If you’re in high school, it’s a pretty great time to start exploring your interests and thinking about what you might want to pursue in the future. If you’re a high school student based in Ithaca, NY, there’s tons of local options for you to explore! .
Ithaca is home to several top-rated universities such as Cornell University and Ithaca College. These institutions may offer programs at reduced tuition fees for local students. Whether you’re thinking about law, journalism, or science, programs for high school students in Ithaca, New York, offer opportunities to gain experience outside the classroom while helping reduce travel and housing costs.
To give you a sense of what’s available, we’ve compiled a list of 15 programs for high school students in Ithaca, New York. Some programs offer internships with local organizations, while others focus on research or hands-on learning in specific subjects.
Below are 15 programs for high school students in Ithaca, New York.
15 Programs for High School Students in Ithaca, New York
1. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Application Date: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer and Fall cohorts.
Program Dates: The spring and fall cohorts run 15 weeks, while the summer cohort runs 10 weeks (June-September).
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! A few tracks require prerequisites, see here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, and more! Horizon is one of the few research programs for high school students that offers you the choice to engage in either quantitative or qualitative research. Once you select a particular subject track, Horizon pairs you with a professor/PhD scholar who acts as a mentor throughout your research journey. As a participant, you will be expected to develop a 20-page research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student and detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects.
2. Veritas AI Scholars & Fellowship
Location: Online
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type; financial aid available | None
Dates: Year-round cohorts in winter, spring, summer, fall
Application Deadline: Rolling; multiple cohort start dates per year
Eligibility: AI Scholars is open to all high school students | The AI Fellowship is for students who either have prior experience with Python or have completed the AI Scholars program
Veritas AI’s AI Scholars program gives high schoolers a foundation in Python, machine learning, and artificial intelligence through group projects and small-group mentoring. Over 10 weeks, you learn coding, data science, and cutting-edge AI applications, including regression, neural networks, image classification, NLP, and AI ethics! The AI Fellowship allows experienced students to work 1:1 on a research project with mentorship from AI experts and receive support for publication or showcasing results. Both programs feature live sessions with real-world coding, group collaboration, and presentation opportunities. The experience focuses on preparing you for independent AI work and connecting you to a like-minded academic community.
3. Ithaca College Tech Innovation Summer Academy
Location: Ithaca College campus, Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: Free (tuition, housing, and meals) | None
Dates: Session I: July 6–12 | Session II: July 20–26
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; early application recommended
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
This immersive, in-person program invites high school students to campus for a week of intensive learning about computer science, robotics, AI, web design, digital media, and more. Instruction is provided by Ithaca College faculty, students, and alumni, with hands-on tech labs to explore current and emerging fields. You will discover career pathways, experience the college’s high-tech facilities, and participate in collaborative group work and social activities. The residential format fosters teamwork and campus engagement among diverse students. The Academy is completely free, aiming to broaden opportunities for tech-interested youth. You will also discover current technology working environment trends and take field trips.
4. Cornell Precollege Summer Residential Program
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: See detailed tuition and fees here | None
Dates: Three- and six-week sessions between June 22 and August 2
Application Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors between ages 16 and 18
Cornell’s Precollege Summer Residential Program allows you to take multiple three-and six-week undergraduate-level courses taught by Cornell faculty across a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, arts, sciences, and business. Living on campus, you will experience aspects of college life, including residence halls, dining facilities, and social events. The program challenges you academically while offering workshops on college readiness, time management, and study skills. The cohort creates a dynamic environment promoting intellectual growth and cultural exchange with peers from diverse backgrounds! You earn college credits that may be transferable and gain early exposure to university-level expectations. The program provides a 1:10 staff-to-student ratio.
5. Ithaca College Pre-College Programs for High School Students
Location: Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: Residential: $5,672; Commuter: $4,055 + $25 non-refundable application fee and $450 non-refundable deposit if applying to the Summer Theatre Conservatory; scholarships available (more information here) |
Dates: July 7–25
Application Deadline: May 30
Eligibility: Must be age 14 or older | Entering 9th grade or in high school | For some programs, like the Precollege STEM Institute, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is expected.
This program offers a chance to enroll in a single college course at Ithaca College for three weeks, providing academic challenge and college credit in areas such as environmental science, writing, health sciences, and performing arts. You live on campus with peers, participate in social events, and gain exposure to college life and expectations. Experienced faculty deliver in-depth coursework paired with academic support and advising. The experience is designed to foster independence, responsibility, and intellectual growth. Depending on the course and program track, you may participate in hands-on labs, field trips within the region, or specialized workshops such as acting exercises for theater students, STEM labs, or writing clinics.
