39 Best Summer Internships for High School Students
High school is an ideal time to explore internships and discover what interests you. Gaining real-world experience not only helps you understand the impact of different fields but also strengthens your college applications by showing authentic, informed interests.
Whether you're drawn to STEM programs at universities like Stanford and MIT, internships at global companies like Meta and Microsoft, or hands-on work in areas like biotech, neuroscience, nonprofits, or the arts—we’ve curated a diverse list of the 39 best summer internships for high school students.
1.NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internship
Location: NASA centers and facilities across the U.S. (virtual and in-person options)
Stipend: Paid; varies based on education level and internship length
Acceptance Rate: Around 5%; highly competitive
Program Dates: Varies according to cohort
Application Deadlines: Spring session: September 12; Summer session: February 27; Fall session: May 16
Eligibility: U.S. citizen; full-time student; minimum 3.0 GPA; at least 16 years old at time of application
If you've ever dreamed of contributing to real NASA missions, the NASA OSTEM Internship gives you that chance—even as a high school student. Depending on your interests, you might help design experiments, analyze data from space missions, assist with engineering work, or support science communication and outreach efforts. Internships span a wide range of fields, including space science, aeronautics, engineering, space microbiology, ecology, and advanced technology. Alongside your project work, you'll take part in training sessions, mentorship meetings, and career development activities that help you grow professionally
2. The U.S Department of State’s Pathway Internship Program
Location: Washington, D.C., and across the U.S.
Stipend: Paid; compensation based on federal GS level and job details
Acceptance Rate: competitive; applications open year-round on USAJobs.gov
Program Dates: Depends on individual internship listing
Application Deadline: Rolling (check USAJobs.gov regularly for openings)
Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens currently enrolled in high school at least half-time
The U.S. Department of State’s Pathways Internship Program gives you a paid opportunity to experience working for the federal government while exploring careers in diplomacy, foreign policy, and public service. Depending on the position, you’ll be placed in either the Internship Experience Program (IEP) or the Internship Temporary Program (ITEP), where you’ll assist with work in areas like international relations, communications, policy research, or public administration. These internships offer the chance to work alongside experienced professionals and gain a closer look at how U.S. government agencies operate both at home and abroad.
Location: Remote
Cost: Starts at $2,490; financial aid available
Acceptance Rate: selective
Program Dates: Seasonal cohorts (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application Deadlines: Vary by cohort — January (Spring), May (Summer), September (Fall), November (Winter)
Eligibility: Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students
Ladder Internships connects motivated high school students with fast-growing startups for hands-on, remote internships. During this 8-week experience, you’ll contribute to real projects while getting guidance from both your startup manager and a dedicated Ladder Coach.
Internships span a wide range of fields—AI/ML, tech, healthcare, media, consulting, and more— and are designed to give you a closer look at the startup world while helping you build practical skills in a collaborative setting.
4. The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Stipend: $500+ stipend (up to $1,500+ for students from underrepresented backgrounds)
Acceptance Rate: Fewer than 3% admitted; ~50 students selected each year
Program Dates: June 9 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 22
Eligibility: Open to U.S. high school juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old by the program start date
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) offers you the chance to take part in biomedical research alongside Stanford scientists. Over the course of 8 weeks, you'll be matched with a lab—ranging from cancer biology and immunology to bioengineering and computational biology—depending on your interests. You'll Spend your mornings attending lectures and learning essential lab safety protocols, while the rest of the day is focused on research. The program wraps up with a poster session where you'll present your findings to peers and faculty.
5. The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS): Project Pipeline Baltimore
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD (in-person and virtual options available)
Stipend: Hourly wage for in-person participants; $500 stipend for virtual interns
Cohort Size: Extremely selective; only 5–6 students chosen each year
Program Dates: In-person: 8 weeks (June–August); Virtual: 5 weeks (July–August)
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Open to high school students from underrepresented backgrounds; U.S. citizens or permanent residents preferred
The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) is a fully funded summer research opportunity aimed at boosting diversity in neuroscience. Over the course of the program, you’ll join a lab at Johns Hopkins and contribute to ongoing brain research with guidance from university scientists. Your experience will cover designing experiments, analyzing data, and writing about your findings. Beyond the lab, the program includes weekly seminars, professional development workshops, and conversations with researchers in the field. At the end, you’ll share your work through a poster or oral presentation. A shorter, virtual option is also available for those who can’t attend in person.
