15 Business Programs for High School Students
If you’re interested in how companies are built, managed, or scaled, high school business programs offer a way to explore those questions. These programs introduce you to core business areas such as entrepreneurship, management, finance, and strategy while helping you develop practical skills like problem-solving and teamwork. Many programs emphasize applied learning through case studies, simulations, internships, or mentored projects, giving you experience with how business concepts are used.
Why should I participate in a business program in high school?
Business programs allow you to test your interest in fields like entrepreneurship, consulting, finance, or management before college. Through projects, mentorship, and structured coursework, you gain exposure to professional expectations and decision-making processes. For students planning to major in business, economics, or related fields, these programs can strengthen college applications by showing interest and readiness for analytical coursework.
Here are 15 business programs for high school students!
1. Chicago Summer Business Institute (CSBI)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; Chicago-based cohort
Location: Chicago, IL (in-person internships at financial firms and businesses)
Cost/Stipend: Paid internships; stipend provided by host employers
Dates: Summer (June–August)
Application Deadline: February 1–March 31
Eligibility: Chicago residents who are rising high school sophomores or juniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a household income under $80,000
Founded in 1991, the Chicago Summer Business Institute (CSBI) connects high school students with paid summer internships in the financial services sector and other industries. The program offers you an opportunity to gain experience working in professional settings, develop workplace skills, and explore potential career paths in business. You’ll also participate in training sessions focused on leadership, teamwork, and communication, helping you prepare for future academic and professional success. CSBI prioritizes students from modest-income families in Chicago. Admissions are competitive, and applicants are required to submit transcripts, recommendation letters, and an essay as part of the selection process.
2. Ladder Internships
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small cohorts for personalized mentorship
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies according to program; need-based financial aid available
Dates: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter cohorts (8–12 weeks)
Application Deadline: January (Spring), May (Summer), September (Fall), November (Winter)
Eligibility: High school, undergraduate, and gap-year students able to commit 10–20 hours per week
Ladder Internships is a competitive program that connects high school students with high-growth startups across a variety of fields, including AI/ML, tech, health, marketing, journalism, and consulting. As an intern, you’ll work on real-world projects under the guidance of startup managers and a dedicated Ladder Coach who supports you through the process. The internship is designed to help you develop skills in research, operations, strategy, and communication. By the end of the program, you will present your work to your host company, gaining experience that is both professional and portfolio-ready. The remote format makes it flexible while still providing personalized mentorship and industry exposure.
3. Summer Venture in Business (SVB)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; priority given to first-generation, Title I, rural, and Kansas-area students
Location: University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS (on-campus, residential)
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: June 15–20; July 13–18
Application Deadline: Typically spring (exact dates announced annually)
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors; minimum GPA of 2.75
The Summer Venture in Business (SVB) is a week-long pre-college academy that introduces high school students to business studies and college life at the University of Kansas. You’ll take part in interactive workshops focused on business topics, leadership development, and the college admissions process, while also getting a taste of campus life by living in residence halls and participating in group activities. The program prioritizes students who are first-generation college aspirants, from Title I schools, or from rural Kansas communities, making it a supportive environment for students to learn and thrive. With its combination of academic exposure, mentorship, and networking, SVB provides a strong foundation for students considering business studies and careers in business.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; individualized mentorship
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies according to program; need-based financial aid available
Dates: Spring (March–June), Summer (June–August), Fall (September–December), Winter (December–February)
Application Deadline: January (Spring), May (Summer), September (Fall), November (Winter)
Eligibility: Current high school students with a minimum 3.3 GPA; no prior research experience required
Lumiere offers a one-on-one research mentorship program that pairs high school students with PhD mentors from top universities to conduct independent, university-level research. In the Business & Economics track, you will explore topics such as market dynamics, entrepreneurship, organizational behavior, and global trade, while developing advanced skills in critical thinking and data analysis. Over 12 weeks – with options to extend up to a year – you’ll design, research, and write your own original paper, gaining experience in academic writing and research methodology. The program concludes with a completed research paper that can be submitted to competitions or academic journals.
5. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) High School Internship Program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; placements vary by department
Location: Richland, WA (hybrid and lab-based roles; some business internships may be remote)
Cost/Stipend: Paid internships; stipend varies by role
Dates: Academic Year (August–May, part-time); Summer (June–August, full-time)
Application Deadline: Academic Year – February to June; Summer – February to March
Eligibility: High school students; must be 18+ for lab/field placements
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) High School Internship Program gives high school students an opportunity to gain experience in business, STEM, or a combination of both, depending on their career interests. During the academic year, you work up to 4 hours per day on projects while balancing school, and in the summer, you have the option to work full-time. Business interns may assist with operations, project management, or communications, while STEM interns work in research labs under the mentorship of scientists and engineers. Beyond project work, you will participate in leadership development workshops, lab tours, and career awareness sessions. In some cases, you can even earn high school elective credit through school-based work-learning programs.
