16 Software Internships for High School Students in Idaho
High school internships offer early insight into professional work environments while strengthening your academic and extracurricular profile. They give you tangible experience to showcase on your resume, along with concrete projects that highlight your skills and interests.
For students interested in technology, software internships provide direct opportunities to work with coding, problem-solving, and technical workflows, allowing you to apply and expand your skills beyond the classroom. For high school students based in and around Idaho, several programs and internships provide opportunities to explore software development and technology.
Why should I do a software internship in high school?
A software internship allows you to work on defined tasks such as writing code, testing features, or contributing to small-scale projects, giving you tangible work that can be documented in a portfolio. These outputs can strengthen your college applications by providing specific examples to reference in essays or interviews, particularly for STEM-focused programs. You also gain familiarity with tools such as version control systems, coding environments, and debugging processes that are commonly used in development settings.
To make the search easier, we’ve narrowed down a list of 15 software internships for high school students in Idaho.
P.S. Since software options in Idaho can be limited, it's worth knowing that13 Free Online Computer Science Internships for High School Students and15 Free Computer Science Internships for High School Students cover remote-friendly programs you can access from anywhere.
16 Software Internships for High School Students in Idaho
1. Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Cost/Stipend: Paid hourly, rate not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed; Large Cohort (100+)
Dates: Varies depending on specific internship; (typically 6-8 weeks)
Application Deadline: Varies depending on specific internship
Eligibility: Full-time students attending an accredited high school or college the semester before and after an internship award with a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA
The Internship Programs at Idaho National Laboratory are structured, project-based placements where you contribute to ongoing work in areas such as computer science, cybersecurity, data systems, and engineering research. You are assigned to a specific team and project, where your tasks may include writing or testing code, working with datasets, or supporting computational models used in energy and national security research. You work under the guidance of scientists and engineers who help define your scope of work at the start of the internship and provide ongoing technical direction. The program includes access to seminars, networking sessions, and lab resources that support your project work and introduce you to how large-scale research environments operate.
2. Ladder Internships
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 25%; around 100 students per cohort
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application Deadline: Varies depending on the cohort – spring (January), summer (May), fall (September), and winter (November)
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who can work for 8 - 12 weeks, devoting 10 - 20 hours/week
The Ladder Internships Program is a virtual, project-based internship where you are placed with a startup or nonprofit to work on a defined assignment aligned with the organization’s current needs. You are matched with early-stage or growth-focused companies, where projects are tied to ongoing operations rather than simulated tasks. You are assigned a specific deliverable, which may include developing a feature, analyzing data, conducting research, or supporting product-related work depending on the project scope. You work under the guidance of a company manager or founder, with regular check-ins to review progress and refine your output. From a software perspective, some roles involve working with code, tools, or data systems as part of broader workflows. The internship concludes with a final presentation or submission where you document your work and outcomes.
3. University of Idaho Upward Bound Math-Science Summer Program
Location: Lewis-Clark Valley and Moscow, ID
Stipend: Federal program stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; targeted regional TRIO cohort
Dates: Six-week summer academy
Application Deadline: Typically during the spring semester via target high schools
Eligibility: Enrolled high school student in targeted service areas; potential first-generation college student or meeting federal low-income guidelines; demonstrate strong interest in STEM disciplines
As a participant in the University of Idaho's Upward Bound Math-Science summer program, you will immerse yourself in real-world STEM projects that heavily emphasize computational and digital skills. You will actively engage with technical workflows by utilizing academic research databases and computational tools to analyze complex scientific data. Throughout the six-week academy, you will participate in hands-on technical initiatives like the Idaho NASA NESSP robotics challenges, which require logic-based problem solving and introductory programming. You will also collaborate with university mentors to compile, process, and visualize research data using modern analytical software applications.
4. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type. Full financial aid available.
Application deadline: Rolling. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November). You can apply to the program here.
Program dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Eligibility: High school students. 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 and read about a student’s experience in the program here. While this isn’t an internship, it follows the work-learn structure of one.
5. HOIST – Helping Orient Indian Students and Teachers into STEM
Location: University of Idaho, Moscow Campus and McCall Outdoor Science School (MOSS)
Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; small research-focused cohort
Dates: July 6–18
Application Deadline: April 16
Eligibility: Native American high school students who have completed at least 9th grade; students from the 11 Tribal Reservations with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with University of Idaho
The HOIST (Helping Orient Indian Students and Teachers into STEM) program at the University of Idaho provides Native American high school students with STEM experiences and research internships during a summer enrichment session. You work alongside University of Idaho researchers and local professionals on real STEM projects that may include software, data analysis, or technology‑related work as part of your internship activities. The program also includes academic courses to strengthen core skills in math, science, and English to support your technical understanding. You participate in interactive workshops, field trips, and guest lectures that broaden your exposure to STEM fields and potential careers.
