14 Summer Internships for High School Students in South Carolina
If you are a high school student, participating in an internship can be one of the most effective ways to strengthen your college admissions profile beyond academics. Internships enable you to develop practical skills, acquire experience in a field you’re interested in, and demonstrate to colleges or future employers that you can translate classroom knowledge into professional environments. Additionally, they boost your employability by familiarizing you with workplace expectations, teamwork, and problem-solving from an early stage.
What summer internships are available for high school students in South Carolina?
South Carolina offers high schoolers access to a diverse mix of industries, including healthcare, public policy, environmental science, aviation, and government. The state has internships hosted by companies, universities, and community-based programs that support student learning. You can help with animal care at an aquarium or conduct research in bioengineering.
To simplify the process, we’ve narrowed down a list of 14 summer internships for high school students in South Carolina.
14 Summer Internships for High School Students in South Carolina
1. South Carolina Aquarium High School Intern Program
Location: Charleston, SC
Stipend: Paid internship ($10/hour, 20 hours per week)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: ~20 students selected for training; 10 advance to paid internships
Dates: Training runs January – April; summer internship begins in late May and continues through fall
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: You must be an 11th-grade student in the Charleston area at the time of application.
In this internship, you begin by participating in structured training sessions that introduce you to animal care, ocean science, career exploration, and team-building skills. During this phase, you attend monthly Saturday classes and are evaluated on your engagement, commitment, and progress. If chosen to continue, you will work as a paid intern alongside Aquarium educators and biologists, supporting education and conservation activities. You gain experience collaborating with professionals in a real workplace environment while developing communication and organizational skills. As the program continues into the fall, interns help plan and run Teen Job Shadow Days for middle and high school students.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Cost varies by program type; 100% financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Program Dates: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter cohorts
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary - Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), Winter (November)
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap-year students who can commit 10–20 hours per week for 8–12 weeks
Ladder Internships matches you with a remote role at an early-stage or fast-growing start-up, where you work closely with a company manager. Internships span fields such as technology, AI and machine learning, health tech, marketing, journalism, and consulting. You take on hands-on projects with real responsibilities, helping you build practical, job-ready skills while contributing to active company initiatives. Since many partner start-ups operate in dynamic, fast-paced settings, you also gain firsthand exposure to the realities of start-up work. Throughout the program, you collaborate with professionals in the industry, strengthen essential workplace skills, and conclude the internship with a final presentation highlighting your work and impact.
3. Boeing Student Development Program
Location: North Charleston, SC (Boeing Airport Campus)
Stipend: Paid; $17.50 per hour
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: June 12 – July 23
Application Deadline: January 20
Eligibility: High school students enrolled in Charleston County School District, Berkeley County School District, or Dorchester County School District 2, and able to commute to the Boeing site independently.
If you are a high school student interested in STEM or advanced manufacturing, the Boeing Student Development Program offers a work-based learning experience at Boeing’s manufacturing facility in North Charleston. You will work full-time on a first-shift schedule, supporting either engineering teams or supply chain management operations. The program allows you to earn hourly pay while gaining exposure to aerospace manufacturing processes and professional workplace expectations. You work as a contractor through a third-party staffing agency within Boeing’s operational environment. Throughout the program, you develop practical skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and industry-specific workflows.
4. BMW Rising Scholars
Location: BMW Manufacturing facilities and Training & Development Center, SC
Stipend: Paid (you are paid while participating)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: One-year program (during your senior year of high school)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: You must be a full-time high school senior enrolled at a participating Career and Technical Education (CATE) Center in South Carolina with a minimum 2.8 GPA
BMW Rising Scholars is a one-year pre-apprenticeship program that allows you to work part-time at BMW Manufacturing while completing your senior year of high school. You spend up to 15 hours per week primarily at the BMW Training and Development Center, where you receive hands-on training under the supervision of experienced professionals. Your work focuses on developing technical skills in areas such as mechatronics and automotive systems, including the use of hand and power tools and fabrication equipment. As part of the program, you complete structured on-the-job training and participate in internal BMW Manufacturing training sessions. If you complete the program successfully, you receive a U.S. Department of Labor certificate and are considered a candidate for the BMW Scholars Program.
