Top 25 STEM Summer Internships for High School Students
For high school students eager to gain hands-on experience, summer internships offer a fantastic way to develop practical skills, explore potential career paths, and build valuable professional connections. Unlike expensive pre-college courses, internships provide real-world exposure in various industries, allowing students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.
Internships offer those interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields the chance to work alongside experts, engage in cutting-edge research, and develop crucial technical and problem-solving skills for future careers.
With so many opportunities available, we’ve carefully curated a list of the top 25 STEM summer internships for high school students, ensuring that you have access to some of the most prestigious and rewarding experiences available.
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Program 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 is a selective start-up internship program for ambitious high school students! In the program, you work with a high-growth start-up on an internship. Start-ups that offer internships range across a variety of industries, from tech/deep tech and AI/ML to health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can explore all the options here on their application form. Ladder’s start-ups are high-growth companies on average raising over a million dollars. In the program, interns work closely with their managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects and present their work to the company. Here is the application form.
The virtual internship is usually 8 weeks long.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here.
Program Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects.
Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here.
3. UChicago Medicine’s SHE (Summer Healthcare Experience) in Oncology
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Free; Participants receive a $500 taxable stipend upon completion.
Program Dates: A two-week, part-time program held in the latter half of July.
Application Deadline: March 3
Eligibility: Open to rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
SHE (Summer Healthcare Experience) in Oncology is a virtual program designed for high school students interested in exploring careers in healthcare and oncology. The program introduces you to key concepts in cancer research and patient care through faculty-led lectures, expert panel discussions, and skill-building workshops.
The curriculum covers topics such as genetics-based cancer research and patient case studies, providing students with a foundational understanding of oncology. Participants will engage in lab-based activities, collaborate with peers, and present research findings to mentors and fellow students. The program offers exposure to different aspects of medical science and research, making it a relevant opportunity for those considering careers in medicine or biomedical fields.
4. Scripps Student Research Internship
Location: Scripps Research Translational Institute, San Diego, California
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Between June - August
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Open to highly motivated high school, college, and professional students (including those in medical, law, graduate, or business school).
The Scripps Student Research Internship offers students hands-on experience in biomedical and translational research at the Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI). This program is a great option for those interested in biotechnology, genomics, and personalized medicine, providing exposure to cutting-edge advancements in healthcare research.
As an intern, you’ll work alongside a multidisciplinary team of scientists, including experts in genomics, bioinformatics, digital medicine, and community health. The program focuses on training future leaders in medical research by allowing participants to contribute to projects in areas such as health sciences, computational biology, and data analysis.
5. Amazon Future Engineer Internship
Location: Applicable to accredited institutions across the U.S.; the internship component is typically offered at Amazon's various offices and facilities. Specific locations vary.
Stipend: Scholarship recipients are awarded up to $10,000 per year, renewable for up to three years, totaling a maximum of $40,000.
Program Dates: Specific dates vary by internship
Application Deadline: Applications will open in the fall
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors in the U.S. who:
- Are enrolled in or have completed a high school or college dual-degree course in computer science, engineering, or robotics.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.3 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- Plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science or engineering from an accredited four-year college or from a two-year college with the intent to transfer to a four-year institution.
The Amazon Future Engineer Program is designed for students who are committed to advancing their skills in computer science and engineering. This program offers an immersive experience at Amazon headquarters, where you will gain hands-on exposure to real-world software development projects.
You’ll collaborate with experienced professionals, contributing to projects in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce. Participants may also work on Amazon Web Services (AWS), Alexa voice technology, and the Amazon retail platform, and some will even ship production-level code by the end of the program.
6. NASA OSTEM High School Internship Programs
Location: NASA centers across the country
Stipend: Awarded based on academic level and session duration
Program Dates: Different dates for different internships
Application Deadlines: Summer: May 16 | Fall: Feb 16
Eligibility:
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Must be a full-time student
- Must be at least 16 years old at the time of application
The NASA OSTEM (Office of STEM Engagement) High School Internship Programs provide high school students with a hands-on introduction to STEM fields through real-world applications in aerospace, engineering, and technology. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge innovations in space exploration, satellite communications, and robotics while working alongside NASA scientists and engineers.
