15 Free Summer Programs for High School Students in Texas
If you are a high school student, summer can be the perfect time to gain experience in a subject that interests you. Summer programs for high schoolers offer exposure to college-level academics, practical projects, and career pathways. You can build useful skills and meet mentors who can give you a letter of recommendation for college or other applications down the line. Free programs tend to be quite selective, making them an achievement to highlight in your college applications.
For high school students in Texas, there are a range of free summer programs offered by institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School of Business and the Texas Advanced Computing Center. Some of these programs provide stipends, money you can put towards future educational expenses. Additionally, these programs foster cultural enrichment through community engagement, helping you develop communication skills, confidence, and a broader worldview.
To make it easier to navigate, we’ve compiled a list of 15 free summer programs for high school students in Texas with a mix of virtual programs that you can apply to.
15 Free Summer Programs for High School Students in Texas
1. Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program in Biomedical Sciences
Location: MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
Cost/Stipend: None / $6,800 stipend for a 10-week program and $6,120 if for nine weeks
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective / 12 students
Dates: June 2 – August 8
Application Deadline: January 20
Eligibility: Current Texas high school seniors | 18+ by program start | U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or work-eligible visa holders | Entering college the fall after program completion
This highly selective summer program offers Texas seniors a unique opportunity to conduct biomedical research at one of the nation’s leading cancer research and treatment centers. You will be matched with an MD Anderson faculty mentor and work in a research lab full-time, gaining firsthand experience with the principles of scientific investigation and the discipline of biomedical research. The program supplements lab work with faculty-led seminars, professional development activities, and participation in abstract, poster, and elevator pitch competitions. At the conclusion of the program, you will present your research to peers and faculty during a celebratory symposium.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost: 100% financial aid available, making it free for eligible students
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10 - 25% / 70 - 100 students
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Summer Cohorts I and II, which start on June and July 14, respectively
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; Summer Cohort I: May 12; Summer Cohort II: June 23
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students; must commit 10–20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks
Ladder Internships connects ambitious students with high-growth start-ups across industries, including tech, health tech, AI/ML, environmental science, consulting, and more. As an intern, you will work on real-world projects under the guidance of a company manager while also receiving support from a Ladder Coach, who provides mentorship and professional feedback. The experience typically lasts 8–12 weeks and culminates with you presenting your work to company leadership, offering a valuable introduction to professional communication and project execution. With companies averaging over $1 million in funding, the program gives an insight into how start-ups operate and scale.
3. STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES)
Location: University of Texas at Austin, Center for Space Research + Virtual components
Cost: None; housing, meals, and local transportation provided for on-site portion; limited travel scholarships available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective / 170+ students annually
Dates: May – July (remote and distance learning modules) and July 6 – 19 (on-site internship); concludes with virtual symposium July 21 – 22
Application Deadline: February 22
Eligibility: U.S. high school sophomores and juniors who are at least 16 years old
The SEES program, a collaboration between NASA and UT Austin’s Center for Space Research, immerses high school students in space and Earth science research. You begin with distance learning modules in Python and Earth science before transitioning to mentored project work in fields like astronomy, remote sensing, and climate science. Selected students attend a two-week, fully funded residential program at UT Austin, where they collaborate with NASA scientists and engineers on research involving satellite data, mission design, and environmental monitoring. The program culminates in the Virtual SEES Science Symposium, where you present your findings to peers and mentors. With its national scope and focus on authentic NASA research, SEES is among the most prestigious Texan summer programs.
4. Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation
Location: Remote
Cost: Fully funded
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive / Moderately sized cohort
Dates: Multiple 12-week cohorts throughout the year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application Deadline: January (Spring), May (Summer), September (Fall), November (Winter)
Eligibility: High school seniors who are typically from low-income families
The Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation offers two fully-funded, prestigious programs designed for talented high school students. The Breakthrough Scholar Program provides a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with a Ph.D. mentor on an independent research project, covering diverse fields such as psychology, economics, physics, international relations, and computer science. The Humanities and Social Sciences Program targets students interested in sociology, history, languages, philosophy, education, and public policy. Over 12 weeks, you develop advanced research skills, engage in interdisciplinary studies, and complete a comprehensive research paper showcasing your original work. These programs provide access to high-level mentorship and tangible research accomplishments typically found in costly pre-college programs, helping students build strong credentials for college applications.