6. Boise State University GenCyber Student Camp
Location: Boise, Idaho
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; limited positions available
Dates: June 20–24 or June 27 – July 1
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until all positions are fulfilled
Eligibility: High school students residing in the U.S. and attending a U.S. school or homeschool; entering grades 9–12; students from underrepresented groups or schools with limited STEM capacity are highly encouraged
During the GenCyber Student Camp at Boise State University, you engage directly with foundational cybersecurity principles through a software and network defense lens. You participate in hands-on technical modules focused on device security, utilizing tools like Wireshark, iptables, and sqlmap to understand network traffic analysis and penetration testing. Throughout the program, you configure and secure a Raspberry Pi, exploring applied cryptography and web security practically. Working in an interactive, team-based environment, you practice virtualization techniques and assess digital threats and risks. This fully funded experience equips you with concrete technical skills while providing hardware and pedagogical mentorship to navigate modern information security landscapes.
7. INL STEM Scholars CyberCore Camp
Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; 20–30 students per session
Dates: June 8–11; June 15–18; June 22–25
Application Deadline: April 10
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–12 (ages 12–17); U.S. citizens or permanent residents; interest in computer programming, networking, and cybersecurity
During the CyberCore Camp at the Idaho National Laboratory, you immerse yourself in the practical software systems underpinning modern cybersecurity. You tackle hands-on challenges by programming Raspberry Pi microcomputers, utilizing Python, and navigating Linux operating systems to understand critical digital architectures. Throughout the five-day program, you engage in simulated "capture the flag" hacking exercises and analyze cryptography, hex encoding, and circuit design principles. By interacting directly with professional industry mentors, you evaluate how secure digital networks operate in real-world critical infrastructure. Ultimately, you develop foundational coding and networking skills, gaining direct exposure to the complex cyber-physical technologies protecting national security.
8. College of Southern Idaho (CSI) Cybercore Youth Career Academy
Location: Twin Falls, Idaho
Cost: $50; financial assistance available via NextGen Scholarship
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Interactive learning environment; small camp cohort
Dates: June 20–24
Application Deadline: Registration opens March 1st; no deadline specified
Eligibility: Students ages 12–17; interest in computer programming, networking, and cybersecurity; no prior knowledge required for introductory level
During the Cybercore Youth Career Academy, you will dive into the growing field of cybersecurity and computing through practical, hands-on software training. You will learn to navigate both Windows and Linux operating systems while experimenting with capable hardware like the Raspberry Pi. Throughout the week, you will write code in Python and Scratch to create programs and control cyber-physical systems such as home automation tools. Your technical responsibilities will also include exploring binary, hex encoding, and fundamental cryptography. Finally, you will apply your newly developed software and networking skills in a challenging "capture the flag" cybersecurity simulation.
9. University of Idaho "Coding the Future" Day Camps
Location: Moscow, Boise, and Twin Falls, Idaho
Cost: $75 registration fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; exact cohort size varies based on registration
Dates: June 16–20
Application Deadline: June 9
Eligibility: Enrolled in 9th–12th grades; interested in learning the Python coding language; available for daily in-person attendance
During the University of Idaho's Coding the Future Day Camp, you gain practical exposure to software development by programming Makeblock robots. You start by learning the fundamentals of the Python coding language to write scripts that direct hardware behavior. Throughout the week, you apply your newly acquired coding skills to execute specific robotic functions, including LED manipulation, line following, and obstacle avoidance. You also engage with technical workflows by continuously testing and debugging your scripts to ensure reliable remote control operation. By the end of the program, you develop foundational computational thinking skills and practical experience bridging software commands with physical digital systems.
10. Air Force Association (AFA) CyberCamps
Location: Various host institutions across Idaho
Cost/Stipend: Standard Camp: $1,200; Advanced Camps: $1,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Generally accessible registration; standard classroom-sized cohorts
Dates: One-week sessions held between June 1 and August 14
Application Deadline: Rolling registration
Eligibility: Enrolled high school student; interest in cybersecurity and technology; basic computer user proficiency
At the AFA CyberCamp, you participate in a structured cybersecurity program designed to build foundational digital defense skills. You engage directly with virtualization software by configuring and securing Windows and Ubuntu Linux operating systems within VMware environments. Throughout the week, you utilize system administration tools and command-line interfaces to manage user accounts, implement password policies, and audit system settings. You develop hands-on experience navigating graphical user interfaces and terminal commands to mitigate basic software vulnerabilities and secure local networks. The program culminates in a mock CyberPatriot competition, where you deploy your newly acquired software configuration skills in a timed, simulated professional IT environment.
11. Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars (ISAS)
Location: Moscow, ID
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed; medium cohort size
Dates: Online Course: January – April; Summer Academy: Historically falls in mid-to-late June
Application Deadline: Late October/November
Eligibility: Idaho high school juniors with a 3.0+ GPA and U.S. Citizenship
The Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars (ISAS) program is a STEM initiative that combines an online NASA-developed curriculum with a selective summer academy. You complete online modules focused on aerospace, physics, and mathematics before participating in a residential summer session where you engage in team projects, simulations, and problem-solving activities. The program focuses on applying STEM knowledge to practical scenarios, working collaboratively with peers, and exploring aerospace concepts through guided exercises. Your participation includes developing presentations, analyzing data, and contributing to project outcomes under the guidance of instructors and NASA mentors.
12. College of Western Idaho (CWI) Tech Quest Summer Camp
Location: Nampa, Idaho
Cost/Stipend: $200; scholarships are available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; approximately 15–20 students
Dates: June 8–12
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: High school students currently residing in Idaho
In this camp, you immerse yourself in high-level software development modules designed to simulate professional technical environments within CWI’s specialized laboratories. Throughout the sessions, you write functional code for game design, practice web development, and explore the logic behind cybersecurity protocols. You utilize professional development tools to build, test, and debug scripts while solving real-world computational problems. These activities strengthen your understanding of software architecture and digital workflows through collaborative, project-based learning. By interacting with CWI faculty and industry mentors, you bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical application in the technology sector. This experience equips you with a portfolio of technical projects and a clearer path toward Idaho’s growing software landscape.
13. Girls Who Code Summer Programs
Location: Virtual
Stipend: $300 need-based grants available for U.S. students in SIP
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: June 29 – August 14
Application Deadline: April 10
Eligibility: Rising high school freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior; identify as female or non-binary; reside in the United States or meet international age requirements of 14–18 for self-paced tracks
The Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program is a free, two‑week virtual computer science program for high school students who identify as girls or non‑binary. You learn coding fundamentals, including game design, web development, and problem-solving, through guided lessons and collaborative projects. The program allows you to work with peers, receive mentorship from industry professionals, and participate in career-focused events. You build a final project to demonstrate your skills and explore creative applications of technology. The program also provides exposure to computer science concepts and insights into tech careers. Activities include interactive coding sessions, team collaboration, and project presentations.
14. Kode With Klossy Summer Camps
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; thousands of scholars annually
Dates: Typically conducted during two-week summer sessions
Application Deadline: Generally, spring
Eligibility: Ages 13–18; identify as young women, gender non-conforming, or transgender; no prior coding experience required
As a scholar in this intensive virtual program, you engage directly with core software engineering concepts through a structured, project-based curriculum. You choose a specific technical track, such as web development, mobile app creation, data science, or artificial intelligence, to build functional applications from scratch. Throughout the two-week session, you write and deploy code using languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Swift, or Python, depending on your selected domain. You collaborate with peers in digital workspaces to troubleshoot code, design user interfaces, and analyze datasets. By the end of the program, you will have developed practical computational skills and presented a completed technical project, gaining foundational exposure to professional software workflows within a supportive, diverse learning environment.
15. NASA GeneLab for High Schools
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Broadly Accessible; 1,000 students
Dates: June 1 – August 28
Application Deadline: March 15, or until 1,000 applications are received, whichever happens first
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors; U.S. citizens and permanent residents attending US high schools with a minimum GPA of 3.0; completion of at least one high school biology course
The GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS) program is a summer training program focused on space biology, bioinformatics, and computational biology conducted by NASA. You complete a series of modules covering topics such as omics-based research, coding, genetic data analysis, and biological systems in spaceflight environments. Your work involves analyzing datasets, working through computational exercises, and engaging with scientific concepts related to space life sciences. You will also have the option to participate in discussions, attend office hours, or complete a capstone project involving data analysis and presentation.
16. Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Application Fee: $45; Program Fee: $2,400; financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; ~50 students
Dates: Session A: June 15–26, Session B: July 6–17
Application Deadline: February 20
Eligibility: High school students currently attending a US high school who are over the age of 14 by the start of the program
The Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship is a virtual program focused on applying artificial intelligence to medicine. You participate in lectures on AI concepts, data analysis, and medical applications, and work on mentored research projects that explore real datasets and computational tools. The program emphasizes collaborative problem-solving, developing and testing models, and presenting findings to peers and instructors. You engage in interactive workshops, analyze results, and contribute to ongoing research discussions under the guidance of Stanford researchers.
Image source - Idaho National Laboratory logo