Interns gain access to NASA’s state-of-the-art facilities and contribute to active research projects, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to practical challenges in aerospace and technology. The program also emphasizes mentorship, offering students valuable career guidance from professionals in the field. In addition to technical skills, interns build a network of peers who share a passion for space exploration and STEM, making this an excellent opportunity for students looking to advance their understanding of science and engineering in a real-world setting.
7. Research in Science and Engineering Internship (RISE) by Boston University
Location: Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
Cost: $5,700
Program Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: Currently accepting applications
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who are U.S. citizens
The Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) Internship at Boston University is a six-week program that offers high school students an opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on, university-level research. As an intern, you’ll work approximately 40 hours per week alongside experienced faculty and researchers, gaining exposure to advanced scientific methodologies and laboratory techniques.
RISE provides research opportunities in diverse STEM fields, including astronomy, biology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, medical laboratory research, neuroscience, physics, psychology, and public health. Each student is assigned a research project tailored to their area of interest, ensuring a meaningful and skill-building experience.
8. Department of Navy’s Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
Location: Multiple lab locations nationwide
Stipend: $4,000 (new participants) | $4,500 (returning participants)
Program Dates: 8 weeks in the summer (exact dates vary by lab)
Application Deadline: November 1 (annually)
Eligibility: High school students who have completed at least grade 9 and are at least 16 years old at the start of the internship. Graduating seniors are also eligible. Some lab locations may have additional requirements.
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP), sponsored by the Department of the Navy, offers high school students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in STEM research. The program places you in Naval research labs across the country, where they engage in projects related to cybersecurity, software development, algorithm design, and data analysis. These research assignments allow students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings while gaining exposure to cutting-edge advancements in engineering and technology.
SEAP is an eight-week summer apprenticeship, during which participants work alongside professional scientists and engineers. Each intern is paired with a mentor who provides guidance and insight into the research process, helping students develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry.
9. SPARK Summer Internship Program
Location: Seattle, Washington
Stipend: Some internships offer stipends
Program Dates: 8 – 10 weeks (June–August)
Application Deadline: March - April
Eligibility: High school students
The SPARK Summer Internship Program provides high school students with the opportunity to engage in hands-on research projects in cutting-edge scientific and technological fields. Designed for students interested in STEM, this internship allows participants to explore real-world challenges in areas such as biomedical research, materials science, and computational analysis. Example projects have included developing detection tools for diseases like tick-borne infections and breast cancer, classifying DNA sequences based on electrical signatures, and investigating 2D materials for use in future semiconductor technology.
You will take an active role in research, applying analytical and problem-solving skills to advance your assigned projects. Throughout the internship, students receive mentorship from experienced professionals and researchers, gaining insights into the research process and potential STEM career pathways. The program encourages independent thinking while fostering collaboration within a professional research environment.
10. UCSC Science Internship Program
Location: University of California, Santa Cruz, California
Cost: $4,250
Program Dates: Between June - August
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Open to students aged 14 and older at the program’s start date
The UCSC Science Internship Program (SIP) offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on scientific research at the University of California, Santa Cruz. With a strong focus on computer science and technology development, the program allows you to contribute to ongoing research projects in areas such as software development, computational modeling, data analysis, and algorithm design.
Each participant is paired with a faculty mentor, who guides a specific research project tailored to the student’s interests and skill level. Interns will collaborate with research teams, participate in lab meetings, and apply technical and analytical skills to real-world challenges. After the internship, you will present your research findings at a symposium.
11. KP LAUNCH High School Summer Program at Kaiser Permanente
Location: Kaiser Permanente, San Francisco, California
Cost/Stipend: No cost; $24 per hour
Program Dates: June 16 - August 1
Application Deadline: Applications open in November
Eligibility:
- Must be at least 16 years old by June 1
- Must be a current high school student or graduating senior
- Must have a permanent residence in a Northern California Kaiser Permanente designated service area
The KP LAUNCH High School Summer Program provides a paid, seven-week internship for students interested in exploring administrative and support roles within the healthcare industry. This program offers a structured introduction to healthcare careers, giving you firsthand experience in a hospital or medical setting while working alongside healthcare professionals in fields such as nursing, pharmacy, and laboratory sciences.
