Top 16 Summer Psychology Internships for High School Students in 2025
MD: Eager to dive into psychology? Here’s a list of the top 15 summer psychology internships for high school students in 2025
Summer internships are an excellent way for high school students to gain hands-on experience, develop practical skills, and explore potential career paths. Unlike traditional academic courses, internships offer real-world industry exposure, allowing students to apply their knowledge meaningfully while building valuable connections with professionals in their field.
For students passionate about psychology, neuroscience, mental health, and related fields, an internship can provide early insight into research, clinical work, or even psychological applications in business and technology.
To help you find the right opportunity, we’ve curated a list of the top 15 psychology internships for high school students, including both in-person and virtual programs.
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
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 start-up internship program for ambitious high school students! In the program, you work with a high-growth start-up on an internship. Start-ups that offer internships range across a variety of industries, from tech/deep tech and AI/ML to health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can explore all the options here on their application form. Ladder’s start-ups are 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. Here is the application form.
The virtual internship is usually 8 weeks long.
2. NIH Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research
Location: various National Institutes of Health (NIH) campuses, including Bethesda, MD
Cost: Free; stipend provided (amount varies based on location and education level)
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates: 8-10 weeks, typically starting in June
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (ages 16–18)
The Summer Internship Program (SIP) in Biomedical Research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) allows you to dive into neuroscience and biomedical research alongside leading scientists. You will collaborate with top research teams on groundbreaking projects, including those supported by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Over at least eight weeks between May and September, you will conduct hands-on research, develop lab skills, and explore the connections between neuroscience and mental health. With expert mentorship, you will gain valuable experience in cognitive neuroscience, brain function, and mental health disorders, helping you build a strong foundation for future studies in psychology, medicine, or biomedical sciences.
3. Inspiring Careers in Mental Health Internship
Location: UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February
Program Dates: 2 weeks; typically in June
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school
The Inspiring Careers in Mental Health Internship at UT Southwestern Medical Center introduces you to a wide range of careers in mental health through an immersive, hands-on experience. You will engage with licensed social workers, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and clinician-scientists, gaining insight into their work through interactive sessions and real-world case studies.
This academically rigorous program is designed to prepare you for a professional career in mental health. You will be required to complete readings, analyze case studies, and answer questions to deepen your understanding. Through hospital and laboratory-based experiences, you will explore psychology in clinical and research settings while building valuable mentoring relationships with experts in the field.
4. Internships at the American Psychological Association (APA)
Location: Remote or Washington, D.C.
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: Rolling (varies by opportunity)
Program Dates: Year-round
Eligibility: High school students (requirements vary by internship)
Interning with the American Psychological Association (APA) gives you the chance to explore how psychology is applied in real-world settings. As a nationally recognized leader in psychological research and advocacy, APA offers internships in a variety of fields, including policy, research, communications, and financial services.
Whether you’re interested in advancing mental health initiatives, analyzing psychological data, or learning about science communication, APA provides hands-on experience in a professional environment. To apply, you will need a cover letter, resume, and writing sample.
With opportunities available year-round and both in-person and remote options, this internship allows you to gain insight into the field of psychology while building valuable career skills.
5. Child Mind Institute Youth Mental Health Academy
Location: Remote, hybrid, and in-person options available
Cost: Paid
Application Deadline: March 31
Program Dates:
1st Summer: June 23 – July 24
Academic Year: August – May
2nd Summer: June – August
Eligibility: High school students in California
The Child Mind Institute Youth Mental Health Academy is a long-term internship program designed to help you explore careers in mental health while fostering community engagement. Over 14 months, you will participate in a paid, project-based learning experience during the first summer, followed by workshops and career development activities throughout the year. In the second summer, you will complete a mental health-related internship, working with mentors and early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience.
This program is particularly aimed at students from structurally marginalized communities who have a strong interest in mental health advocacy and research. If you’re looking for an opportunity to make a long-term impact, gain real-world experience, and build a network in the field of psychology, this internship is a great option.
