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Project SEED is a summer research program for economically disadvantaged students. If you are a junior or senior year in high school, learn how you can work alongside scientists in a research laboratory.

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African American, Hispanic, and American Indian students pursuing a college degree in the chemical sciences are eligible to apply for the ACS Scholars Program.

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Chemistry Research Academy

Residential

Courses offered on-campus

Non-credit program

Eligibility: Current 10th-11th grade students

International students welcome

Financial aid for select Philadelphia students

July 6 - July 27, 2024

• Residential move-in date: July 6
• Move-out date: July 27

Summer 2024 applications are closed. The applications for summer 2025 will open in late fall 2024. Please sign up to receive more information.

Apply now »

Penn Chemistry is a leading center for molecular research and instruction, whose researchers are at the frontier of modern chemistry, tackling a wide variety of important societal challenges. The Chemistry Research Academy provides students with the foundational knowledge to understand this cutting-edge research, while providing opportunities to hear and learn directly from several of the research professors and students. The Chemistry Research Academy is fully residential with no commuter or online options. Specific topics included in the Academy will be derived from departmental research goals. Below is a list of typical topics. Scroll to the Features section for more information.

• Analytical techniques like spectroscopy and gas chromatography
• Optimization of synthetic methods using experimentation
• Open-ended laboratory challenges
• Introduction to nanoscale materials
• Chemical protein modification to study disease
• Chemistry of the rare earth metals
• Applications of coordination complexes
• Chemical bonding principles in organic and coordination chemistry
• Analytical techniques – why and how they work
• Materials science fundamentals and applications
• Science History Institute
• Singh Center for Nanomaterials
• Department research labs
• Finding, using, and understanding research articles
• Capstone project including steps to begin an independent research project

Download: Example summer schedule (PDF)

If you attend a School District of Philadelphia public or charter high school,  you may be eligible to attend a Penn Summer Academy free of charge with a  Penn Summer Scholarship .

Get application information »

Prerequisite: The Chemistry Research Academy builds on the foundational topics typically learned in a first-year chemistry course. Students should have completed at least one year of high school chemistry before participating in this program.

Meeting times: Monday – Friday. 6 instructional hours and a 1-hour lunch break each day. Homework will vary based on the day’s activities and will average no more than 1 hour/night of formal work.

Research: This is an instructional program where students build research skills and meet professors and students who are active in a broad range of chemistry-related research. The program does not involve placement into a research group.

In the lab: Approximately half of the instructional time involves students working in the chemistry lab. Here, students will learn about different types of chemical instrumentation while testing out their research skills using open-ended lab investigations. Collaboration and peer review activities allow students to deepen their understanding and skills throughout the program.

In the classroom: When not working in the lab, students will be engaged in learning via

• Topic lessons and interactive activities
• Large- and small-group discussions
• Presentations to peers
• Research lectures by professors or students
• Journal Clubs with research students
• Tours of research labs and spaces

Capstone project: Throughout the academy, students will be guided through a process to choose and plan their own independent research project using Penn’s extensive online resources. They will leave with a plan they can use for entering a science fair or for meeting their high school’s independent research requirements.

Program Director: Dusty Carroll Ms. Carroll earned her Master of Science in Chemistry Education at the University of Pennsylvania in 2005. She later became an instructor in the same program, teaching Molecular Spectroscopy for four years. Ms. Carroll assisted Dr. Susan Phillips in creating and designing the Chemistry Research Academy in 2013 and has been with the program ever since. During the academic year, Ms. Carroll teaches AP Chemistry and Engineering and advises the STEM Competition Club at Seneca High School in New Jersey.

3440 Market Street, Suite 450 Philadelphia, PA 19104-3335

(215) 746-2309 [email protected]

Summer High School Research Academy

Non-Residential Summer Research Program at UT Austin

HSRA Summer Program

June  10 - july 17, 2024.

*Participants will be off on June 19 and July 4th - 5th for holiday observance.

Apply for HSRA 2024

The summer High School Research Academy (HSRA) provides high school students with an immersive and hands-on five-week interdisciplinary non-residential summer research experience at the University of Texas at Austin campus.

Students participate in research projects in active College of Natural Sciences (CNS) laboratories related to the exciting fields of biochemistry, biology, environmental science, genetics, neuroscience, genome engineering, data analytics, ecology, and more. Participants will learn cutting edge research techniques while gaining valuable insights and experiences through interaction with UT students and faculty in CNS undergraduate research groups. 

This unique opportunity provides a real taste of life as a researcher. By being involved in STEM research early, students can experience the joy of discovery that is central to being a scientist.

HSRA Program Highlights

Each HSRA participant will:

• actively engage in a five week authentic research experience in a UT laboratory
• collaborate with peers, undergraduates and UT faculty
• earn NSC309 UT extension course credit and receive an HSRA t-shirt.
• participate in Wednesday Seminars hosted by UT guest speakers
• present (and take home!) a printed poster showcasing their summer research productivity at our closing HSRA Research Symposium

[email protected]

HSRA DOES NOT PROVIDE HOUSING OR TRANSPORTATION.

Program Overview

HSRA Research Experiences

To be eligible for HSRA, each participant MUST BE:

a Texas resident. We currently prioritize Texas Residents at this time, but encourage interested candidates to apply. 

15 years or older by June 1, 2024.

either rising sophomore, junior, or senior for the upcoming 2024-25 academic year. Preference is for rising juniors or seniors.

available for the designated five consecutive weeks during program dates to dedicate to conducting research over the summer.

**Accepted participants must make their own housing and transportation arrangements.**

spend ~15-25 hrs per week with their research group. The specific schedule (days/times) will be distributed by the research group that the student is placed in. Schedule flexibility will vary but the enrollment fee is the same for each HSRA research experience. 

participate in a variety of events outside of their research activities, including guest speakers and a poster forum during the last week of the program. 

Browse HSRA Research Experiences

Apply BY March 24, 2024

The cost for the Summer 2024 High School Research Academy (HSRA) is $3500 per participant. 

HSRA Tuition includes:

 participation in one research experience

all HSRA activities/events

UT course credit

a printed research poster and an HSRA t-shirt.

Payment will not be due until a position has been offered and the participant has accepted that research placement.

Accepted participants will be offered a research experience based on their interests, availability and space and will be notified of this research group placement by mid April 2024.

The HSRA is committed to providing research opportunities to a diverse range of high school students. A limited number of need-based scholarships only may be available. The scholarship will include a stipend + free tuition to HSRA. 

HSRA does not offer merit-based scholarships at this time.

Each HSRA participant will be enrolled in an NSC309 college credit course through the UT Extension Program . 

HSRA participants will complete several graded reflection assignments, readings, and assignments related to their research work to receive this credit.

Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry

• Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

The Welch Summer Scholar Program

The Welch Summer Scholars gather to celebrate their time in the program.

Since 1991, Texas Tech has been one of five sites to coordinate the Robert A. Welch Foundation's summer research course for bright and talented high school students. Each June, ten to fourteen high school juniors and seniors spend twenty-nine program days in an intensive course in basic chemical research. The Welch Summer Scholar Program is highly competitive, with many students scoring in the top 1% of their graduating class and with several perfect SAT scores among the more than 150 applicants, annually.

During the first week, we train the students in the more important research skills, such as microchemistry, literature searching, writing scientific papers and keeping a scientific notebook. They choose a mentor by the second week and are then responsible for conducting "Independent" research. There are several organized social events, each with significant faculty participation. The program culminates in a scientific poster session, banquet with presentations of certificates and the submission of a formal scientific paper by each student. The Welch Foundation collects and publishes these papers in a large bound volume.

The Texas Tech site is unique in that we have implemented some very novel chemical education concepts. We have developed an accelerated period, which includes a capstone project that has relevance to chemical analysis, drugs of abuse and their role in the community. We have also experimented with two learning modules that focused on chemical entrepreneurship and the importance of science and engineering in the development of chemical technology. These are now key features of a new and exciting chemistry curriculum that we have developed over the past two years. Finally, we have used this group to develop a new undergraduate research program, " Chemistry In Your Pocket ", which Texas Instruments has supported with a donation of calculators, calculator interfaces and chemical sensors, a complement of instrumentation that is now the core of two undergraduate analytical chemistry laboratories.

Past Welch Summer Scholars Sites

2013 Farewell Dinner Brochure

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Research Opportunities for High School Students

Hands-on laboratory-based research experiences are coveted by just about every STEM-oriented teenager on the planet. Of course, this level of demand renders research apprenticeships a valuable and rare commodity for high school students. Fortunately, there are a number of reputable summer programs run by universities, government agencies, and private research laboratories that afford young scientists this highly sought after experience. Research opportunities during the actual school year are more challenging to locate as colleges are, at that time, catering to their own students, and the rigidity of the high school calendar makes participation a further challenge.

College Transitions’ list of Research Opportunities for High School Students includes a bevy of summer program choices as well as a list of internships and apprenticeships that are indeed offered during the school year. For each entry, we list the geographic location of the program, whether there is a residential component offered, the length of the program, any associated costs or—on the other end—stipends, when the application window opens and closes, and the eligibility criteria for participation. We hope that this collection of research opportunities leads to you/your teen finding the laboratory experience of their dreams.

To view additional data columns, click the + icon to the left of the program’s name

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Internships and Summer Research Programs

Explore these internship and summer research opportunities.

Nationwide Biomedical Research Internships

The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center has compiled a catalog of biomedical research opportunities offered nationwide for high school, undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, graduate, and first year medical students. Be sure to check the catalog regularly, as it is frequently updated with new opportunities.

National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates

The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program supports active research participation by undergraduate students in any of the areas of research funded by the National Science Foundation. REU projects involve students in meaningful ways in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the REU program. 

