15 Best Medical Internships for High School Students
For high school students eager to explore the medical field, internships are a gateway to an inspiring journey of discovery. The best medical internships for high school students provide hands-on experience, connections with industry leaders, and a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape—all while building a strong foundation for future endeavors.
From prestigious on-site programs at renowned institutions to innovative virtual internships, the best medical internships for high school students allow you to receive mentorship, contribute to impactful projects, and strengthen your academic and professional profiles. Below is a curated list of 15 of the best medical internships for high school students, chosen based on factors like prestige, selectivity, and overall reputation.
1. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research (SIMR) Program
Location: Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, California
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 16 or older; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Application Deadline: February 22
Program Dates: June 9 – July 31
Stipend: $500 minimum; $1,500+ for underrepresented students
Acceptance Rate: 3%
The SIMR Program offers an exceptional opportunity for high school students eager to delve into the field of medical science. The program admits only about 50 students annually, representing an acceptance rate of under 3%. As an intern, you will be mentored by Stanford graduate students and postdoctoral researchers and will engage in an intensive, hands-on research experience.
As one of the best medical internships for high school students, the program allows you to choose from eight specialized tracks: Immunology, Neurobiology, Cancer Biology, Bioengineering, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Cardiovascular Biology, Bioinformatics, and Genetics and Genomics. For eight weeks, you will dedicate yourself to full-time lab work, attend lectures, and gain insight into groundbreaking research in medical science. The experience concludes with the creation and presentation of a research poster, giving you a platform to showcase your findings and contributions to the scientific community.
2. Ladder Internship Program – Healthcare and Medicine Track
Location: Remote
Eligibility: High school students, college undergraduates, and gap year participants who can commit 10 – 20 hours weekly for 8 – 12 weeks
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort. February 9 for the spring cohort
Program Dates: Year-round cohorts available. The spring cohort starts on March 3
Cost: Starting from $2,490 (financial aid provided)
Acceptance Rate: Competitive
The Ladder Internship Program offers motivated high school students the chance to gain real-world experience with innovative start-ups. As a participant, you will collaborate directly with cutting-edge companies across diverse industries, such as artificial intelligence, health technology, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more.
The program provides a comprehensive application process to explore suitable start-ups, often partnering with firms valued over $1 million. You will gain valuable insights into modern business operations by working closely with company managers and receiving guidance from a dedicated Ladder Coach. Throughout the internship, you’ll tackle impactful projects, refine your skills, and present your contributions directly to the start-up team, fostering both professional growth and meaningful connections.
3. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship
Location: Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors aged 16+ residing in Palm Beach or Martin County with U.S. work authorization. See more here.
Application Deadline: January 7 – March 4
Program Dates: June 23 – August 1 (6 weeks)
Stipend: $13/hour
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive
As one of the best medical internships for high school students, the MPFI Summer Research Internship provides high school students with the opportunity to explore the intricate workings of brain structure, function, and development. Over six weeks, you will engage in immersive, hands-on research while gaining exposure to advanced imaging technologies and cutting-edge methodologies.
You can choose from three focus areas—neuroscience, scientific programming, or mechanical engineering—and can tailor the program to align with your interests. This intensive, full-time internship requires a 40-hour weekly commitment, culminating in the creation of a scientific abstract and a formal presentation of findings. You will share your research insights with peers and mentors, making meaningful contributions to ongoing scientific projects while receiving financial compensation for your efforts.
4. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)
Location: Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland. Virtual options available
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors; in-person applicants must attend a Baltimore-area high school
Application Deadline: March 1 (annual)
Program Dates: In-person: June – August (8 weeks) | Virtual: July – August (5 weeks)
Stipend: In-person participants receive hourly wages plus transportation support; virtual interns are awarded a $500 stipend
Cohort Size: 5 – 6 students per cohort
The JHIBS program provides an exceptional summer research experience for high school students interested in neuroscience. This initiative, aimed at fostering diversity in the field, offers you the chance to work under the mentorship of renowned neuroscientists. You will work in laboratory research, attend educational seminars, and participate in professional development sessions to deepen your understanding of neurological sciences. The program also ensures personalized mentorship and a nurturing learning environment.
Both in-person and virtual formats feature guided research projects, scientific discussions, and growth-oriented activities. The JHIBS program is relatively selective and admits a cohort of just 5 – 6 students annually, making it one of the best medical internships for high school students. At the program’s conclusion, you will present your research findings through oral or poster presentations, highlighting your accomplishments as emerging scholars in brain science.
5. Student Research Internship Programs at Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI)
Location: Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
Eligibility: Highly motivated high school students aged 16 or older by the program start date
Application Deadlines: Program I: March 31 | Program II: January 19
Program Dates: Program I: June 2 – August 8 or June 16 – August 22 (10 weeks) | Program II: May 19 – July 28 (8 weeks)
Stipend:
- Program I: Funding details are pending. Unpaid positions offer school credit or a transcript notation
- Program II: $4,000 – $8,000, depending on your lodging situation
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, with only 40 spots available to high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional applicants
Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI) offers two distinctive yet complementary internship programs: the Student Research Internship Program (Program I) and the Medical Student Research Internship Program (Program II). The former focuses on translational science, while the latter focuses on precision medicine. These intensive programs invite 40 talented students nationwide to participate in hands-on, college-level research.