6. Barrow Neurological Institute Summer High School Internship
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Cost: No cost; scholarships available
Application Deadline: March 28
Program Dates: 4 weeks in May – July
Eligibility: High school students (at least 16 years old)
The Barrow Neurological Institute, one of the world's leading centers for neurological disease treatment and research, offers a summer internship where you can gain hands-on experience in neuroscience research. Over four weeks, you will work alongside Barrow specialists, conducting lab work with cutting-edge technology.
You will learn advanced scientific techniques, develop skills in evaluating scientific literature, and enhance your communication abilities through research presentations and discussions. This internship is a great opportunity to explore careers in neuroscience and biomedical research while working with experts in the field.
7. Psychological Science & Society – University of Southern California
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $7,000 – $10,000 (varies by commuter vs. residential status)
Application Deadline: May 2 (domestic students), March 14 (international students)
Program Dates: 4 weeks in the summer
Eligibility: Rising 10th–12th grade students
The Psychological Science & Society program at the University of Southern California is a pre-college psychology program designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of psychological research. Over four weeks, you will explore the scientific study of human behavior, learn about clinical and social sciences, and even conduct an independent research project. This program provides insight into careers in psychology, covering diverse topics such as social media and mental health, addiction, happiness, and game psychology.
While not a traditional internship, this immersive experience helps you develop critical thinking and research skills, preparing you for future studies in psychology and related fields.
Location: Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia
Cost: Not specified
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Program Dates: Flexible; to ensure a meaningful experience, students are encouraged to commit 12-16 hours per week.
Eligibility: High school students. For more information, contact kdixit@jssa.org
The Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mental health support, therapy for families and children, and elder care. As a high school intern, you will gain hands-on experience in the mental health and social services fields while earning Student Service Learning (SSL) hours, as JSSA is an approved SSL site.
This internship is flexible, allowing you to dedicate 12–16 hours per week to various tasks, including case consultations and shadowing professionals, assisting with administrative work to support JSSA’s services, developing presentations on mental health topics, and more. This opportunity offers real-world experience in mental health and nonprofit work, making it a great option if you’re considering a career in psychology, social work, or public health.
9. Summer Teen Internship Program @DOROT
Location: Manhattan and Long Island, NY
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: June 1
Program Dates:
Manhattan Session 1: June 23 – July 16
Manhattan Session 2: July 23 – August 14
Suffolk Y JCC Session (Long Island): July 21 – August 14
Eligibility: High school students
The DOROT Summer Teen Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to combat social isolation among older adults while developing your skills in social psychology and mental health care. This hybrid internship combines 1–2 days of virtual engagement with 2–3 days of in-person activities, providing hands-on experience in empathy-driven communication and leadership.
You will lead creative projects such as art and storytelling to foster social connections, teach technology skills to help seniors stay digitally connected, and facilitate games and discussions that encourage meaningful interactions. Through this experience, you will gain insight into aging-related psychological and emotional needs while developing essential communication and active listening skills.
If you're passionate about mental health, social work, or psychology, this internship offers valuable experience in emotional support and community engagement, all while making a real difference in the lives of older adults.
10. Medical Immersion Summer Academy (MISA) Internship
Location: Oakland, CA
Cost: $1,800
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Program Dates: Various 5-day internships between March 31 – August 1
Eligibility: High school students
The Medical Immersion Summer Academy (MISA) Internship is a hands-on program designed for high school students interested in pre-med and healthcare careers. Through partnerships with Alameda Health Systems, Samuel Merritt University, and private clinicians, you will gain clinical exposure in diverse medical settings, learning essential skills that prepare you for the healthcare field.
The program provides certifications in CPR, First Aid, Stop the Bleed, Teen Mental Health First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens, enhancing both your medical knowledge and practical abilities. Whether you’re exploring medicine, nursing, or allied health professions, MISA offers an immersive experience that helps you build a strong foundation for a future in healthcare.
11. Psychology Institute at Wake Forest University
Location: On-campus at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC, or Virtual
Cost: $3,400
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: Specific dates are typically in June
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school
The Psychology Institute at Wake Forest University is an immersive, week-long program that blends university-level coursework with hands-on research. Under the mentorship of Wake Forest faculty and psychology professionals, you will explore key topics in academic and applied psychology.