Chemistry Internet Resource for Research for Undergraduate Students

Uw undergraduate research program.

There are research opportunities available year round at the UW and surrounding research locations. The Undergraduate Research Program (URP) database includes several hundred of these undergraduate research opportunities. Be sure to check the database periodically, as new opportunities are continually added.

Clean Energy Bridge to Research

Clean Energy Bridge to Research (CEBR) is a summer research program from the Clean Energy Institute (CEI) at the University of Washington (UW). The program is funded by the National Science Foundation and UW’s Undergraduate Research Program partners with CEI to run the program. CEBR supports a select group of undergraduates and community or tribal college students and teachers to participate in authentic research in solar, energy storage, and grid technologies under the mentorship of UW’s world-class faculty and grad students.

UW Molecular Engineering Materials Summer REU

The University of Washington is home to a new national center of excellence for research, education and training in materials science. The Molecular Engineering Materials Center is funded by a $15.6 million, six-year grant from the National Science Foundation. Daniel Gamelin (pictured below), UW professor of chemistry is director of the Molecular Engineering Materials Center.

Academic-Year Research Accelerator Program (AYRA REU)

MEM·C now offers an Academic-Year Research Accelerator for Undergraduates program (AYRA REU). If selected, students will be embedded in one of the MEM·C labs for the academic year. They will work with graduate students and faculty to develop a research project, gain training in relevant techniques and instrumentation, collect data, write-up your results and craft presentations. Students participate in seminars on undergraduate research and professional development, and are also included in MEMC IRG meetings and seminars.

Institute for Protein Design

The goal of the Institute for Protein Design is to develop and apply methods for designing a whole new world of synthetic proteins . The Institute was established in 2012 to build upon strengths both within the University of Washington and in Seattle generally. Protein design requires high-level expertise in computing and software, biochemistry, genome sciences, biological structure, pharmacology, immunology and other basic science disciplines, as well as clinical medicine. The Institute for Protein Design was recently awarded $45 million in funding through TED's The Audacious Project . IPD Director, Professor David Baker, and Assistant Professor Neil King are pictured below.

Center for Selective C-H Functionalization

CCHF is a network of 23 academic and industrial research laboratories at 15 partner institutions throughout the country. The goal of CCHF is to bring C–H functionalization into the mainstream of synthetic organic chemistry. The CCHF supports a Chemistry Summer Undergraduate Research Program (CSURP) that is a program for undergraduate students who are majoring in chemistry or chemical engineering who are interested in conducting supervised summer research.

Rosetta Commons

Interns in this geographically-distributed REU program have the opportunity to participate in research using the Rosetta Commons software. The Rosetta Commons software suite includes algorithms for computational modeling and analysis of protein structures. It has enabled notable scientific advances in computational biology, including de novo protein design, enzyme design, ligand docking, and structure prediction of biological macromolecules and macromolecular complexes.

Institute for Systems Biology

The Institute for Systems Biology is a nonprofit biomedical research organization based in Seattle. They sponsor a Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences Program to offer undergraduates a paid opportunity to experience research side by side with experts in systems biology.

Fred Hutch Summer Undergraduate Research Program

The Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) is an intensive, nine-week internship designed to provide research experience and mentorship for undergraduate students who are interested in biomedical research. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, interns will complete an independent research project and present their findings at a competitive poster session.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory DOE Summer Undergraduate Laboratory Internships

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science funds summer research internship for undergraduate (sophomore to senior) students in science, mathematics, engineering, technology, and science policy.

Scan Design Innovations in Pain Research Summer Program

The Summer Undergraduate Research Opportunity in Pain Research was developed to expose undergraduate students to interdisciplinary research in pain to stimulate interest in future careers in pain research.

CoMotion Mary Gates Innovation Internship

The CoMotion Mary Gates Innovation Scholars program funds full-time summer internships in faculty-led start-up initiatives. Selected scholars will contribute to the development of these companies, gaining experience in and exposure to various aspects of building a new product/business.

The Stipends for Training Aspiring Researchers Program

The STAR program is a 12 week summer program that places undergraduates into faculty-mentored laboratories for 480 hours of paid research.

Chateau St. Michelle Wine Estates

The winery often has Winemaking internships available. Interns conduct basic wet chemistry and enzymatic analysis.

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40 Incredible Research Opportunities for High School Students

Madeleine Karydes

Lead admissions expert, table of contents, start your search for your dream research opportunity, 40 incredible research opportunities for high schoolers, 1. research mentorship program, 2. aspiring scholars directed research program (asdrp), 3. quarknet summer research program, 4. student research institute, 5. student research internships, 6. simons summer research program.

• 7. Summer Research Experience Program 

8. WYSE Summer Engineering Camp

• 9. WYSE Young Scholars Summer STEMM Program 

10. Biomedical Research Academy

• 11. Chemistry Research Academy 
• 12. Experimental Physics Research Academy 
• 13. Neuroscience Research Academy 
• 14. Social Justice Research Academy 

15. Medical Sciences Summer Institute

16. high school summer research experience, 17. summer science research experience, 18. medical institute summer research program (simr), 19. grips program, 20. summer student research program, 21. educational pathways for cancer research, 22. future scientist program, 23. kimberly querrey summer research program, 24. student research apprentice program, 25. summer experience for students, 26. research in the biological sciences (ribs), 27. high school summer internship program, 28. summer high school research program, 29. biomedical research workshops, 30. college now stem research academy, 31. bioengineering research programs, 32. life sciences research program, 33. marine science research program, 34. school of medicine research program, 35. business research program, 36. summer research program, 37. high school internships with aspirnaut, 38. student volunteer program, 39. student scholars program, 40. full research programs.

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

Why are research opportunities for high school students in 2024 so exciting? Well, there are a few reasons. Firstly, teenagers in the 21st century are coming of age during a thrilling era of cutting-edge scientific development. Technology advances exponentially every day, breaking down barriers to interdisciplinary knowledge. What’s more, high school students have unprecedented access to research opportunities that can significantly enhance their academic and professional futures. Under the right guidance, research experience can add a serious competitive edge to a young student’s resume. 

It’s true. Engaging in research not only cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills for young adults, but also provides a platform for today’s students to contribute to real-world advancements and innovations. As we step into 2024, the breadth and diversity of research opportunities available to high school students are more varied than ever, encompassing fields from the sciences and engineering to the humanities and social sciences. 

Are you excited yet? Let’s dive into what options are available.

This article explores the myriad of incredible research opportunities accessible to high school students this year, detailing programs, internships, and competitions that can help aspiring scholars gain invaluable experience and make meaningful contributions to their chosen fields . 

Whether your interest lies in laboratory research, social science studies, or interdisciplinary projects, there is an opportunity waiting to help you unleash your potential and prepare for the future. Let’s get this research party started! 

Next up we have a list of some of the best research opportunities out there for high school students in 2024, presented for you to browse. These options are presented in no particular order.

Along with their mentor, students will learn about research techniques, gain insight into professional research-based opportunities, and mature their academic goals. The GRIT talks lecture series will connect students to some of the best minds within the UC Santa Barbara research community as they present their ground-breaking research and innovative technology.

• Apply to : University of California, Santa Barbara
• Age Eligibility : Freshman (9th), Sophomores (10th), and Juniors (11th)
• Location : Santa Barbara, California

Students participate in research projects across various subjects in STEM, including chemistry, biology, computational modeling, computer science, and much more. Students publish and present their work as well in venues within and outside of ASDRP. Research in ASDRP is supervised by highly skilled scientists  and engineerson the research faculty, who are clustered under one of three departments—Biological/Human/Life Sciences, Chemistry/Biochemistry/Physics, or Computer Science & Engineering.

• Apply to : Olive Children Foundation Engineering Research Laboratory
• Age Eligibility : All high school students (9th-12th)
• Location : Fremont, California

QuarkNet offers summer research opportunities in science and technology for students who have demonstrated a strong interest in and aptitude for science and mathematics. Students work with scientists for seven weeks on projects related to the Fermilab research program.

• Apply to : Fermilab Research Alliance
• Age Eligibility : Sophomores (10th), Juniors (11th), and Seniors (12th)
• Location: Fermilab campus in Illinois

Projects will focus on using Python, Java or other programming languages for interesting applications such as in cryptography or in global data trend evaluations. Computational science projects will utilize molecular modeling and drug design methods for biological or medicinal applications (cancer and other diseases).

• Apply to: Quest SRI
• Age Eligibility: Sophomores (10th), Juniors (11th), and Seniors (12th)
• Location: Virtual meetings

The Student Research Internship Program is a 10-week summer program designed for high school, undergraduate, graduate and professional students. The primary goal is to equip students interested in health sciences, statistics, and computational/computer science to become future leaders in the realm of translational medical research.

• Apply to: Scripps Research Institute
• Age Eligibility: All high school students (9th-12th)
• Location: San Diego, California

The Simons Summer Research Program gives academically talented, motivated high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research in science, math or engineering at Stony Brook University. Simons Fellows work with distinguished faculty mentors, learn laboratory techniques and tools, become part of active research teams, and experience life at a research university.

• Apply to: Stony Brook University
• Age Eligibility: Juniors (11th)
• Location: New York campus

7. Summer Research Experience Program 

Computer Science and Informatics Summer Research Experience Program (CSIRE) is a 6-week research experience program on computer science and informatics for high school students. The program assumes the participant already has good skills in programming or data analytics. Since launching in 2017, the program has become increasingly competitive.

• Location: New York campus OR virtual meetings

These summer camps are designed to allow students to experience authentic & challenging projects & activities, world-class instructors, and a collegiate experience from one of the best engineering schools in the world. Camps provide exposure to different areas of engineering through demonstrations, lab tours, classroom presentations, hands-on activities, and interactions with various students, staff, and professors in those fields.

