10 Free Fall Programs for High School Students
Free fall programs for high school students are a great way to explore new interests, build real-world skills, and learn from professionals, without the pressure of a high process tag. Many of these programs are hosted by leading universities and well-known organizations, giving students the chance to dive into areas such as research, engineering, public service, and the arts in a structured and enriching environment.
Check out other fall programs on offer for high school students here!
Why should you do a Fall Program in high school?
Because fall semesters are typically packed with classes, exams and extracurricular activities, students tend to look for flexible opportunities that fit into their schedules. That's why free fall programs have become extremely popular, with offerings including both virtual and in-person opportunities.
To help you find the right fit, we’ve carefully selected the top 15 fall programs for high school students that are fully free or offer complete financial aid.
1. Energy Mag
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Quarter-time internships running 1 – 9 months, offered in 1-month increments year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling applications
Eligibility: High school and college students with an interest in renewable energy, research, or analysis
The EnergyMag Virtual Internship is a research-focused opportunity where students can explore renewable energy storage, develop analytical skills, and contribute to publishable industry reports. As one of the free fall programs for high school students, it is designed to fit alongside your school schedule while offering meaningful hands-on work. During the internship, you'll work closely with an experienced mentor who provides guidance, feedback, and support throughout each project. You will dive into real-world companies, technologies, and niche energy markets, gaining hands-on experience in research, outreach, and professional communication. The program places an emphasis on independent inquiry while ensuring you receive structured mentorship and constructive review. Although the program is fully virtual, you will collaborate daily with industry professionals and have the chance to see your work published online.
2. Ladder Internships
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program; full financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Various cohorts throughout the year: Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall
Application Deadline: Various deadlines for different cohorts throughout the year
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school
Ladder Internships is a highly selective program that places ambitious high school students in professional roles at fast-growing start-ups. You will collaborate with managers on meaningful projects and gain hands-on experience across fields such as tech, deep tech, AI/ML, health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. The partner start-ups are typically high-growth companies, many of which have raised over a million dollars in funding. During the internship, you will contribute to real deliverables and present your work to company leadership, just like in the professional world. You'll be supported at two levels; you will be mentored by a manager at the company, and receive support from a Ladder Coach to ensure a personalized experience. This fully virtual program lasts about eight weeks.
3. American Psychological Association
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Paid or academic-credit (unpaid) positions
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Year-round internships (spring, fall, summer, and winter)
Application Deadline: Rolling applications
Eligibility: Students enrolled part-time in an academic institution, eligible to work in the U.S., residing in a state where APA is a registered employer
The APA Internal Internship Program (IIP) is a remote opportunity for high school students who want to see how psychology is deployed in the real world, beyond textbooks and classrooms. It lets you apply psychological science in areas such as research, public policy, communication and education. During the internship, you'll work within a specific department at the American Psychological Association, contributing to ongoing initiatives while learning how a non-profit operates. You will be mentored by APA professionals and report directly to a supervisor. In addition to hands-on work, you may take part in workshops, discussions, and group projects that expand your understanding of professional psychology. The program focuses on building practical skills, exploring non-traditional psychology careers, and strengthening professional networks within a nationally recognized association.
4. Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple 12-week cohorts throughout the year, exact dates vary by cohort (spring, summer, winter, and fall)
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year
Eligibility: Currently enrolled high school students or to-be-enrolled college freshmen who demonstrate a high level of academic achievement
The Lumiere Breakthrough Scholar Program gives high school students an opportunity to work 1-on-1 with a world-class Ph.D. mentor to design and complete your own independent research project. Over 12 weeks, you’ll dive into a topic of your choice and produce a full research paper that reflects your original analysis and academic curiosity. You can choose from a wide range of subjects, including psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, and international relations. With personalized mentorship and structured guidance throughout the process, you’ll get a firsthand experience of how real research is actually conducted, from formulating questions to presenting research.
5. Dolphin Research Center Internships
Location: Dolphin Research Center, Florida Keys, FL
Cost/Stipend: None. Housing assistance available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: 16 – 18 weeks from September to December
Application Deadline: June 1 for the fall cohort; multiple deadlines throughout the year
Eligibility: Physically fit, able to lift 50lbs and work outdoors; fluency in written and oral English is required
The Dolphin Research Center Internship Program gives high school students an opportunity to build career skills, while experiencing what it’s like to work behind the scenes at a marine mammal facility. You’ll spend 16–18 weeks in a specific department such as Animal Care and Training, Education, Research, IT, Medical, and Visual Communications, while supporting daily operations across the center. You’ll work full-time, about forty hours each week, gaining hands-on exposure to the routines, responsibilities, and teamwork required in a marine science environment. You’ll also take on supplemental projects tailored to your strengths and interests, and pursue independent study goals that let you explore topics which matter to you. While the internship is unpaid, you'll receive valuable training, professional mentorship, and insights into careers connected to marine mammals and conservation.
