Many students and parents think the only thing high school students should focus on during the summer is getting a job, taking summer classes, or preparing for college applications.
But there are many other opportunities!
Universities, research laboratories, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private companies offer programs that allow high school students to explore careers, conduct research, develop leadership skills, and experience college life before graduation.
Some programs are completely free. Others provide stipends, housing, meals, or financial assistance. Some are paid programs that offer college-level courses and enrichment experiences.
This guide highlights opportunities for students attending high school in the United States.
Who should use this guide?
- High school freshmen (Grade 9)
- High school sophomores (Grade 10)
- High school juniors (Grade 11)
- High school seniors (Grade 12)
- Students interested in STEM, medicine, engineering, business, law, government, or the humanities
- Students looking for research experience or internships
- Students interested in leadership and community service
- Students preparing for competitive college applications
Important: Many programs have grade, age, residency, citizenship, GPA, or financial-need requirements. Some are only available to students from specific states or cities. Always check the official eligibility requirements.
PART 1: Free and Funded Summer Research Programs
If you are interested in science, technology, medicine, engineering, mathematics, or research, consider applying to a summer research program.
These programs give students an opportunity to work with researchers, professors, scientists, and mentors.
Some students even complete original research projects and present their findings.
| Program | Grades | What Does It Offer? | Cost / Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Science Institute (RSI) | Rising seniors (typically current juniors) | Intensive STEM coursework and a five-week mentored research internship | Free, including program-related residential support |
| MITES Summer – MIT | Rising seniors | Six-week STEM enrichment program with classes, projects, and college preparation | Free; travel assistance may be available |
| Clark Scholars Program – Texas Tech | Rising seniors | Seven-week research experience working with university faculty | Free program with stipend |
| Simons Summer Research Program – Stony Brook University | Rising seniors | Conduct research with faculty mentors in science, engineering, or mathematics | Free; stipend and other support depend on program terms |
| Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program | Rising seniors | Hands-on biomedical research with scientists and laboratory mentors | Free |
| Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) | Rising seniors | Biomedical research experience in a Stanford laboratory | Free; stipend and financial support subject to program terms |
| Boston University RISE | Rising seniors | Six-week research internship or research practicum in STEM | Paid program; financial aid may be available |
| NIH High School Summer Internship Program | Primarily graduating seniors meeting age and eligibility rules | Research experience at participating National Institutes of Health locations | Paid internship |
| Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) | Grades 9–12, depending on laboratory and placement | Work with scientists and engineers at participating Navy laboratories | Paid internship |
| NIST Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) | High school students meeting local and age requirements | Work with NIST scientists and engineers on research projects | Unpaid volunteer research experience |
| Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program | Students entering senior year | Eight-week mentored biomedical research internship | Paid; restricted to eligible local students |
| St. Jude High School Research Immersion Program | High school students meeting program requirements | Research exposure in biomedical science and cancer research | Free; stipend and eligibility depend on the program cycle |
| UCSF High School Intern Program | High school students meeting program requirements | Mentored biomedical research experience and exposure to scientific careers | Check current program funding and eligibility |
Learn more about these programs
1. Research Science Institute (RSI) – MIT and Stanford
RSI is one of the most prestigious summer research programs for high school students.
Students participate in an intensive academic and research experience. They attend STEM classes, work with experienced researchers, conduct an individual research project, and present their findings.
- Eligibility: High school juniors entering their senior year; high school seniors are not eligible.
- Duration: Approximately six weeks.
- Cost: Free to selected participants.
- Application: Highly competitive.
Official website: https://www.cee.org/programs/research-science-institute
2. MITES Summer – Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MITES Summer is designed for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Students participate in an intensive residential academic experience, explore STEM fields, work on projects, and receive college preparation and mentoring.
- Eligibility: Rising high school seniors.
- Duration: Approximately six weeks.
- Cost: Free.
- Eligibility restrictions: U.S. citizenship or permanent residency requirements apply.