5. ACS Project SEED Program
Location: University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
Stipend: Stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies by site; typically small cohorts matched to available research mentors
Dates: 8–10 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: April 14
Eligibility: You must be a high school student from an economically disadvantaged background with an interest in chemistry or a related STEM field; additional eligibility requirements may vary by site
Through the ACS Project SEED Program, you’ll take part in a paid summer research experience at the University of South Carolina under the guidance of a professional scientist. You work alongside mentors in academic or industry research settings, where you gain hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and scientific problem-solving. Throughout the program, you build essential chemistry skills while understanding how research projects are designed, carried out, and documented. Additionally, you engage in professional development activities that emphasize lab preparedness, college readiness, and exploring careers related to chemistry. Opportunities to collaborate with researchers and peers help you understand how scientific work functions in real-world settings. In some cases, you may share your work through presentations or discussions at the end of the program.
6. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
Location: NIWC Atlantic, Charleston, SC
Stipend: Paid stipend (New participants: $4,000; Returning participants: $4,500)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; approximately 300 students placed nationwide across participating laboratories
Dates: 8 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: You must be a current high school student who has completed at least Grade 9, be at least 16 years old by the program start date, and be a U.S. citizen; eligibility requirements may vary by lab
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program places you at the NIWC Atlantic laboratory in Charleston, where you contribute to Department of Navy research projects alongside scientists and engineers. You engage in applied science or engineering projects that mirror real-world Naval research, providing insight into how STEM concepts are applied professionally. During the program, laboratory staff offer direct mentorship, guiding you through technical tasks and research procedures. This experience helps you develop skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and scientific communication. Additionally, you gain exposure to Navy R&D environments and understand how interdisciplinary teams work together. In some cases, you may have opportunities to discuss or present your work within the lab setting at the end of the internship.
7. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Location: Hutton works to place participating students within a 45-minute commute from their homes
Stipend: $3,000 stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June – August (8 weeks; flexible schedule)
Application Deadline: January 25
Eligibility: Open to high school students
The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program offers a paid internship in environmental science for high school students, giving you practical experience in aquatic research and conservation. During the eight-week program, you work alongside fisheries scientists and mentors on field-based projects such as fish sampling, habitat evaluations, and water quality monitoring. With close guidance from your mentor, you learn each stage of the research process, including data collection and analysis, while exploring potential career paths in fisheries biology and environmental science. The program focuses on applied, experiential learning to help you understand how field research supports effective environmental management and conservation efforts.
8. NASA OSTEM Internships
Location: Virtual options available for SC students
Cost/Stipend: Free; interns receive a stipend based on academic level and program duration
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Program Dates: Early June – August (10 weeks)
Application Deadlines: February 27
Eligibility: U.S. citizen and full-time student, have a cumulative 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale), minimum age of 16 years at the time of application
Through the NASA OSTEM Internship Program, high school students can gain experience working on scientific and engineering projects, either at NASA centers or through virtual opportunities. Throughout the program, you work alongside NASA scientists, engineers, and researchers on projects across various fields, including space science, aeronautics, engineering, technology development, space microbiology, and ecology. Your work may include creating and testing experiments, analyzing data from space missions, or supporting the development of innovative technologies that contribute to NASA’s goals. Each internship focuses on a structured, short-term project, helping you develop practical STEM skills while learning directly from experts.
9. Charleston County Summer Youth Internship Program (SYIP)
Location: Charleston County, SC
Stipend: Paid; $15 per hour
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified; limited to approximately 125 applicants
Dates: June 16 – July 24 (orientation begins June 13)
Application Deadline: May 2 (or when 125 applications are received)
Eligibility: You must be between 16 and 21 years old, currently enrolled in high school or college, and a resident of Charleston County.
The Summer Youth Internship Program offers you paid work experience within Charleston County government and partner organizations. You are placed in departments such as county offices, public libraries, public works, or the Charleston Animal Society, depending on eligibility and availability. Over the course of the program, you work up to 120 hours, typically in 4-hour shifts, while learning about day-to-day government operations. In addition to job responsibilities, you participate in professional development and soft-skills training focused on communication, time management, and workplace readiness. The program includes orientation, ongoing mentorship, and structured check-ins to support your success.
