If you’re a high school student who wants to explore STEM fields in greater depth, participating in science programs can be a good use of your time. From hands-on lab work to complex data analysis, these programs are designed to go beyond typical classroom learning, helping you develop advanced skills and gain experience in areas like biotechnology, physics, engineering, and computer science.
Attending one of these top programs can help you discover new interests, clarify potential career paths, and apply knowledge in real-world settings. This blog will introduce some of the top science programs for high school students, each offering a solid foundation and practical experience to help build a well-rounded skillset in scientific fields. Note that the following information is based on the most recent program, with dates subject to change but generally similar from year to year.
Here is a list of the top 13 science programs for high school students!
1. Horizon’s Academic Research Program—STEM tracks
Subject Areas: Theoretical Mathematics, Machine Learning, Computational Neuroscience, Protein Biophysics, and more
Location: Virtual
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! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across STEM fields like biology, chemistry, neuroscience, data science, machine learning, and more. It’s one of the few programs that allows students to choose between quantitative and qualitative research tracks. After selecting a specific research area, you will be paired with a professor or PhD scholar from a leading university who will provide mentorship and guidance throughout the research process. Over the trimester, you will develop a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can submit to prestigious journals as a high school student.
This program is a solid opportunity for you to pursue a research program in highly specialized fields under the guidance of a top scholar. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student and detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects and college applications. You can apply here!
2. Carnegie Mellon’s Pre-College CS Scholars Program
Subject Areas: Computer Science, Data Structures, Artificial Intelligence, and more
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: None
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates: June 21 – July 19
Eligibility: Applicants must be sophomores in high school and at least 16 years old by June 21
Carnegie Mellon’s CS Scholars Program offers a four-week immersion in computer science learning tailored for high school students who want to explore programming and problem-solving. This program combines interactive classroom learning with hands-on projects and research. During the program, you will explore algorithmic principles and programming constructs such as variables, functions, loops, and conditionals. Through practical exercises, you will also build proficiency with key data structures, including lists and dictionaries, which are essential tools for advanced programming and algorithm development.
The program also features weekly seminars covering essential topics like college admissions, financial aid, and social-emotional well-being to help you navigate your educational path with confidence. Those excelling in this program may be invited back as rising seniors for the AI Scholars Program, offering an advanced study of artificial intelligence.
3. Veritas AI
Subject Areas: Computer Science and AI, Data Science, Python and Programming, NLP & Language Processing, and more
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,290 for the AI Scholars program (10-week boot camp) | $5,400 for AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase (12–15 weeks, 1-1 mentorship). Need-based financial aid is available
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple year-round cohorts
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
In Veritas AI’s AI Fellowship, high school students work alongside PhD candidates from top universities to develop publishable research projects that merge artificial intelligence with fields like computer science, finance, healthcare, education, and gaming. Previous projects have delved into areas such as AI-driven medical applications, educational tools, and game development, showcasing the wide-ranging applications of AI. Examples of recent student projects can be found here.
Throughout the fellowship, you will gain hands-on experience with coding in Python, working with TensorFlow, applying machine learning algorithms, and conducting data analysis. The program culminates in a publishable research project, offering participants a strong addition to their resumes and valuable experience for future studies in AI or tech fields. This fellowship will not only equip you with practical AI skills but also provide solid groundwork for further research and career opportunities in technology.
4. Rice University STEM Academy
Subject Areas: Engineering, Physics, Sustainability, and more
Location: Rice University, Houston, TX
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: June 7
Program Dates: July 8 – 12
Eligibility: High school girls entering 10th or 11th grade. Boys and non-binary students in 10th or 11th grade are also welcome to apply
Rice University’s STEM Academy is a free, week-long summer program aimed at helping high school girls explore the foundational principles and practical applications of science and engineering. The program offers hands-on experiences and sustainability-focused challenges, allowing you to work in advanced labs and engage with Rice faculty and graduate students. The curriculum integrates practical activities, such as constructing landing capsules, understanding circuits with Microbits, and investigating motion using TI Nspire Rovers.