6. Ithaca Youth Bureau Recreation Department
Location: Ithaca, NY (various community centers and sites)
Cost/Stipend: Varies by activity, season and residency status; many low cost or free with financial aid available | None
Dates: Year-round (summer and school-year programs)
Application Deadline: Rolling based on program schedules
Eligibility: High school students residing locally
The Recreation Department offers a wide variety of programs, including arts, sports, theater, leadership training, and outdoor activities. Programs are designed to build community, support mental and physical wellness, and encourage social development. Activities range from casual skill-building to more structured league play or workshop series. You may participate in a variety of seasonal team sports like basketball, baseball, or soccer, experience creative activities like fine arts, pottery, theatre classes, enroll in day camps such as Cass Park Day Camp, Stewart Park Day Camp, or 1/2 day expressive arts sessions, and more. Flexible scheduling allows easy integration with academic responsibilities. Many options include opportunities for volunteer leadership and mentorship roles.
7. Ithaca Youth Bureau College & Career Discovery Program
Location: Ithaca, NY (multiple school and community locations)
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: Year-round multi-year program, spanning middle and high school years till first year of college
Application Deadline: Ongoing; nomination through schools or community partners
Eligibility: High school students in Ithaca City School District, emphasis on underrepresented and first-generation college prospects
This comprehensive program provides mentoring, college and career readiness workshops, peer leadership groups, and family engagement activities to support your academic and personal development. The program focuses on both the academic and social needs of a student, guiding them continuously from their fifth grade till their first college year. You participate in college tours, service learning, and skill-building events designed to increase confidence and readiness for postsecondary success. The program is tailored to address barriers faced by underserved students and promotes sustained involvement from middle school through college entrance. Strong collaboration between schools, families, and community partners enhances the support system. Outcomes include higher college enrollment rates and improved academic achievement.
8. Tompkins Cortland Community College’s CollegeNow Program
Location: TC3 Campus and partnering high schools in Tompkins County, Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: Concurrent with academic year semesters
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions for concurrent enrollment
Eligibility: High school students in participating districts, meeting course prerequisites.
CollegeNow offers a variety of college-level courses that you can take concurrently with high school, earning credits that count toward both diplomas. Course options include biology, writing, mathematics, economics, Spanish, and government, taught by college faculty or qualified instructors. The program promotes academic advancement and readiness through rigorous coursework and advising. You can use campus amenities like the library, dining center, tutoring services, study spaces, and fitness center, and can also interact with current college students and faculty, join select campus clubs, and attend events. The dual enrollment experience provides early exposure to college academics and helps with college transition.
9. Cornell SCE Year-Round Courses
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, and online
Cost/Stipend: Tuition varies by course, session, and format | None
Dates: Fall, spring, summer, and winter sessions
Application Deadline: Varies by course/semester
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors at the time of application; students must have completed at least grade 10 before courses begin | At least 15 years old by the start of the class
Cornell’s Student and Career Engagement (SCE) program offers high school students the opportunity to take select Cornell courses for credit, either on campus or online, taught by Cornell faculty. Course offerings span biology, engineering, humanities, business, and languages, focusing on rigorous academic challenges. You will engage in seminar discussions, group projects, problem sets, or laboratory work, depending on the course format. You can also attend optional workshops on college admissions, essay writing, academic skills, and time management, and build college preparation skills, including research and analytical thinking. These programs allow motivated students to gain a head start on university academics.
10. Cornell Engineering High School Outreach Programs —CATALYST Academy
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: $1,900 + $75 non-refundable deposit (scholarships available) | None
Dates: July 13–19
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores or juniors at the time of application | Must have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with strong performance in math and science courses | Must have studies relevant courses prior to graduation | Experienced educational, socio-cultural, economic, personal, and/or identity-related barriers to your academic progress | Experienced situations or conditions that impacted your advancement or ability.
CATALYST Academy brings together high school students for a rigorous week of engineering immersion and leadership training in fields such as mechanical, civil, electrical, and computer science. You will participate in hands-on engineering workshops, collaborative labs, and lectures delivered by Cornell faculty. The program emphasizes teamwork, experimental learning, and career exploration. College readiness workshops and a focus on increasing diversity in STEM also form the core elements of this program. You network with successful engineers and student mentors from similar backgrounds. You will also enjoy social events and outings; examples include climbing at the Lindseth Center, bowling, trips to local parks, and team-building engineering competitions.
11. Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC) Youth Program
Location: GIAC, 301 W. Court St., Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: Most programs free or low cost (varies by activity) | None
Dates: After school: year-round | Summer camp: July 7 – August 15
Application Deadline: After school: Rolling admissions | Summer Camp: Opens in late April, no deadline specified
Eligibility: High school and middle school students (grades 9–12, some offerings for K–12)
GIAC’s Youth Program provides academic enrichment, leadership development, recreation, and multicultural activities through after-school, summer, weekend, and evening sessions. You can take up mentoring, take college visits, be part of job skills workshops, and cultural celebrations in a safe, supportive community. Activities include sports, gym time, swimming instruction, outdoor games, organized outings to local parks, museums, or nature centers, and hands-on activities focused on the environment. These activities focus on unity, creativity, health, and personal growth, with regular opportunities for service and civic engagement. Most programs are free for ICSD students, and transportation is provided from school! Specialized tracks support academic success and college or career readiness.
12. Cornell Engineering Diversity Programs —CURIE Academy
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: $1,900 (scholarships available) | None
Dates: July 13–19
Application deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores or juniors ((girls/female-identifying students) at the time of application | Must have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with strong performance in math and science courses | Must have studies relevant courses prior to graduation | Experienced educational, socio-cultural, economic, personal, and/or identity-related (e.g., gender) barriers to your academic progress and/or your advancement or ability to advance in a STEM field
CURIE Academy is an academic summer program in engineering designed for high-achieving female high school students. You will experience nine interactive, hands-on sessions led by engineering faculty in fields such as Biomedical, Mechanical & Aerospace, Electrical & Computer, Computer Science, Civil & Environmental, Materials Science, Operations Research, and more. You will participate in project-based learning, hands-on workshops in various engineering fields, and faculty-led research presentations. The curriculum also includes team challenges and discussions of current issues in STEM. Work in small groups under faculty and grad student mentorship to design and execute a research project. Networking with Cornell engineers and mentoring by undergraduate students and professors is central to the experience.
13. City of Ithaca Youth Programs
Location: City of Ithaca and Tompkins County sites
Cost/Stipend: None to low cost, supported by municipal and county funds | None
Dates: Year-round, various schedules
Application Deadline: Rolling for most programs
Eligibility: High school-age youth residing locally
Offered through city initiatives, youth programs include job training, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship workshops, arts, and outdoor activities. Programs focus on leadership development, employability skills, and civic engagement. You will participate in team sports, join arts and expressive programs, attend summer camps, or join after-school and leadership programs. Participation provides opportunities for mentorship, peer networking, and community service. These programs are designed for inclusive access, helping youth discover interests, develop social and practical skills, and enjoy active, healthy recreation in a supportive setting. The city partners with schools and nonprofits to enrich offerings and support youth success.
14. New Roots Charter School
Location: Ithaca, NY
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: 10-month academic calendar with breaks by season
Application Deadline: June 1
Eligibility: Any student eligible for grades 6–12 in New York State | Ages 11-21
New Roots Charter School in Ithaca, New York, is a tuition-free public school offering a personalized and innovative educational experience for students in grades 6–12. The curriculum involved real-world learning, including sustainability, environmental stewardship, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. You will participate in hands-on activities such as project-based classes, field trips exploring local issues, environmental restoration projects like the Cayuga Wetlands Restoration, and internships for career exploration. Through learning by doing, you will develop critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, distinct advantages for college and beyond. The program not only builds academic knowledge but also makes your college application stand out by showcasing resilience and initiative.
15. The Learning Web – Youth Exploration Program
Location: Ithaca, NY and Tompkins County (varied community and business sites)
Cost/Stipend: None | Apprenticeships through the program are stipended for eligible youth, typically ages 13-17
Dates: Year-round; session timing based on students’ and mentors’ availability.
Application Deadline: Rolling registration
Eligibility: Ages 11–21 (including high school students)
The Youth Exploration Program allows you to explore STEM, arts, and career paths through short industry “tours” and longer apprenticeships with local professionals. You will visit different workplaces to learn about potential careers first-hand, exploring anything from cars to animal care or fashion design. Each experience is personalized to your interests, giving you the chance to observe, ask questions, and try hands-on tasks alongside your mentor. Apprenticeships can range up to 40 hours, where you will undertake real-world work experiences in your field of interest, mentored by adult professionals. You will also participate in community projects and service-learning activities, helping them build civic engagement and employability skills.
Image source – Ithaca College