High school mathematics extends far beyond algebra and calculus. If you’re looking to explore number theory, mathematical modeling, proof writing, or applied data science, structured enrichment programs can give you that exposure early.
Indiana is home to research universities, STEM-focused institutes, and accessible summer programs that let you explore advanced mathematics without leaving the state. Whether you’re interested in pure theory or applied quantitative fields, there are several math programs for high school students in Indiana that can support deeper exploration.
Most math programs for high school students in Indiana fall into one of three categories: proof-based mathematics and theory (number theory, abstract algebra, combinatorics), applied mathematics (modeling, data analysis, engineering math), or research experiences (mentored projects, technical writing, presentations). You may develop skills in formal proof writing, LaTeX documentation, mathematical modeling, Python, R, or MATLAB for computation, statistical reasoning, and research communication.
Why should you spend your summer in Indiana?
If you’re based in Indiana, staying in-state reduces travel and housing costs. Many local programs are partially funded or subsidized. Institutions like Purdue, Indiana University, Rose-Hulman, and Ball State run structured STEM programming that allows you to connect with regional faculty and researchers. Indiana also has strong engineering and applied mathematics ecosystems, meaning several math programs for high school students in Indiana emphasize modeling, computation, and interdisciplinary applications.
Below is a curated list of 15 math programs for high school students in Indiana. You may also want to explore our related guides on math research programs for high school students here and an extended list of research programs for high school students in Indiana here.
1. Foundations in Science and Mathematics at Indiana University Bloomington
Location: Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana
Cost: Varies by course
Dates: June 3–14 (Session 1) | July 8–19 (Session 2) | Check further details over here
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions | Registration available on a first-come, first-served basis | Class sizes are capped at 15 students
Eligibility: High school students preparing for upcoming science and mathematics courses
You’ll engage with two-week intensive courses covering physics, biology, chemistry, mathematics, astronomy, psychology, neuroscience, and computer science. Instruction will focus on establishing strong foundational concepts for your high school success. The program emphasizes introductory principles and essential tools, helping you build confidence in mathematical reasoning before you encounter advanced coursework. Multiple course enrollment is permitted, enabling you to explore different mathematical and scientific disciplines simultaneously. The combination of university-level instruction and peer learning environments prepares you for the academic rigor of high school mathematics. You will also explore computational thinking and problem-solving methodologies.
2. Indiana University School of Science – STEM Summer Camp
Location: Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
Cost: $375 for all four days | Scholarships available
Dates: June 8-11
Application Deadline: May 31 | Limited to 30 participants
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12 | Open enrollment without prior coursework requirements
You’ll explore all programs offered at the School of Science through hands-on experiments. These experiments are conducted in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, gaining exposure to how mathematics underlies scientific discovery. Daily sessions run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with lunch provided, offering an intensive four-day introduction to STEM fields. This includes mathematics applications in chemistry, physics, and biology. You’ll work alongside current IU students and faculty, experiencing university laboratory environments and research practices firsthand. The program introduces mathematical concepts through practical scientific applications, demonstrating connections between abstract mathematics and observable phenomena. This short-term intensive provides an accessible entry point for students considering STEM majors. It offers affordable, local access to university-level instruction.
3. Ross Mathematics Program – Rose-Hulman Campus
Location: Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, Indiana
Cost: $7,500 | Need-based financial aid available
Dates: June 14–July 24
Application Deadline: March 8
Eligibility: High school students well-prepared in standard high school mathematics topics and eager to explore advanced mathematics | Typically ages 15-18, though exceptional younger or older students may be considered.
You’ll spend six weeks immersed in deep mathematical exploration, working primarily on number theory. The curriculum focuses on abstract mathematical concepts rather than competitive mathematics, encouraging you to develop independent thinking. You’ll also engage in collaborative problem-solving approaches. You’ll engage with challenging problem sets daily, receive mentorship from experienced mathematics instructors, and participate in a residential community of like-minded peers. The program emphasizes mathematical communication and proof-writing techniques, skills essential for advanced mathematics study and research. Through this intensive residential experience, you’ll gain exposure to mathematical thinking at the university level.
4. Purdue STEP: Seminar for Top Engineering Prospects
Location: Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
Cost: $2,500 attendance fee | Need-based scholarships available on a first-come, first-served basis
Dates: Session 1: July 5–11 | Session 2: July 12–18 | Session 3: July 19–25 | Session 4: July 26–August 1
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until all spots filled | Qualified applicants placed on waitlist once program reaches capacity
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors
You’ll participate in a week-long residential program exploring various engineering disciplines. This exploration occurs through hands-on design challenges, mathematical modeling, and collaborative problem-solving projects. The curriculum emphasizes practical application of physics principles, geometry, and computational thinking to real engineering scenarios. You’ll work in groups of four throughout the program to tackle design competitions. This will develop your teamwork, communication, and analytical modeling skills simultaneously. Faculty and current engineering students provide mentorship and career exploration guidance, offering insights into various engineering specializations requiring strong mathematical foundations.
