For high school students, online summer camps provide a focused way to dive into advanced skills and subject areas that go far beyond the high school curriculum. Camps tend to be shorter in length, highly structured with a clear schedule, and often concentrate intensely on a single subject or field. This contrasts with regular programs, which may be longer, broader in scope, and less rigidly scheduled. That format allows you to build depth in one field, whether it’s coding in Python, conducting simulated lab experiments, experimenting with 3D design software, or analyzing datasets in bioinformatics, without the distractions of a broader academic schedule.
Because the camps below are online, you can access high-quality instruction and mentorship from universities, nonprofits, or professional organizations, no matter where you’re located. Many of them combine live classes with independent projects, so you’re not just attending lectures, you’re coding, writing, building, or experimenting with real tools that professionals use.
Below, we have compiled a list of 13 online summer camps for high school students.
13 Online Summer Camps for High School Students
1. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) – Online
Location: Online (Live instruction, Stanford-hosted)
Cost: $3,580; additional course materials may cost up to $100; financial aid is available
Dates: Session One: June 16 – July 4; Session Two: July 7 – 25
Application Deadline: February 3
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
SUMaC is designed for students interested in advanced mathematics in the areas of abstract algebra, number theory, and algebraic topology. The online program combines daily live lectures, synchronous problem-solving sessions, and structured research projects, supported by undergraduate and graduate instructional assistants. It emphasizes proof-based learning, the history and development of mathematical ideas, and connections to ongoing research. You’ll also participate in virtual guest lectures from professional mathematicians and present a final research project. The workload is comparable to a college-level mathematics course, providing rigorous exposure to proofs, mathematical reasoning, and applications.
2. Kode With Klossy – Online Coding Camps
Location: Online
Cost: None
Dates: Summer sessions run in July–August (exact dates announced each spring)
Application Deadline: Typically late March
Eligibility: Young women and gender-expansive teens, ages 13–18. No prior coding experience required
Kode With Klossy offers intensive two-week camps where you’ll learn technical coding skills through one of four specialized curricula: web development (JavaScript, HTML, CSS), machine learning with Python, iOS app development with Swift and SwiftUI, or data science using SQL, Python, and visualization tools. Each track balances conceptual instruction with project-based learning, culminating in a functional website, app, chatbot, or data visualization project. Alongside technical expertise, you’ll gain exposure to real-world challenges like accessibility in design or bias in AI. The program also emphasizes collaborative problem-solving and builds a global community of peers in STEM.
3. RNS NeuroCamp – Online
Location: Online (Zoom-based, open globally)
Cost: None
Dates: July 19 – 20 (online camp, single-day sessions)
Application Deadline: Typically mid-May
Eligibility: All high school students
RNS NeuroCamp is a student-led program from Rice University that introduces you to both foundational and advanced neuroscience concepts. Through interactive lectures, demonstrations, and discussions, you’ll explore topics such as neurons, neurotransmission, neurological diseases, and computational neuroscience. The camp also integrates professional development, including a Careers in Neuroscience panel, and offers mentoring sessions on college applications and research pathways. The online format ensures broad accessibility, with a full-day schedule of sessions designed to replicate an intensive workshop experience. By the end, you’ll have gained exposure to bench science concepts, neuroanatomy, and the interdisciplinary scope of neuroscience.
4. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center – Virtual On-Demand Camps
Location: Online (U.S. only; international registrations not accepted)
Cost: Varies by course; between $600–$700 per camp (plus shipping costs for lab kits and samples); referral, sibling, multi-camp, and early bird discounts available
Dates: Flexible; accessible for 60 days from registration (summer availability)
Application Deadline: Rolling, open until camp capacity is filled
Eligibility: High school students between graded 9-12
These on-demand camps combine pre-recorded lessons with hands-on lab kits shipped to your home. Depending on your track, you’ll practice molecular biology techniques like DNA isolation, PCR amplification, gel electrophoresis, and data analysis using bioinformatics tools. Options for high schoolers include forensic science, biodiversity research through DNA barcoding, and genome science modules that simulate real-world lab workflows. You upload DNA samples back to DNALC for sequencing, then analyze results through an online platform. Support is available through Google Classroom, video chat, or email with DNALC educators, ensuring structured guidance while maintaining flexibility.