6. Stanford STaRS Internship Program
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost: None
Cohort Size: Around 20 students are selected annually
Program Dates: June 23 – August 8
Application Deadline: November
Eligibility: Open to high school students
The Stanford Science, Technology, and Reconstructive Surgery (STaRS) Internship Program offers you the chance to explore the intersection of biotechnology and medical innovation. Over 7 weeks, you'll work alongside reconstructive surgeons and researchers, learning how advances in biotechnology are shaping the future of reconstructive surgery and regenerative medicine.
During the internship, you’ll gain experience with tools like CT Analyzer, Avizo, Drishti, and 3D modeling software. You’ll collaborate with clinician-scientists and other interns, honing your critical thinking skills while contributing to research projects. This program is open to all students, and no prior lab experience is required.
7. MIT Research Science Institute
Location: MIT campus, Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: Free; up to $2,000 stipend available
Cohort Size: 80 students selected annually
Program Dates: June 25 – August 5
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: High school juniors; recommended PSAT Math 740+, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 700+, ACT Math 33+, ACT Verbal 34+
The Research Science Institute (RSI) is an advanced STEM program that offers intensive coursework and a research internship. The program kicks off with a week of seminars led by professors, where you’ll explore the latest breakthroughs in biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, physics, and more.
The core of RSI is a five-week research internship, where you’ll collaborate one-on-one with professional researchers to design and carry out original projects. You’ll review literature, conduct experiments, analyze data, and present your findings in both written and oral formats.
You’ll also attend evening lectures by Nobel laureates, entrepreneurs, and leaders in science.
8. New York City Office of the Mayor Internship
Location: New York City, NY
Stipend: $16.50 per hour
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective, placements vary by department
Program Dates: June – August (Summer term) | October – April (Fall-Spring term)
Application Deadline: Summer term: March 30 | Fall-Spring term: August 11
Eligibility: Open to high school students who live in or attend school in NYC
The Mayor’s Office Internship Program gives you the opportunity to explore public service and city government through hands-on work, professional development, and community-driven projects. You’ll be placed in a department within the NYC Mayor’s Office, where you’ll support tasks such as policy research, data analysis, event planning, communications, and outreach.
As part of the program, you’ll participate in a bi-weekly Speaker Series at City Hall, where you’ll have the chance to interact with senior city officials, including Deputy Mayors and Commissioners. You’ll also team up with fellow interns on a service project aimed at helping underserved NYC communities—past projects have involved park cleanups, tree planting, and community restoration.
9. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
Location: Local nonprofit placements + one week in Washington, D.C.
Stipend: Paid (amount varies by location)
Acceptance Rate: 300 students selected nationwide
Program Dates: June – August (8 weeks)
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors; must be legally authorized to work in the U.S
A paid 8-week summer internship that places you at local nonprofit organizations, where you’ll take on meaningful projects that support the nonprofit’s mission. You will develop essential skills in communication, teamwork, financial literacy, and social impact.
A key part of the program is the Student Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C., during which you’ll meet national leaders, learn about civic engagement, and connect with other students and professionals from across the country. Your travel, lodging, and meals for the summit are all covered.
10. Stanford Center for AI in Medicine & Imaging (AIMI) Summer Research Internship
Location: Remote
Cost: Application Fee - $40; Program Fee - $850; Financial Aid Available
Cohort Size: 25 students approx.
Program Dates: June 16 - 27
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: High school students entering 9th - 12th grade in the Fall.
If you’re interested in AI and its potential to transform medicine, consider this two-week virtual internship program. You’ll engage in technical lectures, hands-on research projects, and mentoring activities with Stanford student leads and researchers. You’ll also participate in social activities and career-focused virtual lunch sessions with guest speakers from academia, industry, and government.
At the end of the internship, if you attend the full program you will receive a Certificate of Completion, and an extended independent research opportunity may be available if you’re interested in furthering your exploration of AI in healthcare.
11. Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage Internship
Location: Remote or Washington, D.C.