10. SC CHEER Youth Enjoy Science (YES) Program
Location: Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Hollings Cancer Center, Charleston, SC
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 15–20 students
Dates: June 16 – August 1 (two consecutive summers as part of a two-year commitment)
Application Deadline: March 3
Eligibility: You must be a current sophomore or junior attending Burke High School, Charleston Charter School for Math and Science, North Charleston High School, or St. John’s High School, with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and an interest in biomedical or cancer research
Through the SC CHEER Youth Enjoy Science Program, you’ll participate in cancer research training at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. You commit to two seven-week paid summer research internships across two consecutive summers, working closely with mentors in a professional laboratory setting. During the program, you gain hands-on experience with research methods while learning how scientific studies address cancer disparities in medically underserved communities. You work alongside researchers and receive structured mentorship that supports your interest in biomedical science careers. The program also includes onboarding, orientation, and guidance designed to help you navigate research environments.
11. Bank of America Student Leaders
Location: Local nonprofit partners across the U.S.
Stipend: Stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; Approximately 300 students annually
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer; Summit takes place between July 21 – 26
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. and reside in an eligible location; should be first-time applicants
Bank of America’s Student Leaders Program gives you the opportunity to work hands-on with a local nonprofit while developing leadership, collaboration, and professional skills. During the eight-week program, you contribute to community-focused projects, work alongside nonprofit professionals, and gain insight into how social impact organizations function. In addition to your internship, you participate in workshops centered on civic responsibility, business ethics, and public service. A key component of the program is the National Student Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C., where you meet students from across the country and learn how nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies collaborate to create positive change. Participants receive a stipend, and all program-related expenses are covered.
12. GSP Airport District Internship & Job Shadow Program
Location: GSP International Airport, Greer, SC
Stipend: Internships are paid at $15/hour; job shadowing is unpaid
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly specified
Dates: Varies by department and role
Application Deadline: Not specified (positions posted as available)
Eligibility: High school, trade school, or college students, or a recent graduate; eligibility may vary by department
The GSP Airport District Internship Program offers practical experience in airport operations as you work alongside industry professionals in a transportation setting. As an intern, you may rotate through or support departments such as operations, IT, finance, communications, human resources, or air cargo services. The program focuses on helping you build workplace skills while giving the airport district an opportunity to evaluate your work ethic and interests. Interns who successfully complete the program may be considered for future employment when eligible. In addition to internships, GSP offers job-shadowing opportunities that allow you to observe professionals in departments such as the fire and police departments and the marketing team.
13. Summer Program for Research Interns (SPRI)
Location: Clemson University, SC (placements may also occur at other research sites)
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited to students enrolled at the Governor’s School for Science and Math (cohort size not specified)
Dates: 6 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: Managed internally through the Governor’s School for Science and Math
Eligibility: You must be a student enrolled at the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Math, typically participating between your junior and senior years of high school.
In the Summer Program for Research Interns (SPRI), you join a research group at a university or research lab and work with faculty mentors and graduate students. Your work focuses on contributing to an ongoing research project, giving you firsthand experience with the scientific method, data collection, and analysis. Research areas vary widely and may include engineering, environmental science, bioengineering, or social science–based studies. Beyond the summer experience, you continue developing your project during the academic year by analyzing results and preparing formal research papers. You also have opportunities to present your findings at research colloquia and science meetings, strengthening your scientific communication skills.
14. USC Center for the Political Future High School Summer Internship Program
Location: Remote (hosted by the University of Southern California)
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not publicly specified; program is selective with limited spots
Dates: June 1 – August 1
Application Deadline: Applications typically reopen in May
Eligibility: You must be a current high school student (graduating seniors are not eligible) with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and full availability for the program duration.
In this online summer internship, you work on environmental policy and sustainability issues through structured research and writing projects. You complete two key assignments: a legislative policy memo and a legislative process analysis, centered on a bill of your choice at the local, state, or federal level. The program emphasizes research, analytical writing, and understanding how legislation moves through political systems. You receive feedback from program administrators and participate in required check-in sessions alongside other interns. Throughout the internship, you engage with guest speakers and professionals working in policy, sustainability, and public affairs. Students who successfully complete all requirements have one assignment published online and receive formal recognition from the USC Center for the Political Future and the USC Wrigley Institute.
Image Source - South Carolina Aquarium Logo