Official website: https://mites.mit.edu/
3. Clark Scholars Program – Texas Tech University
This program offers a unique opportunity for high school students to work directly with university faculty on research projects.
Students explore different research disciplines, receive mentorship, and gain exposure to university-level research.
- Eligibility: Highly qualified high school students entering their senior year.
- Duration: Seven weeks.
- Cost: Free, with a stipend for selected participants.
- Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas.
Official website: https://www.depts.ttu.edu/honors/academicsandenrichment/affiliatedandhighschool/clarks/
4. Simons Summer Research Program – Stony Brook University
Students work with faculty mentors on research projects in science, engineering, and mathematics.
This is an excellent opportunity for students considering research careers or graduate study in STEM.
- Eligibility: Rising high school seniors.
- Duration: Approximately six weeks.
- Location: Stony Brook University, New York.
- Cost: No program tuition for selected participants; confirm current stipend and support details.
Official website: https://www.stonybrook.edu/simons/
5. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program
This program gives high school students an opportunity to experience biomedical research in a real laboratory environment.
Students work with scientists, develop research skills, and learn about careers in biomedical science.
- Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors meeting the program’s age and school requirements.
- Duration: Approximately seven weeks.
- Location: New York City.
- Cost: Free.
Official website: https://www.rockefeller.edu/outreach/ssrp/
6. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
SIMR introduces high school students to biomedical research through mentored laboratory experiences.
Students explore fields such as immunology, neuroscience, cancer biology, bioengineering, and other areas of biomedical science.
- Eligibility: Primarily rising high school seniors.
- Duration: Approximately eight weeks.
- Location: Stanford University, California.
- Cost: Program support and stipends depend on current eligibility and award terms.
Official website: https://simr.stanford.edu/
7. Boston University RISE
The Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) program offers high school students an opportunity to explore university-level research.
Students can apply to two tracks:
- Research Internship: Work with a research mentor in a laboratory.
- Practicum: Participate in structured research coursework and projects.
- Eligibility: Rising high school seniors meeting age and academic requirements.
- Duration: Approximately six weeks.
- Location: Boston University.
- Cost: Paid program; financial assistance may be available.
Official website: https://www.bu.edu/summer/high-school-programs/research-internship-practicum/
8. NIH High School Summer Internship Program
The National Institutes of Health offers research internship opportunities for eligible high school students.
Students may work with researchers in areas such as biology, medicine, neuroscience, public health, chemistry, and biomedical research.
- Eligibility: Primarily graduating high school seniors who meet age, citizenship, and other requirements.
- Location: Participating NIH campuses.
- Cost: Paid internship; compensation and eligibility are subject to program rules.
Official website: https://www.training.nih.gov/research-training/hs/
9. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
SEAP connects eligible high school students with scientists and engineers at participating Department of the Navy laboratories.
Students gain practical experience in science and engineering research.
- Eligibility: High school students meeting the program’s age, academic, and citizenship requirements.
- Location: Participating Navy laboratories across the country.
- Cost: Free; selected students receive a stipend.
Official website: https://seap.asee.org/
10. NIST Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP)
The National Institute of Standards and Technology offers high school students an opportunity to work with scientists and engineers on research projects.
Students may explore fields such as physics, chemistry, computer science, engineering, and technology.
- Eligibility: High school students who meet local residency, age, and other requirements.
- Location: Participating NIST campuses.
- Cost: Unpaid volunteer research experience.
- Important: Students and their families must arrange their own housing and transportation.
Official website: https://www.nist.gov/ship
11. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program
This program gives high school students an opportunity to work with biomedical researchers and learn about scientific research.
- Eligibility: Students entering their senior year who meet the program’s age and geographic requirements.
- Duration: Approximately eight weeks.
- Location: Seattle, Washington.
- Cost: Paid internship; eligibility is restricted to qualifying local students.
Official website: https://www.fredhutch.org/
12. St. Jude High School Research Immersion Program
Students have an opportunity to learn about biomedical research and explore scientific careers, including cancer research.