Stipend: Unpaid; academic credit may be available
Cohort Size: Over 100 interns accepted annually
Program Dates: Flexible; internships last 6 weeks to 1 year
Application Deadline: Summer: March 1; other seasons: rolling (apply at least 6 weeks before intended start)
Eligibility: Open to high school students, college students, graduates, and non-students; U.S. and non-U.S. citizens may apply
If you're interested in exploring culture through the lenses of music, anthropology, archives, or digital storytelling, this internship offers a great opportunity to get involved with the Smithsonian. You will get a chance to work on projects related to the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, Folkways Recordings, cultural sustainability research, and more. Opportunities exist in fields like folklore, history, American studies, web production, and archival research. Interns can work remotely or on-site in Washington, D.C., and may earn academic credit depending on their school's policy.
Location: Meta offices in California (primarily Menlo Park and nearby areas)
Stipend: Paid
Cohort Size: 150 students accepted each year
Program Dates: June 16 – July 25
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Open to high school students who live year-round in East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, or Redwood City
The Meta Summer Academy invites you to learn how a global technology company operates from the inside in a 6-week paid internship. This program introduces students to real workplace environments, career paths in tech, and fundamental coding concepts.
Through mentorship from Meta employees workshops, and team-based projects, you’ll develop technical and professional skills while getting a sense of daily life at a major tech firm. Interns typically work up to 30 hours a week, and Meta offers transportation support to help local students participate.
13. City Limits’ CLARIFY (City Limits Accountability Reporting Initiative for Youth) program
Location: Online (remote)
Stipend: $500
Cohort Size: 10–15 students selected
Program Dates: Summer (exact dates may vary)
Application Deadline: April 30
Eligibility: Open to NYC high school students; applicants from underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply
If you have an interest in journalism, storytelling, or civic issues, the CLARIFY internship from City Limits offers a chance to learn the craft of public service reporting from professionals in the field. Over the summer, you’ll participate in writing workshops, gain experience in investigative research, and publish stories under the guidance of professional journalists.
You will be mentored in writing, editing, interviewing, and public speaking, with a focus on building confidence and career readiness. Past participants have gone on to collaborate with major media outlets like The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Politico, and NPR.
14. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
Location: 38+ Department of Navy labs across the United States
Stipend: $4,000 for first-time participants; $4,500 for returning interns
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Roughly 300 students selected annually; ~10–15% acceptance rate
Program Length: 8 weeks (summer)
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: U.S. citizens; high school students aged 16 or older at the time of application
Through the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program (NREIP), you’ll be matched with a mentor—typically a Department of Navy scientist or engineer—and work on active research in areas like mechanical engineering, computer science, chemistry, and materials science.This is a hands-on experience that gives you exposure to high-level defense projects, from submarine systems and fluid dynamics to battery safety and sensor design. Whether you’re interested in a future with the Navy or just want a deeper look into government-funded STEM research, NREIP offers an opportunity to work with real-world applications.
15. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Location: Local placements throughout the U.S. and Canada
Stipend: $3,000
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Around 100 students accepted each year; ~12% acceptance rate
Program Dates: 8 weeks during summer (specific dates vary by placement)
Application Deadline: January 19
Eligibility: High school students entering 11th or 12th grade; preference given to students from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM
If you’re curious about aquatic ecosystems and interested in environmental science careers, the Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program offers a paid, hands-on summer experience for high school students. Over the course of eight weeks, you’ll be matched with a professional mentor in your region—often a fisheries biologist or aquatic scientist—and get out in the field to conduct research.
Depending on your placement, you might find yourself electrofishing in a stream, analyzing water samples in a lab, restoring habitats, or collecting data on fish populations. The program not only introduces you to the science behind managing aquatic resources, but also opens a window into conservation and natural resource careers
16. Internships at the American Psychological Association (APA)
Location: Remote
Stipend: Paid and unpaid opportunities available
Program Dates: Typically 8–12 weeks during summer (varies by position)
Application Deadline: Varies based on position (check APA listings for updates) Eligibility: Open to high school seniors, college students, and graduate students
The APA Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in psychology, with roles spanning policy, research, communications, and financial services. As an intern, you’ll be involved in ongoing projects, enhance your professional skills, and get a firsthand look at psychology’s diverse career opportunities. Throughout the internship, you’ll attend presentations from APA staff, access exclusive psychology research tools, and network with senior psychologists in the field.
17. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program( SHIP)
Location: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
Stipend: Paid
Cohort Size: Highly competitive; approximately 30 students selected
Program Dates: June 23 – August 15
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Rising 12th graders from underrepresented backgrounds in science
The SHIP internship offers a competitive 8-week opportunity for rising high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds in the biomedical sciences. You’ll begin the program with two weeks of lab safety and research skills training, followed by six weeks of research at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle. In addition to working in the lab under mentorship, you’ll engage in seminars, professional development workshops, and social activities. The program concludes with a formal presentation of your research to the Fred Hutch community.
18. Adler Planetarium Summer Teen Internship
Location: Adler Planetarium, Chicago, IL
Stipend: $14 per hour
Cohort Size: 20 interns
Program Dates: July 6 – August 14 (Summer)
Application Deadline: March 19
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12), primarily from the Chicago area
This paid internship offers high school students the opportunity to develop professional skills and gain hands-on experience at a science museum. You’ll work on a variety of projects related to museum operations, STEM education, and community outreach, all while enhancing your leadership, communication, and teamwork abilities. Interns from across Chicago can also explore potential careers in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Whether your interests lie in programming, public engagement, or museum logistics, this program provides a unique look into the workings of a cultural institution.
19. Microsoft Discovery Program
Location: In-person in Redmond, WA, or Atlanta, GA
Stipend: $20 per hour
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive; small cohort
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1 (4 weeks)
Application Deadline: Varies annually (typically spring)
Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors entering a 4-year college; must reside near Redmond, WA, or Atlanta, GA
Microsoft’s High School Discovery Program is a 4-week paid internship designed for graduating high school seniors interested in technology careers. You’ll be part of a small team where you’ll contribute to a project within a Microsoft product group. This internship provides insight into the product design process and introduces roles in software engineering, product management, and UX design. Beyond hands-on experience, you’ll receive mentorship from Microsoft employees, participate in professional development sessions, and learn how to connect your personal interests with a career in tech.
20. The Met Internship Program for High School Students
Location: New York City, NY
Stipend: $1,100
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 40 students per session; highly selective
Program Dates: School-year Internship: January 11 – June 13; Summer Internship: June 21 – August 8
Application Deadline: School-year Internship: October 28; Summer Internship: March 7
Eligibility: High school students enrolled in a NYC school (must be 15+ years old)
The Met High School Internship Program gives NYC high school students the opportunity to explore careers within the arts, museums, and cultural institutions. Interns gain experience across various departments such as education, conservation, scientific research, digital media, and marketing.Each week includes Career Labs, where you’ll focus on career exploration, skill development, and receive mentorship. You’ll also work alongside fellow interns on projects that support museum initiatives and public outreach. This program welcomes students with a variety of interests, not just those aiming for careers in the visual arts.
21. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program
Location: Multiple AFRL sites across the U.S.
Stipend: $468.80 per week
Acceptance Rate: 8-10%
Program Dates: Typically 8–12 weeks in summer (varies by location)
Application Deadline: January 10
Eligibility: U.S. citizens; upper-level high school students (must be at least 16)
The AFRL Scholars Program offers upper-level high school students the chance to conduct STEM research at Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) sites. You’ll collaborate with scientists and engineers on projects related to aerospace engineering, satellite navigation, electromagnetics, and environmental cleanup.
You will also receive mentorship from AFRL professionals, tour research facilities, and develop both technical and professional skills. Past projects have included satellite navigation data structures, testing of navigation signal simulations, and PFAS contamination research.
22. American Museum of Natural History Teen programs
Location: New York City, NY (Manhattan)
Stipend: Paid internships; all programs are free to participate in
Program Dates: Varies by program
Application Deadline: Varies by program (SRMP deadline usually in March)
Eligibility: High school students in NYC (typically grades 9–12; some programs may have additional age or grade requirements)
The American Museum of Natural History provides NYC high school students with both free and paid opportunities to explore careers in science, research, and museum operations. You can get involved in fields like anthropology, astrophysics, conservation science, evolutionary biology, and Earth science. Programs such as the Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) offer year-long opportunities (August–June) to conduct research with Museum scientists, while the Science Alliance Program allows you to choose a field of interest and participate in workshops, mentorship, and skill-building sessions
23. Boston Children’s Hospital Student Research Internship
Location: Boston, MA
Stipend: Paid (hourly rate, varies by education level)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified (highly selective)
Program Dates: June–August (8 weeks, 35 hours/week)
Application Deadline: Typically in February
Eligibility: Advanced high school students
The Summer Student Research Program (SSRP) at Boston Children’s Hospital provides upper-level high school students with the opportunity to explore neonatal and developmental biology research. Paired with a mentor, you’ll work on projects in fields such as vascular biology, molecular genetics, epigenetics, public health, or neonatal clinical research.
