20 Best Medical Internships for High School Students
For high school students interested in medicine, internships provide a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop essential skills, and explore potential career paths in healthcare. These programs offer exposure to clinical settings, medical research, and public health initiatives, allowing students to work alongside professionals and gain real-world insights into the field.
Many prestigious hospitals, universities, and healthcare organizations offer internships specifically for high school students, making it easier to learn from experts and build valuable connections. Whether you're interested in patient care, biomedical research, or healthcare policy, these experiences can help strengthen your academic profile and prepare you for future studies in medicine.
To help you find the right opportunity, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best medical internships for high school students, offering a mix of hands-on learning, mentorship, and career exploration!
1. Stanford Institute of Medicine Summer Research Program
Location: Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
Cost/Stipend: Minimum stipend of $500 for all selected students + $40 application fee
Cohort Size: 50
Application Deadline: February 22
Dates: June 9 – July 31
Eligibility: Current high school juniors or seniors in the Fall of 2024 (graduating class of 2025 or 2026) ages 16 and above by the program start date
If you're a high school junior or senior interested in medicine and scientific research, the Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an incredible opportunity. Over eight weeks, you’ll conduct hands-on research in a Stanford University lab, working closely with experienced mentors like faculty and postdoctoral researchers. With research areas ranging from bioinformatics to cancer biology, you’ll gain valuable exposure to the field of biomedical science.
This immersive experience will help you understand the research process and how scientific discoveries impact medicine. Through SIMR, you can strengthen your analytical skills, build relationships with professionals, and develop a competitive edge for college and future careers.
2. Ladder Internship Program – Medicine Track
Location: Remote
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Cohort Size: 70 spots (tentative)
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. February 9 for the spring cohort.
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter. The spring cohort begins on March 3
Eligibility: High school students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks.
Ladder Internships is a selective start-up internship program for ambitious high school students! In the program, you work with a high-growth start-up on an internship. Start-ups that offer internships range across a variety of industries, from medicine to health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can explore all the options here on their application form.
Ladder’s start-ups are high-growth companies on average raising over a million dollars. In the program, interns work closely with their managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects and present their work to the company. Here is the application form.
The virtual internship is usually 8 weeks long.
3. Fred Hutch Cancer Center Summer High School Internship (SHIP)
Location: Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
Stipend: This is a paid internship. More details are provided to applicants invited for interviews
Cohort Size/Acceptance Rate: Specific details are not publicly disclosed.
Application Deadline: March 31
Dates: June 23 – August 15
Eligibility: High school students in grades 11 and 12
The Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) at Fred Hutch is a prestigious eight-week paid internship for high school students eager to explore biomedical research. Over the first two weeks, you’ll train in lab safety and techniques like PCR and gel electrophoresis before joining a mentor-led research team for six weeks. You’ll contribute to real medical studies while developing essential lab skills.
SHIP also includes research seminars, career guidance, and discussions on ethics, providing a well-rounded introduction to the biomedical field. You’ll build professional connections, strengthen your research abilities, and enhance your academic profile. The program ends with a final presentation, giving you the chance to share your work with mentors, peers, and family.
4. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here.
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
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.
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects.
Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here.
5. Harvard Medical School’s Project Success
Location: Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
Stipend: Paid internship, amount unspecified
Application Deadline: February 3
Dates: June 30 – August 15
Eligibility: Students who:
- Reside in Boston or Cambridge
- Are in grade 11 or 12
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.70
- Are at least 16 years old by the program start date
- Have completed courses in algebra, biology, and chemistry
For high school students in Boston and Cambridge, Project Success is a seven-week paid internship that offers a deep dive into biomedical research. You’ll work in a Harvard Medical School lab, gaining first-hand experience in scientific research while being mentored by professionals. The program includes seminars, site visits, and workshops to help you explore different career paths in medicine and biotechnology.
You’ll also receive personalized career guidance, networking opportunities, and academic skill-building in areas like writing and public speaking. The program also has academic year seminars and programs that continue to support your growth beyond the summer internship.
6. National Human Genome Research Institute Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research
Location: National Institutes of Health (NIH) campus in Bethesda, Maryland
Stipend: Stipend provided based on educational level
Application Deadline: February 19
Dates: Varies as selections are made throughout the open application period
Eligibility: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older on June 1, 2025, and currently enrolled at least half-time as a senior in high school
If you’re interested in medical research, the Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research gives you a chance to explore the field firsthand. You’ll spend the summer working with top NIH scientists, investigating genetic disorders, and learning advanced research techniques. Alongside lab experience, you’ll attend the NIH Summer Seminar Series, where you’ll hear about the latest advancements in biomedical science from leading experts.
The program also emphasizes career development and mentorship, offering networking opportunities through the National Human Genome Research Institute. You’ll wrap up the internship by presenting your findings at the NIH Summer Research Program Poster Day, gaining valuable feedback from professionals in the field. With a monthly stipend, this program supports your learning while giving you invaluable real-world research experience.
7. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program
Location: University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
Stipend: $6,800 stipend for the 10-week program; $6,120 for the nine-week program
Application Deadline: November 18 – January 20
Dates: June 2 – August 8
Eligibility: Current Texas high school seniors aged 18 or over by program start
The Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center is a 10-week, full-time research internship designed for Texas high school students interested in biomedical sciences. You’ll work closely with faculty mentors in state-of-the-art laboratories, learning research techniques and contributing to projects that advance our understanding of cancer and human health.
Beyond lab work, the program features faculty-led seminars, research competitions, and opportunities to present your findings. You’ll gain essential scientific communication skills and build a professional network that can guide your future academic and career path. The program concludes with a final presentation and celebration luncheon highlighting your accomplishments.
8. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital High School Summer Internship Program
Location: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio
Stipend: $13/hour
Application Deadline: February 1
Dates: 8 weeks following the Orientation Day on June 3
Eligibility: Residents of the Cincinnati metropolitan area who will graduate from high school in Spring 2025
The High School Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital is an eight-week paid internship during which you will work 20 hours per week under the guidance of a mentor in a pediatric specialty. This program offers hands-on clinical and research exposure and is ideal for students considering an MD, PhD, or MD/PhD.
As an intern, you’ll participate in weekly luncheons with specialists, hands-on medical training, and group activities to broaden your knowledge of the field. You can also request additional shadowing opportunities in other specialties, allowing you to explore various career paths. At the end of the summer, you’ll present your experience at a graduation event, highlighting your learning and contributions. This program is a highly competitive, immersive opportunity to gain real-world experience in pediatric medicine and research.
9. Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, California
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: March 17
Dates: June 23 – July 25
Eligibility: Low-income, first-generation high school juniors who live in Northern California
The Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP) is a five-week, tuition-free summer program for first-generation and low-income high school juniors in Northern California who are passionate about medicine. You will be placed in hospital internships at Stanford Hospital, where you’ll engage in hands-on lab activities, shadow medical professionals, and observe patient care. You will also participate in lectures, career workshops, and networking events to enhance your academic and professional growth.
A key feature of SMYSP is the public health research project, where you and your peers will explore health disparities and present solutions through a research paper and academic poster. Throughout the program, you will receive mentorship from Stanford faculty, healthcare professionals, and college students, all dedicated to supporting your journey.
10. Wistar Institute's Biomedical Research Internship
Location: Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Stipend: $1,500
Application Deadline: March 31
Dates: July 7– July 31
Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and have completed at least one high school science course
The Wistar High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research is a four-week summer program where you’ll receive professional lab training, conduct real research, and develop critical scientific skills. You’ll work in a state-of-the-art lab, learning the best practices in biomedical techniques and how to analyze scientific literature.
The program also offers insights into various careers in biomedical research, helping you explore future opportunities in science. At the end of the program, you’ll present your research findings, gaining valuable experience in public speaking and scientific communication. Students from Philadelphia high schools are strongly encouraged to apply, and no prior research experience is required.
11. Magee-Womens Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program
Location: Magee-Womens Research Institute (MWRI) or Magee-Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Stipend: Interns are eligible to receive a stipend of $1,800 if their household qualifies for the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program for Pennsylvania
Application Deadline: February 7
Dates: 6-week program starting on June 16
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors over 16 years old by the program start date who have a permanent residence in the southwest Pennsylvania region
The MWRI High School Summer Internship Program is a six-week, 240-hour immersive research experience where you will conduct an independent project in basic, translational, or clinical research. Under the mentorship of MWRI and Magee-Womens Hospital faculty, you will gain practical lab experience while contributing to research in reproductive biology, women’s health, and infant health.
In addition to laboratory work, you will participate in Lunch & Learn sessions, where faculty share their career experiences in biomedical research. The program concludes with a research presentation, where you will present your findings to MWRI faculty, staff, and fellow interns. This internship is supported by faculty from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Medicine and Swanson School of Engineering, offering an opportunity to engage with experts in the field.
12. Medical College of Wisconsin Apprenticeship in Medicine (AIM)
Location: Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: March 1
Dates: June 23 – August 1
Eligibility: Milwaukee rising juniors, seniors, or June graduates; students aged 16 and above; a minimum science and math GPA of 3.0
The AIM program provides high school students from Milwaukee’s underrepresented communities with a six-week, immersive experience in the health sciences. You will gain hands-on experience through clinical shadowing and simulations while exploring career pathways in medicine, biomedical research, and allied health. These activities are designed to inspire your interest and prepare you academically for future opportunities in the field.
As part of the program, you will develop an abstract and present your findings on a disease or medical condition, showcasing your research and communication skills. Mentorship from medical students and engaging group activities will provide you with guidance and build your confidence in pursuing a career in healthcare. At the program’s conclusion, you will receive a completion certificate.
