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.
Here is a list of the top 15 science programs for high school students in 2024-25!
Subject Areas: Theoretical Mathematics, Machine Learning, Computational Neuroscience, Protein Biophysics, and more
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: February 9, 2025 for the Spring 2025 cohort
Program Dates:
- Spring seminar: March 3, 2025 onwards
- Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply four weeks in advance
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!
Subject Areas: Biotechnology, Astrophysics, Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, Chemistry, and more
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,990. Financial aid available
Application Deadline: November 24, 2024 for the winter cohort
Program Dates: The summer cohort runs from June to August, the Fall cohort from September to December, the Winter cohort from December to February, and the Spring cohort from March to June
Eligibility:
- You must be currently enrolled in high school
- Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note: students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
- No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students the opportunity to conduct advanced STEM research in fields such as biotechnology, astrophysics, data science, engineering, and chemistry. Through one-on-one mentorship with a PhD scholar from a top institution, you will explore cutting-edge topics and develop technical skills. You will dive into areas like genetic engineering, astrophysical simulations, machine learning, or chemical engineering. Guided by your mentor, you will gain hands-on experience with data analysis, lab techniques, and essential software tools such as Python and MATLAB. The program focuses on rigorous research methodologies, allowing you to produce an independent research project with the potential for publication. This experience strengthens research expertise and enhances college applications with tangible achievements in STEM disciplines. You can apply here.
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: December 1, 2024 for the winter cohort
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.
Subject Areas: Tech/Deep Tech, Healthcare and Medicine, Environmental Science, and more
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world
Cost: $2,490 (financial aid available)
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort, November 24, 2024 for the upcoming winter cohort
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students!
Ladder Internships offers a competitive internship program for high school students interested in gaining real-world experience in fast-growing STEM start-ups. With a variety of placements in industries such as tech, deep tech, AI/ML, and health tech, the program provides an ideal entry point into STEM fields. Start-ups in Ladder's network are high-growth companies, many of which have raised over a million dollars, with founders who have backgrounds at leading companies like Microsoft, Google, and Meta. As an intern, you will work on projects under the guidance of their managers and a dedicated Ladder Coach, gaining firsthand exposure to the start-up environment and presenting your work to the company team.
Throughout this eight-week virtual program, you will receive one-on-one training in essential skills like communication, project management, and time management while also joining group training sessions with your peers. You can explore all the options here on their application form.
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, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
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.
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, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Program Dates: June 16 – August 1, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
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 2024 or 2025 (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.
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, 2024
Program Dates: June 22 – August 2, 2025
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.
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, 2025
Program Dates:
- Session 1: June 22 – July 3, 2025
- Session 2: July 6 – 18, 2025
- Session 3: July 20 – August 1, 2025
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors (graduating in 2026/27) who will be at least 16 years old by June 21, 2025 and not turn 19 before July 31, 2025
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.
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, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Program Dates: June 3 – August 9, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
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.
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, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Program Dates: This is a year-long program. Dates for 2025-2026 are TBA, but the 2024 dates were:
- October 28 – April 4, 2024 (online course)
- June and July 2025 (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.
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: 2025 applications will open in mid-December 2024
Program Dates: June 23 – July 25, 2025
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.
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, 2025 | International applicants: January 24, 2025
Program Dates: June 2025
Eligibility: Current high school juniors who will be between the ages of 15-19 by the summer of 2025 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.
In 2024, 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.
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, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Program Dates: June 17, 2024 - August 9, 2024 (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.
Subject Areas: Engineering, Physics, Sustainability, and more
Location: Rice University, Houston, TX
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: June 7, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Program Dates: July 8 – 12, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
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.
Subject Areas: Computer Science, Data Structures, Artificial Intelligence, and more
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Cost: None
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
Program Dates: June 21 – July 19, 2025
Eligibility: Applicants must be sophomores in high school and at least 16 years old by June 21, 2025
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.
David Wilkinson is a freelance writer for Horizon and currently resides in the United States.