FREE Summer Programs for high school students in 2024!

Read this blog for free resources with 50+ competitions, internships, research programs, guides and more!

1. Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon University Explore challenging coursework in math, science, and engineering at Carnegie Mellon's rigorous SAMS program.

Collaborate on team-based research projects, delve into exciting guest lectures, and gain valuable insights into the world of cutting-edge research.

Eligibility: Current high school juniors (or equivalent) who are U.

S. citizens, permanent residents, or have refugee or asylum status and belong to groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM, such as racial and ethnic minorities, first-generation college students, or those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.

Prestige and Benefits: SAMS is a highly selective program that offers numerous advantages: Rigorous academics: Participants engage in coursework taught by renowned CMU faculty and staff, fostering a deeper understanding of STEM subjects.

Hands-on learning: Students gain practical experience through hands-on projects and research opportunities.

Mentorship: Mentors provide guidance and support to help students navigate their academic and professional paths.

Community building: The program enables students to connect with peers who share their passion for STEM, cultivating a diverse and supportive network.

2. MIT Women's Technology Program (WTP) The MIT Women's Technology Program is a rigorous four-week summer academic and residential experience where female high school students explore engineering through hands-on classes, labs, and team-based projects.

Participants engage in subjects like physics, calculus, and biology while being mentored by female MIT undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty.

Eligibility: Female high school juniors with a strong academic record and a passion for STEM.

Prestige and Benefits: MIT is globally renowned for its leadership in STEM education and research.

Encourages Diversity: WTP specifically aims to address the gender gap in engineering, providing a supportive environment for young women to excel.

Mentorship: Participants receive mentorship from female MIT undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty, fostering personal and academic growth.

Hands-on Experience: Engage in hands-on classes, labs, and team projects, gaining practical skills in engineering and STEM disciplines.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers and mentors who share your passion for STEM, forming valuable connections for future academic and professional pursuits.

3. Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT This highly selective (but totally worth a shot!) program brings together top high schoolers for a 6-week research experience at MIT.

Work with leading researchers on independent projects, attend thought-provoking lectures, and gain valuable college admissions guidance.

Eligibility: High school students who are currently in their junior year (or equivalent) and have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, particularly in mathematics and science, are eligible to apply.

Students must be nominated by their schools and submit an application that includes transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation.

Prestige and Benefits: RSI is one of the most prestigious and selective summer research programs for high school students worldwide.

Acceptance into the program is highly competitive, with only about 80 students admitted each year.

The program offers participants the unique opportunity to: Gain hands-on research experience in cutting-edge laboratories at MIT and other renowned institutions.

Work alongside distinguished scientists and mentors in various STEM fields.

Collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for science and research.

Attend lectures, seminars, and workshops led by experts in their respective fields.

Present their research findings at a closing symposium and potentially co-author publications in scientific journals.

PlaySTEM Summer Programs for High Schoolers (Research, Camps, Internships)

4. Garcia Summer Scholars Program at Stony Brook University The Garcia Summer Scholars Program at Stony Brook University offers a six-week opportunity for high-achieving high school students to engage in STEM research.

Participants work on diverse projects ranging from biology and chemistry to computer science and engineering, under the guidance of experienced faculty mentors.

This program provides exposure to college-level academics and fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors with a strong interest in STEM and a minimum GPA of

3.

0. Prestige and Benefits: Association with Stony Brook University: Stony Brook is renowned for its strong STEM programs and research initiatives.

Hands-on Research: Gain practical research experience under the guidance of experienced faculty mentors.

Exposure to College-Level Academics: Prepare for higher education by engaging in projects that reflect college-level academic rigor.

Skill Development: Enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for success in STEM fields.

5. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) SIMR is an eight-week summer research program designed for high school students interested in biomedical research.

Hosted by Stanford University, one of the world's leading institutions in medicine and research, SIMR provides participants with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on laboratory work and gain exposure to cutting-edge biomedical science.

Eligibility: Rising high school seniors with a strong academic background in science and a genuine interest in biomedical research.

Demonstrated passion for scientific inquiry and a desire to pursue a career in medicine, biology, or related fields.

Strong recommendation letters highlighting academic achievement, curiosity, and dedication to research.

Prestige and Benefits: Association with Stanford University: Stanford is globally recognized for its contributions to medicine and biomedical research, offering participants access to state-of-the-art facilities and renowned faculty mentors.

Hands-on Laboratory Experience: Engage in eight weeks of intensive laboratory work, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to ongoing research projects.

Mentorship: Receive one-on-one mentorship from Stanford faculty members and experienced researchers, gaining valuable insights and guidance throughout the program.

List of competitions for high school students.

Mathematics competitions for students worldwide.

Biology competitions.

Psychology competitions.

Medical competitions.

6. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program he Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program offers a transformative research experience for high school students interested in genetics and genomics.

Hosted by The Jackson Laboratory, a leading institution in mammalian genetics research, this program provides participants with the opportunity to engage in hands-on laboratory work, collaborate with renowned scientists, and contribute to cutting-edge research projects in genetics and related fields.

Eligibility: High school students who have completed their sophomore or junior year and have a strong academic background in science, particularly biology.

Genuine interest in genetics, genomics, and biomedical research.

Strong recommendation letters highlighting academic achievement, curiosity, and dedication to research.

Prestige and Benefits: The Jackson Laboratory is a world-renowned institution in genetics research, known for its pioneering discoveries and contributions to understanding the genetic basis of disease.

Participating in the Summer Student Program provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technologies, and renowned experts in the field, enhancing their research experience and credibility.

7. National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Summer Internship Program (SHIP) The NIH High School Summer Internship Program (SHIP) is a prestigious opportunity for high school students interested in biomedical research to spend their summer immersed in a hands-on research experience at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) campus in Bethesda, Maryland.

This program offers participants the chance to work alongside leading scientists and researchers in state-of-the-art laboratories, contributing to cutting-edge biomedical research projects.

Eligibility: High school students who are U.

S. citizens or permanent residents, currently enrolled in grades 9 through 11 at the time of application.

Strong academic background in science and a genuine interest in biomedical research.

Demonstrated commitment to academic excellence and a passion for scientific inquiry.

Prestige and Benefits: Association with NIH: The NIH is the largest biomedical research agency in the world, renowned for its groundbreaking discoveries and contributions to advancing human health.

Participating in SHIP provides students with unparalleled access to NIH resources, facilities, and expertise, enhancing their research experience and credibility.

PlayHow to Get Internships as a High Schooler (ULTIMATE GUIDE)

8. National Security Agency (NSA) GENCyber Program The National Security Agency (NSA) GENCyber Program is an immersive summer initiative designed to introduce high school students to the field of cybersecurity.

Hosted by the NSA, a premier institution in cybersecurity and national defense, this program provides participants with hands-on training, interactive workshops, and real-world simulations to develop their skills in protecting information systems and combating cyber threats.

Eligibility: High school students with a keen interest in computer science, technology, and cybersecurity.

Strong academic background in mathematics, computer science, or related fields.

Demonstrated aptitude for problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail.

Prestige and Why You Should Do It: Association with NSA: The NSA is a globally recognized authority in cybersecurity and intelligence, responsible for safeguarding national security interests and critical infrastructure.

Participating in the GENCyber Program offers students the opportunity to learn from experts in the field, gain insights into the latest cyber threats and defense strategies, and contribute to national security efforts.

9. The National Society for Black Engineers (NSBE) Summer Engineering Academies The National Society for Black Engineers (NSBE) Summer Engineering Academies provide high school students with an immersive and enriching experience in engineering.

Hosted by NSBE, a leading organization dedicated to supporting black engineers and promoting diversity in STEM fields, these academies offer hands-on activities, workshops, and mentorship opportunities to inspire and empower students to pursue careers in engineering.

Eligibility: High school students from underrepresented backgrounds in engineering, particularly black or African American students.

Demonstrated interest in STEM fields, with a focus on engineering.

Strong academic performance and a passion for innovation and problem-solving.

Prestige and Why You Should Do It: Association with NSBE: NSBE is a respected organization committed to advancing the representation of black engineers and promoting excellence in STEM education and careers.

Participating in the Summer Engineering Academies offers students access to a network of mentors, professionals, and resources dedicated to supporting their academic and professional success. 1

0. National High School Aerospace Scholars The National High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) program is a unique immersive experience for high school students interested in aerospace, engineering, and space exploration.

Sponsored by NASA, this program offers participants the opportunity to engage in interactive online coursework and an authentic hands-on experience at NASA facilities, providing insights into the world of space exploration and STEM careers.

Eligibility: High school juniors with a strong academic background in mathematics, science, and engineering.

Demonstrated interest in aerospace, space exploration, and STEM fields.

U.

S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency.

Prestige and Benefits: Association with NASA: NASA is synonymous with space exploration and scientific discovery, making the HAS program highly prestigious and sought after by aspiring aerospace enthusiasts.

Participation in HAS offers students the opportunity to engage with NASA scientists, engineers, and astronauts, gaining insights into cutting-edge research and exploration missions.

Resources for competitions Summer programs and various competitive initiatives offer you the chance to delve into your interests and acquire hands-on experience from reputable universities.

Take a look at Rishab Jain's YouTube playlist, which provides insights on securing internships, participating in competitions, and more.

Also, access this FREE Student STEM Guide which has a list of over 50 opportunities, including internships, competitions, and more!.