19 Selective Internships for High School Students
If you're a high school student looking for serious, hands-on experience in a professional setting, selective internships can offer a competitive edge. These programs, often offered by top universities, research institutions, or technology companies, aim to provide students with meaningful responsibilities, guidance, and insight into various career paths.
Many of these internships are free or stipend-based, making them accessible while rewarding your time and effort. Whether you're contributing to a research project, working with industry professionals, or exploring college-level labs, these experiences can help shape your academic and career goals.
To help you find high-impact opportunities, we’ve curated 19 selective internships for high school students!
1. Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: $850 + $40 application fee
Cohort Size: 25
Dates: June 16 – June 27
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Students entering 9-12 grade in the fall; over the age of 14 by the program’s start
The AIMI Summer Research Internship, hosted by Stanford’s Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging, is a virtual two-week program designed for high schoolers with a solid foundation in statistics, mathematics, or programming. It introduces students to the role of AI in healthcare through technical lectures, collaborative projects, and individualized mentoring from Stanford researchers.
Participants also attend “Lunch and Learn” talks led by professionals from various fields who share their career experiences and insights. Upon completion, students earn a Certificate of Completion and may have the option to continue with self-directed research opportunities beyond the program.
2. Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X) at Stanford University
Location: Virtual
Cost: $1,595
Acceptance Rate: 12%
Dates: June 16 – June 27
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18 years
CNI-X is a two-week academic summer program available to high school students in grades 10–12. Participants explore foundational topics in psychology, neuroscience, and psychiatry through seminars delivered by faculty and researchers from Stanford.
The program combines academic learning with personal growth, providing a comprehensive examination of mental health, scientific research, and career opportunities in healthcare and science. Students collaborate in small teams to develop innovative responses to real-life challenges in neuroscience. The program culminates in a capstone presentation of their proposed solutions.
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
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 provides high school students with the chance to intern at rapidly growing start-ups across diverse industries, such as tech, AI/ML, health tech, marketing, and consulting. A complete list of opportunities can be found in the application form.
The program partners with companies that have raised an average of over a million dollars in funding. Over the course of eight weeks, students work on projects with their managers and Ladder Coaches, culminating in a final presentation to the company. To get started, find the application form here.
4. The Wistar Institute High School Program in Biomedical Research
Location: Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $1,500
Cohort Size: 15 students
Dates: July 7 – July 31
Application Deadline: April 7
Eligibility: Students who are at least 16 years of age by the program start date and have completed at least one high school science course. Applicants from the School District of Philadelphia are prioritized
The Wistar High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research is a four-week summer program aimed at introducing students to the fundamentals of biomedical science. Participants engage in practical learning within Wistar’s Training Lab, acquiring essential lab techniques while participating in ongoing research.
Beyond the laboratory, the program includes career guidance in biomedical sciences, training in analyzing scientific literature, and a final presentation showcasing each student’s findings. Limited to 15 students, this selective opportunity is open to applicants with no prior lab experience. It provides an excellent foundation for those interested in pursuing a career in science.
Location: Virtual / NASA centers across the country
Stipend: While most interns receive a stipend, some opportunities are unpaid.
Acceptance Rate: Varies depending on opportunity
Dates: Spring Session: Mid-January to Early May | Summer Session: Late May to August | Fall Session: Late August to Mid-December
Application Deadline: Summer: February 28 | Fall: May 16
Eligibility: U.S. citizens, full-time students (high school through graduate level) aged 16 at the time of application, with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
NASA’s OSTEM internships provide students with hands-on experience in science, engineering, and IT through real-world projects. Interns collaborate closely with mentors on innovative projects such as software for spacecraft and rover navigation tools. The projects may also include fluid dynamics analysis, utilize satellite data for disaster response, and provide engineering designs that address challenges in space.
Alongside technical work, students enhance their collaboration and problem-solving skills. Past interns have contributed to software for the Perseverance Rover and supported critical astronaut research. These experiences prepare students for future careers in aerospace and technology.
6. Berkeley Lab Experiences in Research
Location: Hybrid/Virtual (Lawrence Berkeley Lab, Berkeley, CA)
Stipend: $500/week
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Dates: June 16 – July 25
Application Deadline: March 23
Eligibility: Current 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students enrolled in high school in Northern California with experience in independent work who will be at least 16 years old by June 16
The Experiences in Research (EinR) Internship at Berkeley Lab provides high school students with hands-on research experience. During the six-week program, you’ll work alongside professionals on projects involving science communication, experimental work, and data science. Interns gain skills in coding, analyzing data, and scientific writing.
You’ll also learn core research methods and how STEM is used in different fields while strengthening your critical thinking abilities. Project tracks include experimental data gathering, data science (technical and non-technical), and science-related administration and communication. This opportunity prepares students for future research roles.
