If you're a high school student interested in international affairs or global politics, participating in an international relations program can help you build skills in negotiation, policy analysis, and international law. These programs provide practical insights into government operations, policy-making, and implementation.
You'll explore topics such as diplomacy, foreign policy, international security, and globalization, gaining early exposure to areas like government, public policy, and elections. You'll learn to analyze and address complex international challenges through activities like simulations, workshops, and discussions on global issues. Such experiences can also enhance your college applications, help you network with professionals and peers, and improve your critical thinking and communication skills.
Here’s a list of 12 international relations programs for high school students in 2024-2025!
1. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)—International Relations Track
Subject Areas: History, philosophy, sociology, machine learning, political theory, environmental health and engineering, behavioral economics, network science, biophysics, psychology, neuroscience, international relations, data science, and others
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: February 16, 2025, for the upcoming spring cohort; May 18, 2025, for the summer cohort
Dates:
- Spring seminar: March 3, 2025 onwards
- Summer seminar: June 16, 2025 onwards
Horizon Labs provides flexible start dates, with applications required at least 4 weeks in advance
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum GPA of 3.67 on a 4.0 scale are eligible to apply. The majority of accepted students are in 10th or 11th grade. Some tracks have specific prerequisites, which you can check here
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students in subjects like political theory, biomedical engineering, international relations, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more. It is one of the few programs that allows students to choose between quantitative or qualitative research. If you’re interested in international affairs or policy, you can select courses such as International Relations or Political Theory and Philosophy.
After choosing a subject and research type, you will be paired with a professor or PhD scholar who will guide you throughout the research process. You will produce a 20-page, university-level research paper, which can be submitted for publication in respected journals. This program provides an opportunity to conduct research in specialized fields with expert guidance. You’ll also receive a letter of recommendation and detailed feedback on your project, which can support future work and college applications. You can apply here!
2. Lumiere Research Scholar Program—International Relations Track
Subject Areas: Physics, chemistry, psychology, engineering, data science, environmental science, medicine, entrepreneurship, business, computer science, biology, economics, international relations, gender studies, and more
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Application deadlines differ by cohort. The deadline for the upcoming winter cohort is December 29, 2024
Dates: The summer cohort runs from June to August, the fall from September to December, the winter from December to February, and the spring from March to June
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale are eligible
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program gives high school students the opportunity to conduct independent research with the support of a PhD mentor. Over 12 weeks, you will work with a writing coach and your mentor to choose and develop your research topic. The program includes workshops on research methods and ends with the completion of an independent research paper.
Fields of study include economics, psychology, physics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. For example, if you're interested in international affairs or policymaking, you could explore topics such as international policy and security. More information on the application process can be found here.
Subject Areas: International relations, global affairs, public speaking, research, writing, and sustainable development
Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT
Cost: The program fee is $2,000, plus a $20 application fee. Financial aid is available
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program). The application process for YIRLI 2025 will begin in Spring 2025
Dates: July 30 – August 4, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 11–12 in the fall of 2025, ages 16–18, are eligible to apply, including U.S. and international students
The Yale International Relations Leadership Institute (YiRLI) is a one-week summer program for high school students focused on international relations, leadership, and Model United Nations. Organized by Yale students from the Yale International Relations Association (YIRA), this program will allow you to enhance your understanding of global issues, build self-awareness, and improve leadership skills through workshops and simulations.
You will deepen your understanding of global affairs while improving your public speaking, research, writing, and debate skills. You will live in a Yale residential college and participate in the YIRLI Global Impact Challenge, where you will collaborate with peers on initiatives related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The program also offers opportunities to connect with students from around the world, interact with Yale professors and guest speakers, and access Yale’s resources.
Subject Areas: Communications, foreign policy, international affairs, research, and development
Location: Remote and in-person at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA
Cost/Stipend: There is no cost to apply. A limited number of paid internships are available, with stipend awards based on financial need after selection. Part-time unpaid internships are also offered
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by session. Applications for the 2025 summer session will open on February 3, 2025
Dates:
- Fall session: September – December 2024
- Spring session: February – May 2025
- Summer session: June – August 2025
Eligibility: High school students authorized to work in the U.S.
The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) offers internship opportunities for high school students during the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms. This competitive program is great for students interested in pursuing a career in international relations. As an intern, you will be paired with a professional or scholar who will guide you in developing industry-specific skills and general skills like communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and time management.
During the program, you will attend weekly foreign policy and career development seminars featuring guest speakers. You will also have access to FPRI’s in-person, virtual, and hybrid events and can work on a research paper for potential publication in FPRI’s Intern Corner. Depending on your interests, you can apply for positions as a research intern, special events/development intern, communications intern, or operations intern. For more details on the different internships offered, you can see here.
