14 Fall Mentorship Programs for High School Students
If you’re a high school student thinking about spending your fall in a productive and meaningful way, mentorship programs are a great place to start. Mentorship programs offer personalized guidance and support from professionals or academics who can help you set goals and prepare for college and career success. These programs allow you to apply what you’ve learned in class to projects, build practical skills, and explore different career paths before college.
These programs also look great on college applications, showing that you take initiative and are serious about your growth. These programs also create meaningful connections that can open doors to future internships and opportunities. To help you find the right fit, here’s a list of 14 fall mentorship programs for high school students that offer opportunities for personal, professional, and academic growth.
14 Fall Mentorship Programs for High School Students
1. SRMP (Harvard-Smithsonian Science Research Mentoring Program)
Location: Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian, Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend paid, amount not specified
Dates: September to May
Application Deadline: Typically in the summer
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–12 from Cambridge Rindge and Latin School
The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) offers a year-long mentorship opportunity for high school students from Cambridge Rindge & Latin School. You will work in small teams of two or three and conduct independent astrophysics research under the guidance of a CfA mentor. The program runs from September to May and includes weekly meetings and monthly advisory sessions, with mentorship available both in person and virtually. It concludes with a symposium at Harvard University, where you will present your research through talks and posters. You will also receive a stipend for your participation.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies according to the program type; financial aid is available / No stipend
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Vary depending on the cohort; Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
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 is a selective internship program that connects ambitious high school students with high-growth startups. These startups belong to diverse industries such as tech/deep tech and AI/ML, health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. Ladder’s startups are usually backed by Y Combinator, whose founders have previously worked for companies such as Google, McKinsey, and Microsoft. They are also 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. You receive weekly mentorship and feedback, helping you refine your professional and communication skills. Here is the application form.
3. Stanford University – Future Advancers of Science and Technology (FAST)
Location: Virtual/Online with Stanford mentorship — based primarily in East San Jose, CA, for participant schools
Cost: None
Dates: Biweekly sessions from September through April (academic year)
Application Deadline: Typically in late August or early September
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors from select partner high schools in East San Jose
The Stanford University Future Advancers of Science and Technology (FAST) program is a year-long mentorship opportunity designed for high school juniors and seniors from select East San Jose schools. It aims to ignite students' passion for STEM by pairing them with Stanford graduate student mentors who guide them through hands-on scientific research projects in fields such as chemistry, biology, physics, and data science. Throughout the program, you engage in activities like developing original research questions, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting your findings at local and state science fairs, as well as a symposium at Stanford. You develop valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, and teamwork.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies according to program type; full financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple 12-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Application Deadline: Varies according to cohort; Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in high school | Must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program allows high school students to collaborate individually with a Ph.D. mentor while developing an independent research project. Spanning 12 weeks to one year, the program lets you explore a topic of your choice in areas such as computer science, economics, psychology, physics, data science, or international relations. Throughout the process, you receive guidance in designing studies, collecting and interpreting data, and refining your analytical and academic writing skills. With a strong focus on mentorship and hands-on research experience, the program helps build critical thinking and methodological expertise, culminating in a formal research paper, and making you eligible for UCSD credit.
5. Sandia National Laboratories Internship Program
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Stipend: $17.75 – $19/hour
Dates: Co-op internships: 3-8 months during the academic term, including an adjacent summer term | Year-round internships: during academic terms (up to 25 hours a week)
Application Deadline: Year-round with rolling deadlines
Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are at least 16 years old and enrolled as a full-time high school student | Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 (for high school students applying for Research and Development, Technical, or Business positions); more details here | 2.5 GPA for clerical or laborer positions
The Sandia National Laboratories Internship Program allows high school students to gain hands-on experience in science, engineering, and national security. As an intern, you’ll work on real-world projects alongside experienced mentors in areas such as cybersecurity, software development, engineering design, and energy research. The program includes both full-time summer positions and year-round part-time opportunities that fit your school schedule, along with co-op options that let you alternate between work and academics. Beyond technical training, you’ll also benefit from professional development workshops, networking events, and health services, making it a well-rounded experience that helps you build practical skills and explore potential career paths in STEM and research.
6. California Academy of Sciences Careers in Science (CiS)
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
Stipend: Paid (above minimum wage, amount not specified)
Dates: Begins in June as rising 10th–11th graders and continues year-round through high school graduation
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Students enrolled full-time as a 9th or 10th grader at an SFUSD school | Minimum 2.5 GPA | Grade C or higher in science and math | Valid work permit
The Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program at the California Academy of Sciences offers San Francisco high school students a chance to explore careers in science, nature, and the environment. You'll take part in outdoor fieldwork, assist with educational programs for museum visitors, and contribute to research projects alongside Academy scientists. The program also emphasizes personal and professional growth through workshops on science communication, financial literacy, and college preparation. With dedicated mentors guiding you, you’ll strengthen skills in public speaking, teamwork, and scientific inquiry, all while gaining firsthand experience in how science can be used to understand and protect the natural world.
7. American Museum of Natural History’s Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP)
Location: American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), Manhattan, NY + remote sessions
Cost/Stipend: No cost / $2,500 stipend
Dates: August – June (year-long program)
Application Deadline: Typically, March
Eligibility: 10th and 11th graders in NYC | Passing classes for the last three semesters | Enrolled in specific programs or partner schools
SRMP offers year-long opportunities to high schoolers interested in exploring research under the guidance of American Museum of Natural History scientists. You work closely with Museum scientists on original research projects in astrophysics, anthropology, biology, genetics, and earth sciences. The program begins with a four-week summer institute, followed by a full academic year of mentored research. You refine communication, presentation, and scientific writing skills while engaging in activities like formulating research questions, analyzing data using programming languages like Python and R, and presenting your findings at a final colloquium.