7. CURE Research Internship Program by UCSF
Location: UCSF campuses in San Francisco, CA
Stipend: This is a paid internship
Dates: June 16 - August 8
Application Deadline: February 16
Eligibility: Current 11th grader in high school, at least 16 years old by the start of the program, with a minimum GPA of 2.5, must have completed Biology or Chemistry with a grade of B or better
The CURE Internship at UCSF is a two-month opportunity for high school students to explore research in clinical, behavioral, and basic sciences. Participants work with UCSF faculty and graduate-level mentors on projects involving real lab techniques, data interpretation, and study design. You’ll also gain exposure to healthcare and biomedical professions.
The program includes career planning resources and concludes with a research presentation at a closing symposium. Interns practice skills such as PCR, microscopy, the use of statistical software, and effective science communication. This experience helps prepare you for future pathways in biomedicine, public health, or healthcare research.
8. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost/Stipend: Minimum $500 stipend + $40 application fee (can be waived)
Cohort Size: 50
Application Deadline: February 22
Dates: June 9 – July 31
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors and seniors aged 16 and older. Preference is given to applicants from the Bay Area.
Stanford’s SIMR program invites high school juniors and seniors to join an eight-week summer experience focused on biomedical research. Participants explore areas such as bioengineering and bioinformatics, including the application of artificial intelligence in these fields. With guidance from experienced mentors, you’ll perform lab experiments, work with data, and assist with real research projects.
The program also features educational lectures and skill-building workshops on research techniques in the medical field. At the end of the session, you’ll share your work through a formal symposium presentation. All students receive a stipend for their contributions to the program.
9. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS)
Location: Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine, Baltimore, MD / Virtual
Stipend: In-person participants receive hourly wages and transportation support. Virtual interns receive a $500 stipend.
Cohort Size: 5–6 students per cohort.
Application Deadline: March 1
Dates: In-person: June – August (8 weeks) | Virtual: July – August (5 weeks)
Eligibility: Current high school juniors or seniors living in Baltimore City
If you're a junior or senior at a Baltimore City public high school, the JHIBS program at Johns Hopkins is an amazing paid opportunity in medical research. This eight-week summer internship lets you explore neuroscience and neurology through hands-on lab work, clinical rotations, and mentorship.
You'll be part of scientific seminars and career development sessions while doing research in the Department of Neurology. Weekly check-ins with your mentor help shape your academic and career direction. At the end, you’ll present your research to the program’s community. JHIBS is a fantastic way to learn from experts and dive into real medical science.
10. University of Illinois Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program
Location: University of Illinois, Champaign, IL
Stipend: Students receive a fellowship payment
Acceptance Rate: 5%
Application Deadline: Typically in late March
Dates: June 20 - August 1
Eligibility: Rising 10th - 12th graders from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program offers a robust six-week research opportunity at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Participants explore areas such as artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and bioengineering under the mentorship of university faculty and graduate students. Each week, students attend seminars designed to develop scientific communication skills and prepare for college, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Research work requires a time commitment of approximately 30 to 35 hours weekly. At the program’s conclusion, students share their research through a formal symposium presentation. All participants receive housing, meals, and a fellowship stipend.
11. Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York, NY
Stipend: $1,000
Acceptance Rate: ~15%. ARISE typically takes about 50–60 students out of ~300–400 applicants
Application Deadline: February 21
Dates: June 2 – August 18
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors in the upcoming school year
NYU’s ARISE Program is a 10-week summer journey where you’ll learn research skills and gain hands-on lab experience. In the first four weeks, you’ll focus on learning lab safety, academic writing, and research fundamentals.
Then, for the final six weeks, you’ll join a lab at NYU and complete about 120 hours of research in exciting fields like machine learning, AI, and computer science. You’ll also boost your skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and networking. The experience ends with a formal research presentation at NYU and a poster symposium at the American Museum of Natural History. It’s a standout chance to engage with real-world science.
12. Harvard-Smithsonian Science Research Mentoring Program
Location: Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA)
Stipend: Paid
Cohort Size: 10-16
Application Deadline: May 10
Dates: September – May
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-12 attending Cambridge Rindge and Latin School
The Harvard-Smithsonian SRMP allows you to work alongside Harvard-Smithsonian astrophysicists on original research throughout the school year. You will be matched with a mentor and collaborate in a small team to explore a focused area of astrophysics. Through regular meetings, you’ll learn essential research methods, practice scientific writing, and refine your public speaking skills.
This experience can provide you with valuable academic tools while immersing you in the daily tasks of professional scientists. At the end of the program, you’ll have the chance to present your findings at a symposium attended by both researchers and fellow students.
13. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
Location: Internship at a local nonprofit organization; includes a week-long summit in Washington, D.C.
Cost: Paid
Application Deadline: January 15
Dates: 8 weeks from June - August
Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors
The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is a leading finance internship for high school students. This paid, eight-week opportunity offers practical experience in finance, accounting, and community leadership. Participants engage in real-world tasks, including financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning.
A key aspect of the program is its emphasis on networking and community engagement. Students have the opportunity to connect with banking and finance professionals, attend talks by guest speakers, and participate in industry workshops led by experienced experts. A Student Leaders Summit is held in Washington, D.C., where students learn how the government, business, and nonprofit sectors collaborate to address community needs.
