16 Summer Internships for High School Students in San Jose
If you're a high school student in San Jose, California, local summer internships can be a great way to explore career interests, gain experience, and build your resume before college. Whether you're passionate about business, healthcare, technology, the arts, or public service, there are a number of local (and virtual) opportunities that offer exposure.
These internships not only help you develop practical skills, such as communication, research, teamwork, and critical thinking, but also connect you with mentors and professionals in your field of interest. From paid placements to academic research programs, summer internships can be a stepping stone toward your future goals, giving you insight into the industries and roles that excite you.
Here’s a list of 16 summer internships for students in and around San Jose that you can get started with!
Note: Since San Jose is part of the Bay Area, we've included internships located within roughly an hour’s distance, including broader Bay Area opportunities.
1. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, California (25 mins from San Jose)
Cost/Stipend: No cost. Students earn a stipend of $500 - $2,500. Housing and transportation are not provided. There is a $40 application fee, which can be waived. Stipends of $2500 and above are given on a needs-based system
Application Deadline: February 24
Dates: June 10 - August 1
Eligibility: Current juniors or seniors who are at least 16 years old
Stanford’s SIMR is an eight-week internship that offers high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to conduct biomedical research alongside Stanford faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows. Students choose from one of eight focus areas, including immunology, cancer biology, bioengineering, and genetics, and are paired with a mentor for intensive lab work and professional development. The program includes lectures, lab safety training, and seminars, followed by full-time research and a final poster presentation at a public symposium. With an acceptance rate under 3% and only 50 students selected annually, SIMR is among the most competitive and prestigious opportunities for students interested in medicine, science, or biomedical engineering.
2. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
Location: The program is held all across the country – you will be assigned a local non-profit organization to work with in your region/area, in San Jose, that the Bank of America has partnered with for the program. The Leadership Summit will be held in Washington, DC.
Stipend: It is a paid internship, but no information is available on the exact amount. The trip to Washington DC is covered by the bank!
Application Deadline: Applications open in October and typically close in January
Dates: 8-week summer internship, including an all-expenses-covered week-long Student Leadership Summit in Washington, DC. Dates vary by location, but the internship usually begins shortly after the school year ends
Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors are eligible to apply. See all eligibility criteria here.
Bank of America’s Student Leaders Program is a prestigious eight-week paid summer internship designed for high school juniors and seniors committed to community engagement. Each year, around 300 students from across the U.S. are selected and placed with local nonprofits, where they contribute to projects while learning about nonprofit operations, financial literacy, and leadership development. In addition to their local placements, interns participate in a week-long Student Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., with all expenses covered. At the summit, you will engage in civic discussions, attend workshops, and network with professionals and fellow students. The program equips students with experience in leadership, community building, and financial analysis, making it a standout addition to any future academic or professional path.
Location: Meta headquarters, Menlo Park, California (30 mins from San Jose)
Stipend: Students will receive a stipend, and transportation is covered
Application Deadline: February 14
Dates: June 16 – July 25
Eligibility: High school sophomores who live in East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, North Fair Oaks, and Redwood City and have a minimum GPA of 2.0
Meta’s Summer Academy is a prestigious six-week paid internship for high school students, offering experience in the day-to-day operations of Meta. The program runs 30 hours a week from June through July, with transportation provided for all externs. Interns work alongside Meta employees, gaining exposure to departments such as coding, finance, media, and design. The program includes mentorship, skill-building workshops, guest speaker sessions, and collaborative projects. With only 150 students selected annually, this program is highly competitive and ideal for those looking to explore tech and business careers while building communication, leadership, and professional skills in a structured environment.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies based on program type
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year, varies with cohort
Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer, fall, winter, and spring
Eligibility: Open to all high school students who can work for 10–20 hours per week, for 8–12 weeks. The internships are also open to undergraduates and gap-year students!