5. Rosetta Institute of Biomedical Research – Online Biomedical Workshops
Location: Online (live, synchronous instruction)
Cost: Approximately $510–$1,070, depending on the workshop (full and partial scholarships are available)
Dates: Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Medicine: June 9 – 20; Medicinal Chemistry: July 7 – 18; Medical Bioinformatics: June 2 – 13, June 23 – July 5, or August 4 – 15
Application Deadline: Applications open until filled; no recommendation required for online tracks
Eligibility: All high school students
Rosetta’s online workshops offer rigorous introductions to biomedical sciences through both conceptual lectures and computational labs. Depending on the track, you’ll explore topics like molecular biology of disease, biochemical processes underlying drug design, or bioinformatics approaches to analyzing real biological datasets. You will use online tools to design experiments, analyze DNA or protein data, and practice experimental design methodology. Each program culminates in an independent research-style project, such as investigating a gene or biochemical pathway. Instructors are active researchers, and the courses mirror a condensed version of undergraduate molecular medicine seminars.
6. York Film Academy (NYFA) – Online Summer Camps for Teens
Location: Online (live instruction; global access)
Cost: Varies by program; between $825 – $2,025; special discounts between 10-15% are available
Dates: Sessions run throughout July – August; multiple start dates available (including timezone-friendly schedules)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until camp capacity is filled
Eligibility: All high school students
NYFA’s online camps are intensive creative workshops where you’ll complete original projects under the guidance of industry professionals. Options include filmmaking, acting for film, and 3D animation/VFX, each combining technical instruction with hands-on practice. In filmmaking, you’ll storyboard, shoot, and edit shorts using digital tools. Acting workshops focus on camera performance, voice, and movement techniques tailored for screen work. Animation camps introduce you to professional 3D software for modeling, rendering, and visual effects. Programs emphasize collaboration, critique, and portfolio development, offering a strong foundation for students eyeing careers in media or digital arts.
7. Indiana University Indianapolis – Cybersecurity & Cyber Defense Summer Camp (Online)
Location: Online (with optional in-person track in Indianapolis, IN)
Cost: None
Dates: June 3 – 7 (tentative)
Application Deadline: May 20 (tentative)
Eligibility: All high school students
This camp equips students with both theoretical and applied cybersecurity skills using industry-grade platforms. You’ll work with VMware to explore operating system security, hardening techniques, and vulnerability detection across Windows and Ubuntu environments. Networking principles are introduced through Cisco Packet Tracer, where you’ll build, secure, and troubleshoot virtual networks with routers, switches, and servers. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of system-level defenses and network security fundamentals, providing a solid technical foundation for future studies in computer science or cyber defense.
8. University of Colorado Denver – GenCyber Summer Camp (Online)
Location: Online (hosted by CU Denver Business School)
Cost: None
Dates: July 15 – 19
Application Deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: All high school students in Colorado
The CU Denver GenCyber camp provides a structured introduction to cybersecurity through interactive labs, games, and ethical hacking challenges. You’ll work with Raspberry Pi kits, virtual labs, and guided simulations to explore social engineering, computer forensics, network defense, and cyber ethics. Alongside technical training, the camp includes sessions on online safety and career paths in cybersecurity. Throughout the camp, you gain insights into the stages of cyber intrusions, behavioral security, cryptography, and risks associated with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT). You will complete the week-long experience with a Certificate of Achievement, demonstrating exposure to both the technical and ethical dimensions of cybersecurity.