You will engage in hands-on activities, job shadowing experiences, and educational workshops that help develop a deeper understanding of healthcare operations. The program places strong emphasis on mentorship, teamwork, and professional development, allowing students to build valuable workplace skills. You will also participate in weekly skill-building workshops, collaborate with peers on community service projects, and develop a professional network through interaction with mentors and supervisors.
12. UChicago Medicine’s ResearcHStart
Location: University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
Cost/Stipend: No cost; students receive a taxable stipend of $3,000
Program Dates: Eight weeks, from the second full week of June through the first week of August (specific dates announced each fall)
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors who are at least 16 years old at the time of application
The ResearcHStart Program at UChicago Medicine is an eight-week summer research internship designed for high school students interested in cancer research. This program provides hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories, where you’ll work under the mentorship of leading scientists in fields such as cancer immunology, bioengineering, experimental cancer therapeutics, and cancer disparities.
You will gain direct exposure to laboratory research techniques and learn about diagnostics, treatment development, and the broader scientific process. Beyond lab work, ResearcHStart includes career development and skill-building workshops that prepare students for academic and professional opportunities in biomedical research. These workshops cover essential topics related to scientific inquiry, research ethics, and career pathways in healthcare and oncology.
With a highly competitive selection process, only up to 30 students are chosen each year, ensuring an intensive and personalized research experience.
13. The Lawrence Teen Internship Program
Location: The Lawrence Hall of Science, Berkeley, San Francisco, California
Cost/Stipend: No cost; students receive $3,500 for full summer participation ($72 deducted per missed day).
Program Dates: Between May - August
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January.
Eligibility: Open to high school students currently in 11th–12th grades who are available for full-time summer internships.
The Lawrence Teen Internship Program is a STEM-focused opportunity designed to give high school students hands-on experience in science education and leadership. Hosted by the Lawrence Hall of Science at UC Berkeley, this program aims to prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by providing them with practical teaching experience.
During this four-month internship, you will participate in professional development workshops covering science communication, leadership, and conflict resolution. These sessions will equip you with the skills needed to become a summer science educator, where you’ll work directly with younger students in STEM learning environments. Your responsibilities will include facilitating interactive science activities, assisting with hands-on experiments, preparing learning materials, and supporting classroom management.
14. University of New Hampshire’s HighTech Bound Internship
Location: University of New Hampshire campus, Durham, New Hampshire
Stipend: Interns receive a competitive hourly wage
Program Dates: July 7 - August 7
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Open to rising high school seniors who are U.S. residents
The HighTech Bound Internship is a paid summer program designed for high school students eager to explore AI, network technologies, and software development. Hosted at the University of New Hampshire, this internship provides an immersive, hands-on learning experience in an advanced computer lab setting.
As an intern, you will work on team-based projects, develop AI-driven solutions, and gain experience with cutting-edge software used by major tech companies such as Apple, Dell, and Cisco. Under the guidance of expert mentors, you will engage in collaborative research, problem-solving challenges, and technical skill-building workshops.
Beyond technical skills, the program offers networking opportunities with industry professionals and the chance to contribute to innovative research with real-world applications.
15. Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity (RISE) Research Mentorship Program | Environmentor
Location: RISE, Far Rockaway, New York
Cost/Stipend: No cost; students receive up to a $1,200 stipend for research and participation
Program Dates: June - August
Application Deadline: Opens in late February
Eligibility: Open to high school students in grades 9–11 who live or attend school in or near the Rockaway Peninsula
The Environmentor Research Mentorship Program is an immersive science research experience for high school students passionate about environmental conservation and marine ecology. Hosted by RISE (Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity), this program allows students to conduct hands-on research on the Rockaway shoreline and Jamaica Bay, guided by scientists from local universities and research institutions.
As a participant, you will work on an individual research project exploring coastal ecosystems, marine biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. Topics may include salt marsh restoration, air quality monitoring, dolphin biodiversity, pinniped and sea turtle stranding, and dolphin morphology.