• Apply to: University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
• Age Eligibility: All high school students (91th-12th)
• Location: Urbana-Champaign, Illinois campus

9. WYSE Young Scholars Summer STEMM Program 

Participate in an authentic STEMM research experience at a world-class research university for 6 weeks during the summer. Students will gain hands-on experience in areas at the forefront of various STEMM fields, such as cancer immunology, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, physics, quantum mechanics, bioengineering, electrical engineering, and more!

• Location: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin

The Biomedical Research Academy introduces the experimental basis of cellular, molecular, and genetic aspects of biology, focusing on relevance to diseases. Fusing daily lectures, faculty research talks, laboratory experiments, and small group investigations into current research topics, students gain insight into the core of biomedical research.

• Apply to: The University of Pennsylvania
• Age Eligibility: Freshman (9th), Sophomores (10th), and Juniors (11th)
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

11. Chemistry Research Academy 

Penn Chemistry is a leading center for molecular research and instruction, whose researchers are at the frontier of modern chemistry, tackling a wide variety of important societal challenges. The Chemistry Research Academy provides students with the foundational knowledge to understand this cutting-edge research, while providing opportunities to hear and learn directly from several of the research professors and students.

• Age Eligibility: Sophomores (10th) and Juniors (11th)

12. Experimental Physics Research Academy 

The Experimental Physics Research Academy focuses on current physics, specifically mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum dynamics, and astrophysics. Through lectures, activities, projects, and discussions with their instructors, students move past memorized equations to gain an understanding of cause and effect, and ultimately an appreciation of physics on a higher level.

13. Neuroscience Research Academy 

The Neuroscience Research Academy explores the biological foundations of the brain, progressing from the cellular foundations of the neuron to an understanding of the sensory systems, and culminating with higher-order cognitive functions such as memory, emotion, and morality. Taught by members of Penn’s Biological Basis of Behavior program, the Neuroscience Academy introduces students to this cutting-edge field in both research and medicine, which has provided important insights into understanding the mind in both health and disease.

• Age Eligibility: Freshman (9th), Sophomores (10th)s and Juniors (11th)

14. Social Justice Research Academy 

The Social Justice Research Academy brings students from around the world together for three weeks to dive deep into the past, present, and future of social justice. Designed to encourage discussion and critical thinking about the political, historical, and cultural context of inequality and resistance, the program welcomes students with a variety of academic interests across the social sciences, humanities, and arts. Topics vary from year to year but include a selection of significant historical struggles as well as those that define our recent past and present.

The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine has created a summer workshop for those who are at least 16 years old, interested in careers in medicine, or other healthcare related fields, and wish to gain some experience in medical research in a state-of-the art laboratory. Students will learn to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, analyze data and communicate their conclusions at a research symposium at the end of the course.

• Apply to : University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
• Location: Cincinnati, Ohio

In addition to lab work, you’ll have classroom instruction on cancer basics, seminars with invited speakers, and professional development opportunities. At the end of the summer, you’ll give a poster presentation at a research conference just like our graduate students and post-doctoral scholars do.

• Apply to: Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
• Location: Buffalo, New York

SSRP Scholars will participate on a research team designed and guided by Rockefeller trainees. SSRP teams mirror the structure of a Rockefeller laboratory, where one trainee serves as team lead with support from dedicated scientist-mentors. Each team will have their own space in the RockEDU laboratory.

• Apply to: The Rockefeller University
• Location: New York City, New York

This is an eight-week program in which high school students with a broad range of experiences, interests and backgrounds are invited to perform basic research with Stanford faculty, postdoctoral fellows, students and researchers on a medically-oriented project. The goals of the program include increasing interest in biological sciences and medicine in high school students and helping students to understand how scientific research is performed.

• Apply to: Stanford University
• Age Eligibility: Juniors (11th) or Seniors (12th)
• Location: Palo Alto, California

GRIPS is a twenty hour, eight week long research intensive experience for high school students. Program participants will be placed in a research laboratory for the summer and conduct genomics research under the supervision of a lab mentor.

• Location: Palo Alto, California (with hybrid meetings)

This summer program provides one-on-one mentorship with health care providers and researchers, along with access to unique workshops, seminars, training, simulations, and networking opportunities. The program culminates in a formal research symposium in which each student presents their project findings to the scientific community, many of which continue on as future grants, publications, and advances in healthcare.

• Apply to: University of California, San Francisco
• Age Eligibility: Juniors (11th) and Seniors (12th)
• Location: San Francisco, California

The EPCR summer program provides mentored, high-quality, cancer-focused research experiences for graduating high school seniors and undergraduate students. Participants will develop skills to think analytically and critically; design, perform and troubleshoot experiments; interpret research data; formulate new ideas; and propose meaningful strategies for testing those ideas through experiments with guidance from mentors.

• Apply to: Indiana University
• Age Eligibility: Seniors (12th)
• Location: Bloomington, Indiana

The Future Scientist Program at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center is a summer science program for high school juniors at Indianapolis and all Marion County public schools, providing the opportunity to spend eight weeks on a research project under the mentorship of a university researcher.

The Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care’s Kimberly Querrey Summer Research Program offers a six- to eight-week paid, competitive research experience at Northwestern University for rising high school seniors and undergraduate college/university students interested in the biological sciences. Our program combines intensive research training with support for students’ academic and professional development.

• Apply to: Northwestern School of Medicine
• Location: Evanston, Illinois

This is a five-week summer program that provides students with a research experience in one of the basic science or clinical laboratories.

• Apply to : University of Connecticut Health
• Location: Storrs campus in Connecticut

This is a paid opportunity for high school and college students to work alongside world-renowned scientists and researchers and gain insights into careers in science or related areas. Through our four-week Summer Experience program, we offer a limited number of students an exclusive opportunity to be a part of the day-to-day research activities in dynamic research and biobanking environments, and we offer the possibility to experience biobank operations.

• Apply to: Coriell Institute for Medical Research
• Location: New Jersey

This four-week intensive training program is designed to expose students to a broad range of molecular, microbiological, and cell biological techniques currently used in research laboratories. Students are immersed in the research experience, giving them a taste of ‘life at the bench.’

• Apply to: T he University of Chicago
• Location: Chicago, Illinois

Our program provides students with the opportunity to participate in basic, translational, or clinical scientific research with the goal of stimulating interest in biomedical research as a potential career. During the 6-week, 240-hour program (holidays included) each student will have the opportunity to work on their own research project under the guidance of an investigator and their staff at MWRI or Magee-Womens Hospital.

• Apply to: Magee Womens Research Institute
• Location: Southwest Pennsylvania region

Students are selected from a pool of applicants for a five-week full-time summer research experience. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and be recommended by their high school science teacher and/or science chair.  Students are assigned to Einstein research labs and will join the lab team under the guidance of the laboratory director (or principal investigator) who will serve as a mentor.

• Apply to: Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Our online workshops include Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Medicinal Chemistry and Medical Bioinformatics. Intro to Cellular and Molecular Medicine is our entry-level workshop that is only two hours/day. Students in the Medicinal Chemistry and Medical Bioinformatics workshops learn how to use online tools to analyze biochemical data. For students interested in doing research or working on a project for a science fair, this is a great way to get started.

• Apply to: Rosetta Institute of Biomedical Research

This is a two-part program designed to provide students with an opportunity to develop the essential skills to be strong scientific thinkers by engaging in authentic enquiry based research activities. The first component of the program is a high school credit scientific investigative course (DNA Detectives) offered during the spring semester, and the second component is a six week college credit course (BIO189, 1 credit) that meets during the summer, in which students work in research labs under the supervision and mentorship of Lehman College faculty and their graduate students. Students are selected to participate in the summer mentorship based upon successful completion of the spring semester DNA Detectives course, and meeting additional eligibility criteria.

• Apply to : Lehman College

The UC San Diego Department of Bioengineering and UC San Diego Extended Studies are pleased to offer courses to high school students who are excelling in scholarship and would like to explore Bioengineering. The course offerings are based on fun, experiential, remote, at-home, hands-on lab activities.

• Apply to: The University of California, San Diego
• Age Eligibility: Sophomores (10th), Juniors (11th), or Seniors (12th)
• Location: San Diego, California (or hybrid meetings)

In partnership with Boz Institute, we will offer a unique science research learning experience. Our programs will involve field work, fundamental molecular biology topics, modern laboratory techniques, and relevant bioinformatics and statistical applications. Learn to synthesize life science fundamentals, review literature, formulate hypotheses and design experiments, collect and process samples, execute experiments, analyze data, and showcase your work through poster presentations attended by local scientists and industry leaders.

The following programs are designed to empower high school students to share learning, network with peers, and become environmental advocates. The goal of this program is to develop problem solving, organization, creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and leadership skills that will support future career goals and aspirations.

The following programs are designed with faculty from UC San Diego School of Medicine and are designed for high school students who wish to go into fields of medicine.

The following course is designed to prepare students for careers and advanced education in business innovation, entrepreneurship, and management with a solid grounding in fundamentals. While learning about topics of business innovation, design, venture financing, and growth strategy, students will gain the knowledge necessary to build an innovative business proposal and gain economic acumen.

• Location: Virtual Meetings

For eight weeks in the summer, student interns usually work with the mentors in laboratories or clinics. Interns learn techniques used in the health sciences laboratories, gain research study skills, and experience professional development and career preparation through weekly program seminars. Additionally, they receive training in presentation skills, including how to prepare a presentation for a scientific meeting.  At program end, all interns present their research findings at a poster session or oral symposium.