5. MIT Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science (MITES) Summer
Subject Areas: Life Science, Math, Humanities, Physics, Genomics, Computer Science, Machine Learning, and more
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free, housing and meals are provided
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: Typically runs late June through early August (6 weeks)
Eligibility: High school juniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, the program prioritizes students from underrepresented and underserved communities
MITES Summer is a prestigious program hosted by MIT that offers students an in-depth exploration of STEM subjects. You will take courses in math, life sciences, physics, humanities, and a project-based elective. Electives vary each year, with past offerings including architecture, genomics, electronics, engineering design, and computer science.
The program also features social activities, lab tours, admissions counseling, and events designed to provide you with a comprehensive view of STEM careers and the field of engineering. MITES Summer is highly selective and offers classes, workshops, and recitations. You will receive a written evaluation at the end, helping you build a strong foundation for college admissions and future career paths.
6. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University
Subject Areas: Nutritional Sciences, Biology/Cellular & Microbiology, Computer Science, Neurobiology, Mechanical Engineering, History, Chemistry, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Cost/Stipend: There is no cost, and students receive a $750 stipend upon completing a successful research project report
Application Deadline: February 15
Program Dates: June 16 – August 1
Eligibility: Applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident.=
- Be at least 17 years of age by the program start date and should graduate in this or next year (no exceptions)
The Anson L. Clark Scholar Program at Texas Tech University is a competitive, seven-week summer research internship designed for 12 high-achieving high school juniors and seniors. This program provides an intensive, hands-on research experience, allowing you to delve deeply into your chosen field under the mentorship of expert faculty. Past students have conducted research on microbial life and crop salt tolerance. You can take a look at the work of previous scholars here. Research areas typically change every year. You can find a detailed list of research areas here.
7. Research Science Institute (RSI)
Subject Areas: Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Physics, and more
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
Cost: None. A $65 application fee is applicable
Application Deadline: December 11
Program Dates: June 22 – August 2
Eligibility: High school juniors with strong academic ability, including international students
The Research Science Institute (RSI) brings together 100 of the world’s top high school students each summer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for an intensive science program that blends scientific coursework with research. You will experience the entire research cycle, from reviewing current scientific literature to designing and executing detailed research plans.
RSI begins with a week of rigorous STEM classes taught by professors, followed by a five-week research internship where you will work on an individual project under the mentorship of experienced scientists. In the final week, you will present your research through written reports and conference-style presentations. You can review your eligibility and apply here.
8. Harvard Pre-College Summer School Programs
Subject Areas: Astronomy, Biology, Computer Science, Physics, Medicine, and more
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee. Housing is included. Limited need-based aid is available
Application Deadline: February 12
Program Dates:
- Session 1: June 22 – July 3
- Session 2: July 6 – 18
- Session 3: July 20 – August 1
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors who will be at least 16 years old by June 21 and not turn 19 before July 31
Harvard’s Pre-College Program offers high school students a two-week summer experience that immerses them in college life while exploring advanced STEM subjects. You will live on Harvard’s campus and take college-level courses in areas such as Astronomy, Biology, Computer Science, Math, Physics, Statistics, and Medicine. These courses deliver a challenging introduction to scientific inquiry and problem-solving, helping you develop skills in data analysis, computational thinking, and experimental research. You will receive a Harvard transcript and a written evaluation from your instructor at the end of the course.
9. NYU’s Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)
Subject Areas: Bio-and Molecular Engineering, Biology, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, and more
Location: New York University, Brooklyn, NY
Stipend: $750 provided
Application Deadline: March 6
Program Dates: June 3 – August 9
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors living in NYC
The ARISE program at New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering offers high school students a 10-week immersive research experience focused on advanced STEM projects. You will collaborate with faculty in state-of-the-art research labs, delving into interdisciplinary topics such as Bio- and Molecular Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, AI, and Machine Learning. Throughout the program, you will acquire essential skills in coding, data analysis, algorithm design, and more. The experience culminates with a final presentation of your research findings to NYU faculty and peers.