6. U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Headquarters Student Internship Program
Location: U.S. Department of the Treasury, Washington, DC
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Semester-long cohorts throughout the year. Fall internships runs from September to December
Application Deadline: Apply in June for the Fall cohort
Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are enrolled or accepted in an accredited academic institution; high school, undergraduate, and graduate students
The U.S. Department of the Treasury Student Internship Program gives you an opportunity to see how federal policy is shaped from the inside. It provides hands-on exposure to policy development, data analysis, public service, and the daily operations of a cabinet-level agency. During the internship, you might support offices focused on domestic finance, tax policy, economic strategy, international affairs, national security, or internal management. Your projects might include preparing briefing materials, researching policy issues, attending hearings or agency meetings, and collaborating with federal professionals across multiple divisions. With mentorship from Treasury staff, the internship helps you build leadership skills, analytical abilities, and professional networks, while gaining insights into how government decisions affect the economy.
7. Wildlife Conservation Society | Bronx Zoo Project TRUE
Location: WCS Headquarters, Bronx, NY
Cost/Stipend: None; fall interns receive a $350 stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size:Dates: Fall program runs September – December
Application Deadline: March 7, based on previous years
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors in good standing who reside in the Bronx
Project TRUE takes learning outside the classroom and into New York City’s ecosystems. You'll conduct field research alongside scientists, studying topics such as mammal distribution, bird diversity, water quality, and invasive species management. You'll work on an authentic research project from start to finish, gaining experience with data collection, analysis, and science communication. You’ll be part of a small research team paired with a Fordham University undergraduate mentor, and receive additional support from the Wildlife Conservation Society. Beyond fieldwork, you’ll develop a strong sense of community, strengthen your professional network, and prepare for future research and college opportunities. You'll wrap up the experience by sharing your findings with peers, researchers, and the public.
8. Alley Pond Field Biology Internships
Location: Alley Pond Park and surrounding areas, Queens, NY
Cost/Stipend: $150 participation fee; financial aid provided, no documentation necessary Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: September 27 – November 1; Saturdays only (based on previous years)
Application Deadline: August 1 for Fall
Eligibility: High school students age 14+ who can participate in outdoor activities, commit to class attendance, and provide their own transportation
The Field Biology Internship is an experience that takes your learning beyond the classroom and into real ecosystems across Alley Pond Park and the surrounding areas of Queens. The internship helps you build foundational STEM skills through fieldwork, experiment design, and ecological observation. You’ll learn to identify local flora and fauna, collect and record environmental data, and develop a deeper understanding of urban biodiversity. Throughout the program, you’ll work closely with mentors, collaborate with fellow interns, and meet environmental professionals who share insights about careers in sustainability and the natural sciences. The experience culminates in a final presentation, where you showcase your research skills and newfound experience in scientific communication.
9. Textron Aviation High School Internship Program
Location: Textron Aviation facilities, mainly in Wichita, KS
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided, exact amount unavailable
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Part-time during Fall, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday
Application Deadline: Fall applications open in June
Eligibility: High school students between the ages of 16-19 who are U.S. citizens
The Textron Aviation High School Internship Program lets you explore aviation careers while gaining hands-on experience in a real industry environment. The program offers opportunities in engineering, aviation maintenance, IT, business, communications, manufacturing, interior design, and more. Instead of just observing, you’ll contribute to ongoing departmental projects, while learning skills such as team work and professional communication. You’ll also gain insights into how aircrafts are designed, built, and supported, all while building a strong foundation for future technical training or college pathways.
10. Girls Who Code Fall Pathways Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: October 27 – December 5
Application Deadline: August 15
Eligibility: U.S. students in grades 10–12 and international students ages 14–18 who previously applied to or participated in GWC Summer Programs
The Girls Who Code Fall Pathways Program offers a flexible, self-paced means for high school students to explore computer science while building real technical skills during the school year. This program is designed to fit around your classes while still giving you hands-on experience. You can choose from three tracks: data science + AI, cybersecurity, or web development, and work on hands-on projects that fit your schedule. Over six weeks, you’ll progress from beginner to advanced concepts, earn certificates for each completed module, and join a supportive digital community. Along the way, you'll take part in live Advisor Events and Partner Events, engage with other students through Discord channels, and connect with industry professionals, while learning about emerging technologies, and receiving guidance on future CS opportunities. While this isn't a traditional internship, the program provides a strong foundation in coding, problem-solving, and responsible AI design, helping you grow your technical confidence and explore career pathways in tech.
