Top 15 STEM Summer Programs for High School Students
If you’re a high school student passionate about STEM, a summer program or internship can be a great way to learn subjects like biology, engineering, computer science, and mathematics. Many summer programs for high school students provide hands-on experiences, opportunities to collaborate with professionals, and exposure to cutting-edge research. Whether you’re interested in coding algorithms, conducting biomedical research, or exploring aerospace engineering, there’s a program out there for you!
Several of these STEM summer programs for high school students offer mentorship, lab work, and even stipends, making them both accessible and enriching. Plus, participating in such programs helps your college applications stand out, showcasing your dedication to learning and problem-solving. Some programs are virtual, providing flexibility, while others are in-person for immersive lab and research experiences.
Finding the right program can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together a list of the top 15 STEM internships and summer programs for high school students. These programs were selected for their academic rigor, hands-on learning, and mentorship opportunities.
1. Stanford University’s Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost/Stipend: $40 application fee. Participants receive a minimum stipend of $500, with larger need-based grants available
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors and seniors aged 16 and older; preference is given to applicants from the Bay Area
Application Deadline: December 15 – February 22
Program Dates: June 9 – July 31
Acceptance Rate: 50 students per year
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is one of the top summer programs for high school students. It is a prestigious 8-week biomedical research experience designed for those passionate about medicine and scientific discovery. Under the guidance of Stanford faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers, you’ll get to work on cutting-edge projects in fields like cancer biology, immunology, neurobiology, and genetics.
The program begins with a two-week orientation, featuring morning lectures and lab training. Afterward, you’ll dive into your assigned research project, gaining hands-on experience in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and scientific writing. SIMR concludes with a research symposium, where you will present your findings through a professional poster presentation to peers, mentors, and members of the Stanford scientific community.
2. Lumiere Research Scholar Program - STEM track
Location: Virtual
Cost: Starting from $2,990 (financial aid available)
Eligibility: High school students with a strong academic background (3.3 GPA or higher)
Application Deadline: Varies according to cohort. April 13 for Summer Cohort I
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts are available year-round. Summer Cohort I starts on June 2
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler. The program pairs high school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
3. MIT’s Research Science Institute (RSI)
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost: No cost
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors; U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and international students; high standardized test scores are recommended, including a PSAT math score of 740+ or an ACT math score of 33+
Application Deadline: December 11
Program Dates: June 22 – August 2
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Below 5%; 80 students per year
The Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT is one of the most prestigious STEM summer programs for high school students, with an acceptance rate below 5%. This six-week residential program, sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE), brings together 80 of the brightest students from around the world to conduct cutting-edge research.
During the first week, you’ll attend intensive STEM courses taught by leading MIT professors. Following this academic foundation, you’ll work alongside renowned scientists and engineers on an independent research project in fields like mathematics, computer science, engineering, or biomedical science. RSI culminates in a research symposium where you will present your findings through both formal research reports and oral presentations.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Starting at $2,490; financial aid available
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students; Must be able to commit 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; the regular admission to the upcoming summer cohort is April 13
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year; the upcoming summer cohort starts on June 2
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
The Ladder Internship Program offers a selective, hands-on experience for ambitious students interested in working with high-growth start-ups. In this program, you will have the opportunity to contribute to real-world projects in industries like tech, AI, health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. Start-ups in the Ladder network typically raise over $1 million in funding and offer interns mentorship and practical industry exposure.
During your internship, you’ll collaborate with your start-up manager and receive personalized guidance from a Ladder Coach. The program culminates in a final project presentation to company stakeholders. This experience enhances your understanding of entrepreneurship and business operations while bolstering your resume for college and career opportunities.
5. Young Scientist Program: Summer Focus at Washington University
Location: Washington University, St. Louis, MO
Stipend: $4,500
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from the Greater St. Louis area, with preference for students from under-resourced schools or underrepresented groups in STEM
Application Deadline: January 27
Program Dates: June 2 – July 25
Acceptance Rate: Low, with only 15-18 students selected per cohort
The Young Scientist Program: Summer Focus at Washington University is an 8-week immersive research program designed to support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in STEM. You will gain hands-on research experience, collaborating with mentors like graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and university faculty.
Throughout the program, you’ll conduct biomedical research projects while receiving individualized mentorship. In addition to your lab work, you’ll attend workshops on scientific communication, participate in college readiness sessions, and build skills in critical analysis. The program concludes with a research symposium where you will present your findings to the university’s academic community. This opportunity is one of the best summer programs for high school students and is ideal for those passionate about pursuing careers in STEM fields.
6. Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
Cost/Stipend: Optional $2,360.25 for accommodation and meals. A stipend may be provided
Eligibility: High school juniors aged 16+ who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Application Deadline: February 7
Program Dates: June 30 – August 8
Acceptance Rate: ~8%. About 40 students are selected as Simons Fellows each year out of ~500 applicants
The Simons Summer Research Program offers talented high school juniors the opportunity to conduct advanced STEM research under the mentorship of Stony Brook University faculty. As a Simons Fellow, you’ll participate in research across fields like biochemistry, chemistry, computer science, physics, and neurobiology.
The program includes hands-on lab work, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and guidance on mastering research methodologies. You’ll also have the chance to attend faculty lectures, network with leading scientists, and tour the university’s facilities. Finally, towards the end of the program, you will get the chance to present your findings at a research symposium. With its rigorous selection process, this program is an excellent stepping stone for students pursuing careers in STEM.
7. Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) at Rockefeller University
Location: Rockefeller University, New York, NY
Cost/Stipend: Free; travel expenses are covered, and need-based stipends may be available
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors; at least 16 at the start of the program
Application Deadline: January 3
Program Dates: June 23 – August 7
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 32 students selected per cohort
The Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) at Rockefeller University is another of the best summer programs for high school students that offers a prestigious opportunity to engage in advanced biomedical research. Under the mentorship of university scientists, you will work on cutting-edge research projects across fields like genetics, molecular biology, and neuroscience.
The program features hands-on lab experiences, elective science courses, and guest lectures by leading researchers. Beyond the lab, you’ll participate in social events and academic discussions, enhancing both your knowledge and professional network. The program concludes with a formal symposium where you will present your research findings to the Rockefeller community.
8. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Cost/Stipend: Free; stipend of $750 provided
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; at least 17 by the program start
Application Deadline: February 24
Program Dates: June 22 – August 7
Acceptance Rate: Only 12 students are selected each year
The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program is a seven-week intensive research experience for high-achieving high school students and is one of the top STEM summer programs for high school students. You will work one-on-one with Texas Tech University faculty on projects spanning fields like cell and molecular biology, computer science, engineering, and economics. In addition to hands-on lab work, the program offers academic seminars, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and renowned researchers.
As a Clark Scholar, you will gain valuable research experience and build a strong academic foundation that will stand out on college applications. The program concludes with a formal research presentation to university faculty and peers. To apply, you’ll need to submit essays, transcripts, and test scores, as well as three recommendations, including two from teachers. Applicants are also required to list their top five extracurricular activities.
9. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship
Location: MPFI campus in Jupiter, FL
Stipend: $13 per hour
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors aged 16+ residing in Palm Beach or Martin County with U.S. work authorization
Application Deadline: March 4
Program Dates: June 16 – July 25
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, with less than 10% acceptance
The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship is a unique six-week opportunity for high school students to engage in neuroscience research. You will work alongside leading scientists, exploring the brain’s structure and function using state-of-the-art imaging technologies and computational methods. You’ll get to choose from three focus areas: neuroscience, scientific programming, or mechanical engineering.
The internship includes a 40-hour weekly commitment, providing a comprehensive understanding of research processes and techniques. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of scientific methodologies and research techniques, contributing to real-world neuroscience investigations. The internship concludes with a formal presentation, in which you will present your findings through formal reports and oral presentations. This opportunity is particularly valuable for those considering careers in STEM and medical research.
10. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)
Location: Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine, Baltimore, MD / Virtual
Stipend: In-person participants receive hourly wages ($15/hour) and transportation support
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors. In-person applicants must attend a Baltimore-area high school
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates:
In-person: June – August (8 weeks)
Virtual: July – August (5 weeks)
Acceptance Rate: 5-6 students per cohort
As one of the top STEM summer programs for high school students, the Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) is a prestigious program that provides hands-on neuroscience research experience for high school students, with a focus on increasing diversity in the field. You’ll work alongside leading neuroscientists and participate in laboratory research, educational seminars, and professional development workshops.
JHIBS offers both in-person and virtual options, making it accessible for students with different needs. Throughout the internship, you will conduct guided research projects, engage in scientific discussions, and explore careers in neuroscience. You’ll also present your research findings at the end of the program through oral or poster presentations
11. Student Research Internship Programs at Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI)
Location: Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA
Stipend:
Program I: Funding details pending
Program II: Includes a stipend; travel and housing expenses are covered
Eligibility: Highly motivated high school students aged 16 or older by the start date
Application Deadlines:
Program I: March 31
Program II: January 26
Program Dates:
Program I: June 2 – August 8 or June 16 – August 22
Program II: May 19 – July 28
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive; only 40 spots open to high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional applicants
The Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI) is another one of the best summer programs for high school students. It offers two dynamic summer programs for students interested in biomedical research.