Subject Areas: International research, policy making, global issues, social justice, politics, and economics
Location: Hybrid; University of California, Los Angeles, CA
The first week of the program will be conducted virtually
On-campus housing is mandatory for the second and third weeks of the program but is not available during the first week
Cost: $4,097 (tentative, based on the 2024 program); scholarships are available
Application Deadline: June 1, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Dates: June 24 – July 13, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–12 who are at least 15 years old and have a GPA of 3.2 or higher
The UCLA International Development Summer Institute (IDSI) is a three-week program for high school students focused on global inequality and social justice issues. The program explores disparities in wealth, power, and access to justice between and within the Global North and South. Using Los Angeles as a case study, you will analyze social, political, and economic forces shaping modern inequality through an interdisciplinary approach.
During the program, you will engage in coursework, debates, workshops, and a project incubator lab, where you will develop policy proposals and sustainable solutions. The program is led by UCLA’s International Institute, which promotes global research and education. You will receive a letter grade upon completing the program. More details about academic credit can be found here.
Subject Areas: International relations, women’s rights, conflict resolution, religion in politics, popular culture, and human rights
Location: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost:
- Domestic students: $11,347 (Residential) | $7,812 (Commuter)
- International students: $11,949
Application Deadline:
- Domestic student application deadline: May 2, 2025
- International student application deadline: March 14, 2025
Dates: June 15 – July 12, 2025
Eligibility: Students who have completed at least 9th grade by the program start date; international applicants can check the prerequisites here
The USC Pre-College International Relations Summer Program allows high school students to explore the causes of war and learn the different methods of conflict resolution. You will study the different stages of conflict and apply this knowledge to regions affected by war and violence. The program also examines the economic causes of conflict and the roles of individuals, popular culture, peace initiatives, governments, and international organizations.
During the course, you’ll learn through simulations, role-playing, and negotiation exercises, including a Model UN simulation. Case studies will help you understand current events and historical conflicts. You will visit the Museum of Tolerance and create a case study on conflict resolution steps. Additionally, you will explore how popular culture—such as movies, television, music, literature, and art—can influence conflict or peace.
Subject Areas: International relations, politics, law, human rights, and economics
Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT
Cost: The cost for a 2-week session is $6,500, plus a non-refundable application fee of $75–$90. Need-based financial aid is available
Application Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis:
- Early action deadline: October 20, 2024
- Regular decision deadline: January 10, 2025
Dates: Residential sessions will be available in June, July, and August 2025:
- Session I: June 22 – July 4, 2025
- Session II: July 6 – 18, 2025
- Session III: July 20 – August 1, 2025
Eligibility: High school sophomores or juniors aged 16–18 by July 20, 2025, and graduating in May/June 2026 or 2027; only first-time participants in YYGS can apply
Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) is an academic program for high school students that provides an introduction to college life. The Politics, Law, & Economics (PLE) session is designed for students interested in studying economic theories, government practices, and legal frameworks from historical and comparative perspectives. It covers public policy, human rights, market regulation, governance, international relations, and conflict resolution.
During the session, you will attend lectures and seminars on topics like development economics, democracy, equality, game theory, and using satire in political arguments. Through PLE, you will improve your critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling you to evaluate social systems and current issues from political, legal, and economic perspectives. The session uses interdisciplinary approaches to deepen your understanding and prepare you to become an informed and engaged global citizen.
Subject Areas: Foreign policy, international law, international affairs, ethics, environment, and global health
Location: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.
Cost: The cost for residential students is $3,525, which includes tuition, housing, and meals; commuter student tuition is $2,730
Application Deadline:
- Early Bird Deadline: January 31, 2025
- Final Deadline: April 15, 2025
Dates: June 22 – June 28, 2025 | July 20 – July 26, 2025
Eligibility: Current or rising high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or seniors with at least a 2.0 GPA during the academic year before the summer program
Georgetown University’s International Relations Academy is a week-long program designed for students to learn from faculty and engage with current global issues. Throughout the program, you will hear from experts and practitioners in international relations, engage in small discussion groups to explore key issues, and participate in an international crisis simulation. Upon successful completion, you will receive a Certificate of Participation.
As a participant, you will spend each day engaging in classes, off-site visits, activities, and discussions. The curriculum covers various topics, such as the structure of the international system and foreign policy tools. It also addresses subjects like intelligence, ethics in international affairs, and the role of international law. Other focus areas include different philosophical perspectives, nuclear weapons, global health, the environment, international development, and the future of the international system.