- Eligibility: High school students meeting program requirements.
- Cost: Check the current program for participation and funding details.
Official website: https://www.stjude.org/
13. UCSF High School Intern Program
The University of California, San Francisco offers high school students opportunities to gain exposure to biomedical research.
Students may participate in mentored research experiences and learn about careers in science and medicine.
- Eligibility: Check current grade, age, and geographic requirements.
- Location: University of California, San Francisco.
- Cost: Check the current program for stipend and funding information.
Official website: https://career.ucsf.edu/internships/high-school
PART 2: University Summer Programs and Pre-College Experiences
Did you know that high school students can attend summer programs at some of the most recognized universities in the country?
These programs allow students to experience college life, explore potential majors, take college-level courses, and meet students from around the world.
Some programs offer college credit. Others focus on academic enrichment, career exploration, or preparation for college admissions.
Important: A pre-college program is not the same as being admitted to the university. Attending a university’s summer program does not guarantee admission to that university.
| Program | University | Grades | What Does It Offer? | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard Secondary School Program | Harvard University | Grades 11–12, subject to requirements | College-level courses; some courses offer college credit | Paid; financial aid available |
| Harvard Pre-College Program | Harvard University | Grades 11–12, subject to requirements | Two-week academic experience and college exploration | Paid; financial aid available |
| Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) | Yale University | Grades 10–11 | Academic enrichment in areas such as politics, science, and global affairs | Paid; need-based financial aid available |
| Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes | Stanford University | Grades 8–11, depending on course | Online academic enrichment and specialized courses | Paid; financial aid availability varies |
| Brown Pre-College Programs | Brown University | Grades 9–12, depending on program | Courses in humanities, science, business, medicine, and more | Paid; scholarships and financial aid may be available |
| Cornell Precollege Studies | Cornell University | Grades 10–12, depending on program | University-level courses, academic exploration, and possible college credit | Paid; financial aid varies |
| Penn Summer Programs | University of Pennsylvania | Grades 9–12, depending on program | Academic courses, business, leadership, and career exploration | Paid; aid varies by program |
| Duke Pre-College Programs | Duke University | Grades 9–12, depending on program | Academic enrichment, subject exploration, and college preparation | Paid; aid varies |
| Georgetown Summer Programs | Georgetown University | Grades 9–12, depending on program | Courses in international relations, politics, business, and other fields | Paid; aid varies |
| Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Programs | Carnegie Mellon University | Grades 9–12, depending on program | Programs in computer science, art, drama, design, and STEM | Paid; aid varies |
| Wharton Leadership in the Business World (LBW) | University of Pennsylvania | Rising seniors | Intensive business and leadership program | Paid; financial aid may be available |
| Wharton Essentials of Entrepreneurship | University of Pennsylvania | High school students meeting course requirements | Entrepreneurship and business education | Paid |
More information
Harvard Secondary School Program
Students can take college-level courses in a wide range of subjects, including biology, psychology, economics, entrepreneurship, law, and sociology.
Some courses provide college credit.
Official website: https://summer.harvard.edu/high-school-programs/secondary-school-program/
Yale Young Global Scholars
YYGS is a selective academic enrichment program for high school students interested in global issues and interdisciplinary learning.
Students explore subjects such as politics, law, science, technology, and international affairs.
Need-based financial aid is available to eligible students.
Official website: https://globalscholars.yale.edu/
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes
This program offers specialized academic courses for motivated students interested in exploring subjects beyond their regular high school curriculum.
Official website: https://summerinstitutes.spcs.stanford.edu/
Brown Pre-College Programs
Brown offers summer academic experiences in a wide variety of subjects. Students can explore potential majors, learn from instructors, and participate in college-style learning.
Official website: https://precollege.brown.edu/
Cornell Precollege Studies
Cornell offers high school students opportunities to explore university-level subjects through summer and other pre-college courses.