6. Caminos al Futuro
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; small cohort of Latino/Hispanic student leaders
Location: George Washington University, Washington, D.C. (on-campus, residential)
Cost/Stipend: Fully funded (covers tuition, housing, meals, and activities)
Dates: July (three-week program)
Application Deadline: Opens December 8; deadline typically in spring
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors with strong academics and demonstrated commitment to leadership in service of the Latino/Hispanic community
Caminos al Futuro is a fully funded pre-college leadership program for high-achieving Latino/Hispanic students who are passionate about community engagement and social impact. Over three weeks, you will live on the George Washington University campus and take part in university-style seminars, writing labs, and community action projects. The program includes visits to Congress, government agencies, and leading nonprofits, giving you a firsthand view of policymaking and advocacy in Washington, D.C. Beyond academics, you’ll participate in college prep workshops led by admissions specialists, gaining valuable insight into the application process. Caminos combines academic enrichment and civic leadership, helping you connect your future business or policy aspirations with community service.
7. Leadership in the Business World (LBW)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; admits students from across the world
Location: Philadelphia, PA (on-campus, residential)
Cost/Stipend: $11,399; need-based financial aid available; $100 application fee (non-refundable)
Dates: June 7–27, June 28–July 18, or July 19–August 8
Application Deadline: Priority – January 29; Final – April 2
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors
Leadership in the Business World (LBW) is a three-week program that introduces high school students to Wharton’s undergraduate business education, with a focus on leadership, communication, and teamwork. You will study business fundamentals such as management, organizational strategy, and competitive analysis while participating in interactive simulations, debates, and team-based projects. A highlight of this business program for high school students is the capstone case competition, where you analyze and develop strategies for a real company, and present your recommendations to the Wharton faculty. Throughout the program, you’ll practice applying management frameworks such as SWOT and Porter’s Five Forces, refine your public speaking, and collaborate with students from around the world. At the end of the program, you’ll earn a Wharton Global Youth Certificate of Completion, a recognition of both academic excellence and readiness for future business studies.
8. Harvard Pre-College Program – Business & Economics Courses
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small classes (12–18 students)
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA (on-campus, residential)
Cost/Stipend: $5,550 per 2-week session (includes tuition, room, and board); financial aid available; $75 application fee (non-refundable)
Dates: June 21–July 2; July 5–17; July 19–31
Application Deadline: Opens December 1; rolling admissions until filled
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Harvard’s Pre-College Program offers two-week courses taught by Harvard-affiliated faculty, giving high school students a firsthand taste of Ivy League academics. You can learn from courses in business, leadership, management, and economics, all designed to challenge your thinking and expand your perspectives. Each student takes one course per session, with daily classes of three hours and additional homework. The program emphasizes critical thinking, debate, and research presentations, mirroring real Harvard classrooms. Beyond academics, the program includes residential living in Harvard dorms, extracurricular activities, and cultural events. Upon completion, you’ll receive a written evaluation and a transcript with a grade of “requirements met,” which can strengthen your college applications.
9. Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited to high school juniors from the U.S. and Puerto Rico
Location: Penn State University Park, State College, PA (residential)
Cost/Stipend: $350 program fee (due upon acceptance)
Dates: June 14–26
Application Deadline: October 20–March 20
Eligibility: High school juniors interested in business
Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS) is a two-week residential business program for high school students to have an inside look at college life and business education at Penn State. You will take courses on business fundamentals and college preparation taught by Penn State faculty while living in residence halls and experiencing campus life. Beyond academics, BOSS focuses on personal development and community – you’ll build friendships with a diverse group of fellow students who share your interest in business and leadership. To apply, you’ll need to submit a personal statement, high school transcripts, standardized test scores (if available), and a recommendation letter.
10. Business Is Global (BIG) – Indiana University Kelley School of Business
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small cohort for immersive learning
Location: Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN (residential)
Cost: $2,000; need-based scholarships available
Dates: June 22–July 5
Application Deadline: April 14
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Business Is Global is a two-week summer program that combines international business fundamentals with language and cultural study. Hosted at Indiana University, the program is designed to help students see how business and culture interact around the world. You will learn the basics of business while studying languages such as Arabic, Korean, Estonian, and Brazilian Portuguese. Beyond the classroom, the program includes cultural activities, professional development sessions, and opportunities to experience campus life. The all-inclusive format of the program prepares you to think globally about business and future career opportunities.
