrough Scholar Program is a fully funded opportunity tailored for high school students from low-income backgrounds who are interested in conducting advanced academic research. Over 12 weeks, you’ll work one-on-one with a PhD mentor from a top-tier university to explore a topic of your choice, whether it’s psychology, economics, engineering, or another field. The program guides you through each step of the research process, including designing your question, reviewing academic literature, analyzing data, and writing a formal research paper. All participants receive comprehensive support and full financial aid covering mentorship and program access. This remote experience is designed to mirror college-level research, helping you build academic depth and critical thinking skills.
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 – Kode With Klossy