Beyond research, the program offers mentorship, fieldwork, and community engagement. You will also receive water safety and CPR training and participate in recreational activities like kayaking, biking, and surfing.
Location: Stanford University, California
Stipend/Cost: None
Program Dates: June 23 - August 8
Application Deadline: Typically in January/February
Eligibility: Students 16 years and older with an interest in biomedical science and healthcare careers. Priority is given to students from low-income backgrounds, under-resourced environments, first-generation college students, and underrepresented minority groups.
The Stanford STaRS (Science Technology and Reconstructive Surgery) Program is a highly competitive summer research internship designed for students eager to explore biomedical science and healthcare fields. Selected participants will work alongside Stanford clinicians and scientists, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge medical research and laboratory techniques.
The program strongly emphasizes mentorship, and many STaRS mentors have advanced into leadership roles thanks to early career guidance. As an intern, you will be immersed in Stanford’s research labs, contributing to real-world scientific discoveries while developing essential technical and analytical skills.
The application process includes a written application and a letter of recommendation. Applicants under 18 must submit signed parental consent forms to participate in laboratory work.
17. George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: Fairfax, Virginia (remote, in-person, or hybrid options available)
Cost: $25 application fee (waivers available based on financial need); no stipend
Program Dates: June 18 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 11
Eligibility:
- 15+ years old for remote and computer lab-based internships
- 16+ years old for wet-lab (laboratory-based) in-person internships
The Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) at George Mason University is a prestigious, research-focused internship designed for students passionate about STEM. As an intern, you will be paired with a mentor and engage in cutting-edge research in fields such as Earth Science, Molecular Medicine, Cybersecurity, Finance, Astronomy, Mathematics, Forensic Science, and more.
Each research project’s format will vary based on the field, with opportunities to use advanced technology and equipment, develop scientific writing skills, and explore careers in STEM.
18. The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS): Project Pipeline Baltimore
Location: Johns Hopkins Department of Neurology, Baltimore, Maryland (In-Person) | Remote (Virtual)
Cost: Fully funded; in-person interns receive an hourly wage + transportation funds; virtual interns receive a $500 stipend
Program Dates: 8 weeks (In-Person) | 5 weeks (Virtual), Summer
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors; in-person applicants must attend a Baltimore City public school
The JHIBS Program provides high school students with an immersive neuroscience research internship, offering both in-person and virtual experiences. The in-person internship selects 8 Baltimore City public school students to engage in an 8-week, hands-on research project at Johns Hopkins, working with faculty, staff, and student mentors. You will also participate in clinical rotations with neurologists, attend scientific seminars, and present their research.
The virtual internship is a 5-week program open to students nationwide. You will gain exposure to basic laboratory techniques, neuroscience research, professional development, and mentorship training through virtual sessions. Both experiences culminate in an oral or poster presentation, allowing students to showcase their findings.
19. Monell Science Apprenticeship Program
Location: Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 23 – August 15
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: High school students from the greater Philadelphia area, including Camden, NJ
The Monell Science Apprenticeship Program is a highly competitive, full-time summer research internship designed to provide hands-on experience in biomedical science, medicine, and STEM fields. The program targets students from underrepresented backgrounds and pairs interns with leading scientists to conduct independent research projects over seven weeks.
You will gain practical lab experience, develop scientific communication skills, and explore STEM career paths through lectures, mentorship, and professional development sessions. The program concludes with a public research conference, where students present their findings to peers, mentors, and scientists.
With an acceptance rate below 10%, this immersive research experience fosters a passion for science, medicine, and research and prepares students for future academic and professional success.
20. Summer Advanced AI Robotics Program – High School: Evodyne
Location: Evodyne Robotics Academy, Mountain View, CA (online options available)
Cost: $1,749
Program Dates: Between June-July
Application Deadline: Not specified; applications currently open
Eligibility: High school juniors (16+ years old) with proficiency in CAD modeling (Fusion 360), advanced Python programming, and/or soldering and electronics
The Summer Advanced AI Robotics Program at Evodyne Robotics Academy is an intensive, hands-on experience for high school students eager to deepen their expertise in robotics, AI, and engineering. You will work on designing, enhancing, and programming robots, with projects involving robot dog programming, AI integration, and 3D printing optimization.