14. Harvard Medical School Project Success
Location: Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, Boston, MA
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Roughly 10% or less. Project Success usually selects about 20–25 students from the Boston/Cambridge area.
Dates: June 30 – August 15
Application Deadline: February 3
Eligibility: Boston and Cambridge high school students; ages 16 and above by the program start date; a minimum GPA of 2.7
The Harvard Medical School Project Success program offers a seven-week paid research internship for Boston and Cambridge high school students from underrepresented or disadvantaged communities. During this internship, you will be placed in a research lab at Harvard Medical School or one of its affiliates, working closely with expert scientists and physicians.
As a premier medical internship for high schoolers, the program includes mentored research, career development, and visits to hospitals and biotech companies. Additionally, you will attend seminars on biomedical careers, public speaking, and essential technical skills. After the summer, the program continues offering year-round academic seminars and networking events.
15. Today’s Interns, Tomorrow’s Professionals (TIP) Internship Program
Location: Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Boston, MA
Stipend: Paid
Application Deadline: Depends on the opportunity you apply for. Click here to know more.
Dates: Depends on the opportunity you apply for. Click here to know more.
Eligibility: High school students who have completed sophomore year in the Boston Public Schools
Today’s Interns, Tomorrow’s Professionals (TIP) offers paid internships and career skill development for high school students in Boston at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Throughout the summer, you'll attend workshops and coaching sessions aimed at preparing you for success in your professional life.
TIP promotes economic mobility for young people while fostering long-term financial security and career advancement. High-performing interns may be offered the chance for extended, year-round positions that can last up to three years.
16. Fred Hutch Cancer Center Summer High School Internship (SHIP)
Location: Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
Stipend: Paid
Application Deadline: March 31
Dates: June 23 – August 15
Eligibility: High school students in grades 11 and 12 from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science
The Fred Hutch Cancer Center Summer High School Internship (SHIP) is one of the top-paid medical internships available for rising 12th graders from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical science. Over the course of eight weeks, you’ll first complete two weeks of hands-on training in key lab techniques such as pipetting and DNA isolation. Following this, you’ll join a research group, where you'll work directly with experienced mentors on meaningful projects.
Throughout the program, you’ll participate in weekly seminars, professional development workshops, and presentations on topics like ethics, biostatistics, and potential career paths. The experience will culminate with a final presentation, where you’ll showcase your research to the Fred Hutch community. No prior experience is necessary.
17. Scripps Research Summer High School Internship Program
Location: Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA
Stipend: $4,830
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, with only 40 spots for high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional applicants.
Application Deadline: April 4
Dates: June 23 – August 8
Eligibility:
San Diego County residents
High school students enrolled in one of the following schools: Barrio Logan College Institute, Crawford High School, Hilltop High School, Hoover High School, Lincoln High School, and Morse High School
Should have completed at least one year each of high school-level chemistry and biology
Should have a minimum grade point average of 3.0
The Scripps Research High School Student Research Education Program offers a seven-week, full-time biomedical research internship for high school students. The program begins with a three-day boot camp to help you learn essential laboratory techniques.
Afterward, you will be paired with a research lab, where you will work closely with scientists and mentors to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. This highly competitive and paid internship also includes one-on-one mentorship with graduate students, offering valuable guidance on college applications and scientific career paths.
18. Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program in Biomedical Sciences
Location: The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, TX
Stipend: $6,800
Cohort Size: Up to 12 students
Application Deadline: January 20
Dates: June 2 – August 8
Eligibility: Current Texas high school seniors; aged 18+ by program start
The Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program in Biomedical Sciences offers a 10-week, full-time research internship at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. This prestigious program is open to 12 high school students from Texas and provides the chance to work hands-on with MD Anderson faculty in biomedical research.
Interns will spend their weekdays involved in lab research, seminars, and activities designed to enhance their professional skills. The program also includes poster and abstract competitions, culminating in a final presentation and a celebration luncheon.
19. Magee-Women’s Research Institute (MWRI) High School Summer Internship Program
Location: Magee-Women’s Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA
Stipend: $1,800 stipend (only if you qualify for the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program for Pennsylvania)
Acceptance Rate: Less than 8%
Application Deadline: February 7
Dates: 6 weeks in the summer
Eligibility: High school students currently in their sophomore or junior year of high school; over 16 years by program start; reside in the local southwest Pennsylvania region
The MWRI High School Summer Internship Program is a prestigious 6-week, 240-hour opportunity for high school students interested in biomedical research. As an intern, you will be paired with an investigator at Magee-Womens Research Institute or Magee-Womens Hospital to work on research projects focused on reproductive biology, women’s health, or infant health.
You will also participate in Lunch & Learn sessions, where you’ll gain valuable insights into careers in biomedical science. At the end of the program, you will present your research findings in a formal presentation. Past projects have included gene analysis, ovarian cancer research, fertility preservation, and addressing maternal health disparities. Research projects may involve basic, translational, or clinical science, depending on your placement.