5. Art of Problem Solving Online School
Location: Online
Cost: Varies by course
Dates: Multiple year-round sessions | Specific dates vary by course
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: All students in grades 5-12 are eligible to enrol in courses designed for their grade levels
The Art of Problem Solving offers mathematics enrichment programs designed to help students of all ages develop exceptional problem-solving skills and mathematical reasoning. Their online school provides a comprehensive collection of courses spanning introductory, intermediate, and advanced mathematics, with high school students particularly suited for intermediate and advanced levels. You’ll explore topics including intermediate algebra, precalculus, number theory, probability, olympiad geometry, calculus, and group theory through courses that range from 12 to 25 weeks in length. The program also prepares motivated students for mathematics competitions, including the International Math Olympiad, building both competition skills and deep conceptual understanding.
6. SEED/STEM Summer Program at Indiana University, Indianapolis
Location: Indiana University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
Cost/Stipend: Stipends up to $4,000 available for students meeting financial need criteria (family income at or below 300% of Federal Poverty Guidelines)
Dates: June 8–July 30
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Current Indiana high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors | Must have successfully completed at least one high school chemistry course
You’ll engage in eight weeks of full-time mentored research with faculty at Indiana University School of Medicine, IU Indianapolis, and the Indiana Bioscience Research Institute. You will work on projects spanning medicine, dentistry, computer science, mathematics, life sciences, chemistry, and biomedical engineering. The program pairs you with leading research faculty who guide you through meaningful contributions to cutting-edge scientific projects. This has a particular emphasis on applying mathematical and computational approaches to research problems. Throughout the summer, you’ll develop research skills, learn laboratory techniques, and present findings through formal research posters documenting your work. Weekly workshops introduce professional development and career exploration in STEM fields.
7. MIT OpenCourseWare: Introduction to Statistical Physics
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Dates: Self-paced
Application Deadline: Open enrolment
Eligibility: High school students can apply
This free MIT OpenCourseWare course lays the groundwork for understanding statistical physics, focusing on systems with many degrees of freedom. Topics span entropy, the laws of thermodynamics, and the Boltzmann distribution, approached through calculus, probability, free energy, phase transitions, ideal gases, and simulation techniques. In order to get the most out of this course, you have to be comfortable with algebra, trigonometry, introductory calculus, Newton’s laws, and conservation of energy. The coursework blends mathematical problem-solving with written reasoning, and you’ll also get hands-on experience writing simple programs to model random events.
8. Math Potentials – Strategic Math Program
Location: Math Potentials (multiple locations) | Serving Greater Indianapolis/Midwest region
Cost: $295
Dates: July7–August 7
Application Deadline: Rolling basis | Early enrollment recommended for preferred time slots
Eligibility: Students across grades 7–12 | No prerequisites | All skill levels accommodated through differentiated instruction
Math Potentials is a small-group, instruction-based program that emphasizes computational fluency, mental mathematics, and number sense. These enable you to perform seemingly difficult mathematical calculations efficiently and with understanding, rather than through rote memorization. The curriculum emphasizes mental mathematics strategies and flexible thinking about numerical relationships. Through systematic instruction and practice, you’ll build confidence in mathematical computation. Small group instruction provides individualized attention, supporting your learning pace. The program cultivates genuine enjoyment of mathematics by demonstrating mathematical elegance and efficiency.
9. Rose-Hulman Summer Camps – Project SELECT
Location: Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, Indiana
Cost: $1,650
Dates: Session 1: July 12–18 | Session 2: July 19–25
Application Deadline: April 20
Eligibility: Students currently in grades 9–10
You’ll experience a one-week immersive science and engineering camp emphasizing hands-on discovery across STEM fields. There’s a particular focus on practical applications of mathematics and physics. The program provides exposure to diverse engineering specializations through laboratory work, design challenges, and facility tours. These tours showcase cutting-edge technology. You’ll collaborate with like-minded peers who share a strong interest in STEM, building both technical skills and professional networks. Faculty instruction emphasizes mathematical problem-solving approaches to engineering challenges. This introductory program helps you determine whether engineering specializations align with your interests. It also builds foundational skills in quantitative reasoning and technical communication.
10. Khan Academy
Location: Online
Cost: Free
Dates: Self-paced
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Eligibility: High school students can participate
Khan Academy provides free, comprehensive mathematics education spanning algebra, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, and calculus through video lessons, interactive exercises, and progress monitoring. You’ll watch step-by-step video explanations of mathematical concepts, then work through practice problems that provide immediate feedback on your answers. The platform lets you review concepts whenever you need to, without time constraints or a fixed curriculum sequence that forces you forward before you’re ready. Khan Academy adapts to your individual learning pace and identifies areas where you need additional practice, personalizing your mathematics experience based on your performance. You can track your progress across different topics and skills, seeing exactly where you’ve achieved mastery and where you should focus next. This self-directed approach gives you control over your learning journey while building a strong foundation in mathematics at whatever level matches your current needs.
11. MathQuantum High School Fellowship
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Dates: July 25 –August 6 (typically two weeks)
Application Deadline: February 13
Eligibility: High school students interested in mathematics, computer science, physics, or quantum science
You’ll participate in a two-week summer cohort program with approximately 10 other high school students, focused on mathematics and quantum information science. The fellowship includes online lectures, seminars, professional development workshops, hands-on activities, discussions, and a mini-project that introduces you to the intersection of math and quantum computing. You’ll learn foundational concepts that bridge mathematics and quantum information science, with the program designed to fill skills and knowledge gaps needed for crossover research in these fields. Through this experience, you’ll gain exposure to cutting-edge research areas and develop skills that prepare you for future study in mathematics, physics, computer science, or quantum information science.
12. MIT PRIMES-USA
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Dates: Year-round program consisting of four distinct phases
Application Deadline: December 1
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors and sophomores (including home-schooled students) outside the Greater Boston area
You’ll conduct year-long mathematical research under the mentorship of graduate students and faculty from MIT and other top universities. The program begins with an advanced reading period, during which you’ll study materials recommended by your mentor and submit a 5-page reading report demonstrating your readiness for research-level mathematics. You’ll then spend the spring actively developing your individual or group research project with weekly mentor meetings requiring at least 10 hours of work per week, followed by a flexible summer period. In the fall, you’ll finalize your research project and present your findings at the PRIMES conference at MIT in mid-October. By the end of the year, you’ll complete a final research paper that gets posted on the PRIMES website and may be submitted to national science competitions or professional research journals for publication.
13. Mathematics Courses by Harvard University
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Dates: Self-paced
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Eligibility: High school students can apply
Harvard University partners with edX to provide a wide selection of free, self-paced online mathematics courses accessible to learners worldwide. For instance, “Introduction to Linear Models and Matrix Algebra” teaches you how matrix algebra underlies current tools for experimental design and high-dimensional data analysis, showing you how to represent linear models commonly used to identify differences between experimental units. “Data Science: Inference and Modeling” equips you with the fundamental statistical tools necessary for effective data analysis. “Data Science Probability” delves into probability theory and demonstrates its importance to data scientists by examining the 2007–2008 financial crisis. These courses are designed to deepen your understanding of how mathematics and data science apply to real-world challenges and scenarios. The self-paced format allows you to learn at your own rhythm while building skills that prepare you for advanced study or professional applications.
14. Stanford (Advanced) Math Circle
Location: Online
Cost: $500 each quarter
Dates: March 30–June 4
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: High school students from grades 9-12
Stanford’s High School Math Circle is a discussion-driven enrichment program focused on problem solving and abstract mathematical thinking. Weekly sessions are led by mathematicians who introduce topics beyond the standard curriculum, often in combinatorics, number theory, graph theory, or geometric reasoning. Rather than lecture-heavy instruction, meetings center on guided exploration. You work through non-routine problems, test conjectures, and refine arguments collaboratively. The format emphasizes reasoning, clarity, and mathematical communication over speed or competition scoring. This structure makes it well-suited for students who want sustained exposure to higher-level mathematical ideas without committing to a full residential program.
15. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC Online)
Location: Virtual
Cost: $3,750
Dates: Session One: June 15–July 3 | Session Two: July 6–24
Application Deadline: February 2 | Limited to 64 participants
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-11
The Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) is a selective summer program that immerses students in advanced mathematics through structured coursework and guided exploration. You are placed into thematic tracks that may focus on topics such as abstract algebra, number theory, topology, or mathematical modeling. Instruction includes daily lectures, structured problem sets, and small-group collaboration. You are expected to construct formal arguments and articulate reasoning clearly in written and verbal form. Class sizes are typically small, allowing close interaction with instructors. SUMaC is designed for students already comfortable with proof-based reasoning and eager to explore mathematics beyond calculus. The program prioritizes conceptual depth and sustained engagement over breadth.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program, 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 – Indiana University