Subject Areas: International relations, diplomacy, and global issues
Location: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. | Columbia University, New York, NY
Cost: $4,395 (Residential Program)
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are filled
Dates:
- June 13 – 21, 2025
- June 25 – July 3, 2025
- July 8 – 16, 2025
- July 20 – 28, 2025
Eligibility: Students aged 14 to 18 who have completed at least one year of high school can apply. They can also participate in NSLC during the summer following their high school graduation
NSLC’s International Diplomacy High School Summer Program gives students a detailed overview of the diplomat's role within the United Nations Security Council. In partnership with the American Foreign Service Association, the program provides a deeper understanding of diplomacy and global affairs.
During the program, you will take on the role of a diplomat to address global issues such as nuclear proliferation and regional conflicts. You will visit key diplomatic institutions in New York City and Washington, D.C.. You will also act as United Nations delegates, collaborating to create international agreements and resolutions. The program includes research on NGOs and their projects, as well as practice in negotiation techniques and cultural competency in diplomatic settings. You will be able to interact with guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, who will share practical knowledge and real-world experiences.
Subject Areas: Leadership, human rights, global policy, environment, international security, economics, renewable energy, and communication
Location: Asia Society Texas Center, Houston, TX
Cost: There is no application fee. A nonrefundable participation fee of $100 for Asia Society members and $125 for nonmembers is required to confirm your spot after acceptance; need-based scholarships are available
Application Deadline: May 31, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and students are encouraged to apply early to secure a spot
Dates: June 24–June 28 | July 15–July 19 | August 5–August 9 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Eligibility: High school students residing in the Greater Houston area
The Young Leaders Institute (YLI) is a one-week summer program for high school students designed to promote global understanding, develop leadership skills, and connect with peers from diverse backgrounds. You can apply for one, two, or all three sessions by selecting your preferences on the application form. YLI 2024 featured three sessions:
- Session 1: Japan's Global Impact: This session focused on Japan's contributions to culture, technology, innovation, and global policy.
- Session 2: Renewable Energy and Climate Solutions: This session explored how policymakers, nonprofits, industries, and international organizations address sustainability challenges.
- Session 3: Human Rights and International Security: This session examined the challenges and opportunities in protecting rights and ensuring safety across diverse groups. If you are interested in international relations, this session will allow you to study the complex connection between global security and human rights in the context of refugee crises.
You will work in a team to research, debate, and present solutions to global challenges. With guidance from Asia Society Texas staff, you’ll better understand global issues, improve communication, collaboration, and presentation skills, and engage with experts and peers to strengthen your leadership abilities.
Subject Areas: International relations, communication, research, languages, negotiation, critical thinking, and writing skills
Location: Tufts University, Medford/Somerville Campus, MA
Cost:
- Commuter: $4,225
- Residential: $5,750
Limited need-based scholarships are available
Application Deadline: May 1, 2025
Dates: July 20 – August 1, 2025
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 11–12 or those graduating in Spring 2025
The Tufts University International Relations Pre-College Program offers rising high school juniors and seniors the chance to study international affairs through Tufts’ unique approach. During the program, you will earn college credit, analyze current events, and engage in seminars and collaborative discussions. You will explore various international relations topics with Tufts’ faculty, learn or improve language skills, participate in crisis simulations, and develop critical skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and writing.
You will also write a college-level research paper with support from advanced assistants and a research librarian using Tufts’ Tisch Library resources. Over two weeks, you will build connections with peers and mentors and gain insight into collegiate academics.
Subject Areas: Public service, democracy, leadership, business, and entrepreneurial skills
Location: The program is available virtually, with an optional Leadership & Business Conference held at the Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C.
Cost/Stipend: The participation fee is $500, which covers entrance fees, the Entrepreneurial Mindset Program, and other summer program costs; scholarships are available based on financial need, but no stipend is provided
Application Deadline: The application for the 2025 session will be available in March 2025
Dates: TBA for 2025. The dates for the 2024 program were:
- Orientation (Virtual): June 1, 2024
- Kick-off (Virtual): July 13, 2024
- YLA Intensive Seminar (Virtual): July 15 – July 19, 2024
- ILF Leadership & Business Conference/Gala (in-person, optional): July 25, 2024
- Closing Ceremony (Virtual): July 29, 2024
Eligibility: Current rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who are involved in community service and demonstrate leadership
The International Leadership Foundation’s Youth Leadership Academy is a week-long program designed to help high school students understand American democracy, their role in it, and the value of an entrepreneurial mindset. The program aims to give students the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become engaged citizens, entrepreneurial thinkers, and future leaders. The program covers topics like international business relations, offering insight into the economic aspect of international relations. This combination of civic engagement and entrepreneurial learning will prepare you for success in higher education, the workplace, and society.
David Wilkinson is a freelance writer for Horizon and currently resides in the United States.