Program I focuses on translational science, where you will explore how research discoveries are applied to patient care.
Program II is centered on precision medicine, providing hands-on training in areas like clinical genomics and digital health.
Throughout the program, you will work on real-world research projects under the mentorship of Scripps scientists. Your experience will include designing and analyzing genomic studies, participating in discussions on clinical trials, and contributing to the development of medical advancements. The program concludes with a final presentation showcasing your findings.
12. National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)
Location: NIH Main Campus, Bethesda, MD
Stipend:
$2,530 for current high school students
$2,840 for high school graduates
Eligibility: High school juniors, seniors, or recent graduates; be at least 17 by June. Additional criteria apply for HiSTEP and HiSTEP 2.0.
Application Deadline: January 8
Program Dates: July 7 – August 7
Acceptance Rate: Less than 7%
The High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) at the National Institutes of Health is one of the best summer programs for high school students. It is open to often underrepresented high school students, especially rising 12th graders from schools where at least 30% of students qualify for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program.
HiSTEP provides a comprehensive introduction to scientific research and professional development. You will participate in research group visits, networking events, and collaborative projects while exploring careers in STEM-M fields (science, technology, engineering, math, and medical-related fields). The program emphasizes career readiness and personal development through leadership training, college application guidance, and wellness initiatives.
13. Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP)
Location: Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: Participants are paid a weekly salary (exact stipend varies by year)
Eligibility: High school students from the Greater Philadelphia area, including Camden, NJ
Application Deadline: December 31
Program Dates: June 23 – August 15
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly competitive; 18-24 students
As one of the top summer programs for high school students, the Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP) offers you the unique opportunity to explore biomedical and medical research in a multidisciplinary environment. Over the 8-week program, you will work alongside renowned scientists on research projects, developing laboratory skills and learning how to conduct scientific inquiry.
In addition to hands-on research, MSAP offers educational seminars covering topics such as scientific communication, ethics in research, and advanced scientific concepts. The program culminates in a public research conference where you will present your findings to Monell researchers, peers, and family members. With a strong mentorship structure, MSAP encourages previous participants to return, with a 20-30% return rate.
14. Johns Hopkins’ Biophysics Research for Baltimore Teens (BRBT)
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
Stipend: $15/hour
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors residing in Baltimore City who have completed chemistry coursework by the summer. Biology and physics coursework are recommended
Application Deadline: February 28
Program Dates: July 8 – August 8
Acceptance Rate: 10-12 students/summer
The Biophysics Research for Baltimore Teens (BRBT) program at Johns Hopkins University is a paid internship that introduces high school students from Baltimore City to the exciting field of biophysics and biomedical research. You will have the opportunity to work alongside researchers and explore topics such as microbiology, DNA manipulation, and protein engineering. Through hands-on lab experience, you’ll assist in experiments and contribute to research aimed at understanding biological systems.
In addition to lab work, you will attend career exploration sessions, interact with graduate students and faculty, and gain exposure to the world of academic research. This immersive experience provides a solid foundation for those considering careers in STEM, particularly in fields like biophysics and biomedical research.
15. Stanford STaRS Internship Program
Location: Stanford, CA
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older
Application Deadline: Typically in November each year
Program Dates: June 23 – August 8
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective; ~20 students/cohort
The Stanford Science, Technology, and Reconstructive Surgery (STaRS) Internship Program is one of the top summer programs for high school students to offer hands-on experience in the fields of biotechnology and medical innovation. With a primary focus on reconstructive surgery, the program provides insight into the role of advanced biotechnology in surgical procedures and patient care.
As a STaRS intern, you will work closely with surgeons and researchers on projects involving tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and medical device innovation. The internship includes hands-on workshops, educational seminars, and opportunities to observe surgical techniques. By engaging in discussions on cutting-edge medical technologies, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how biotechnology drives advancements in healthcare. This intensive internship offers exceptional mentorship, providing you with the tools to explore careers in medicine, biomedical engineering, or surgical research.
Dhruva Bhat is one of the co-founders of Ladder and a Harvard College graduate. Dhruva founded Ladder Internships as a DPhil candidate and Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University, with a vision to bridge the gap between ambitious students and real-world startup experiences.