5. George A. Jeffrey NanoExplorers Program
Location: Alan G. MacDiarmid NanoTech Institute, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective / About 12 students
Dates: Typically early June – early August
Application Deadline: Typically late March
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10–12
The NanoExplorers Program at UT Dallas offers high school students a unique opportunity to conduct original nanotechnology research under the mentorship of faculty scientists. Once admitted, you will join an active lab, learning fundamental lab safety and techniques before contributing to projects linked to funded research initiatives. You are encouraged to explore new concepts, develop your own research questions, and collaborate with peers as part of the NanoTech Institute team. The program culminates in a symposium where you will present your work, and many students have gone on to coauthor papers, present at conferences, or win national scholarships.
6. High School Research Academy (HSRA)
Location: University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
Cost: $4,000; need-based scholarship is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective / Not specified
Dates: June 9 – July 16
Application Deadline: March 23
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, or seniors who are Texas residents and at least 15 years old by June 1
The High School Research Academy (HSRA) offers Texas students the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary STEM research within UT Austin’s College of Natural Sciences. Over five weeks, you will be placed in an active lab working alongside undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty on projects in areas like genetics, neuroscience, data analytics, ecology, and genome engineering. The program also includes Wednesday seminars featuring guest speakers and concludes with a research symposium, where you will present a professional poster showcasing your findings. You will earn UT extension course credit (NSC309) while gaining direct lab experience. With limited scholarships available, students with financial need can attend HSRA tuition-free.
7. High School Emerging Researcher Experience
Location: Houston Methodist Hospital, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective / Not specified
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: January 30
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors | Minimum 3.5 GPA | At least 16 years old by program start
The High School Emerging Researcher Experience introduces motivated Texas students to translational research at Houston Methodist Hospital. Over eight weeks, you will join a lab team alongside undergraduate interns, gaining firsthand experience in biomedical research while being mentored by faculty and research staff. The program provides training in laboratory techniques, project development, and professional communication, all culminating in a poster presentation at the summer research symposium. In addition to lab work, participants engage in career and professional development activities, including seminars, lectures, and networking events.
8. McCombs Summer High School Programs
Location: University of Texas at Austin campus, Austin, Texas
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective / 50 - 55 students
Dates: McCombs Future Executive Academy (MFEA): June 1 – 6; Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders: June 8 – June 12; Discover Yourself In Accounting Majors and Careers (DYNAMC): June 22 – June 27
Application Deadline: MFEA & DYNAMC: March 1; Subiendo: January 31
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors; only Texas juniors are eligible for Subiendo
The McCombs Summer High School Programs at the University of Texas at Austin offer free, intensive six-day experiences designed to introduce high school sophomores and juniors to the world of business, leadership, and accounting. The programs cover topics such as executive leadership, business fundamentals, accounting careers, and personal development. You engage in activities like case study competitions, group projects, leadership workshops, and networking sessions with McCombs faculty and business professionals. Unique features include mentorship from business leaders, a focus on first-generation college students and those overcoming economic challenges, and a diverse community of peers. You develop critical skills such as strategic thinking, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
9. NASA OSTEM Internships
Location: Multiple NASA centers across the U.S. and virtual options
Stipend: Provided, amount unspecified, but provided based on academic level and session duration
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive / Not specified
Dates: Varies by assignment; summer session typically June–August
Application Deadlines: February 27 (summer cohort)
Eligibility: U.S. citizens | Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) | Full-time high school student | At least 16 years old at the time of application
NASA OSTEM Internships provide high school students with the chance to work directly with NASA scientists and engineers on cutting-edge projects in aerospace and STEM. You may contribute to research in areas like AI and machine learning for air traffic management, AR/VR applications, or robotics at the NASA Ames Astrobee Facility. Internships are available both virtually and on-site at NASA centers, giving you flexibility in how you participate. Projects typically involve data analysis, technical research, and team collaboration, offering experience that mirrors professional research environments. The program also gives you a chance to connect with experts across NASA centers.
10. Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy
Location: UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
Cost/Stipend: None / Students receive a monetary Voelcker Student Award
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective / 20 students
Dates: Seven weeks each summer; ongoing commitment over three years
Application Deadline: March 7
Eligibility: Rising sophomores who are 15 years old by June 15 / GPA of 90%+ in math, science, and English (85% if in Pre-AP, AP, or Dual Credit)
The Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy is a prestigious three-year program that immerses high school students in biomedical research starting the summer after freshman year. Each summer, you will commit to seven weeks of full-time research under faculty mentorship at UT Health San Antonio, gaining hands-on experience with advanced lab techniques and biomedical inquiry. During the academic year, scholars continue their involvement through workshops, seminars, and special events. At the end of the first summer, you will present your work at an award reception and later share your experience at your school.
11. Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute Summer Research Program
Location: UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
Cost/Stipend: None / None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective / Up to 10 students yearly
Dates: June 2 – August 8
Application Deadline: Typically early April
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16 by program start
This program provides high school students with the opportunity to conduct hypothesis-driven research in childhood cancer. Over 10 weeks, you will work directly in a lab setting, gaining exposure to methods in genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, structural biology, molecular imaging, and classical genetics. You will be paired with faculty mentors based on their stated research interests and commit to a full-time schedule of hands-on research. Training in lab safety and research ethics is required prior to independent work, ensuring you gain both technical expertise and professional readiness. The experience culminates in a symposium where you will present and defend your research findings.
12. Junior Volunteer Program
Location: University Hospital, San Antonio, TX
Cost/Stipend: None / None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 23 – July 3
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: High school students ages 15–17
The Junior Volunteer Program at University Hospital gives high school students the chance to explore healthcare careers while supporting patients, families, and staff. Over two weeks, you will complete 54 hours of service, participating in assignments that build administrative, interpersonal, and professional skills. You will also attend orientation and training to prepare for your roles, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to the hospital community. In addition to daily responsibilities, you may take part in special projects, gaining insight into how hospitals function as both medical and community institutions.
13. Youth Summer Internship Program
Location: San Antonio, TX
Stipend: Interns receive paid stipends for 120 hours of work
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 5 - 15% / 125 students placed with 30+ employers annually
Dates: Mid June to late July (Six to seven weeks)
Application Deadline: April 4
Eligibility: High school students ages 14–17, must live in San Antonio city council districts 1–8 | Must be enrolled in San Antonio ISD, Northside ISD, Edgewood ISD, Harlandale ISD, South San ISD, Southside ISD, and Southwest ISD
This program offers San Antonio high school students paid, part-time summer internships across a diverse range of industries, including nonprofits, libraries, museums, and businesses. After acceptance, you will participate in professional development training and a job fair where employers interview candidates before placements are finalized. Internships require a commitment of up to 20 hours per week over six to seven weeks, totaling 120 work hours. Family Service provides support throughout the program, offering bus passes if needed and coordinating with employers to ensure meaningful experiences. By combining paid employment with skill-building and mentorship, the Youth Summer Internship Program helps Texas students prepare for college and careers.
14. Valero Young Scientist Program
Location: Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX
Cost: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective / About 40 students
Dates: June 23 – July 18
Application Deadline: Typically late February
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors from the San Antonio area who are at least 16 years old by the program start date
This program introduces high school students to infectious diseases and multidisciplinary STEM research. Over four weeks, you will participate in inquiry-based projects exploring genetics, environmental science, and biomedical science, while learning how to maintain a professional lab notebook. Though institutional policy prohibits student access to active research labs, you will still gain exposure to research practices and methodologies modeled after ongoing Texas Biomed projects. The program includes “Prepping for Your Future” sessions that strengthen communication, networking, and presentation skills, as well as direct interactions with scientists and STEM professionals. The experience culminates in a Student Showcase, where you will present your collaborative research projects.
15. UT Southwestern Inspiring Careers in Mental Health Internship
Location: Virtual
Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Very competitive / 15-20 students per session
Dates: 2-week sessions typically scheduled in June
Application Deadline: Typically early February
Eligibility: Rising 10th–12th graders
This two-week summer internship introduces students to careers in mental health through interactive online sessions led by clinician-scientists. You will engage with licensed clinical social workers, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists, and physician assistants, learning about both their career paths and their daily work. Readings provided in advance help you prepare for discussions on topics such as psychotherapy, neuropsychological testing, interventional psychiatry, and community mental health. The program emphasizes mentorship and open dialogue, with opportunities to ask practical questions about education, career planning, and the realities of clinical work. Mentoring relationships often extend beyond the two-week program, offering continued guidance for students considering careers in psychology, neuroscience, or psychiatry.
Image Source - University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Logo