11. U.S Senate Page Program
Location: Washington D.C.
Cost/Stipend: Stipend based on an annual salary basis of $37,238
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: Fall semester; exact dates not mentioned
Application Deadline: Rolling applications
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents or those having a Social Security number, must be juniors in high school who will be 16-17 years old on or before the date of appointment; a minimum 3.0/B GPA; must provide general health assessment completed by a licensed physician and a certificate of immunization; must be covered by health insurance
The U.S. Senate Page Program gives you an immersive academic-year experience that combines school, paid work, and mentorship within the U.S. Senate. You will support the Senate’s day-to-day functions by handling time-sensitive materials, assisting on the Senate floor, and working alongside legislative staff during sessions and votes. The program operates on a demanding schedule, requiring you to balance early-morning classes with long and often unpredictable workdays, which can help you build strong organizational and professional habits. You will live on Capitol Hill with other pages from across the country, creating opportunities for collaboration, independence, and exposure to diverse perspectives. In addition to your responsibilities, you may participate in structured activities and supervised time that allow you to explore Washington, D.C. and better understand public institutions. The experience offers a close look at government operations while emphasizing accountability, maturity, and public service.
12. Internships at the Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI)
Location: Virtual or in-person options (Philadelphia, PA)
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: October – December for Fall cohorts
Application Deadline: Not specified; typically in July
Eligibility: High school students authorized to work in the U.S.
The FPRI Internship Program gives you the opportunity to work with a nationally recognized foreign policy think tank during the fall, spring, or summer academic terms. Depending on your interests, you may support research initiatives, assist with events and development efforts, or contribute to communications and operations projects, all while working closely with FPRI staff and scholars. Each internship pairs you with a mentor who provides guidance as you build both field-specific knowledge and transferable professional skills such as writing, collaboration, and critical analysis. You will gain access to FPRI’s in-person, virtual, and hybrid events, allowing you to engage with experts in international affairs and observe how policy discussions take shape. You may also contribute to long-term projects or draft an original research paper that can be considered for publication through FPRI’s Intern Corner. With remote and in-person options available, the program offers flexibility while providing a structured introduction to careers in foreign policy and global research.
13. MITES Semester
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: highly selective; about 275 students/semester
Dates: June – December
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: High school juniors who are permanent residents or U.S. citizens
MITES Semester offers free fall programs for high school students who wish to prepare for college while continuing their regular school schedule. You will take two rigorous courses from June through December – one project-based STEM course and one core subject such as calculus, physics, computer science, or science writing, designed to deepen your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Live evening classes and weekly webinars will allow you to collaborate with peers nationwide while learning from experienced instructors and STEM professionals. During the fall portion of the program, you will receive structured college admissions support, including essay feedback, mock interviews, and guidance on selecting colleges that align with your goals. You will also engage in workshops, social events, and a college fair that offers direct insight from admissions counselors. The program concludes with an in-person conference at MIT, where you connect with peers and mentors and reflect on your academic and personal growth.
14. NYAS’s Junior Academy
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: September and February challenges
Application Deadline: January 13
Eligibility: Students aged 13–17
The Junior Academy is a fully virtual, project-based STEM program where you will collaborate with students from around the world to tackle real-world challenges. You will participate in Innovation Challenges sponsored by industry partners, beginning with a kickoff period designed to build skills in research methods, design thinking, and data analysis. After selecting a challenge, you will form a team through the Junior Academy’s Launchpad platform and work through each stage of the problem-solving process. Throughout the challenge, you will receive guidance from STEM experts who serve as mentors and help teams refine their ideas and approaches. At the end of the program, you will present your solution for evaluation by judges from industry and academia, gaining feedback grounded in professional standards. The experience emphasizes global collaboration, independent thinking, and applied STEM learning within a structured online community.
15. Los Alamos National Laboratory Internship
Location: Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM
Cost/Stipend: No cost; stipend amount not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Part-time during the school year (Fall/Spring)
Application Deadline: September 30 for Fall interns
Eligibility: High school seniors, at least 16 years old; minimum GPA of 2.75; attend a high school in northern New Mexico
The Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program offers paid, hands-on experience in both STEM and professional fields while you are still in high school. You will work either part time during the academic year or full time over the summer, depending on your availability and program placement. Under the guidance of experienced staff, you will contribute to projects that may involve scientific research, engineering support, data analysis, or organizational operations. The program will place you within a nationally recognized research laboratory, giving you exposure to how large-scale scientific and technical initiatives are managed. Through mentorship and project-based work, you will develop practical workplace skills while contributing to research that supports national and scientific priorities.
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