10. NASA Johnson Space Center’s High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS)
Subject Areas: Earth Science, Aeronautics, Space Science
Location: Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX and online
Cost/Stipend: No cost; unpaid (upon completing the online portion of the course, students will be awarded a 0.5 Science elective credit)
Application Deadline: October 16
Program Dates:
- October 28 – April 4 (online course)
- June and July (on-site experience)
Eligibility: High school juniors who are U.S. citizens residing in Texas
NASA Johnson Space Center’s High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) offers Texas high school juniors an exceptional year-long STEM experience focused on NASA’s missions. Through a five-month online learning segment, this program will immerse you in space exploration, Earth science, aeronautics, and technology. You will engage with interactive modules featuring design challenges and tech-based assignments that enhance problem-solving, analytical, and technical skills.
Virtual interactions with NASA engineers and scientists provide firsthand insights into the practical applications of STEM in the aerospace sector. For students who do well in the online course, the experience culminates in a five-day virtual summer session, where you’ll collaborate on team projects, solve engineering design challenges, and plan missions to the Moon and Mars—all guided by NASA professionals.
11. Stanford Medical Youth Science Program
Subject Areas: Health Sciences, Medical Research, Public Health, and more
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost: Free, students are responsible for their own housing and transportation
Application Deadline: Applications will open in mid-December
Program Dates: June 23 – July 25
Eligibility: Current high school juniors in Northern California who are low-income and/or first-generation
The Stanford Medical Youth Science (SMYS) Program is a five-week summer initiative designed for low-income, first-generation high school juniors from Northern California. Each year, 24 students are selected for this experience at Stanford University, where they gain insight into medicine and public health through mentorship and hands-on learning.
As a participant, you will complete an internship at Stanford Hospital that involves lab work, shadowing, and patient interactions. You will also conduct a Public Health research project on health disparities, culminating in a college-level paper and presentation. Additionally, you will receive mentorship from faculty, attend seminars on public health and research methods, and participate in events such as guest lectures and facility tours.
12. The Summer Science Program (SSP)
Subject Areas: Astrophysics, Biochemistry, Genomics, Synthetic Chemistry, and more
Location: Various universities across the U.S.
Cost: Up to $8,800 depending on family income, free for families earning less than $70,000
Application Deadline: Domestic students: February 21 | International applicants: January 24
Program Dates: June
Eligibility: Current high school juniors who will be between the ages of 15-19 by the summer and meet the academic requirements
The Summer Science Program (SSP) offers a rigorous, research-focused experience for high school juniors. Founded in 1959 and run by alumni, SSP offers three core tracks—Astrophysics, Biochemistry, and Genomics—across top U.S. universities. The program is highly selective and includes guest lectures and field trips. Over 39 days, you will work in teams, collaborating with faculty members in a tight-knit environment. Each team takes on a real research project, conducting experiments, gathering data, and analyzing results.
Previously, SSP operated 12 programs: five focused on Astrophysics, three on Biochemistry, three on Genomics, and one on Synthetic Chemistry, each exploring real-world challenges such as asteroid orbit determination, fungal crop pathogens, and antibiotic resistance.
13. Stanford University: SHTEM Summer Internships
Subject Areas: Information Science, Engineering, Biology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Technology, and more
Location: Virtual
Cost: None, stipends available for students with financial need
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates: June 17 – August 9 (8 weeks)
Eligibility: Current high school juniors or seniors who will be at least 14 years old by June 17, including international students
Hosted by Stanford University, this virtual summer internship immerses high school students in an interdisciplinary exploration of STEM fields. Over the course of 8 weeks, you will engage with topics that span information science, engineering, biology, neuroscience, computer science, and technology, gaining early exposure to research. You will be expected to commit 30-40 hours per week to projects guided by Stanford’s faculty. The program emphasizes the connections between STEM and the humanities.
Image Source – Carnegie Mellon University Logo