Official website: https://sce.cornell.edu/precollege
Wharton Leadership in the Business World
If you are interested in business, finance, management, or entrepreneurship, this program is worth exploring.
Students learn about business concepts, participate in case studies, and gain exposure to business leadership.
Official website: https://globalyouth.wharton.upenn.edu/
PART 3: Free College Preparation and Leadership Programs
These programs are especially valuable for students who want guidance on college admissions, scholarships, leadership, and career planning.
Some offer support throughout high school and even into college.
| Program | Grades | What Does It Offer? | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| TRIO Upward Bound | Generally ages 13–19; high school students | Academic tutoring, college counseling, test preparation, college visits, and summer programs | Free for eligible students |
| TRIO Talent Search | Middle and high school students | College and career counseling, tutoring, financial aid information, and application assistance | Free for eligible students |
| Upward Bound Math-Science | High school students | STEM-focused academic preparation, research exposure, and college preparation | Free for eligible students |
| GEAR UP | Students in participating schools and districts | Academic support, mentoring, college visits, and college-readiness activities | Free for eligible students |
| AVID | Students in participating schools | College-readiness curriculum, study skills, academic support, and mentoring | Usually provided through the school |
| Breakthrough Collaborative | Middle and high school students, depending on location | Academic enrichment, mentoring, and college preparation | Varies by program |
| Bottom Line | High school students in participating regions | College counseling, financial aid guidance, and college persistence support | Free for eligible students |
| Let’s Get Ready | Students in participating schools and communities | College preparation, application guidance, financial aid support, and mentoring | Free for eligible students |
| OneGoal | Students at participating schools | College and career preparation, advising, and postsecondary support | Usually provided through participating schools |
| Cristo Rey Network | High school students | College-preparatory education combined with professional workplace experience | Tuition and financial aid vary by school |
| QuestBridge College Prep Scholars Program | Juniors | College preparation, mentorship, awards, and guidance for high-achieving students with financial need | Free |
| LEDA Scholars Program | Juniors | Summer institute, leadership development, college counseling, and long-term support | Free |
| USC Bovard Scholars | Juniors | College admissions preparation, mentorship, and support for high-achieving students with financial need | Free |
| Thrive Scholars | Primarily high school sophomores and juniors, depending on location and cohort | Multi-year academic preparation, mentorship, college access, and career support | Free |
| College Greenlight | Grades 9–12 | College access and scholarship resources for first-generation and underserved students | Free resource |
| SEO Scholars | Selected students in participating cities | Academic preparation, mentorship, and support through college | Free |
| Alexander Hamilton Scholars | High school students meeting program requirements | Leadership development, mentoring, college preparation, and long-term support | Free |
| SMASH Academy | High school students, depending on local partner program | Multi-year STEM education, mentorship, and college preparation | Free |
| Posse Foundation | Primarily high school seniors | Leadership identification and full-tuition leadership scholarships at partner colleges | Free program |
| College Possible | High school students in participating communities | College access coaching, application support, and financial aid guidance | Free |
Explore these programs
TRIO Upward Bound
Upward Bound is one of the most valuable college-preparation programs for eligible high school students.
It is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and helps students prepare for college through:
- Academic tutoring and enrichment.
- SAT/ACT preparation and academic support.
- College counseling and college visits.
- Help with college applications.
- Financial aid and scholarship guidance.
- Summer academic programs.
- Mentoring and career exploration.
Eligibility generally includes students who meet qualifying low-income, first-generation, or academic-risk criteria.
Cost: Free for eligible participants.
Students apply through participating colleges, universities, or community organizations. There is no single national student application.
Official website: https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/federal-trio-programs/upward-bound-program-84047a
TRIO Talent Search
Talent Search helps students explore college and career pathways and prepare for higher education.
Services may include:
- Academic and career counseling.
- College exploration and campus visits.
- Financial aid information.
- College application assistance.
- Tutoring and academic support.
It serves eligible middle and high school students, including students from low-income backgrounds and potential first-generation college students.