The program includes observational studies, brain dissections, and research presentations, offering a deep dive into experimental psychology and behavioral science. Whether in person or online, this experience allows you to develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, preparing you for future studies in psychology and related fields.
12. Camp Psych at Gettysburg College
Location: Gettysburg College Campus, Gettysburg, PA
Cost: $1,395
Application Deadline: Rolling until full (check website for updates)
Program Length: July 13 – 18
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Camp Psych at Gettysburg College is a hands-on summer program designed to give you a practical introduction to psychology and research methods. Led by professors and experts from top universities like Columbia University, this program allows you to apply psychological concepts to real-world problems, enhancing your critical thinking and analytical skills.
Over the program, you will engage in interactive discussions, experiments, and group projects, which will help you gain a deeper understanding of human behavior, cognition, and decision-making. Many past participants have credited this experience with solidifying their passion for psychology and guiding their future academic and career choices.
13. EXPLO Psychopathology Workshop
Location: Washington
Cost: 2 weeks: $5,995 (residential) | $3,695 (commuter) | 4 weeks: $11,270 (residential) | $6,950 (commuter)
Application Deadline: N/A
Eligibility: Students aged 12–14
Program Dates:
Session 1: Overnight: June 29 – July 12 | Day: June 30 – July 11
Session 2: Overnight: July 13 – July 26 | Day: July 14 – July 25
The EXPLO Psychopathology Workshop is part of the Science, Psychology, and Medicine Program at EXPLO, a nonprofit educational organization offering immersive learning experiences for middle schoolers, including rising 9th graders. In this hands-on program, you will analyze patient files, review therapists’ notes, and study recorded therapy sessions to evaluate mental health conditions. Through mock patient interviews, you will assess symptoms, determine potential diagnoses, and develop personalized care plans that may involve therapy, medication, or group counseling.
The program follows American Psychological Association (APA) standards, giving you a realistic look into the complexities of mental health care. You will also explore ethical dilemmas in psychiatric treatment, such as when and how to disclose a diagnosis to a patient.
14. Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X) at Stanford University
Location: Virtual and in-person at Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost: Virtual session: $1,595 | In-person session: $2,895 (Financial aid available)
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Dates:
Session 1 (Virtual via Zoom): June 16–27
Session 2 (On-campus): July 7–18
Session 3 (On-campus): July 21–August 1
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18
Stanford University’s Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X) is a 10-day program that introduces you to neuroscience, psychiatry, and psychology through an intensive curriculum. You will engage in cutting-edge research from Stanford’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences while attending lectures and seminars led by Stanford faculty. The program covers neuroscience, neuropsychiatry, psychiatric epidemiology, and behavioral science, providing you with a deep dive into the intersections of these fields.
Working in small mentor-guided teams, you will collaborate to develop solutions to real-world social issues related to neuroscience and mental health. The program culminates in a capstone presentation, where you will present your findings to peers, faculty, and family members.
15. National Student Leadership Conference on Psychology and Neuroscience
Location: Various universities across the United States
Cost: $4,295
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Program Length: Varies based on location; typically between June – August
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 9 through 12.
The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) on Psychology & Neuroscience allows you to explore the science behind the human mind, covering topics such as child development, personality types, and motivation strategies. Through clinical psychology simulations and neurology workshops, you will gain hands-on experience in understanding how the brain influences behavior.
This program emphasizes practical applications of psychological theories, helping you bridge the gap between research and real-world practice. Additionally, the NSLC integrates a leadership development curriculum, allowing you to build valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving — critical for any future career in psychology or neuroscience.
16. Mary S. Easton Center UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Program
Location: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and online
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (ages 16–18)
Application Deadline: March 3
Program Duration: June 16 – July 24
The Mary S. Easton Center Neuroscience High School Scholars Program at UCLA is a six-week summer initiative designed to immerse you in neuroscience research and community outreach with a focus on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD). You will gain firsthand experience in the field by participating in brain dissections, research projects, and hands-on laboratory activities. The program also includes a community engagement component, encouraging you to establish Alzheimer’s Awareness Clubs at your school to spread knowledge about neurodegenerative diseases.
A virtual option is available for those who cannot attend in person, and year-round virtual seminars with neuroscience experts provide continued learning opportunities beyond the summer.