11. Michigan Ross Summer Business Academy
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; small cohort of rising seniors
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (on-campus, residential)
Cost/Stipend: $5,500; need-based full and partial scholarships available
Dates: June 13–27
Application Deadline: January 21
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors; priority given to first-generation and resource-limited students
The Michigan Ross Summer Business Academy is a two-week pre-college program that introduces high school students to the foundations of business education through action-based learning. You’ll explore key areas such as leadership, strategy, and operations by participating in workshops, case studies, and group projects led by Ross faculty. The program also includes lectures by guest speakers, field trips, and networking sessions with industry professionals, giving you a close look at careers in business and entrepreneurship. The academy places a strong emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, providing a strong preview of what it’s like to study at a top-tier business school. Need-based scholarships are available, making the program available to students from diverse backgrounds.
12. Georgetown University Entrepreneurship Academy
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited spaces available
Location: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (on-campus; commuter option available)
Cost/Stipend: $5,950 residential (includes tuition, housing, and meals); $4,145 commuter; financial aid availability varies
Dates: Two-week sessions in June
Application Deadline: Opens in winter; deadlines announced by spring
Eligibility: High school students interested in entrepreneurship and business
Georgetown’s Entrepreneurship Academy is a two-week program that introduces high school students to the fast-paced world of startups and innovation. Through a mix of lectures, workshops, and activities, you’ll learn about design thinking, prototyping, market research, and global entrepreneurship. You will work in teams to develop a business plan and present it in a final pitch competition to Georgetown faculty and entrepreneurs. The program also focuses on personal development with sessions on public speaking, networking, and leadership, to help you build confidence and communication skills. Guest speakers and field trips add real-world perspectives, giving you insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by entrepreneurs today. Graduates receive a Certificate of Participation, recognizing their entrepreneurial learning.
13. LaunchX – Entrepreneurship Programs
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; 100–120 students per cohort
Location: In-person (San Diego & LocationX)
Cost/Stipend: $6,495 (San Diego Exploration, 2 weeks); $11,495 (LocationX Flagship, 4 weeks); financial aid available
Dates: San Diego Exploration: June 27–July 11; LocationX Flagship: July 12–August 15
Application Deadline: Priority deadline – November 12; additional deadlines vary
Eligibility: High school students interested in entrepreneurship
LaunchX offers a range of entrepreneurship programs that empower high school students to go beyond theory and turn their ideas into real business ventures. In the flagship programs, you can start your own company, consult with existing organizations, or intern with startups to gain practical experience. The San Diego Exploration program is a two-week intensive where you develop and pitch a product, while the LocationX Flagship program is a four-week experience that walks you through every stage of starting a business, from ideation to launch. All programs emphasize teamwork, innovation, and mentorship, culminating in presentations or pitches that showcase your ideas to peers and professionals.
14. Leangap – High School Entrepreneurship Program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited cohort per session
Location: San Francisco, CA (residential)
Cost/Stipend: San Francisco: approx. $7,000–$8,000 (includes housing, meals, and activities); limited financial aid available
Dates: Four-week summer sessions (June–July)
Application Deadline: Rolling until filled; priority deadlines announced in fall/winter
Eligibility: High school students interested in entrepreneurship and startups
Leangap is a four-week program for high school students where you don’t just learn about startups—you actually build one from the ground up. From the first week, you’ll pitch ideas, form teams, and begin developing your proof-of-concept. As the program progresses, you’ll dive into product development, user testing, and branding. By week three, the focus shifts to marketing and sales. Everything leads up to Demo Day, where teams present their ventures to a panel of investors and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. Alongside building your startup, you’ll also develop key skills in public speaking, teamwork, and leadership. The San Francisco track includes sightseeing and cultural experiences, while the online track offers game nights and virtual bonding activities to build community. Weekly mental health support is integrated into the program, creating a balanced and supportive environment that helps you stay focused and inspired.
15. Business: Strategy & Innovation – Wake Forest University
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; small virtual cohorts
Location: Online (accessible worldwide)
Cost/Stipend: $1,595; certificate of completion included
Dates: Multiple 1-, 2-, and 4-week sessions throughout the year (e.g., November 9–December 7; December 21–January 4; January 4–February 1)
Application Deadline: Rolling; deadlines typically one week before session start
Eligibility: High school students ages 13+
Wake Forest’s Business: Strategy & Innovation online program introduces high school students to the fundamentals of business planning, strategy, and innovation. Through case studies of companies such as Netflix and Apple, you’ll analyze how top firms design their business models, adapt to competition, and create customer-focused products. Coursework includes interactive projects, research on company financials, and discussions on leadership and workplace culture. Guided by Wake Forest faculty and business leaders, you’ll also develop presentation and communication skills as you complete a capstone project that ties everything together. At the end of the program, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion that highlights your readiness for future studies in business or entrepreneurship.
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