• Apply to: Louisiana State University
• Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

High school students are embedded in a biomedical research laboratory for six weeks as a member of a team of researchers (chemists, biologists, physicians, mathematicians, engineers) working on diabetes, cancer and regenerative biology projects. Students conduct their own research and gather results that contribute to the data and goals of the larger research team. At the conclusion of the experience, students present their research to peers and mentors through both oral and poster presentations.

• Apply to: Vanderbilt University
• Location: Nashville, Tennessee

NRL seeks volunteers that are currently enrolled in high school or college and possess an interest in science and engineering. Volunteer service is limited to services performed by a student as part of an agency program established for the purpose of providing educational experience for the student. The work is done strictly on an uncompensated basis.

• Apply to: US Naval Research Laboratory
• Location: Based in Washington, D.C.

The selected interns gain valuable hands-on experiences working with full-time AFRL scientists and engineers on cutting-edge research and technology and are able to contribute to unique, research-based projects.

• Apply to: The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
• Location: Several locations across the United States

Our student-driven research programs teach the process of science through the creation of a field research project. By studying locations near your school campus, students strengthen their connection to the ecosystems in your community. In addition to delivering increased academic confidence, better social skills, and building science and language skills, all of our programs are designed in a fun and engaging way.

• Apply to: Headwaters Science Institute
• Location: Multiple locations in California

There you have it, folks. That’s our roundup of incredible research opportunities for high school students in 2024. Nonetheless, if none of these options strike your fancy, there are more out there. Check out this article for more tips on STEM academic programs for high schoolers. You can also consider a more customized program like Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program . No matter your academic interest area, there’s a project out there for your student!

When it comes to your education, there’s no need to compromise. Work with the experts to ensure you’re on the right track for academic success. 

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Preparing for MIT: Summer programs

If you’re the kind of student who’d like to spend your summer learning as much hands-on math, science, and engineering as you can, you might be a good fit for MIT!

So here is an (incomplete) list of summer programs that MIT students have found enriching and fun. We have prioritized selective summer programs, at MIT and elsewhere, that offer compelling intellectual content and a rigorous educational approach, a great community of like-minded peers to make friends with, and that are either free to attend or, like MIT, offer generous need-based financial aid.

MIT summer programs

MIT does not offer open-enrollment summer programs where any high school student can come to campus to take courses and live in the residence halls. However, several partner organizations run small, specialized programs on campus. If studying the human genome, building a robot, or scoping out the stars sound like a fun way to spend your summer, then you might try one of these:

MITES Summer

MITES Summer is an intensive six-week residential academic enrichment program for high school juniors who intend to pursue careers in science, engineering, and entrepreneurship, especially those from underrepresented or underserved communities. The program is free of charge to participating students, not including transportation.

Research Science Institute (RSI) — a program of the Center for Excellence in Education hosted in partnership with MIT —  brings together high school students each summer for six stimulating weeks of advanced research and intellectual enrichment. This rigorous academic program stresses advanced theory and research in mathematics, science, and engineering. Participants attend college-level classes taught by distinguished faculty members and complete hands-on research. Open to high school juniors, the program is free of charge for those selected.

Women’s Technology Program (WTP) is a women-focused program aimed at empowering students from groups that are historically underrepresented in engineering by providing a rigorous four-week summer academic experience that introduces 20 high school students to Mechanical Engineering (ME) through hands-on classes (taught by MIT graduate and undergraduate students), labs, and team-based projects in the summer after 11th grade.

While the  Summer Science Program (SSP) is not on campus, MIT co-sponsors this residential program, and many MIT students are among the program’s alumni. The curriculum is organized around a central research project in either Astrophysics, Biochemistry, or Genomics. In the Astrophysics program, each team of three students determines the orbit of a near-earth asteroid (minor planet) from direct astronomical observations. In the Biochemistry program, each team designs a small molecule to inhibit an enzyme from a fungal crop pathogen. In the Genomics program, each team builds a bioreactor to stimulate evolution of antibiotic resistance in E. coli, then analyzes its DNA for mutations. The programs are six weeks long and offered at locations in Colorado, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Indiana.

Beaver Works Summer Institute

Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI) is an intensive four-week program where high school juniors can get a taste of the MIT experience, while working on college-level curriculum with other students from around the country. BWSI is free to students, especially those who may be the first person in their family to attend college. They offer a range of courses—from Autonomous Underwater Vehicles to Quantum Software and to Serious Game Design with AI—with concentrations in programming autonomous systems and more! While this program is only open to high school juniors, there are also online programs offered for younger high school students.

Other summer programs at MIT

Do you want to spend part of your summer at MIT? In addition to the programs listed above, MIT also hosts the following programs:

• LLRISE: MIT Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers
• iD Tech Camps

Other selective summer programs

Most summer programs admit all or most students who can pay the (often high) tuition. However, a number of competitive-admission summer programs select only the best students on the basis of merit and are often free or comparatively affordable. MIT offers four of our own (above), and here are a few more from other organizations:

Science and research programs

• BU Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)
• Clark Scholar Program
• Garcia Summer Scholars
• High School Honors Science/Mathematics/Engineering Program (HSHSP)
• International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP)
• Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP)
• Summer Program on Applied Rationality and Cognition (SPARC)
• Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
• Student Science Training Program (SSTP)
• QuestBridge College Prep Scholarship

Math summer programs

The American Mathematical Society maintains a large  list of youth summer enrichment programs in math . Some summer math programs that our applicants seem to like include:

• AwesomeMath
• Canada/USA Mathcamp
• Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics (HCSSiM)
• Texas State Mathworks Honors Summer Math Camp
• Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)
• The Ross Program
• Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
• Prove It! Math Academy

Other summer programs

• The nonprofit Davidson Institute maintains extensive lists of both residential and day summer programs across the United States that provide for the intellectual and social enrichment of students.
• The National Conference of Governor’s Schools (NCoGS) supports  development and growth of summer residential governor’s school programs across 15 states , dedicated to finding and cultivating students with special academic, creative, artistic, and/or leadership talents.

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Extracurriculars.

15 Summer Programs in Washington for High Schoolers in 2024

What’s covered:, 15 summer programs in washington.

• How do Summer Programs Impact Your College Chances?

Summer vacations are more than just opportunities to relax. College admissions season is right around the corner, and this is a time to explore your passions, learn new skills, and demonstrate your commitment to learning. Pre-college programs are the perfect way to do that. These summer programs can range from a few days to a few weeks long, giving high school students the chance to explore college life and sometimes even earn college credit.

Fortunately, Washington State offers plenty of summer programs—opportunities for you to do just that.

  1. DO-IT Scholars 

Location: Online & University of Washington Seattle 

Application Deadline: N/A

This program is aimed at high school juniors and seniors with disabilities who plan to continue their education after high school. Participants will prepare for the transition to college—exploring career paths and academics, along with experiencing the independence found at college. They will also network with professionals and peers with disabilities.

The program is divided into two phases: the first phase takes place online and participants spend the second phase living and learning on the University of Washington Seattle campus.

2. Changemakers in Computing  

Dates: July 5-August 4

Location: University of Washington Seattle 

Application Deadline: April 3

Washington State high schoolers with an interest in coding from economically disadvantaged families, underrepresented backgrounds, underrepresented minorities, or who will be first-generation college students will want to look into this free program. Participants work under the mentorship of UW graduate students to develop skills and tackle projects that combine technology, society, and justice.

Not only is the program free, but participants will receive a stipend plus free meals.

3. University of Washington Teen Summer Courses  

Dates: Varies

Location: University of Washington Seattle

Application Deadline: Registration opens February 13

The University of Washington offers a number of week-long courses throughout the summer to keep high schoolers active, engaged, and learning when school is out of session. The university hasn’t released its summer courses yet, however, last year featured classes in everything from coding to microbiology to screenwriting to esports.

4. UbiComp Lab High School Opportunity

Dates: June 15-September 15 

The Ubiquitous Computing (UbiComp) research lab at the University of Washington Seattle provides high schoolers the opportunity to conduct an eight-week-long summer research project. The program was created because of a positive research experience one of the university’s professors had in high school. The application opens up in March 2024, but expect the competition to be high as this program is very selective.

5. Young Scholars Program (YSP)-REACH

Dates: July 15-19 

Application Deadline: March 15 

High school students with an interest in a STEM career—particularly those with an interest in neural engineering and neuroscience—will want to check out this program at the University of Washington’s Center for Neurotechnology. Participants will receive an introduction to the field of neuroengineering, have the chance to tour labs, and learn about the latest developments in brain-computer interfaces.

6. Engineering Academy 

Dates: N/A 

Application Deadline: N/A 

This free program for high school seniors introduces students to engineering and helps them develop problem-solving skills. The program is open to students in the greater Seattle area and students from underrepresented groups, first-generation college students, and low-income students are encouraged to apply. Prior experience in engineering is not required to attend, but applicants are expected to have at least a 3.0 GPA and have demonstrated leadership in their community.

7. Urban Sustainability

Location: Seattle University 

Cost: $1,195 

At Seattle University, students will learn all about urban systems, their environmental impact, and potential concerns. The program is project-based and includes faculty-led activities spanning SU’s biology, chemistry, environmental studies, environmental science, and environmental engineering programs. It also emphasizes sustainability, social equity, and inclusion.

8. Seattle University AI for Equity

Location: Seattle University

Cost: $1,195

Students in this two-week summer program explore the intersection of technology and criminal justice issues, such as bias and equity. The project-focused program is open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Participants will engage with local law enforcement and tech companies.

9. Summer Business Institute

Focused on diversity in entrepreneurship, this summer business camp provides youth from underrepresented backgrounds with the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship, data visualization, economics, and more, through college-level business, marketing, and economics classes. Upon completion, students will earn three college credits. 