8. Urban Barcode Research Program (UBRP)
Location: DNA Learning Center (DNALC), Brooklyn, NY
Cost/Stipend: No cost / $500 stipend
Dates: Academic year program; commitment of ~55 hours during the school year
Application Deadline: January 7
Eligibility: High school students in NYC who are at least 13 years old
The Urban Barcode Research Program (UBRP) is a year-long research experience for New York City high school students interested in biodiversity and genetics. The program begins with hands-on training at the DNA Learning Center in Brooklyn, where you’ll learn essential lab techniques, research design, and how to use molecular tools for DNA analysis. Working in small teams and guided by a scientist mentor, you’ll develop a research proposal, collect real-world samples, and conduct DNA barcoding experiments to identify species and study biodiversity. The program culminates in a research symposium, where you’ll present your findings to peers and scientists, gaining valuable experience in research, collaboration, and scientific communication.
9. Warner Bros. Discovery Reach Honorship Program
Location: California (Burbank and Los Angeles County)
Cost/Stipend: None / $5,000 scholarships paid over four summers
Dates: Fall cohort runs from September to December (exact dates vary; internship follows graduation)
Application Deadline: Varies by the cohort. Typically in June for the fall cohort
Eligibility: Graduating high school senior in Burbank or Los Angeles County | Minimum CGPA of 3.0 upon graduation
The Warner Bros. Discovery Reach Honorship Program provides high school seniors from Burbank or Los Angeles County with a unique opportunity combining a scholarship and paid internship. You receive personalized mentorship from professionals across the entertainment and corporate landscape. Geared toward students interested in the business aspects of media and entertainment, the program offers placements at Warner Bros. Discovery in fields like marketing, finance, human resources, operations, or content development. You can select tracks such as Business, Production, or Studio Operations, allowing you to engage in real projects that enhance teamwork, communication, and cross-department understanding.
10. NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internships Program
Location: These internships are offered at various NASA facilities.
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend paid based on their academic level and session duration
Dates: Fall Session - 16 weeks, from late August/early September to mid-December
Application Deadline: Fall - May 22
Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are at least 16 years old at the time of application | Maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher | Full-time high school or graduate student
The NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internship Program offers paid opportunities for high school students to gain hands-on experience across NASA’s research centers in the United States. Each year, more than 2,000 interns work alongside leading scientists, engineers, and professionals in fields like space science, aeronautics, ecology, engineering, technology, communications, and public outreach. You might design experiments, analyze mission data, or assist in developing new technologies that advance space exploration. Along with technical training, you’ll receive mentorship and professional development, building both your scientific skills and your understanding of how NASA’s groundbreaking work shapes the future of innovation and discovery.
11. Foreign Policy Research Institute - High School Internship Program
Location: Virtual or in-person at Foreign Policy Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: Only paid based on financial need
Dates: Fall Term: October – December
Application Deadline: Typically late July
Eligibility: All high school students
The Foreign Policy and International Relations Internship Program gives high school students a chance to explore the world of global affairs while gaining practical experience. Through a cohort-based structure, you’ll be paired with a mentor who is currently studying or working in the field, guiding you through independent and group research projects. Throughout the program, you’ll develop key skills in research, communication, teamwork, and organization, while learning about major global challenges and how countries engage with one another on political, economic, and cultural levels. By the end of the internship, you’ll have a stronger understanding of international relations and a clearer sense of how to pursue future studies or careers in diplomacy, public policy, or global development.
12. PRIMES-USA AT MIT
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Dates: Year-round between January and December
Application Deadline: December 1
Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors residing in the United States outside the Greater Boston area
PRIMES-USA is a year-long, highly competitive online research program for high school students who are passionate about mathematics. The program gives you the opportunity to explore mathematical research in depth, beginning with advanced reading and the study of open problems and moving toward developing your own original solutions and writing a formal research paper. At the start, you will receive training in mathematical reading and writing to prepare for independent research. Throughout the year, you will meet regularly with mentors who are professional mathematicians and researchers. They will guide you through challenging problems, provide feedback, and help you build confidence as a researcher.
13. Textron Aviation Internships
Location: Multiple locations across Textron Aviation sites in the U.S.
Stipend: Paid, amount not specified
Dates: Part-time internships available from September to November
Application Deadline: Fall deadlines close anytime based on business needs
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16 years old and are U.S. citizens
Textron Aviation offers six-week internships to high school students interested in STEM fields such as engineering, manufacturing, IT, and supply chain management. During the program, you will gain technical skills, develop analytical thinking, and contribute to real aviation projects. Mentorship is a key component, allowing you to learn directly from industry professionals while building valuable connections for future opportunities. You will also explore different areas of the aviation industry through facility tours, shadowing sessions, and guided training to better understand how your interests fit into the world of aviation and aerospace innovation.
14. Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) – College Application Mentor Program
Location: Heart of Los Angeles Arts and Recreation Center
Cost: None
Dates: Approximately 10 weeks between September – December
Application Deadline: Year-round open acceptance
Eligibility: All high school students
The College Application Mentor Program at Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) is a fall mentorship program designed to help high school seniors navigate the college application process. It pairs you with a mentor who will guide you in creating your college list, refining personal statements and essays, and completing college and financial aid applications, including FAFSA and the Dream Act. Throughout the semester, your mentor will meet with you weekly at the HOLA Arts and Recreation Center, providing support and advice to help you confidently tackle college admissions and plan for your future. The program is free and gives you personalized guidance to build the skills and confidence you need for success.
Image Source - Sandia National Laboratories Internship Program Logo