Throughout the 8-week program, you’ll attend weekly seminars on newborn medicine and present your research findings at the end. This program is great for those considering careers in medicine, pediatrics, or biomedical research.
24. Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship & Internship
Location: Various Amazon offices across the U.S.
Stipend: Paid summer internship + up to $40,000 scholarship over 4 years Acceptance Rate: 400 students selected nationally
Program Dates: Summer internship (after senior year of high school)
Application Deadline: Typically in December or January Eligibility: High school seniors from underserved or underrepresented backgrounds pursuing a computer science major
The AFE Scholars Program provides high school seniors the opportunity to gain experience in technology through a paid summer internship at Amazon, along with a scholarship of up to $40,000. As an AFE Scholar, you’ll learn about computer science, software engineering, and project development. Interns work on technical projects alongside Amazon professionals, learning to navigate challenges in a fast-paced tech environment. The program also includes mentorship, career-building workshops, and networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders. The scholarship supports your pursuit of a computer science degree at an accredited four-year college
25. Connecticut Office of the Attorney General (OAG)
Location: Hartford, Connecticut
Stipend: Unpaid
Application Deadline: Fall: July 19; Spring: October 31; Summer: February 18
Program Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer cohorts
Eligibility: Open to high school students, undergraduates, paralegal, law, and graduate students.
The Connecticut Office of the Attorney General (OAG) High School Internship Program offers high school students a valuable opportunity to explore law and public service. As a volunteer intern, you’ll work alongside attorneys and staff in one of 16 legal divisions, including Consumer Protection, Environment, and Health & Education.
This experience provides a behind-the-scenes look at public interest law while helping you develop research, writing, and professional communication skills. The internship offers meaningful exposure to legal careers and may count toward school credit through externship arrangements.
26. Biorocket Research Internship Program at Genspace
Location: Genspace (Brooklyn, NY)
Cost/Stipend: Free; $2,000 stipend
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 12 students selected annually
Program Dates: Spring Session: February 27 – May 22; Summer Session: June 30 – August 15
Application Deadline: Typically late fall
Eligibility: Must be at least 16 or older by February 21; must live in or attend a NYC public or charter school within 45 minutes of Genspace; must commit to both the spring and summer sessions
The Biorocket Research Internship is a 6-month program aimed at introducing New York City public and charter high school students to biology and genetic engineering. Spanning from spring into the summer, the internship allows you to work alongside scientists, learning lab techniques, designing and conducting research projects, and enhancing science communication skills. You will collaborate with a small cohort, tour biotech labs and companies, participate in improv workshops for better public speaking, and present your research to family and friends.
This program strongly encourages students from underrepresented groups in science, whether racial, ethnic, gender, or low-income, to apply. No previous lab experience is required
27. Everglades EcoExplorers Internship
Location: Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS), Fort Lauderdale, FL
Stipend: Paid
Application Deadline: June 6
Program Dates: Summer training followed by an academic year internship
Eligibility: Must be entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade and attend an eligible Broward County public high school
Hosted by the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS), this program combines field-based learning with workforce development to help you build essential life skills for your future career.
You’ll gain hands-on experience through field excursions and identify native plants and animals with the help of field guides, gaining a deeper understanding of Florida’s unique ecosystems and environmental challenges. Following the summer program, you’ll participate in a 135-hour workforce development session throughout the school year.
28. Today's Interns, Tomorrow's Professionals (TIP) Internship Program
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Stipend: Paid internship (stipend details vary)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Program Dates: Summer, typically spanning several weeks
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Income-eligible high school students in Greater Boston; applications are made through the Boston PIC
If you're a high school student in the Greater Boston area and meet certain income eligibility criteria, the TIP program offers you an opportunity to intern at the Boston Federal Reserve. This paid internship is designed to help you build essential workplace skills, enhance your employment readiness, and improve your financial literacy.
During the internship, you’ll be placed in one of the Bank’s departments, where you’ll gain hands-on experience and learn from professionals in the field. By applying through the Boston Private Industry Council (PIC), you’ll have the chance to begin your career with solid work experience and valuable financial knowledge
29. High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)
Location: NIH Main Campus, Bethesda, MD
Stipend: $2,150 stipend, plus public transportation benefits
Acceptance Rate: Under 10%
Program Dates: July 7 – August 7 (Tuesdays through Thursdays)
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Rising 12th graders attending schools where ≥30% of students qualify for free/reduced lunch; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The NIH HiSTEP Program is a free, 5-week summer internship for rising high school seniors from schools with high economic need. Hosted at the National Institutes of Health’s main campus in Bethesda, MD, this program provides an introduction to biomedical research, healthcare, and STEM-M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine) careers.
You’ll explore different research and healthcare pathways through lab visits, lectures, group projects, and small group discussions. The program also offers career readiness training, leadership development, and college advising!
30. Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia (BRAINYAC)
Location: New York, NY (Columbia University Zuckerman Institute)
Stipend: Paid (amount not publicly specified)
Cohort Size: ~40 students per year; nomination-based
Program Dates: Summer (typically June–August)
Application Deadline: Varies by nominating partner program
Eligibility: Must be nominated by a partner organization (S-PREP, Lang Youth Medical Program, Double Discovery Center, Columbia Secondary School, or BioBus); must live in NYC and be in high school
The BRAINYAC Program offers high school students the opportunity to conduct neuroscience research in a Columbia University laboratory during the summer. You’ll be paired with a Columbia neuroscientist and work on an independent research project focused on areas like sensory processing, neuron function, and brain development. You’ll also develop laboratory research skills, gain exposure to academic careers, and collaborate with scientists in the field. One past project, for example, explored how specialized neurons relay sensory signals. The program concludes with a final presentation of your research to the scientific community at Columbia.
31. Warner Bros Reach Honorship Program
Location: Burbank, CA (Warner Bros. Studios)
Stipend: Paid internship + college scholarship
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: ~5 students per year (highly selective)
Program Dates: Summer (after high school graduation)
Application Deadline: Typically March
Eligibility: High school seniors in the LA County area
The Warner Bros. Reach Honorship Program is a hybrid scholarship-internship designed for graduating high school seniors interested in both the business and creative aspects of media and entertainment. If selected, you’ll receive a college scholarship and a paid summer internship at Warner Bros.
Apart from getting experience in various departments such as production, content development, marketing, communications, post-production, finance, and HR, you’ll work alongside industry professionals, building a strong foundation for a career in entertainment. The program also offers mentorship from Warner Bros. staff, insight into studio operations, and opportunities to contribute to projects in film, TV, and games
32. National Museum of Natural History Internship Program
Location: Washington, D.C. Stipend: $3,600 total ($600/week)
Program Dates: June 24 – August 5; Tues–Fri, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Current high school students, ages 14–18; fluent in English
This six-week internship provides high school students the opportunity to work in either the Entomology or Exhibits department at the National Museum of Natural History. In the Entomology department, you’ll assist with insect collection and classification, including moths, spiders, and centipedes, while gaining experience in taxonomy and preservation. If you're in the Exhibits department, you'll be involved in the development of museum displays and learn about exhibit planning and construction.
Additionally, you’ll also participate in field trips, college preparation activities, behind-the-scenes tours, and workshops to enhance your public speaking and science communication skills.
33. Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) Internship
Location: Philadelphia, PA, or remote
Stipend: Stipend available
Program Dates: Summer (June–August)
Application Deadline: May 12
Eligibility: Open to all high school students with U.S. work authorization, including international students
FPRI’s internship program offers high school students the chance to explore foreign relations, international policy, and think tank operations. You’ll select a focus area—Research, Special Events/Development, or Operations—and work closely with a mentor throughout the term.
Throughout this experience, you’ll build academic and professional skills, including policy research, communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. You will also attend FPRI’s events, engage in career seminars, and have the opportunity to submit a research paper for publication in Intern Corner.
34. Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) Internship Program
Location: Princeton, NJ (in-person) or remote option available
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Program Dates: June 30 - August 1
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Graduating seniors with relevant coursework or technical experience
This full-time summer internship is for graduating high school seniors interested in exploring plasma physics, fusion energy, and related fields. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy, you'll be matched with mentors in research or engineering to contribute to both experimental and computational projects.
Tasks may involve data analysis, modeling, or engineering using software like Python, Java, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD. Along with research, the program offers guest lectures and workshops designed to support your professional growth. While previous coursework in physics, chemistry, engineering, or advanced math is beneficial, it's not a requirement.
35. City Of Hope’s Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy
Location: Duarte, CA
Stipend: $4,500 upon successful completion
Acceptance Rate: ~5% (100 students selected from ~2,000 applicants)
Program Dates: 10 weeks during the summer (typically June–August)
Application Deadline: January (varies annually)
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors in high school; undergraduate students
The Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy at City of Hope offers high school students a research internship focused on cancer biology, molecular genetics, and translational medicine. As an intern, you’ll be paired with a research mentor to work on an independent lab project, where you'll gain experience in techniques like PCR, Western blotting, cell culture, and genetic analysis.
Communication skills are also a major component—you’ll present your research through a poster session, oral presentation, and written paper. In addition to lab work, you'll attend weekly seminars, career talks, and participate in field trips to expand your professional knowledge.
36. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) High School Summer Research Internship
Location: Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL
Stipend: $13 per hour Cohort Size: 8 students
Program Dates: June 16 - July 25 (6 weeks)
Application Deadline: March 4
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (at least 16 years old), residing in Palm Beach or Martin County, with U.S. work authorization
The MPFI Summer Research Internship is a six-week program designed for high school students interested in neuroscience. If you're entering your junior or senior year, you’ll get the chance to collaborate with professional scientists at the Max Planck Florida Institute. You’ll learn advanced research techniques, including genetic engineering, microscopy, and neural imaging, exploring the brain's structure and functions.
37. Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
Stipend: Paid (above minimum wage; exact details not provided)
Cohort Size: 45–50 students
Program Dates: Starts in June; continues year-round through high school graduation
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Rising 10th or 11th-grade students at SFUSD with a GPA of 2.5 or higher and at least a C in math and science
The Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program offers a unique, multi-year paid internship for high school students in San Francisco, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Hosted by the California Academy of Sciences, this program introduces you to environmental research, fieldwork, science communication, and collaborative projects with Academy scientists.
Beyond hands-on experience, you’ll receive mentorship, leadership training, and college prep to prepare you for a STEM career. Starting in June, this year-round program continues after school and on weekends until you graduate, providing ongoing development and training.
38. Idaho National Laboratory High School Internship Program
Location: Idaho Falls, ID
Stipend: Paid (exact amount not specified)
Program Dates: Six weeks in summer (starts mid-June)
Application Deadline: February 28 Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, at least 16 years old, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher; open to rising juniors, seniors, and recent graduates
At the Idaho National Laboratory, high school students can work on STEM or business projects during this 6-week summer internship. Whether you're crunching numbers in finance or helping tackle cybersecurity and clean energy challenges, you’ll be paired with a mentor to contribute to a project. The remaining time is set aside for enrichment—lab tours, seminars, and career-building workshops. Interns wrap up the experience by presenting a final project, gaining firsthand insight into careers at a national lab
39. United Planet Virtual Internship
Location: Remote (with host organizations in over 20 countries)
Cost: Program fee applies (varies by duration)
Acceptance Rate: Not selective; open-enrollment
Program Dates: Flexible start dates; 4 to 24 weeks (part-time or full-time)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school students (typically 16+), college students, and recent graduates; access to the Internet and English proficiency required
United Planet’s Virtual Internship Program lets you collaborate with international nonprofits and community organizations remotely. Whether you're drawn to public health, environmental sustainability, education, business, or social justice, you’ll work on projects that support global initiatives. You’ll gain remote professional experience, cross-cultural communication skills, and insight into international development while being supported by a United Planet advisor. Past interns have developed fundraising campaigns, designed health outreach materials, supported environmental research, and taught virtual classes to students around the world.