During the internship, you will be paired with a primary mentor who provides personalized guidance throughout the program. You will work on groundbreaking topics, such as digital health, clinical genomics, community engagement, and the methodologies used in translational research. As one of the best medical internships for high school students, the program offers training in the design and analysis of genomic and genetic association studies, alongside opportunities to observe clinical trials from conception to analysis.
At the end of the internship, you will present your research findings and scientific concepts to peers and mentors, demonstrating the skills and knowledge you’ve gained. Whether you're interested in precision medicine or the broader field of translational science, SRTI’s internships provide an unparalleled opportunity for exposure to cutting-edge research.
6. National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)
Location: NIH main campus, Bethesda, Maryland
Eligibility: High school juniors, seniors, or recent graduates who are at least 17 years old by June; Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. See more info here.
Application Deadline: January 8
Program Dates: July 7 – August 7
Stipend: $2,530 for current high school students; $2,840 for high school graduates
Acceptance Rate: Less than 7%
The High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) is one of the best medical internships for high school students that is designed to promote diversity in STEM. The goal of the program is to provide an introduction to scientific training while fostering personal and professional development. Tailored for rising 12th graders from schools where 30% or more of students qualify for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program, HiSTEP offers a unique blend of leadership training, wellness initiatives, and exposure to STEM-M (science, technology, engineering, math, and medical-related) careers.
During the program, you will explore research and healthcare professions through engaging lectures, research group visits, networking events, and collaborative projects. The program also provides college application guidance, career readiness training, and a resilience and well-being curriculum to support personal growth. You must commit at least 21 hours per week to training and projects and complete the full program to fully benefit from this experience.
7. Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP)
Location: Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Eligibility: High school students from the greater Philadelphia area, including Camden, NJ, who are eligible to work in the U.S.
Application Deadline: December 31
Program Dates: June 23 – August 15 (8 weeks)
Stipend: Paid (exact amount unspecified)
Acceptance Rate: Less than 10%
The Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP) provides high school students with an opportunity to delve into research in biomedicine and medicine within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. As a participant, you will work closely with leading researchers on hands-on projects, learning essential laboratory techniques and engaging deeply in the scientific process. The program goes beyond lab work, incorporating lectures on cutting-edge scientific topics, training in public speaking and scientific writing, and discussions on the ethical principles guiding human and animal research.
The apprenticeship culminates in a public conference where you will present your research findings to Monell staff, peers, family, and friends, showcasing your achievements and new skills. With an acceptance rate of less than 10%, MSAP is highly selective, admitting only 18 – 24 students from an applicant pool of about 200. Notably, 20–30% of those accepted are returning participants, reflecting the program’s strong mentorship and support.
Location: Anschutz Medical Campus (Children’s Hospital Colorado), Aurora, Colorado
Eligibility: Colorado High school seniors who are at least 18 years old by June 2025
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: June 2 – August 1 (9 weeks)
Stipend: $4,400
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, admitting a mix of high school seniors, college students, graduate students, and first-year medical students
The Summer Child Health Research Internship offers high school seniors a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in pediatric health research. Hosted by the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and the Child Health Research Enterprise at Children’s Hospital Colorado, this program immerses you in innovative studies that address critical issues in child health.
Under the guidance of experienced mentors, you will engage in laboratory research while attending weekly faculty-led lectures on cutting-edge pediatric medicine. The program culminates in a formal presentation of your research findings, requiring you to submit a written report and share your work through oral, poster, or PowerPoint presentations. Additionally, you are encouraged to submit research abstracts to local, regional, and national conferences, with attendance costs covered for accepted submissions.
9. High School Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
Location: Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors from the Cincinnati metropolitan area. SAT and ACT scores are preferred, but PSAT scores are not required
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: Begins June 3 (8 weeks, 20 hours per week)
Stipend: $13 per hour
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, with a rigorous screening process
The High School Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center offers graduating seniors a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in pediatric medicine. As an intern, you will work closely with mentors from various specialties, including pediatric surgery, molecular cardiovascular biology, infectious diseases, and developmental biology, engaging in clinical and research projects.
In addition to hands-on experience, the program includes shadowing opportunities in clinical settings, training sessions, community service activities, and lunch seminars. You will also attend networking events, fostering connections with peers and healthcare professionals. The internship culminates in a final presentation where you will share your projects and experiences with mentors and peers, highlighting your contributions and growth over the summer.
10. Stanford STaRS Internship Program
Location: Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, California
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 by June or older. Read here for more
Application Deadline: Typically in November
Program Dates: June 23 – August 8
Stipend: Unpaid typically; however, transport costs can be covered
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective, with approximately 20 students chosen per cohort
The Stanford Science, Technology, and Reconstructive Surgery (STaRS) Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for high school students passionate about biotechnology and medical innovation. Centered on the transformative field of reconstructive surgery, the program delves into how advanced biotechnology revolutionizes surgical outcomes.
