15 Prestigious Medical Internships for High School Students
If you're a high school student interested in medicine, medical internships are an excellent way to gain real-world skills, connect with professionals, and explore career paths. These programs are often more affordable than extracurricular courses and provide valuable hands-on experience.
From in-person opportunities to virtual programs, medical internships help you learn from experts, benefit from mentorship, and build a strong resume. To help you get started, we've curated a list of 15 top medical internships for high school students, which are known for their reputation and selectivity.
1. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research (SIMR) Program
Location: Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old and U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Application Deadline: February 22.
Program Dates: June 9 - July 31.
Stipend: Minimum $500 for all students; at least $1,500 for students from underrepresented groups.
Acceptance Rate: 3%
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research (SIMR) Program offers high school students a unique chance to deepen their knowledge in medical science through hands-on research. The program pairs you with Stanford graduate students or postdoctoral fellows as mentors, allowing you to focus on one of eight areas: Immunology, Neurobiology, Cancer Biology, Bioengineering, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Cardiovascular Biology, Bioinformatics, or Genetics and Genomics. Assignments align with your preferences and expertise.
Highly competitive, SIMR admits about 50 students annually, with an acceptance rate of less than 3%. Over two months, you’ll engage in full-time lab research, attend lectures, and explore advanced medical science as part of a rigorous medical internship for high school students. The program concludes with a research poster presentation, highlighting your contributions.
Location: Remote – work from anywhere in the world
Eligibility: Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who can commit to 10-20 hours per week for 8-12 weeks
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort (Spring – January, Summer – May, Fall – September, Winter – November)
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year.
Stipend: Unpaid; tuition of $2,490 (financial aid available)
Acceptance Rate: Competitive
Ladder Internships is a selective program for high school students to gain experience with high-growth startups. Internships span industries like tech, AI/ML, health tech, marketing, journalism, and consulting. Startups in the program typically raise over a million dollars, providing exposure to innovative business practices.
During the 8-week virtual internship, you’ll work closely with managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects and present your work to the company. You can explore startup options and apply through their application form.
3. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)
Location: Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine, Baltimore, MD / Virtual
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors. In-person applicants must attend a high school in Baltimore.
Application Deadline: March 1 annually.
Program Dates:
- In-person: June–August (8 weeks)
- Virtual: July–August (5 weeks).
Stipend: In-person interns receive hourly wages and transportation funds. Virtual interns receive a fixed stipend of $500.
Acceptance Rate: 5-6 students per cohort.
The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) provides high school students with a summer research experience in neurological sciences. Focused on promoting inclusivity, this medical internship offers hands-on lab work and mentorship from leading neuroscientists. You’ll participate in research, professional development sessions, and educational seminars to build a strong foundation in neuroscience.
Through guided projects and scientific discussions, whether in person or virtually, you’ll explore key topics and grow as a researcher. With only 5–6 students accepted each year, the program offers personalized mentorship in a supportive environment. It concludes with oral or poster presentations where you can showcase your findings.
4. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship
Location: Jupiter, FL
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors, aged 16 or older, who reside in Palm Beach or Martin County and have U.S. work authorization.
Application Deadline: Applications for the 2025 cohort open on January 7.
Program Dates: June 17–July 26 (6 weeks).
Stipend: $14 per hour.
Acceptance Rate: Very competitive and low acceptance rate.
The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship provides high school students with a six-week immersive experience in brain research. You’ll engage in hands-on projects, exploring advanced imaging techniques and technologies. Participants can choose from three specialized tracks: neuroscience, scientific programming, or mechanical engineering, tailoring the program to their interests.
This full-time medical internship requires a 40-hour weekly commitment and concludes with the development of a scientific abstract and a final presentation. Interns share their findings with peers and mentors, gaining valuable research experience. Compensation is provided, offering both professional growth and financial recognition.
5. National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)
Location: NIH main campus in Bethesda.
Eligibility: High school juniors, seniors, or recent graduates who are at least 17 years old by June 15, 2024. Additional eligibility requirements apply for HiSTEP and HiSTEP 2.0.
Application Deadline: January 8.
Program Dates: July 7 to August 7.
Stipend: $2,530 for current high school students and $2,840 for high school graduates.
Acceptance Rate: Less than 7%.