10. Summer String Academy 

Dates: July 21-26

Location: Lazy F Camp and Retreat Center

Middle and early high school students will learn from experienced music educators and professional musicians while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the foothills of the Eastern Cascades. Students will participate in ensembles, small-group sessions, and more while exploring topics like music theory and rehearsal etiquette.

11. SEAS Summer Immersion Program (SSIP)

Dates: July 7-11

Location: Gonzaga University 

Application Deadline: March 7 

The purpose of this summer program is to introduce women with an interest in math and science to pathways in engineering and computer science. Students will live and learn at Gonzaga University—experiencing a slice of college life—while also working on projects and touring job sites.

12. Gonzaga University Summer Term (GUST)

• Session 1: May 20-June 28
• Session 2: July 1-August 9 

Cost: $810 per credit 

Heading to Gonzaga but can’t wait until the fall to start your college career? The six-week GUST program lets you get a head start on your academic career. Incoming freshmen can take a handful of core classes—like Precalculus, Writing and Composition, and History (US History or World Civilizations)—while getting accustomed to college life, learning about campus, and meeting faculty and administrators.

13. Summer Academic Challenge (SAC)

Dates: Mid June-Mid July

Location: University of Puget Sound 

Students in this four-week summer enrichment program explore a project-based STEAM curriculum, allowing them to sample subjects they may study in college. Participants will spend their time attending classes, participating in labs, attending workshops, and participating in field trips and special events.

The SAC program is open to students in grades 7 through 12 who are from underrepresented minority groups, first-generation college students, or from underrepresented socio-economic status.

14. Seattle Children’s Hospital’s Research Training Program for High School Students

Dates: July 8-August 2 

Location: Seattle Children’s Hospital

Application Deadline: March 10 

This program is aimed at 10th- to 12th-grade students from racial and ethnic groups that are historically underrepresented in the biomedical and health sciences. Participants will work in a lab environment and learn about topics like biochemistry, immunotherapy, gene editing, and infectious diseases. They’ll also participate in workshops dedicated to college readiness and career exploration.

This is a competitive program and stipends are available to help offset the expense of travel and meals.

15. High School Summer Volunteer Program

Dates: June 26-August 30

Location: Providence Health System 

Application Deadline: April 15 

Participants in this summer program are required to commit to 100 hours of service. Students will complete their hours through a variety of opportunities in a hospital setting along with working a week at a summer camp for children with special needs. The program is open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

How Do Summer Programs Impact Your College Chances?

Extracurricular activities are typically assessed according to 4 tiers , with Tier 1 representing the most specialized and exemplary activities and Tier 4 representing the most common activities. The most impressive, prestigious, rare, and influential activities are placed in the top two tiers. When it comes to summer programs, these are ones that tend to be offered by universities, have an application to apply, and are at no- or little-cost.

Lower-tier extracurricular activities don’t hold the same sway with admissions officers, but they are often still valuable. Less selective and esteemed programs still show off your interests to potential colleges while highlighting your desire to pursue your passions. Many field-specific activities also help build the skills needed to ace everything you’ll encounter in the college application process, from essays to interviews.

Curious how the summer program you’re participating in affects your odds of college admission? CollegeVine can help! Our free chancing calculator uses a variety of factors including grades, test scores, and extracurriculars to estimate your odds of getting into over 1600 colleges and universities while also providing insight into how you can improve your profile.

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Undergraduate Summer Research Programs

The Genetics Department partners with the Stanford Summer Research Program (SSRP) to bring undergraduate students to campus every summer for a research-intensive residential program. 

The Genomics SSRP scholars are offered a fully-funded 8-week summer research program, where they work in laboratories affiliated with the Genetics department and receive training in a wide variety of research techniques. In turn, scholars become a part of both the SSRP cohort and our broader Stanford Genetics community. Beyond research experience, this summer program helps prepare its scholars for applying to PhD programs by addressing the career, academic, and personal needs of each student.

The Genomics SSRP program especially encourages applications from students who come from low income families, those who are first generation college students, and others whose backgrounds and experiences would bring diverse perspectives (broadly defined) to the field of Genomics.

Program activities conducted with SSRP

The goal of this program is to provide talented undergraduates in STEM a valuable research opportunity in genomics to help prepare them to apply to PhD programs, regardless of previous research experience. We achieve this through the following steps: 

8 weeks of full-time research in conjunction with a faculty mentor and a primary lab mentor (e.g. current PhD student, postdoctoral fellow, and/or staff scientist) 

Peer mentorship by current graduate students, including social events.

Workshops on networking, career development, and the PhD or MD/PhD admissions process. 


A final oral and poster presentation of scholars’ research to the Stanford Biosciences community sponsored by SSRP.

How to Apply

Interested students should submit their application through the Stanford Summer Research Program (SSRP) application portal and clearly express their interest in participating in Genomics research. Genomics-specific scholars are selected during the general SSRP review process.

Applications open in November and are due in February each year. See SSRP Criteria and Application Requirements for more information, as well as the SSRP Frequently Asked Questions page.

2019 cohort of Stanford Summer Research Program scholars.

12 Research and Summer Programs in New York For High School Students

Top Research Opportunities for High School Students in New York

The top research programs in new york for high school students, selected based on prestige, location, and affordability. see research opportunities in other states here ..

Hosting Institution

Online/In Person

Starting at $2695

Application Deadline

Jun 15, 2024

Neuroscience, Biology, Psychol...

Polygence is an online research program designed to offer high school students accessible research opportunities, making them more inclusive. The program was created by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford and provides tailored research projects, allowing students to explore their interests, acquire professional skills, and increase their competitiveness for college admissions.

Sotheby’s Summer Institute

New York (NY)

$5,935-$7,220

Apr 8, 2024

The Sotheby's Summer Institute welcomes high school students who possess a curiosity and passion for the arts to participate in a two-week program in the vibrant art capital of the world - New York City. This immersive experience is designed to inspire creativity and engagement by providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the art world. The courses cover a wide range of topics, from learning about the intricacies of running galleries and museums to exploring the history of painting and drawing techniques. Led by top professionals and scholars in the field, the program leverages the global expertise of Sotheby's Institute of Art, and provides behind-the-scenes access to world-class museums, galleries, auction houses, artists' studios, and other art-related establishments.

Parsons Summer Intensive Studies: New York

Parson's New School

$4,675 plus fees

Jun 8, 2024

Parsons is widely recognized as one of the top names in the art school domain, and students with a keen interest in the arts will find this summer program especially appealing. The four-week intensive course takes place at Parsons The New School for Design in New York City and includes an array of activities such as special events, guest lectures by renowned art experts, and immersive learning experiences. For those who desire an international experience, a similar program is available in Paris through Parsons.

3D Art Studio at Syracuse University

Syracuse University

Syracuse (NY)

No deadline

The two-week program is tailored for sculpture artists who require additional guidance and resources while creating their arts program application portfolio. The course provides morning sessions to learn new techniques and practices, followed by afternoon studio time to work on individual projects, while receiving feedback and critiques from teachers, peers, and even professional artists. The program's highlight is a unique opportunity to collaborate with other students to curate a group exhibition in the Sarah A. Coyne Gallery of Art. This experience is especially valuable for students who aspire to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree.

STEM Research Academy

Baruch College

Engineering, Mathematics

The STEM research program is specifically designed to provide students with hands-on experience and help them develop their scientific knowledge and skills through a series of "experimental" activities. Selected students will have the opportunity to enroll in courses that focus on building essential skills like formulating research questions, designing experiments, conducting literature reviews, and analyzing scientific literature. These classes will be held during the spring semester, and upon successful completion, students will be connected to CUNY research faculty to participate in a six-week internship program during the summer. The internship program is structured and designed to enable students to apply their newly acquired knowledge in a research setting.

Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)

Rockefeller University

Chemistry, Biology

High school students have the opportunity to create and conduct their own research projects through this 7-course program, which follows a thematic research methodology framework. Each research project is conducted as a Rockefeller process, which includes a team of scientific advisors from the Rockefeller community working on a specific research topic.

GirlsWhoCode’s Summer Immersion Program

Girls Who Code

Mar 22, 2024

Data Science

The goal of Girls Who Code is to address the gender disparity in the technology field. Their program provides students with valuable learning experiences through a combination of hands-on projects and networking opportunities with women in the tech industry. While the program is open to students from diverse backgrounds, they prioritize admission for underrepresented groups. This includes girls, women, and non-binary individuals who identify as Black, LatinX, or come from low-income households.

Coding for Game Design

New York University

Apr 29, 2024

"Through this two-week program, students learn about the principles of game design, and are introduced to C# and Unity scripting, which they use to create their own custom games. The program emphasizes team collaboration and close work with experienced game designers and developers from NYU Steinhardt’s Consortium for Research and Evaluation of Advanced Technologies in Education (CREATE). Through a mix of lectures, collaborative small-group activities, and individual projects, students gain valuable coding skills"

Python Data Science & Machine Learning Program NYC

NextGen Bootcamp

Jul 26, 2024

Engineering, Comp Sci

"In the first half of this hands-on Python course, you will begin by learning the fundamentals of Python code and then transition into more complicated programming tasks. The second half of the course focuses primarily on data science using Pandas, Matplotlib, and Sci-Kit learn. These packages will teach you how to input, analyze, and graph data.

XR Through Virtual Worlds and User Experience Design

$2,750-$4600

May 9, 2024

NYU Tandon's Summer Program for User Experience Design introduces high school students to the fundamentals of using design research to develop innovative and creative design interventions in the form of digital products and services. Programs in Design and Digital Media focus students on creative practice, design research and multidisciplinary experimentation with emerging media technologies. These offerings purposefully explore ‘STEAM‘, combining artistic inquiry with scientific research and technological practice and tools. Students can develop innovative and creative design interventions in the form of digital products and services, or work on their UX technical skills with design software.