As an STaRS intern, you will collaborate with world-renowned surgeons and researchers, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and techniques. The program emphasizes practical skill development in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and medical device innovation. You leave with a better understanding of how biotechnology is shaping the future of medicine and making life-changing advancements in patient care.
11. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program
Location: MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Eligibility: Current Texas high school seniors aged 18 or older by the program start date. Read here for more.
Application Deadline: Opens in November and typically closes in January
Program Dates: June 2 – August 8 (10 weeks)
Stipend: $6,800
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective, with only up to 12 students chosen annually
The MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program provides a premier opportunity for Texas high school seniors aspiring to careers in allied health, including diagnostic, technical, and supportive healthcare services. Each year, up to 12 exceptional students are selected to participate in this 10-week program, which focuses on hands-on biomedical research in a laboratory setting.
Under the guidance of MD Anderson faculty mentors—ranging from department heads to experienced researchers—you will work on a dedicated biomedical research project, gaining invaluable practical experience. The program also includes faculty-led seminars, engaging activities, and friendly competitions designed to enhance learning. At the program's conclusion, you will present your findings during a celebratory luncheon, showcasing your growth and accomplishments.
12. Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy at City of Hope
Location: City of Hope, Duarte, California
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Application Deadline: March 12
Program Dates: June 2 – August 8 (10 weeks)
Stipend: $4,500
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, with only 80 students shortlisted last year, 45% of whom were high school students
The Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy provides high school students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in biomedical research at City of Hope. Over 10 weeks, you will choose a research project and work collaboratively with a team of dedicated biomedical researchers.
Guided by expert mentors, including cancer specialists and pioneering scientists, you will gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge research. The program also includes workshops on ethics, research poster creation, and weekly seminars, culminating in a presentation of your findings. At the end of the program, you will submit a written report summarizing your research and experiences.
Many past participants have achieved significant milestones during the program, such as co-authoring published papers and contributing to patented life-saving innovations. This academy offers a transformative experience for aspiring researchers looking to make an impact in the field of biomedical science.
Location: TGen, Phoenix, Arizona, or TGen North, Flagstaff, Arizona
Eligibility: Graduating Arizona high school seniors aged 16 or older with U.S. work authorization. More info here
Application Deadline: February 5
Program Dates: June 9 – August 1 (8 weeks)
Stipend: $14.35/hour
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive
Helios Scholars at TGen offers graduating Arizona high school seniors an exceptional opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research through an immersive internship experience. As one of the best medical internships for high school students, the program offers students access to various fields, including laboratory research, computational biology, bioinformatics, mathematics, statistics, and research administration.
As a scholar, you will work full-time on projects led by TGen scientists, contributing to studies that explore the genetic underpinnings of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders, as well as public health and pathogen research. Beyond lab work, the program includes seminars and activities aimed at helping you develop new technical skills, explore diverse career pathways, and enhance your scientific writing.
The internship culminates in a symposium where you will present your research findings and deliver an oral presentation, showcasing your contributions to TGen's innovative work. This program provides a transformative platform for aspiring scientists to gain hands-on experience and prepare for careers in biomedical research and beyond.
14. Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) at Fred Hutch Cancer Center
Location: South Lake Union, Seattle, Washington
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds who are U.S. residents
Application Deadline: March 31
Program Dates: June 23 – August 15 (8 weeks)
Stipend: Financial award available (details provided during the interview), plus a free ORCA card for commuting
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive
The Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) at Fred Hutch Cancer Center provides a full-time, eight-week research internship tailored for students from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical sciences. The program begins with an intensive two-week training period covering laboratory safety and essential research skills. Following this, you will join a biomedical research lab, where you’ll collaborate with a mentor and a research team to contribute to meaningful scientific projects.
Beyond lab work, the program offers seminars, professional development workshops focused on preparing for college and careers, and social and networking activities. SHIP provides an immersive and supportive environment that not only enhances your understanding of biomedical research but also prepares you for future success in the sciences.
15. Seacole Scholars Program at Lifespan
Location: Brown University Health, Providence, Rhode Island
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 – 19 with a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license
Application Deadline: January 27
Program Dates: June – August (7 – 8 weeks)
Stipend: Paid (amount unspecified)
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 80 students are shortlisted annually
Named in honor of Mary Seacole, a trailblazing nurse, the Seacole Scholars Program provides high school students with a unique, paid summer internship at Lifespan, Rhode Island’s largest private employer. For seven weeks, you will gain practical experience by working four days a week on nursing units, where you’ll develop critical skills in patient care and clinical environments.
In addition to hands-on clinical experience, one day each week is dedicated to Lifespan Workforce and Youth Development training sessions. These sessions include career counseling and skill development to prepare you for future opportunities in healthcare. The program also opens the door to potential employment at Lifespan upon successful completion.
Looking for an immersive internship experience?
Check out Ladder Internships!
Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program where students work with startups and nonprofits from around the world! The startups range across a variety of industries. As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup they are working with, and present their work at the end of their internship. In addition to working closely with their manager from the startup, each intern will also work with a Ladder Coach throughout their internship. Apply now!