9. Lavner Education – Virtual Cybersecurity Camp
Location: Online (live instruction, worldwide access)
Cost: Between $399 – $599 per one-week session (discounts available)
Dates: Multiple one-week sessions available June–August (students choose their week)
Application Deadline: Rolling; registration closes once sessions are full
Eligibility: All students between ages 10–14
This virtual camp trains students in practical cybersecurity concepts using real-world tools and simulations. You’ll explore cryptography, network security, digital forensics, and ethical hacking through interactive projects and problem-solving exercises. Hands-on activities include analyzing simulated cyberattacks, encrypting and decrypting data, and conducting vulnerability assessments. The camp also emphasizes teamwork and collaborative challenges, encouraging students to develop both technical skills and critical thinking. By the end, campers will have a foundation in cybersecurity principles and a portfolio of exercises demonstrating applied knowledge.
10. Camp Integem – Online AI, AR & Tech Leadership Programs
Location: Online (live instruction, global access)
Cost: Between $73 and $79 per course depending on number of courses + optional cost for course materials; financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple courses offered June–August (students select time slots; flexible online scheduling)
Application Deadline: Rolling; closes once sessions fill
Eligibility: All students between ages 11–18
Camp Integem offers a wide range of interactive online STEM tracks where you’ll work with artificial intelligence, holographic augmented reality, robotics, coding, drones, 3D design, animation, and game development. You can enroll in the Tech Leadership Program, which combines AI projects, robotics control, AR design, and team-based innovation challenges. You can also earn NVIDIA AI certifications or AP course credits, making this camp academically recognized. Lessons are highly project-based: you might design AR games, build AI-powered drones, or create interactive 3D animations. With small student–teacher ratios and personalized support, the online format ensures students gain technical mastery and leadership skills in a collaborative digital classroom.
11. Oregon State University STEM Academy – Virtual Blender Camp
Location: Online (students must download Blender software in advance)
Cost: $170 (needs-based scholarships available)
Dates: July 7 – 11
Application Deadline: Rolling; registration open until camp fills
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 9–12
This camp introduces students to 3D modeling, rendering, and animation using Blender, a professional-grade but free software package widely used in digital art, design, and gaming. You will learn object manipulation in 3D space, lighting, texturing, and animation workflows, producing original projects across the week. The virtual format encourages collaboration, allowing peers to work together remotely on shared designs. By the end of the camp, you’ll have developed both technical proficiency in Blender and a set of creative outputs that can be extended into personal projects or portfolios.
12. Write the World – Virtual Summer Writing Camps
Location: Online (live group sessions + asynchronous writing activities)
Cost: $299 per one-week camp (15% discount for 2+ workshops)
Dates: Creative Writing: June 23 – 27; Novel Writing: July 7 – 11 and July 28 – August 1; Science Fiction & Fantasy: July 7 – 11; Poetry: July 14 – 18; Fiction (Storytelling): July 21 – 25; Publishing: August 4 – 8
Application Deadline: Rolling; closes once sessions fill
Eligibility: All students between ages 13–19
These camps allow you to experiment across diverse genres with expert-led guidance. Each program mixes daily interactive sessions with peer feedback and asynchronous writing prompts, totaling about 3–4 hours of work per day. Depending on your track, you may practice worldbuilding in sci-fi and fantasy, refine poetic form and imagery, or draft chapters of a novel. You will also learn revision strategies, the balance between dialogue and description, and how to prepare writing for publication. Facilitators include professional authors and editors, making this a strong preparatory experience for future creative writing studies or literary pursuits.
13. Girls Who Code – Summer Immersion Program
Location: Online (live or self-paced options, global access)
Cost/Stipend: None / $300 needs-based grant available
Dates: Round 1: July 7 to July 18; Round 2: July 28 to August 8
Application Deadline: April 11
Eligibility: Female or non-binary students in grades 9–11
The Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program is a free, two-week virtual experience aimed at high school girls and non-binary students. It introduces you to computer science through hands-on, real-world projects spanning beginner to intermediate topics such as game design using p5.js, basics of user experience (UX) design, web development, and the iterative design process. Throughout the program, you create interactive avatars, build choose-your-own-adventure games, collaborate in game jams to rapidly prototype projects, and playtest these games to improve them using feedback. The program is conducted in live virtual classrooms with mentorship, supporting a collaborative learning environment and career exploration.
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 – Girls Who Code