The High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) is a medical internship for high school student that supports diversity in STEM by combining scientific training with professional and personal development. It emphasizes leadership, wellness, and career exploration in STEM-M (science, technology, engineering, math, and medical) fields, helping students build a strong foundation for future opportunities.
Tailored for rising 12th graders from schools where 30% or more of students qualify for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program, HiSTEP provides exposure to research and healthcare careers through lectures, research group visits, networking, and collaborative projects. You’ll also receive guidance on college applications, career readiness, leadership, and personal resilience. The program requires a 21-hour weekly commitment and full participation to maximize its benefits.
6. Student Research Internship Programs at Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI)
Location: Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA. The institute offers limited resources to assist students in finding housing.
Eligibility: Highly motivated high school students aged 16 or older before the internship start date.
Application Deadline:
- Program I: March 31, 2024
- Program II: January 19, 2024
Program Dates:
- Program I: June 2 - August 8 or June 16 - August 22 (10 weeks).
- Program II: May 19 - July 28 (8 weeks).
Applicants must commit to the full program duration (10 weeks for I, 8 weeks for II) or note specific availability in their applications.
Stipend:
- Program I: Funding details pending.
- Program II: Includes a stipend, with travel and housing expenses covered.
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, accepts only 40 students from a mix of high school, undergraduate, graduate and professional applicants.
The Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI) offers two competitive internships in translational science (Program I) and precision medicine (Program II), bringing together 40 students nationwide for a hands-on research experience.
You’ll explore topics like digital health, clinical genomics, community engagement, and translational research methods. Training includes designing and analyzing genomic studies and observing clinical trials from start to finish. Each intern is paired with a primary mentor for personalized guidance.
This medical internship program for high school students concludes with a presentation of your scientific concepts to peers and mentors, highlighting the skills and knowledge you’ve gained. Whether focused on precision medicine or translational science, these internships provide an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research.
Location: Anschutz Medical Campus (Children’s Hospital Colorado), Aurora, CO
Eligibility: High school seniors who are at least 18 years old by June 2025.
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: June 2 - August 1 (9 weeks).
Stipend: $4,400.
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, accepts interns from a mix of high school seniors over the age of 18, college students, graduate students and first-year medical students.
The Summer Child Health Research Internship offers high school seniors hands-on laboratory experience and mentorship on pediatric health topics. Hosted by the University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital Colorado, the program immerses you in cutting-edge child health research.
You’ll attend weekly lectures from faculty experts, explore advancements in pediatric medicine, and present your research findings through oral, poster, or PowerPoint presentations as part of a medical internship for high school students. A written report is also required.
Participants are encouraged to submit research abstracts to conferences, with attendance costs covered for accepted submissions. This internship provides practical skills, professional networking, and a chance to contribute to the field of child health.
8. Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP)
Location: Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: High school students from the greater Philadelphia area, including Camden, NJ.
Application Deadline: December 31.
Program Dates: June 23 - August 15 (8 weeks).
Stipend: Paid (exact amount unspecified).
Acceptance Rate: 10% or less of applicants are accepted
The Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP) allows high school students to explore biomedicine and medicine through hands-on research with leading scientists. You’ll gain experience in lab techniques and scientific inquiry while working closely with researchers.
In addition to lab work, the program includes lectures, public speaking training, and discussions on the ethics of research. It concludes with a conference where you’ll present your findings to Monell staff, peers, and family.
MSAP is highly competitive, admitting only 18–24 students from a pool of 200, with an acceptance rate of less than 10%. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity for students passionate about science and biomedical research.
9. Stanford STaRS Internship Program
Location: Stanford, CA
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older
Application Deadline: Typically in November each year
Program Dates: June 23 - August 8
Stipend: Unpaid
Acceptance Rate: Low, approximately 20 students shortlisted per cohort.
The Stanford Science, Technology, and Reconstructive Surgery (STaRS) Internship offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore biotechnology and medical innovation in reconstructive surgery. The program focuses on how biotechnology is improving surgical outcomes.
As an intern, you'll work with leading surgeons and researchers, gaining hands-on experience with advanced biotechnological tools. You’ll develop skills in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and medical device development while learning about biotechnology’s impact on medicine.
10. High School Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
Location: Cincinnati, OH
Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors from the Cincinnati metropolitan area. SAT and ACT preferred, PSAT scores not necessary.
Application Deadline: February 1.
Program Dates: Starts June 3 (8 weeks, 20 hours/week).