Cost: Free for eligible participants.
Official website: https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/federal-trio-programs/talent-search-program-84044
Upward Bound Math-Science
This TRIO program provides additional academic preparation for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Students may receive STEM enrichment, research exposure, academic instruction, and college preparation.
Cost: Free for eligible participants.
Official website: https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/federal-trio-programs
GEAR UP
GEAR UP stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs.
It helps students prepare for college through:
- Academic support.
- Mentoring.
- College and career exploration.
- College visits.
- Financial aid education.
- College-readiness activities.
Programs are generally organized through participating schools, districts, states, or partnerships.
Cost: Free for eligible students.
Official website: https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/gear-up
AVID
AVID is a college-readiness program offered through participating schools.
It helps students develop academic skills, organization, critical thinking, study habits, and preparation for college-level coursework.
Ask your school counselor whether your school offers AVID.
Official website: https://www.avid.org/
Breakthrough Collaborative
Breakthrough provides academic enrichment, mentoring, and college preparation for students in participating communities.
Some locations offer summer learning and ongoing academic support.
Official website: https://www.breakthroughcollaborative.org/
Bottom Line
Bottom Line helps students navigate college applications, financial aid, and the transition to higher education.
Students in participating communities may also receive support through college graduation.
Official website: https://www.bottomline.org/
Let’s Get Ready
Let’s Get Ready offers college access support, application guidance, financial aid assistance, and mentoring through participating programs.
Official website: https://letsgetready.org/
OneGoal
OneGoal works with participating schools to help students prepare for college and career pathways.
Students receive advising and support as they navigate the transition from high school to postsecondary education.
Official website: https://www.onegoalgraduation.org/
Cristo Rey Network
Cristo Rey schools combine college-preparatory education with a Corporate Work Study Program.
Students gain professional workplace experience while completing high school.
The network includes schools in multiple U.S. cities. Admissions and financial assistance vary by school.
Official website: https://www.cristoreynetwork.org/
QuestBridge College Prep Scholars Program
This is an excellent opportunity for high-achieving high school juniors from low-income backgrounds.
The program helps students prepare for selective college admissions through:
- College admissions guidance.
- Mentorship and resources.
- Awards and scholarships.
- Preparation for the QuestBridge National College Match.
Official website: https://www.questbridge.org/apply-to-college/programs-for-juniors/
LEDA Scholars Program
LEDA identifies high-achieving public high school students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and provides extensive support.
Students participate in a summer institute and receive ongoing assistance with college applications, financial aid, leadership, and career development.
Official website: https://ledascholars.org/
USC Bovard Scholars
Bovard Scholars supports academically talented high school students with financial need who are preparing to apply to competitive colleges.
Students receive college preparation, mentorship, and support with their applications.
Official website: https://bovardscholars.usc.edu/
Thrive Scholars
Thrive Scholars supports high-achieving students from under-resourced communities through academic preparation, mentorship, college access, and career development.
Official website: https://www.thrivescholars.org/
Alexander Hamilton Scholars
This program supports students with leadership potential who face financial and other barriers to educational opportunity.
Scholars receive mentoring, leadership development, and long-term support.
Official website: https://www.hamiltonscholars.org/
SMASH Academy
SMASH offers a multi-year STEM-focused academic program for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
It includes summer learning, academic-year programming, and mentorship.
Official website: https://www.smash.org/
Posse Foundation
The Posse Foundation identifies students with leadership potential and partners with colleges and universities to provide scholarship opportunities.
Students selected for the program receive leadership training and support as they transition to college.
Official website: https://www.possefoundation.org/
PART 4: Government, Public Policy, and Leadership Programs
Students interested in government, politics, public service, law, international relations, and leadership should explore these opportunities.