Ladder Internships is a competitive virtual program that places high school students in remote internships with startups and nonprofits around the world. Students can choose from a wide range of industries such as technology, business, healthcare, sustainability, media, and finance, and are matched with companies based on their interests. Interns work on projects, collaborate closely with company managers, and receive mentorship from a dedicated Ladder Coach. Over the course of the internship, you will participate in skill-building workshops and professional development sessions. At the end of the program, you will present your work. With most host companies having raised over a million dollars in funding, Ladder offers a great opportunity to gain experience in high-growth, fast-paced startup environments.
5. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) by the Department of Navy (DoN)
Location: While there are several lab locations to choose from, students in San Jose may select Naval Research Laboratory, Monterey, California (1 hour from San Jose)
Stipend: $4,000 (new participant) | $4,500 (returning participant)
Application deadline: November 1
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer
Eligibility: High school students who have completed at least grade 9, are at least 16 years old when the internship begins can apply. Graduating seniors are eligible as well. There is room for some exceptions. Students are recommended to check whether their preferred lab choice has any other particular requirements
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is an 8-week summer internship that places high-achieving high school students in Department of Navy (DoN) research labs across the U.S. Interns contribute to Naval research while gaining experience in fields like computer science, engineering, and aeronautics. Each student is paired with a mentor, often a top Navy scientist or engineer, who guides their research and professional growth. With around 300 students placed in 38+ Navy labs each year, SEAP is highly selective. It’s ideal for students interested in a research-focused experience or future STEM careers, especially those considering work in defense or government. You will receive a competitive stipend and participate in lab projects that may include coding, data analysis, prototyping, and experimental design. Many SEAP alumni go on to pursue careers within the Department of the Navy or in advanced scientific research.
6. KP LAUNCH High School Internship Program at Kaiser Permanente
Location: You can intern at a Kaiser Permanente Medical Center or business office closest to where you are. Find a location near you.
Cost/Stipend: There is no cost to attend. Students will receive a stipend of $24 per hour
Application Deadline: Mid-March
Dates: June 17 - August 2
Eligibility: Students who are aged 16-19 by June 1, and are current high school students and/or graduating seniors, can apply. Priority is given to juniors and senior-level students. Those applying must have the right to work in the US
The KP LAUNCH Internship is an 8-week paid summer program that offers high school students exposure to the healthcare industry. You’ll work at Kaiser facilities across departments like nursing, public affairs, administration, mental health, pharmacy, and more, gaining insight into both clinical and non-clinical roles. The internship includes shadowing professionals, participating in activities, and engaging in workshops that focus on communication, public speaking, and career development. Mentorship is a key element of the program, with guidance from Kaiser staff and college-level interns. Weekly “Education Days” build professional skills while community-based projects allow you to tackle health issues. KP LAUNCH is ideal for students exploring careers in medicine, public health, or healthcare administration.
7. American Chemical Society Project SEED
Location: Various lab locations; including a number in and around San Jose
Stipend: $4,000 stipend
Application Deadline: Typically in April
Dates: 8–10 weeks, June to August
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, seniors, or recent graduates who have completed at least one chemistry course and meet family income guidelines (≤ 300% of Federal Poverty Level)
Project SEED is a paid summer fellowship for high school students from underserved backgrounds, offering research experience in chemistry and related fields. Over 8–10 weeks, you’ll spend weekdays working full-time in a research lab, such as at a university or USDA facility, on an independent project under the mentorship of scientists, faculty, and graduate students. The program supports over 350 students annually and is committed to improving access to STEM careers. In addition to lab research, you may attend campus tours, career panels, and university prep workshops. Select students may also present their work at the American Chemical Society (ACS) National Meeting. Project SEED is an excellent opportunity for students interested in chemistry, biology, or biomedical science.