Stipend: $13 per hour
Acceptance Rate: Low, and intensive screening process for selection.
The High School Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital offers graduating seniors hands-on experience in pediatric medicine. You’ll work directly with mentors across specialties like pediatric surgery, molecular cardiovascular biology, infectious diseases, and developmental biology.
Throughout the program, you’ll shadow mentors in clinical settings and assist with research or clinical projects. Additional activities include training sessions, community service, lunch seminars, and networking events. The program concludes with a presentation of your projects to mentors and peers.
11. Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy at City of Hope
Location: City of Hope, Duarte, CA
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older, U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Application Deadline: March 13 (Based on 2024 dates)
Program Dates: June 3 - August 9 (10 weeks; Based on 2024 dates)
Stipend: $4,000
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, only 80 students were shortlisted last year out which only 45% were high school students.
The Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy offers high school students hands-on biomedical research experience at City of Hope. You’ll select a project and spend 10 weeks working with a dedicated research team.
Mentored by cancer specialists and researchers, you’ll attend workshops on ethics, poster creation, and weekly seminars to present your findings. The program concludes with a written report summarizing your research. Many past participants have co-authored published papers and even patented life-saving products.
12. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program
Location: MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
Eligibility: Current Texas high school seniors aged 18+ by the program start date
Application Deadline: Opens in November and typically closes in January
Program Dates: June 2 - August 8 (10 weeks)
Stipend: $6,800
Acceptance Rate: Only 10 students are selected for the program.
The MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program offers Texas high school seniors hands-on research experience in allied health careers, including diagnostic, technical, and supportive healthcare services. Ten students are selected each year to work on a biomedical research project under the mentorship of MD Anderson faculty.
You’ll attend faculty-led seminars, participate in activities and competitions, and present your findings at a celebratory luncheon as part of your medical internship experience. This immersive program provides valuable insights into biomedical research and allied health professions.
13. Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) at Fred Hutch Cancer Center
Location: South Lake Union, Seattle, WA
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds, U.S. residents
Application Deadline: March 31
Program Dates: June 23 - August 15 (8 weeks)
Stipend: Financial award available (details provided during the interview) + free ORCA card for commuting
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive program
The Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) at Fred Hutch Cancer Center offers an eight-week, full-time research internship for students from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical sciences. The program starts with two weeks of laboratory safety and basic skills training, followed by research in a biomedical lab with a mentor and research team.
In addition to hands-on research, you’ll attend seminars, participate in professional development workshops, and engage in social and networking activities. This program provides immersive experience and valuable exposure to biomedical research.
Location: Phoenix, AZ or Flagstaff, AZ
Eligibility: Graduating Arizona high school seniors, 16 years or older, with U.S. work authorization
Application Deadline: February 5
Program Dates: June 9 - August 1 (8 weeks)
Stipend: $14.35 per hour
Acceptance Rate: Low
Helios Scholars at TGen offers an immersive research internship in laboratory research, computational biology, bioinformatics, mathematics, and research administration. You’ll work full-time at TGen labs on projects led by scientists, exploring genetic factors behind diseases like cancer, diabetes, neurological disorders, and public health issues.
Throughout the program, you’ll attend seminars and participate in activities to develop new skills, explore career paths, and refine scientific writing as part of your medical internship experience. The internship concludes with a symposium where you’ll present your research findings.
15. Seacole Scholars Program at Lifespan
Location: Providence, RI
Eligibility: High school students aged 16-19 with a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license
Application Deadline: Applications for 2024 have closed; 2025 cohort applications open late 2024
Program Dates: June - August (7-8 weeks)
Stipend: Paid (amount unspecified)
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 80 students are shortlisted.
The Seacole Scholars Program, named after nurse Mary Seacole, offers high school students a seven-week paid summer internship at Lifespan Hospital, Rhode Island’s largest private employer. To apply for this medical internship, you must have a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license. You’ll work four days a week on nursing units alongside 80 peers.
One day each week is dedicated to Lifespan Workforce and Youth Development training. The program encourages careers in healthcare, with daily career counseling and the potential for employment upon completion.
Looking for an immersive internship experience?
Check out Ladder Internships!
Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program that connects students with startups and nonprofits from industries around the world! As part of the internship, you will work on real-world projects that are important to the startup and present your work at the end of the internship. You will also be mentored by their manager from the startup as well as a Ladder Coach. Apply now!