You do not have to wait until college to learn how government works or gain exposure to public service.
| Program | Grades | What Does It Offer? | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Senate Page Program | Primarily juniors; summer eligibility also includes rising juniors and seniors meeting age requirements | Work in the U.S. Senate while continuing high school coursework | Paid position; students arrange applicable living and other expenses |
| U.S. Senate Youth Program (USSYP) | Juniors and seniors meeting leadership requirements | Week-long Washington, D.C. experience with government leaders and a scholarship | Fully funded educational experience; scholarship for selected delegates |
| Bank of America Student Leaders | Juniors and seniors meeting local eligibility requirements | Paid summer internship with a nonprofit and leadership summit in Washington, D.C. | Paid internship |
| Boys State / Girls State | Rising seniors | Learn about government, elections, civic leadership, and public policy | Usually free or sponsored; varies by state |
| HOBY Youth Leadership Programs | Primarily sophomores | Leadership development, community service, and personal growth | Costs and scholarships vary |
| American Legion Oratorical Contest | High school students | Public speaking and constitutional knowledge competition | Scholarships and awards |
| Congressional App Challenge | Grades 9–12 | Develop an original app and compete in a congressional district | Free to enter |
| Senate and Congressional Internships | Varies by office | Exposure to government, public policy, and legislative work | Varies; some are unpaid or volunteer |
Learn more
U.S. Senate Page Program
The Senate Page Program gives eligible high school students the opportunity to work on Capitol Hill while continuing their education.
Pages assist with Senate operations, deliver documents, and experience the legislative process firsthand.
Eligibility generally includes:
- Being 16 or 17 years old at appointment.
- Meeting the required high school grade level.
- Maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA.
- Meeting citizenship or residency and Social Security number requirements.
- Receiving sponsorship from a U.S. senator.
Application deadlines depend on the senator’s office and the session.
Official website: https://pageprogram.senate.gov/
U.S. Senate Youth Program
This program brings outstanding high school juniors and seniors to Washington, D.C., for an intensive week of government and leadership education.
Two students are selected from each state and the District of Columbia, along with eligible students from DoDEA schools.
Selected delegates receive a scholarship.
Students must meet specific leadership-position and academic eligibility requirements.
Official website: https://ussenateyouth.org/
Bank of America Student Leaders
This program offers high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to gain professional experience through a paid internship with a nonprofit organization.
Selected students also participate in a leadership summit in Washington, D.C.
Official website: https://about.bankofamerica.com/en/making-an-impact/student-leaders
Boys State and Girls State
These programs introduce students to government and civic leadership through simulated elections, legislative sessions, and other activities.
They are generally available to eligible rising high school seniors, with state-specific requirements.
Official websites:
- Boys State: https://www.legion.org/boys-state
- Girls State: https://www.alaforveterans.org/girls-state/
HOBY Leadership Programs
HOBY provides leadership development experiences for high school students, including its State Leadership Seminars.
The program emphasizes leadership, community service, and personal development.
Official website: https://www.hoby.org/
Congressional App Challenge
Students interested in coding, technology, and entrepreneurship can develop an original application and compete in their congressional district.
Winning applications may be showcased through the congressional program.
Official website: https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/
PART 5: STEM, Coding, and Technology Programs
Students interested in computer science, artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, and engineering should explore these opportunities.
| Program | Grades | What Does It Offer? | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI) | Rising seniors | Intensive project-based STEM courses in areas such as robotics, AI, and engineering | Free for eligible participants |
| MIT THINK Scholars Program | Grades 9–12 | Mentorship and funding for students developing research or engineering project proposals | Free; project funding available for selected students |
| Girls Who Code Summer Programs | High school students meeting program requirements | Coding, technology, and computer science education | Free programs available; format varies |
| AI4ALL | Varies by partner program | Artificial intelligence education and exposure to AI research | Free or funded opportunities vary by partner |
| Kode With Klossy | Girls and gender-expansive students meeting age requirements | Coding camps and technology education | Free |
| CyberPatriot | Grades 6–12 | National cybersecurity competition for school teams | Free to participate; school/team requirements apply |
| FIRST Robotics Competition | High school students | Engineering, robotics, teamwork, and competition | Team and participation costs vary; sponsorships may be available |
More information
MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute
BWSI is a project-based STEM program for talented students entering their senior year.
Students explore areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and engineering.
Official website: https://bwsi.mit.edu/
MIT THINK Scholars Program
THINK supports high school students who have developed promising STEM project ideas and need guidance and resources to pursue them.
Selected students may receive project funding and mentorship from MIT undergraduate students.
Official website: https://think.mit.edu/
Girls Who Code
Girls Who Code offers programs designed to introduce students to computer science and technology.
Look for its summer programs, clubs, and other learning opportunities.
Official website: https://girlswhocode.com/
AI4ALL
AI4ALL works to increase access and diversity in artificial intelligence education.
Explore its programs and university partnerships for high school students.
Official website: https://ai-4-all.org/
Kode With Klossy
Kode With Klossy offers free coding camps for eligible girls and gender-expansive students.
Students learn programming and develop technology projects.
Official website: https://www.kodewithklossy.com/
CyberPatriot
CyberPatriot is a national youth cybersecurity competition that introduces students to cybersecurity and IT skills.
Official website: https://www.uscyberpatriot.org/
PART 6: Business, Entrepreneurship, and Career Exploration
You don’t need to wait until college to explore business, entrepreneurship, finance, or professional careers.
These programs help students build practical skills and learn about potential career paths.
| Program | Grades | What Does It Offer? | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wharton Leadership in the Business World | Rising seniors | Business education, leadership, and case studies | Paid; financial aid may be available |
| Junior Achievement Programs | Varies by local program | Entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and career readiness | Often free through participating schools |
| DECA | High school students | Business, marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and competitions | Membership and participation fees may apply |
| FBLA | High school students | Business education, leadership, competitions, and career preparation | Membership and participation fees may apply |
| NFTE Entrepreneurship Programs | Grades 6–12, depending on program | Entrepreneurship education and business-plan development | Often free through partner schools |
| Bank of America Student Leaders | Juniors and seniors | Paid nonprofit internship and leadership development | Paid |
| Girls Who Invest – High School Initiatives | Depends on current initiative | Financial literacy and exposure to investing careers | Program availability varies |
Official websites:
- Wharton Global Youth: https://globalyouth.wharton.upenn.edu/
- Junior Achievement: https://jausa.ja.org/
- DECA: https://www.deca.org/
- FBLA: https://www.fbla.org/
- Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship: https://nfte.com/
- Bank of America Student Leaders: https://about.bankofamerica.com/en/making-an-impact/student-leaders
PART 7: Other Academic-Year Opportunities and Competitions
Not every opportunity takes place during summer. Students can participate in competitions, research programs, clubs, and academic enrichment activities throughout the school year.
| Opportunity | Who Can Participate? | What Does It Offer? |
|---|---|---|
| Regeneron Science Talent Search | Eligible high school seniors | National science and research competition with substantial awards |
| Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) | Students in grades 9–12 who qualify through affiliated fairs | International research and science competition |
| National History Day | Students in grades 6–12 | History research and presentation competition |
| Congressional App Challenge | Students in grades 9–12 | Technology and app development competition |
| Scholastic Art & Writing Awards | Students in grades 7–12 | Recognition and awards for creative writing and visual arts |
| Conrad Challenge | Students ages 13–18 | Innovation and entrepreneurship competition |
| Math Olympiads and competitions | Students meeting individual competition rules | Advanced mathematics and problem-solving |
| National Merit Scholarship Program | Eligible high school juniors taking the PSAT/NMSQT | Academic recognition and scholarship opportunities |
Official websites:
- Regeneron Science Talent Search: https://www.societyforscience.org/regeneron-sts/
- Regeneron ISEF: https://www.societyforscience.org/isef/
- National History Day: https://www.nhd.org/
- Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: https://www.artandwriting.org/
- Conrad Challenge: https://www.conradchallenge.org/
- National Merit: https://www.nationalmerit.org/
PART 8: How to Find the Right Program for Your Grade
You don’t need to wait until junior or senior year to start exploring opportunities.