Woodland Ecology Research Mentorship (WERM)

Mar 8, 2024

The 14-month program provides motivated high school students with an exceptional opportunity to delve into the field of ecology and engage in hands-on fieldwork and authentic scientific research. Participants will have the chance to explore various ecological concepts and methodologies through immersive experiences, including field trips, data collection, and analysis. They will work closely with experienced mentors who will guide them in their research projects, allowing them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry skills. By actively participating in the program, students will gain a deeper understanding of ecology and the natural world, while also cultivating their passion for scientific exploration and discovery.

Tisch Summer High School

Jan 11, 2024

Comp Sci, Arts

"Tisch Summer High School program is an intensive 4-week program through which students recieve professional training from Tisch faculty in one of eight artistic disciplines, including Dance, Drama, Game Design, and Recorded Music. Program curricula for each artistic track follows the first-year undergraduate curricula at Tisch. Students work independently and collaboratively on projects and performances, and the program culminates in 4-6 college credits."

Are there many Research Opportunities for High School Students in the state of New York?

New York is home to a number of elite institutions and universities (such as NYU, Columbia, and Cornell) that host students every year to conduct on-site research. It is a bustling hub of academic innovation and research. We've just selected a few of the top programs from leading institutions, but there are many opportunities for high school students to conduct research from top institutions!

What other research opportunities are available?

For a full set of research opportunity listings, see our guide to research opportunities for high school students .

Want to start a project of your own?

Click below to get matched with one of our expert mentors who can help take your project off the ground!

Final Summer I 2024 Application Deadline is June 2, 2024.  

Click here to apply.

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11 Marine Biology Summer Programs for High School Students

If you’re a high school student interested in STEM, consider applying for a summer program! For marine biology, specifically, summer programs are a solid way to gain academic exposure, work on building a network, and have some research experience under your belt before you apply to university. 

Additionally, if you’re a high school senior about to apply to an undergraduate degree in marine science or biology, participating in a summer program will give you a solid edge over other applicants - admissions officers are looking for applicants that go beyond the classroom to engage in the subject of their choice, and possess advanced skills that can enable them to do better at university. A summer program can help you tick all of these boxes!

1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Application Deadline : Varying deadlines based on cohort. The main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15

Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.

Location : Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!

Eligibility :

You must be currently enrolled in high school

Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. (Note. students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)

No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!

Program Dates : The summer cohort runs from June to August, the Fall cohort from September to December, the Winter cohort from December to February, and the Spring from March to June 

The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students, across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler. 

The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors  to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here !

2. Advanced Marine Science Camp Program by The Acadia Institute of Oceanography

Location: Seal Harbor, Maine

Cost: AIO base tuition is $3,200 for Advanced: $3,300 for Advanced for College Credit

(the additional cost of 4 credits in 2024 is $580 and billed directly from UMaine)

Program Dates: July 7-19 and July 21-August 2, 2024

Application Timeline:  for 2025, Applications start October 15th.

Eligibility:  Ages 15-19, with at least one year of science education experience

Situated near the Acadia National Park, this Marine Science Program is a for any students hoping to work on projects in the realm of marine biology. 

This two-week program allows about 40-50 students to study the different aspects of oceanography alongside trips to the beach, tidal pools, salt marshes, and more to understand the different chemical, physical, and biological aspects . One of the main projects for all students is to design and maintain a saltwater aquarium. Alongside these sessions, you will be allowed to engage with professionals through special lectures and mini-seminars as well as have access to optional laboratory techniques. You will have the chance to interact with one another and form long-lasting connections in their network.

With an additional cost, students can also get college credits for this program through the University of Maine’s regional campus at Machias.

The program is so well respected that the College of the Atlantic, in Bar Harbor, Maine, offers $10,000/year scholarships to any AIO student (up to $40,000 for the 4 years) who is accepted into their program with a recommendation from one of our Directors.

3. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

Location: Based on locality

Cost: no cost, stipend available

Program Dates: June to August

Application Timeline:  January 16th, 2024

Eligibility:  Must be 16 years of age and reside in the United States

The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is an 8-week summer internship for high school students interested in fisheries and marine sciences. This is sponsored by the American Fisheries Society and students are paired up with professionals in their local area through the AFS network. 

While each internship will be unique to the student and their connected professional, Hutton scholars may expect to engage in multiple laboratory and field-based research.  The list of potential activities includes electrofishing, public education, data analysis, laboratory analysis of fish age and growth, and so much more! This opportunity not only allows students to gain practical skills on a project but also allows them to tap into the vast network of the AFS. 

At the end, participants are invited to the Hutton Scholars Summit where they may share their final reports on their respective projects and engage with other Scholars and scientists.

4. University of Maryland Eastern Shore: Geosciences Bridge Program

Location: University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD

Cost: no cost, 500$ stipend per week 

Program Dates: July 1 - August 9

Application Timeline:  The deadline for application is May 31st, 2024

Eligibility:  Open to high school seniors who have been accepted into a US College/University and pursue a bachelor’s degree in related field

The National Science Foundation and NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Centre at UMES fund this competitive, fully-funded internship program for high school seniors. In this program, students engage in a variety of fields related to geoscience including Marine Biology, Marine Chemistry and Physical Oceanography.  Students participate in lectures and hands-on activities under the guidance of field experts and faculty. Students also receive college credits for this program.

Aside from this, students are also required to take two college-level courses (College Algebra or Calculus I and Freshman Seminar Course) that help them prepare for college academics. 

5. Kwiáht Apprenticeships

Location: Kwiáht Center, San Juan Islands, WA

Cost: no cost, stipend may vary 

Program Dates: Dates vary between apprenticeships

Application Timeline: Apprenticeships are offered year-round with varying deadlines

Eligibility:  Current high school students, with preference given to local public and private schools and tribal schools

Kwiáht is a non-profit conservation center and biology laboratory. Here, high school students can apply for apprenticeships to Associates. In the course of these apprenticeships, students will conduct relevant research and work in the center's natural environment and using the center’s tools and facilities. Alongside daily mentoring, there is also the possibility of contributions to a publication which is a huge boon for early career students.

Students have to send proposals for projects that detail the research question and methods to conduct study and analysis. These proposals are judged based on their relevance to ongoing work and upon acceptance, apprentices are assigned to different associates. 

Through this program, students can get exposed to ongoing research projects and gain practical tools and skills that allow their profiles to shine when applying for higher education.

6. Marine Science Investigations at the Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology

Location: Mānoa, Hawai’i

Cost: $1000, students from Hawai’i may be eligible for $500 subsidies

Program Dates: June 3rd-7th 2024

Application Timeline: The deadline for the application is May 6th, 2024

Eligibility:  All high school students

This 5-day program by the University of Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology offers hands-on learning for students interested in marine science research.  Professional scientists at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) introduce students to concepts and modules like marine bioacoustics, coral feeding, microplastics and data analysis. 

Students gain experience in field studies, lab experiments, hands-on data collection and other projects. They also get the chance to study coral reefs, marine ecosystems, and the diverse marine life found in the Pacific using the institute’s top-notch research facilities.

This program allows students to showcase their passion for marine biology on their profile and form a network of peers and faculty that may help them in their future education and career paths.

7. UCSD Research Scholars Marine Science Track

Location: San Diego, California / Remote programs also available

Cost: $1500-4000, depending on tier of course, scholarships are available

Program Dates: Varies depending on the program

Application Timeline:  Rolling

Eligibility:  Students at least 15 years of age, in classes 10th - 12th, and with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0

The UCSD Research Scholars Marine Science Track is a great opportunity for passionate students with multiple tiers of courses that are available online and offline. 

The tier 1 course, “Introduction to Marine Science” occurs in Fall and takes place online twice a week. T his course gives students a deep dive into the dynamics processes that govern marine environments and discusses a wide range of topics including Chemical Oceanography, Physical Oceanography, Marine Ecology, and Human Impact. Students also gain an understanding of current research in this field alongside diverse career options in marine research, policy development, and related fields 

Tier 2 courses pertain to more advanced topics like rocky intertidal environments (as present in the “Advanced Marine Biodiversity: Life on the Edge” course) and bioluminescence. These are in-person courses that engage students in the class as well as laboratories to equip them with practical knowledge. Students get the opportunity to analyze thermal imaging as well as engage in classical genetics to understand various processes that take place at individual organism and population levels.

This course is a solid opportunity to engage in marine research and get an experience of how undergraduate and graduate education and research take place in this field.

8. Pre-College at Eckerd program: Marine Science

Location: St. Petersburg, Florida, US

Cost: $2000, including participation in all sessions, accommodation, food and transport

Program Dates: June 9th - 14th and 16th - 21st 2024

Application Timeline:  Closed for 2024, application deadline unclear

Eligibility:  Students from 11th and 12th grade in Fall 2024, who must pass the swim test.

Having a renowned marine biology program, Eckerd College’s Pre-College Program in Marine Science is a great opportunity for high school students interested in pursuing Marine Science as a major at Eckard or other universities.

Its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico gives its access to a brilliant nature resource which students tap into during the program. Each student may engage in various activities like netting off shore for invertebrates, catching marine fish and invertebrates, deploying hydrophones to record underwater sound, protograph movements of dolphins or even observing the foraging of shorebirds. 

Students work with the accomplished faculty of Eckerd College and engage in various field and lab-based projects that give them broad exposure to multiple activities one can be part of with a degree in marine science all the while exploring integral concepts of marine biology, geology, chemistry, and more. This experience equips students with a lot of practical experience that allows their profile to stand out when they apply for different university programs.

9. ARCC Summer: Pacific Marine Biology

Location: California Coast

Cost: $3,995

Program Dates: July 19th - August 1st

Eligibility:  Students from 7th to 12th grade in Fall 2024

In this two-week coastal adventure, students work along the coast of California involved in various projects that allow students to learn about the various marine ecologies that are to be explored. From exploring ongoing research projects at the Monterey Bay Aquarium to engaging in coastal conservation activities like invasive plant removal and wildlife monitoring in the Channel Islands National Park, students are exposed to multiple different facets of marine biology from a conservation standpoint. These sessions are led by marine biologists and naturalist experts who help students understand the ecology present around them. 

10. Long Island Aquarium High School Internship

Location: Long Island Aquarium, NY

Cost: This is an unpaid internship 

Program Dates: This internship will be at least 120 working hours long

Application Timeline: Fall Semester – August 15th

Spring Semester – December 15th

Summer Semester – May 15th

Eligibility:  All high school students who can commute to and from the aquarium

The Long Island Aquarium offers internships with the Aquarium’s education department. For students who like to work with written information and aim to become science communicators. This Internship will give them experience in working with the public at LIA’s interactive touch tanks where interns will educate them with information regarding the exhibits. 

Students are paired with mentors who teach the material as well as offer career advice to understand prospective education and career paths.  Interns will be assigned a weekly schedule in order to complete the required hours.

11. Dolphin Research Center Internships

Location: Dolphin Research Center, Grassy Key, FL

Cost: unpaid internships

Program Dates: 16-18 weeks depending on term

Application Timeline: October 1 (winter term) | February 1 (summer term) | June 15 (fall term)

Eligibility:  All high school students from around the world who can read, speak, and understand English and are also physically fit

The Dolphin Research Center has been an active site of marine mammal education and research.  It also runs internships where high school students can be part of the Research Center’s projects. Selected interns work 40 hours a week - 4 days with their assigned department and 1 day providing assistance in other areas - where they can be involved in many facets of the Center like Education, Research, Medical, Animal Care, and Training. 

This experience is a great opportunity to work in a research center and gain experience in not just marine biology but also science communication, outreach and photography. 

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

Image Source: Acadia Institute of Oceanography logo

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Why Does Student Mental Health Suffer During Summer? Here’s What the Data Says

May 23, 2024

Data that highlights how summer affects student mental health and how to access mental healthcare during the summertime (and year-round).

By: Charlie Health Editorial Team

Clinically Reviewed By: Dr. Don Gasparini

Learn more about Clinical Review Process

Table of Contents

After the demands of the school year, many students eagerly await summer vacation. However, while summertime may bring warm weather, rest, and summer camp for some students, experts agree that it can be a trying time for young people’s mental health. During summer, many children and adolescents experience a shift from the structured support of school to a more unstructured environment, which can take a toll on their mental health. 

These effects, though, are not felt equally. Research shows that students from marginalized backgrounds who disproportionately depend on schools for essential resources like food, medical and mental healthcare, and supervision are at a higher risk for negative emotional outcomes during the summer. For example, a multi-campus study of about 28,200 undergraduate students found that first-generation college students were more likely than continuing-generation college students to experience financial hardships, food and housing insecurity, and adverse mental health outcomes during the summer of 2020. 

This is not to say that summertime is inherently harmful to students’ mental health. For many, summer vacation brings mental health benefits, like a break from school work and time with loved ones. A study of students across four years of college, for instance, showed a consistent “anticipatory stress spike” of 17% in the last two weeks of summer break as students faced the school year to come. 

Mental Health Tips for High School Students, According to Therapists

Ashley Laderer

For those students whose mental health does suffer during summer vacation, experts believe there are steps that can be taken to improve well-being, like making structured summer programs more accessible. However, while there’s extensive research on summer’s impact on students (particularly marginalized students), it’s often underutilized in policy and practice.  

To assess how summer affects student’s mental health, Charlie Health looked at the numbers, including data on summer crime rates and food insecurity, which play a role in well-being. We also offer some tips on how to access mental healthcare during the summer (and year-round). 

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Many students lose necessary school-based mental health services during the summer.

Students are six times more likely to access mental healthcare when services are offered in school, according to U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. For those many students who access mental healthcare at school , this support abates over the summer, possibly exacerbating or leading to increased mental health issues. As research has consistently shown, mental health conditions often worsen when left unaddressed.

Increased summer crime rates can take a toll on student mental health

Crime rates and the risk of crime victimization generally increase during the summer, according to The Department of Justice, and exposure to violence can take a toll on mental health. For example, a 2018 study found that depression symptoms are 61% higher in crime hot spots than cold spots (3.68 versus 2.28, where higher ratings mean greater symptoms), and PTSD symptoms are 85% higher in those places with more crime (0.72 versus 0.39). Children and youth from low-income families and neighborhoods and those who are minorities are at greatest risk since they disproportionately live in areas with higher levels of crime — over three-quarters (77.71%) of those studied in crime hot spots were African American, and over half (54.55%) had a household income of $25,000 or less, the study found.

Many students face food insecurity over the summer, resulting in mental health issues

Access to school-based food and nutrition programs is curtailed during the summer, resulting in an increased risk of food insecurity among children and youth. Research has consistently found that food insecurity is positively correlated with mental health conditions and symptoms, like rates of depression and stress. A study based on national data of U.S. adolescents found that food insecurity was linked to higher chances of mood, anxiety, behavior, and substance use disorders. A rise in food insecurity resulted in a 14% increase in the likelihood of experiencing a mental health disorder in the past year, the 2012 study found. 

How to address student mental health during summer vacation

Addressing student mental health during summer vacation is, first and foremost, a systemic issue. Above all, lawmakers need to allocate enough resources and funding to services that improve mental healthcare for students — year-round and during the summer, and particularly within marginalized communities. Below are some other steps that can be taken to address student mental health during the summer. 

Find accessible summer programs

Maintain a consistent routine

Seek mental healthcare, find accessible summer programs .

As mentioned, experts have found summer programs to be effective in promoting mental health outcomes among students. However, summertime learning and enrichment opportunities often draw on the resources available through a child’s parents and their local communities. As a result, children from more economically advantaged families and neighborhoods have greater access to resources from their families and communities. However, families can explore various local resources that may offer accessible summer programming — such as community centers and libraries — and get in touch with schools, local government agencies, or nonprofit organizations that may have information about program scholarships. 

Establishing a consistent daily schedule can help students maintain a sense of structure and predictability during the oft-unstructured summer time of vacation. Try encouraging regular sleep patterns, mealtimes, and unstructured leisure time. Also, it’s a bonus if some of the time is set aside for self-care practices like relaxation techniques, exercise, or hobbies, which can promote stress management and overall well-being. 

If a student’s mental health is suffering during summer vacation, it’s important to seek professional support. One way to do this is to specifically look for providers who work with students over the summer or organizations focused on mental healthcare for students. If you’re looking for more than once-weekly mental health support for students, consider Charlie Health’s student-specific Reset & Recharge summer program. This 9-12 week program helps students (11-23) reset their mental health and recharge their coping skills in virtual peer groups, preparing them for the school year ahead.

https://www.pearsonassessments.com/professional-assessments/blog-webinars/blog/2023/07/why-does-summer-break-impact-student-mental-health.html  

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31940162/

https://escholarship.org/uc/item/19d5c0ht#main

https://home.dartmouth.edu/news/2024/03/study-tracks-shifts-student-mental-health-during-college

https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-takes-action-help-schools-deliver-critical-health-care-services-millions-students

https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/ics.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6394830/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9014344/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3632292/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK552656/

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21 Best High School Math Summer Programs in 2024

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/29/24

Are you interested in studying math after high school? If so, read on to learn about the country’s best math summer programs for high school students.

Math summer programs offer students the opportunity to learn foundational mathematical topics such as algebra, calculus, and geometry, which will improve their understanding of the field. They also give students a better perspective on mathematics and introduce them to the various opportunities and career paths they can pursue.

Keep reading to explore your options!

21 Best High School Math Summer Programs

Here’s our list of the top math programs students can take advantage of this summer: 

1. Mathematics Academy at the University of Pennsylvania

Location : Philadelphia, PA

Program Length : 21 days

Cost : $9,700

Eligibility : Grade 9-11

Start Date : July 7

Application Deadline : February 15

The Mathematics Academy at the University of Pennsylvania offers high schoolers the opportunity to learn math complexes not taught in high school. They teach topics like Graph theory, Combinatorial game theory, combinatorics, and linear algebra. The students participate in workshops, group work, and problem sessions at the University of Pennsylvania .

2. Program in Mathematics for Young Students (PROMYS) at Boston University

Location : Boston, MA

Program Length : Six weeks

Cost : $6,000

Eligibility : Grade 10

Start Date : June 30

Application Deadline : March 1

PROMYS is a program that offers high school students the opportunity to dive deeply into mathematics and its fundamental principles. Throughout the program, the participants engage in challenging math problems with peers and research mathematicians.

In addition, the positive learning environment and interactions with experts are a good foundation for students who want to pursue further studies.

3. Ross Mathematics Program at Ohio State University

Location : Columbus, OH

Eligibility : Pre-college and high school students

Start Date : June 9 

Application Deadline : March 15

The Ross Mathematics Program at Ohio State University is for ambitious pre-college students passionate about mathematics. The six-week duration allows participants to explore the core principles of mathematics and explore the career paths it offers. The program fosters peer engagement and group work, which stimulates critical thinking.

4. Honors Summer Math Camp (HSMC) at Texas State University

Location : San Marcos, TX

Eligibility : High school students

Start Date : June 16

Application Deadline : April 15

The Honors Summer Math Camp (HSMC) at Texas State University offers high school students the opportunity to develop the skills and in-depth information needed in advanced math. The math summer camp can help the students pursue a career path to become researchers, problem solvers, and experts.

5. Summer Workshop in Math (SWiM) at Duke University  

Location : Durham, NC

Program Length : Seven days

Cost : Free

Eligibility : Grade 11

Start Date : N/A

Application Deadline : N/A

The Summer Workshop in Math (SWiM) at Duke University is a free workshop for students in their junior year of high school. This program is particularly focused on increased participation by females. Students who attend the programs will participate in math classes, seminars, research groups, and meet people.

6. IMA-MathCEP Math Modeling Camp at the University of Minnesota

Location : Minneapolis, MN

Program Length : One week

Eligibility : Students in high school have completed a year-long course in single variable calculus.

Start Date : June 24

Application Deadline : March

The IMA-MathCEP Math Modeling Camp at the University of Minnesota is a 1-week program in which students in high school are being trained on how to use mathematical models to analyze real-world problems. 

A participant must have completed a year-long course in single variable calculus and present a recommendation letter from a math teacher during the application process. The students will be tested on their problem-solving and collaboration skills during the program.

7. Canada/USA Math camp at the University of Puget Sound

Location : Tacoma, WA

Program Length : Five weeks

Cost : $5,500 

Eligibility : High school student between ages 13 and 18

Application Deadline : March 6

The Canada/USA Math camp is a math summer camp for students who have a great interest in mathematics. It is to enhance the student's skills and abilities in the field to expose them to advanced mathematics and new ways of thinking. During the camp, the students explore different topics while building their problem-solving skills in math.

8. New York Math Circle (NYMC) Summer Program at Columbia University

Location : New York, NY

Program Length : Three weeks

Cost : $800

Eligibility : High school students (not specified)

Start Date : July 22

Application Deadline : March 29 (Early), March 6 (Regular)

The New York Math Circle (NYMC) Summer Program at Columbia University gives its participants a good summer experience. During the program, there are interactive lectures with experts in the field, group discussions, and teaching of many mathematical concepts. The program helps students build their problem-solving skills while exploring the depth of their intellectual creativity.

9. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) at the University of California

Location : Berkeley, CA

Program Length : One month

Cost : $5000

Eligibility : High school students who excel in mathematics/science and will be entering grades 8-12 by Fall

Start Date : July

Application Deadline : February 9

COSMOS is a summer program that offers its participants a specialized track in math. The participants are exposed to various topics during the program, including mathematical modeling and cryptography. 

The program entails lectures from experts, hands-on activities, and personal and group projects, which gives the students the experience needed to explore mathematics as a field with its application.

10. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) at Stanford University

Location : Stanford, CA

Cost : $3,250

Eligibility : Grades 10 and 11

Start Date : June 23

Application Deadline : February 1

The Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) offers participants intensive study in advanced mathematics. The program curriculum ensures a detailed understanding of major topics such as number theory, algebra, and calculus.

The program has different sessions, including problem-solving research and lectures. In addition, the program includes opportunities to interact with the faculty, giving the participants a college experience.

11. Idea Math Camp at John Paul II School and Rivier University

Location : Plano, TX and Nashua, NH

Program Length : Two weeks

Cost : $5,400

Start Date : June 24, June 30

Idea Math Camp is a program offered to high school students in grades 9 to 11 to give them a deeper understanding of math concepts. The program combines interactive teaching, group learning, and seminars. 

During the two weeks, the students will be made to participate in courses that will add up to 65 academic hours, which cover major topics like algebra, combinatorics, and geometry.

12. Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon University 

Loca tion: Pittsburgh, PA

Eligibility : High school students age 16 or older

Start Date : June 22

The Summer Academy for Math and Science is an intensive residential program for high school students at least 16 years old. It is primarily offered to students with a strong interest in mathematics but who are from low-income and underrepresented families.

13. MathILy at Bryn Mawr College

Location : Bryn Mawr, PA

Cost : $5,300

Eligibility : High school students aged 14-17

Application Deadline : April 30

The MathILy at Bryn Mawr College is for students who want to explore mathematics. The interactive program allows participants to encounter new ideas, build problem-solving skills, think critically, meet like-minded people, and solve advanced mathematics problems.

14. AlphaStar In-Person Academy Summer Math Camp at Mission College

Location : Santa Clara, CA

Cost : $3,050

Start Date : June 17

Application Deadline : April

The AlphaStar In-Person Academy Summer Math Camp at Mission College is an intensive training given to high school students to prepare them for math competitions. The summer camp teaches fundamental topics in math, such as algebra, counting, number theory, and geometry. 

Also, the participants are taught mathematical and problem-solving skills to compete during national and international competitions.

15. AwesomeMath Summer Program at AwesomeMath

Location : Online

Cost : $1,175 (Early), $1,275 (Regular), $1,375 or $1,475 (Late)

Eligibility : High school students between 12 and 18 years

Start Date : June 10

Application Deadline : January 18 (Early), February 22 or March 28 (Regular), April 25 or May 28 (Late)

The AwesomeMath Summer Program is an intense program that focuses on building the participants' critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Though virtual, the program creates a collaborative environment where the participants work on challenging math questions together. The program also helps the students practice and prepare for competitions such as AMC 10/12, USAMO, and AIME.

16. Michigan Math & Science Scholars Summer Program (MMSS) at the University of Michigan 

Location : Ann Arbor, MI

Cost : $1,300

Eligibility : Students who have completed at least one year of high school but have not yet completed their senior (final) year at the start of camp

Application Deadline : April 10

The Michigan Math & Science Scholars Summer Program (MMSS) offers high school students trending mathematical innovation and development. During the program, the students attend lectures at the University of Michigan , work in labs, and interact with graduates of the faculty and advanced undergraduates. They also engage in research to make them taste what college life is like.

17. HCSSiM (Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics) at Hampshire College

Location : Amherst, MA

Cost : $5780

Application Deadline : No official deadline

The Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics is a program offered to talented students highly interested in math. During the program, most of the day is dedicated to learning mathematics. The program comprises lectures, maxi courses, study sessions, and math workshops.

18. Math Skills Camp at Hofstra University  

Location : Hempstead, NY

Program Length : Different durations

Cost : $2,200

Eligibility : Grade 6-10

Start Date : July 1

The Math Skills Camp at Hofstra University is for every high school student from grades 6 to 10 who wants to improve their problem-solving abilities in mathematics. Its certified teachers will engage students well during the summer so they can confidently resume a new school year.

19. Rutgers Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics at Rutgers University

Location : Busch Campus, NJ

Program Length : Four weeks

Cost : $4,500

Start Date : July 8

Application Deadline : January 31

The Rutgers Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics is for high school students who are fascinated by mathematics and want to solve challenging and puzzling mathematical problems. The selected students will be taught about a new area in the field, which is discrete mathematics. Also, you can develop problem-solving abilities by applying math concepts to many problems.

20. AI/Machine Learning Research Bootcamp

Cost : $1975

Eligibility : Grade 8-12

Application Deadline : June 5

The AI/Machine Learning Research Bootcamp is a program that exposes students to the mathematical concepts behind AI, machine learning, and other deep learning models. During the program, engineers from MIT and Stanford take the lectures, and the students have group work to learn their own AI model from scratch.

21. MathROOTS at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Location : Cambridge, MA

Eligibility : Students between 14 and 18 years

Start Date : June 28

The MathROOTS at Massachusetts Institute of Technology summer program combines creative elements with mathematics. During the program, the participants will be taught different mathematical topics emphasizing problem-solving and other aspects. Also, the students engage in group work and discussion, projects, and creative thinking.

FAQs: 21 Best High School Math Summer Programs

Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about the best math summer programs for high school students:

1. What Topics Are Usually Covered in Math Summer Programs?

Mathematics summer programs usually cover topics like algebra, geometry, cryptography, Bayesian statistics, and calculus. While some topics may require hands-on learning and problem-solving abilities, others may focus on classroom instruction and lectures.

2. How Can Parents Choose the Right Math Summer Program for Their Child?

When choosing a summer program for your child, set clear expectations. Know what you want your children to gain from it, such as improving their math skills. After this, research and decide whether you want a virtual or day program.

Seeking the opinion of an admissions expert can also be a great way to make sure you’re choosing a program that aligns with your child’s long-term plans for college. Take a look at what one of our parents had to say about working with Quad Education: 

3. What Is the Application Process for Math Summer Programs?

Most application processes will ask you to submit an application form where you must indicate the appropriate grade level, write a short essay, and provide a completed teacher questionnaire, a recommendation letter from the current math teacher, and a transcript or grade report.

4. Are There Scholarships Available for These Math Programs?

Yes, some mathematics summer programs offer scholarships or financial aid. Students and parents should inquire about available assistance before applying.

5. Can Participation in Math Summer Programs Enhance College Applications?

Yes, participating in high school math programs can be a valuable addition to college applications. It demonstrates a student's dedication to academic excellence and passion for mathematics. 

Most colleges look for students with a wide range of interests, and a summer program will allow you to show your interests and abilities, which colleges cherish.  

6. What Skills Can Students Expect to Gain From the Math Summer Program?

Participants can expect to deepen their understanding of advanced mathematical concepts, improve problem-solving skills and critical thinking, and gain exposure to various branches of mathematics.

Final Thoughts

Participating in high school math summer programs is remarkable in your pursuit of your interest in math. It is an opportunity to deepen your understanding, explore advanced concepts, and connect with like-minded people and experts in the field.

Aspiring math experts will benefit greatly from the different activities that occur in summer camps. Therefore, the summer program can leave a lasting impact that will shape the future of students who want to make meaningful contributions to the world of mathematics and even beyond.

Check out our Pre-College Summer Program Directory to gain access to more than 230 additional opportunities for high schoolers!

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