The program covers CAD modeling, Python programming, web development, and electronics, requiring prior technical knowledge and a strong problem-solving mindset. Students will also assist in summer robotics programs, gaining valuable mentorship and teaching experience.
21. Stanford AI4ALL
Location: Virtual
Cost: $4,000 (Financial aid available for families with an annual income below $80,000)
Program Dates: June 18 – July 2
Application Deadline: January 24
Eligibility: 9th graders or rising 10th graders; must be at least 14 years old by the program start date with math and/or computer skills
Stanford AI4ALL is a two-week online program designed to introduce high school students to artificial intelligence and increase diversity in STEM. Through lectures, research projects, and expert mentorship, you will explore AI applications in robotics, computer vision, medical AI, and natural language processing and gain hands-on experience in programming, data analysis, and AI model development.
Students will actively engage in hands-on projects, using AI tools to tackle real-world problems and explore how technology can drive positive change. The program fosters a collaborative and inclusive learning environment, connecting students from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for AI. Participants will also receive mentorship from AI researchers and industry experts, gaining valuable insights into potential career paths.
22. SummerScience@Jefferson – Thomas Jefferson University
Location: Virtual (Affiliated with Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Cost: $650
Program Dates: June 24 – July 23
Application Deadline: May 31
Eligibility: Open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors by September 2025
SummerScience@Jefferson is a virtual research program tailored for high school students interested in medicine, biotechnology, and life sciences. Hosted by Thomas Jefferson University, this program offers direct engagement with faculty and postdoctoral researchers, allowing participants to delve into cutting-edge scientific research. You will gain hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, gene editing, cancer research, and infectious diseases. The curriculum emphasizes DNA isolation, PCR, forensic science, and cell morphology, equipping you with essential foundational skills for careers in medicine and biomedical sciences.
The program culminates in the Summer Science Symposium, where participants present their research to an academic audience.
23. Career Immersion Program – Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science
Location: Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
Cost: N/A
Program Dates: June 22 – June 26
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.5; students from underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply
The Career Immersion Program at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science is a week-long residential experience designed for high school students interested in healthcare careers. This hands-on program introduces you to various medical fields, including specialized roles in radiography, respiratory therapy, and clinical laboratory science.
Through interactive workshops, simulations, and professional networking, you will gain firsthand exposure to the medical field while developing essential professional skills. The curriculum also covers career pathways, professional etiquette, and academic preparation for healthcare-related degrees.
24. High School Internship – Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience
Location: Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida
Cost: No cost; stipend of $13/hour
Program Dates: June 23 – August 1
Application Deadline: March 4
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors residing in Palm Beach or Martin Counties who are legally authorized to work in the U.S.
The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship is a six-week immersive experience designed for students eager to explore brain structure, function, and development through advanced neuroscience research. You will collaborate with MPFI researchers, gaining hands-on experience in genetic engineering, histological staining, and advanced microscopy techniques.
The program fosters critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and laboratory expertise, culminating in a written scientific abstract and a final research presentation. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert mentorship, you will gain valuable exposure to cutting-edge neuroscience and advanced research methodologies — an excellent opportunity for those considering careers in biomedical science, neuroscience, or medical research.
25. UCSF High School Intern Program (HIP)
Location: San Francisco, California
Cost/Stipend: No cost; 25 hours/week: $3,200 upon successful completion of the program. 35 hours/week: $4,500 upon successful completion of the program.
Program Dates: 8 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: March 2
Eligibility: Current high school juniors enrolled in an SFUSD high school, SF charter school, or College Track San Francisco
The UCSF High School Intern Program (HIP) is an 8-week paid summer internship designed to introduce students to biomedical research. You will be paired with UCSF scientists who serve as mentors, guiding you through hands-on laboratory research and the scientific process.
You will gain experience in fields such as infectious diseases, neuroscience, molecular biology, immunology, cancer research, stem cell science, and developmental biology. In addition to research, interns develop science communication skills, expand their professional networks, and engage in college counseling sessions.