Here is a suggested timeline for high school students.
Grade 9 – Freshman Year
Focus on exploration and building a foundation.
- Join clubs related to your interests.
- Explore STEM, business, arts, sports, and leadership activities.
- Participate in local competitions.
- Start volunteering and community service.
- Explore year-round academic programs.
- Build relationships with teachers and counselors.
Programs to explore: Girls Who Code, CyberPatriot, DECA, FBLA, FIRST Robotics, National History Day, TRIO Talent Search, Upward Bound (if eligible), and local university outreach programs.
Grade 10 – Sophomore Year
Start exploring more selective programs and summer experiences.
- Research university summer programs.
- Apply to leadership and academic enrichment programs.
- Explore research opportunities.
- Build a resume of extracurricular activities.
- Start identifying possible college majors.
- Participate in academic competitions.
Programs to explore: HOBY, Yale Young Global Scholars, Brown Pre-College, Cornell Precollege, QuestBridge preparation resources, and qualifying university outreach programs.
Grade 11 – Junior Year
This is an especially important year for selective summer programs and college preparation.
- Apply to competitive summer research programs.
- Explore internships.
- Prepare for standardized tests if required.
- Research scholarships and college financial aid.
- Build relationships with teachers who can write recommendations.
- Take on leadership roles.
- Begin researching colleges.
Programs to explore: RSI, MITES, Clark Scholars, Simons, QuestBridge College Prep Scholars, LEDA, Bovard Scholars, Bank of America Student Leaders, and the U.S. Senate Youth Program.
Grade 12 – Senior Year
Focus on college applications, scholarships, and the transition to higher education.
- Complete college applications.
- Apply for scholarships.
- Complete the FAFSA if eligible.
- Research honors colleges and special university programs.
- Apply to leadership and public-service opportunities.
- Explore internships and career development programs.
Remember that many summer research programs are specifically for students entering senior year, so they must be applied to during junior year.
PART 9: How to Apply Successfully
Many competitive summer programs have applications that require more than just your grades.
Prepare the following:
- Academic transcripts: Some programs require official or unofficial high school transcripts.
- Recommendation letters: Ask teachers, counselors, or mentors who know your work.
- Personal statements: Explain your interests, experiences, and goals.
- Resume or activity list: Include extracurricular activities, leadership, volunteering, projects, and awards.
- Research interests: For research programs, explain what subjects interest you and why.
- Financial information: Some programs offering need-based aid require household financial information.
- Application essays: Give yourself enough time to write thoughtful and specific responses.
How to Find Programs Near You
Not every program is national. Many universities, hospitals, museums, research centers, and government laboratories offer opportunities to students who live nearby.
Search for:
- “[Your state] high school summer research programs”
- “[Your city] high school internships”
- “University high school outreach programs”
- “High school STEM summer programs near me”
- “High school research opportunities at hospitals”
- “Government internships for high school students”
Also ask your high school counselor, science teachers, college access office, and local university admissions offices.
For additional college-preparation opportunities, search the U.S. Department of Education’s TRIO program directory and ask your school counselor whether your school or a nearby college has Upward Bound, Talent Search, or GEAR UP.
Official TRIO program information: https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/federal-trio-programs
Final Thoughts
You do not have to wait until college to gain valuable academic, research, professional, and leadership experience.
High school is an excellent time to explore your interests, meet mentors, build skills, and discover potential career paths.
And remember: you do not need to attend an expensive summer program at a famous university to build a strong college application. Free local internships, meaningful community service, independent projects, and research experiences can be just as valuable.
Start early. Explore your interests. Apply to opportunities. Make the most of your high school years!
Save this guide and share it with a high school student or parent who may benefit from these opportunities.
Level Up Habesha — Helping first-generation students access opportunities, graduate debt-free, and build successful careers.