13. Summer Child Health Research Internship
Location: Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
Stipend: $4,400
Application Deadline: February 1
Dates: June 2 – August 1
Eligibility: High school seniors over the age of 18 who are Colorado residents
The Summer Child Health Research Internship provides you with a chance to dive into child health research alongside faculty members at the University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado. You’ll spend your summer working in a lab, conducting research, and gaining valuable hands-on experience. Throughout the program, you’ll also attend weekly seminars to learn about ongoing research in the field.
At the end of the program, you’ll present your research, either through an oral presentation or a poster. The internship also offers opportunities to submit abstracts to national scientific meetings, with travel funding available if your research is selected for presentation. This program is a great way to gain insight into research while contributing to the field of child health.
14. Medicine Institute: Wake Forest Summer Immersion Program
Location: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Cost: $3,400
Application Deadline: Rolling basis starting in November
Dates: July 6 – July 11 | July 20 – July 25
Eligibility: Current 9th – 12th grade students
The Wake Forest Summer Immersion Medicine Institute provides you with an immersive experience in the medical field, exposing you to various specialties like surgery, cardiology, and internal medicine. You’ll visit Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and participate in simulation labs that allow you to practice vital skills such as taking blood pressure and suturing.
Throughout the program, you'll also get a tour of the Wake Forest School of Medicine and explore cutting-edge technologies, such as ultrasound equipment. Engaging with medical students will help you better understand what it takes to pursue a career in healthcare. This program is designed to give you a comprehensive look at the diverse fields within medicine.
15. Arthritis Foundation Summer Science Internship (rheumatology USA)
Location: University of California, San Francisco, California
Stipend: $2,500
Application Deadline: March 10
Dates: June 2 – August 29
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 17 years of age by June 2
The 2025 Summer Science Internship, offered by the Arthritis Foundation, allows you to work in leading research and clinical laboratories at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Over the 8-week program, you will gain practical experience in one of three areas: basic laboratory research, clinical epidemiology/translational research, or bioinformatics. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to real-world projects and learn from professionals in the field.
As an intern, you will also receive a stipend of $2500 to support your work. Applicants must be at least 17 years old and U.S. citizens or permanent residents. This program provides a foundation for anyone interested in a career in medical or scientific research.
16. UMass Amherst Kinesiology: Pathway to the Medical Professions Pre-College
Location: UMass Amherst Campus, Massachusetts
Cost: $3,907 for Residential | $2,262 for Commuter
Application Deadline: May 1
Dates: June 29 - July 12
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school
The Kinesiology: Pathway to the Medical Professions course offers you a two-week experience that highlights how the discipline of kinesiology connects to various medical careers. You’ll learn about the science behind muscles, bones, metabolism, and biomechanics while participating in hands-on lab experiments and exercises. The course includes off-site activities where you’ll test variables in the community, giving you practical experience.
You will also gain knowledge about fitness testing, mobility techniques, nutrition for performance, and personalized fitness plans. By the end of the program, you will have a better understanding of how kinesiology can lead to careers in physical therapy, nursing, and athletic training, and receive a CPR/AED certification.
17. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Summer Internship Program
Location: NIH laboratories in Bethesda, Maryland, and Framingham, Massachusetts
Stipend: Stipends are adjusted annually and are based on educational level.
Application Deadline: February 19
Dates: Interns can begin on one of the following start dates: May 19, May 27, June 2
Eligibility: Students who are 18 years of age or older on June 15, are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and are enrolled at least half-time as a senior in high school
The Summer Internship Program at the NHLBI offers an opportunity for you to gain hands-on research experience over six to eight weeks in the NIH laboratories located in Bethesda, MD, or Framingham, MA. As an intern, you will work under the mentorship of a principal investigator, engaging in basic and clinical research in areas such as biomedical, behavioral, and social sciences. The program provides exposure to a wide range of fields, including biology, chemistry, epidemiology, and bioinformatics.
Throughout the internship, you will be able to develop your research skills while contributing to impactful scientific discoveries. In addition to your research work, you’ll also take part in professional development events designed to enhance your career prospects in healthcare and research. This program offers a learning environment for students to explore a career in research while building valuable skills and relationships.
18. Stanford Cardiothoracic Surgical Skills and Education Center Summer Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: $4,500 + $95 application fee
Application Deadline: March 14
Dates: Program 1: June 23 - July 4 | Program 2: July 14 - July 25
Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 16 years of age on the first day of the program
The Stanford Summer Internship at the Cardiothoracic Surgical Skills and Education Center is a comprehensive two-week program tailored for high school students interested in cardiothoracic surgery. During this immersive experience, you’ll gain a deep understanding of cardiac and thoracic anatomy, along with the physiology of the heart and lungs, as well as the diseases that affect them. You’ll get to attend daily lectures covering essential topics such as coronary artery bypass grafting, heart valve surgeries, lung cancer treatments, and heart transplantation.
In addition to the academic side, you’ll also participate in hands-on technical skill sessions, where you’ll learn fundamental surgical techniques like knot tying, suturing, and the handling of surgical instruments, all practiced on simulation models. Led by a team of experienced instructors, including faculty from Stanford University and surgical residents, the program offers a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best in the field.