8. Stanford’s Genomics Research Internship Program
Location: Hybrid, with the in-person portion held at Stanford University, Stanford, California (25 mins from San Jose)
Cost/Stipend: No cost + need-based scholarships offered to cover transportation and other costs
Application deadline: February 28
Dates: June 16 – August 7
Eligibility: High school students who are 16 or older with a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0
GRIPS is an eight-week hybrid internship for Bay Area high school students interested in computational genetics and genomics. You’ll join a Stanford research lab and work on genomics projects under the guidance of mentors, including lab directors and graduate students. The program emphasizes data analysis, programming (Python/R), and genomics techniques used in cutting-edge biomedical research. Alongside lab work, you’ll participate in weekly cohort sessions, career panels, and mentorship check-ins. GRIPS concludes with a final symposium, where you present your research to the Stanford community. While prior coding or biology experience is helpful, GRIPS is open to students with relevant coursework or extracurriculars in biology, chemistry, or computer science.
9. UCSC Science Internship Program
Location: University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC), Santa Cruz, California (40 mins from San Jose). The program includes an online component
Cost: $65 application fee + $4,850 tuition. Need-based scholarships are available
Application Deadline: February 1
Dates: Week 1: Online research (June 16–20) | Weeks 2–8: In-person research (June 23–August 8) | Presentation Day: August 9 (hybrid format)
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12); one year of high school coursework required
The Science Internship Program (SIP) at UC Santa Cruz is an eight-week summer program that places high school students in active research labs across disciplines, including science, engineering, social sciences, and the arts. You will work alongside UCSC faculty, graduate students, and postdocs, gaining experience in research design, data analysis, computer programming, and technical problem-solving. The program begins with a virtual prep week, followed by seven weeks of in-person lab work. Each student is paired with a mentor and contributes to a real UCSC research project. Interns participate in collaborative lab work, weekly check-ins, and skill-building sessions, culminating in a final research presentation. SIP is a great opportunity to explore the research process in a rigorous academic environment.
10. California Academy of Science Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, California (1 hour from San Jose)
Stipend: Students will receive a stipend, but information on the exact amount is not available
Application Deadline: April 5
Dates: After school and on weekends, year-round participation for 2-3 years till graduation
Eligibility: Students who: are currently enrolled full-time as a 9th or 10th-grade student in an SFUSD school - check if your school qualifies here; have maintained a GPA of 2.5 and a grade of C or higher in science and math; can obtain a valid work permit (US citizens and others authorized to work in the US); can commit to all attendance requirements for 2 or 3 years, through high school graduation; can commute to the Academy and nearby locations after school and on Saturdays during the school year, and on weekdays in the summer (some remote work may be required); demonstrate interest and enthusiasm for learning, teaching, and doing science; can apply.
The Careers in Science (CiS) Program at the California Academy of Sciences is a multi-year, paid internship and youth development opportunity for high school students from communities historically underrepresented in STEM, including girls and students of color. As a CiS intern, you’ll work alongside scientists, researchers, and educators, gaining experience in scientific research, environmental education, and science communication. Throughout the year-round program, you’ll take part in interactive training sessions, outdoor fieldwork, and college prep support. Interns also collaborate on group science research or environmental action projects, developing valuable teamwork, leadership, and public speaking skills.
11. Pediatrics Internship Program at Stanford (PIPS)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, California (25 mins from San Jose)
Stipend: $3,000 need-based stipend
Application Deadline: Typically in early spring
Dates: June 16 - July 25
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors in select Northern California counties with a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0; priority given to students with limited research experience
The Stanford Pediatrics Internship Program (PIPS) is a six-week summer research internship for rising high school juniors and seniors interested in pediatrics, genetics, and biomedical science. Interns are matched with Stanford researchers and spend approximately 30 hours per week conducting lab work in areas related to child health and disease biology. You’ll gain experience, build technical skills, and explore careers in medicine and science. Alongside research, you’ll attend seminars and workshops on professional development, leadership, and college preparation. PIPS also provides one-on-one mentorship from Stanford undergraduate or medical student mentors and culminates in a Poster & Family Symposium.
12. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Location: Based on your locality (Hutton aims to match students within a 45-minute commute of your home)
Stipend: $3,000 + all-expenses-paid trip to the Hutton Scholars Summit
Application Deadline: January 16
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer
Eligibility: All current high school students who reside in the United States, Mexico, and Canada are eligible to apply
The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is an 8-week paid summer internship and mentorship initiative run by the American Fisheries Society. It introduces high school students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to the fields of fisheries and aquatic science. As a Hutton Scholar, you will be matched with a local fisheries professional who will guide you through research projects in marine or freshwater environments.
Interns gain experience in resource conservation, lab and fieldwork, and techniques such as electrofishing, data processing, and habitat restoration. You’ll also receive career guidance and academic resources to support future studies in the field. A highlight of the program is an all-expenses-paid trip to the Hutton Scholars Summit at the University of Arkansas.
13. Stanford STaRS Internship Program
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, California (25 mins from San Jose)
Cost/Stipend: None
Application Deadline: Typically in November
Dates: June 23 – August 8
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older by June
The STaRS Internship Program at Stanford offers a seven-week summer experience for high school students interested in biomedical research and surgical innovation. Interns work directly with Stanford researchers and clinicians in the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, contributing to projects in regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, and 3D bioprinting. The program emphasizes lab work, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scientific communication. Students spend most of their week in the lab, with Wednesdays dedicated to anatomy tours, guest seminars, and professional development. Daily mentor check-ins and structured workshops foster both research skills and personal growth. The program culminates in a final symposium, giving students the chance to present their work to Stanford faculty, peers, and guests.
14. Internships at County of Santa Clara
Location: Different departments across the county
Cost/Stipend: No cost. Students will be paid; at $18.54-42.63 per hour
Application Deadline: Typically early spring (internship roles are posted in February)
Dates: Summer internship typically runs 8-10 weeks in May–August
Eligibility: High school students (Level I interns must be enrolled in high school or equivalent) with a GPA of at least 2.5; work permit required if under 18
The Santa Clara County Student Internship Program provides high school students with the opportunity to gain experience in public service. You will be placed within various county departments and work under the supervision of professionals, assisting with technical and administrative duties. This is a year-round program, and placements are made based on departmental needs and student interest. Internship opportunities are available in various departments such as the Office of the District Attorney, Behavioral Health, Public Health, and the County Parks Department.
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Application fee: $40 + Program fee: $850
Application Deadline: February 21
Dates: June 16 – 27
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 14 years old
The Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship is a two-week virtual program that introduces high school students to the intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare. Through daily lectures, group research sessions, and career talks, you will explore how AI is applied to medical challenges such as diagnostics, imaging, and healthcare delivery. Participants work in teams on guided research projects using healthcare data, with mentorship from Stanford students and researchers. The program encourages critical thinking and problem-solving through experience with AI tools. Students also engage with professionals from academia, industry, and public health during “Lunch and Learn” sessions. A select group of participants may be invited to continue independent research beyond the core program, gaining deeper exposure to the field.
16. UCSF CURE Research Internship
Location: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California (1 hour from San Jose)
Stipend: Paid (exact amount varies)
Application Deadline: February 16
Dates: June 12 – August 8 (8 weeks)
Eligibility: Underrepresented high school students in grade 11 with an interest in biomedical research; 2.5+ GPA; Must commit 40 hours/week for 8 weeks; Should have a B or better in biology or chemistry
The UCSF CURE Internship is an intensive eight-week program that places high school students in research labs to explore careers in biomedicine, healthcare, and public health. Interns conduct research under the guidance of UCSF faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, with access to lab techniques such as PCR, microscopy, and data analysis. You’ll also receive college advising and career support throughout the program. Beyond lab work, students gain exposure to the clinical and behavioral science fields and participate in seminars on study design, scientific communication, and healthcare careers. The experience culminates in a formal Research Symposium, where interns present their findings to faculty, peers, and family members—developing both scientific skills and confidence. Find more information here!
Bonus! Here are a few more programs you can consider: