Summer programs for high school students are incredibly valuable experiences, offering a chance to learn, grow, and explore new interests. And when these programs are free, they become even more accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.
In this blog, we'll dive into 20 of the best free summer programs for high school students, highlighting the incredible opportunities they provide for students to expand their horizons and pursue their passions.
Whether it's delving into STEM with programs like GirlsWhoCode's Summer Immersion Program or honing journalism skills through Princeton’s Summer Journalism Program, there's something here for every student eager to make the most of their summer break.
Check our free Pre-College Summer Program Database to find summer program that for you!
There are many free high school summer programs out there, such as GirlsWhoCode's Summer Immersion Program, Princeton’s Summer Journalism Program, and Carnegie Mellon’s Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS). Let’s take a look at these summer programs and more.
Location: Virtual
Program Length: Two weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all female and non-binary high school students
Start Date: June 14th, July 8th, July 29th
Application Deadline: Friday, March 22, 2024
GirlsWhoCode's program offers a two-week immersive experience for high school girls and non-binary students interested in STEM fields.
Through coding workshops, projects, and mentorship, students develop technical skills and confidence in a supportive and inclusive environment. The program aims to bridge the gender gap in technology and empower young women to pursue careers in STEM.
Location: Online
Program Length: Six weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High-achieving juniors from high school from low-income backgrounds
Start Date: July 26
Application Deadline: Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Princeton's Summer Journalism Program provides a comprehensive 6-week experience for high-achieving juniors interested in journalism.
Through a combination of lectures, workshops, and hands-on projects, participants gain practical skills and insights into the dynamic world of media and journalism. The program equips students with the tools and knowledge to pursue careers in journalism and related fields.
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Program Length: Five weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Sophomores or juniors from high school from underrepresented communities
Start Date: Jun. 22
Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
SAMS offers a rigorous five-week program for high school students from underrepresented communities in STEM.
Through immersive coursework, hands-on research projects, and academic development sessions, participants gain exposure to college-level material and cultivate their interests in mathematics and science. The program aims to foster a diverse community of future STEM leaders.
Location: Manhattan, NY
Program Length: Three weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High school students entering or in high school as of September 2024, living in select NYC boroughs or neighboring cities, demonstrated interest/motivation in STEM
Start Date: July 15th
Application Deadline: April 14, 2024
NYU's CS4CS is a three-week program designed to introduce high school students to the exciting world of cybersecurity.
Through hands-on workshops, lectures, and practical exercises, participants learn fundamental concepts and techniques in cybersecurity from industry experts. The program aims to inspire and empower students to pursue further studies and careers in this rapidly evolving field.
Location: Cambridge, MA
Program Length: Six weeks
Cost: $40 application fee with need-based refund; provides a $500 stipend
Eligibility: High school juniors only (U.S. and International)
Start Date: June - August 2024
Application Deadline: December 2, 2023
This highly competitive 6-week program is held at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It provides high school juniors from around the world with an unparalleled opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in various STEM fields.
Under the mentorship of leading MIT faculty and researchers, participants immerse themselves in intensive projects, culminating in a conference-style presentation where they showcase their findings to peers and professionals alike.
Location: Virtual
Program Length: One to three weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all high school students (U.S. and International)
Start Date: Monday, July 8 to Friday, August 2, 2024
Application Deadline: Sunday, March 10, 2024
This program provides high school students with a one to three week virtual research experience focused on global health. Participants engage in research projects, workshops, and discussions led by experts in the field.
The program aims to inspire students to pursue careers in global health and biomedical research while providing valuable skills and knowledge.
Location: Stanford, CA
Program Length: Eight weeks
Cost: $40 application fee with need-based refund; provides a $500 stipend
Eligibility: High School Juniors and Seniors, at least 16 years old, U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a green card
Start Date: June 10- August 1, 2024
Application Deadline: February 24th, 2024
SIMR provides high school juniors and seniors with an immersive eight-week research experience at Stanford University. Under the guidance of Stanford faculty mentors, participants engage in cutting-edge biomedical research projects.
Through laboratory work, data analysis, and scientific communication, students gain invaluable skills and insights into the field of medicine and research.
Location: Stony Brook, NY
Program Length: Six weeks
Cost: Free, but students are responsible for transportation/dining costs if commuting or residential costs if dorming on campus.
Eligibility: Must be a current junior and at least 16 years old by the program start date.
Start date: July 1 - August 9, 2024
Application Deadline: February 7, 2024
Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, NY, hosts the Simons Summer Research Program, which provides high school juniors with the opportunity to conduct research projects alongside Stony Brook faculty mentors. Throughout the program, students hone their skills and present their work at the end. Keep in mind that nomination by your school is required for participation.
Location: Los Angeles, California
Program Length: Four weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Students residing and attending high school in Los Angeles County
Start Date: Monday, June 17 –Friday, July 19, 2024
Application Deadline: Friday, March 22, 2024
USC's Annenberg Youth Academy offers a transformative four-week program for high school students in Los Angeles County. Through a blend of lectures, workshops, and hands-on projects, participants explore the intersection of media and civic engagement. The program aims to empower students to become informed and engaged citizens through media literacy and critical thinking skills.
Location: Lubbock, TX
Program Length: Six weeks
Cost: Free; provides a $750 stipend
Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 17 years old, graduating in 2024 (U.S. and International)
Start Date: June 16, 2024 to August 1, 2024
Application Deadline: February 15, 2024
The Clark Scholars Program offers a dynamic six-week research experience for high school students across disciplines. Through hands-on research projects, seminars, and field visits, participants gain exposure to the research process and explore their academic interests. The program aims to cultivate a community of future scholars and leaders in academia and beyond.
Location: Monongahela National Forest, WV
Program Length: Three weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High school junior or senior.
Start Date: June 29 - July 20, 2024
Application Deadline: February 29, 2024
At the National Youth Science Camp (NYSCamp), students enjoy a diverse program featuring STEM lectures, interactive studies, outdoor adventures, and artistic expression. They also get the unique opportunity to meet congressional members in Washington, DC, fostering both learning and personal growth.
Location: New York, NY
Program Length: Three weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all high school students
Start Date: July 7, 2024 - July 27, 2024
Application Deadline: April 14, 2024
The NYU Democracy Scholars program is a tuition-free opportunity for high school seniors in New York City. Led by NYU professors, students explore political philosophy and social justice through seminars focused on critical thinking and leadership skills.
They receive support with college applications throughout their senior year. Preference is given to first-generation students from public high schools, and the program is only open to NYC residents.
In Tufts University's six-week Biomedical Engineering Research Scholars (TUBERS) program, students delve into biomedical research, gaining hands-on experience guided by mentors. They develop practical skills, participate in science competitions, and expand their knowledge, preparing for future studies and careers in the field.
Location: Virtual
Program Length: Three weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High-achieving juniors from high school from low-income backgrounds
Start Date: July 15-August 3, 2024
Application Deadline: January 12, 2024
USC's Bovard Scholar Program offers a 3-week virtual experience for high-achieving juniors from low-income backgrounds.
Through mentorship, workshops, and college preparation activities, participants gain valuable insights and guidance on the college admissions process. The program aims to empower students to pursue higher education and achieve their academic and career goals.
Location: Baltimore, MD
Program Length: Eight weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: At least 17 years old, high school or college students
Start Date: TBD
Application Deadline: February 1, 2024
NIDA's RTURP program provides high school and college students with an 8-week research opportunity focused on drug abuse. Participants engage in hands-on research projects and receive training in research practices and methodologies. The program aims to increase diversity in the field of drug abuse research and inspire the next generation of scientists.
Location: Ithaca, NY
Program Length: Six weeks
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors from all backgrounds; focused on providing this opportunity for students of color and/or of disadvantaged backgrounds
Start Date: June 23, 2024 - August 3, 2024
Application Deadline: January 3, 2024
TASS offers a unique 6-week intellectual experience at multiple universities. High school juniors and seniors delve into discussions on critical issues such as leadership, democracy, and service.
Through seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects, participants explore diverse perspectives and develop critical thinking skills while forging lasting connections with peers from diverse backgrounds.
Location: Manhattan, New York
Program Length: 10 weeks
Cost: Tuition-free
Eligibility: High school students in New York City, currently in their 10th or 11th grade, who possess impressive academic achievements and a passion for STEM subjects.
Start Date: June 3, 2024 - August 9, 2024
Application Deadline: March 5, 2024
NYU Tandon's ARISE program offers high schoolers a chance to do real scientific research. With help from NYU teachers, students learn about different STEM fields. They also practice presenting their research at the end of the program. It's a great way to learn and improve important skills.
Location: Remote
Program Length: 10 weeks
Cost: Free, but there is a $25 application fee.
Eligibility: Students must be 15 or older by the program start date for remote internships and 16 or older by the program start date for in-person or hybrid internships.
Start Date: June 18 - August 9, 2024
Application Deadline: February 4, 2024
At George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) students delve into research with experts in fields like astronomy, forensic science, and robotics. They explore projects from renewable energy to drug discovery. Plus, students may publish their work or present it at conferences, boosting their academic achievements.
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Program Length: One month
Cost: Free; students receive a $1,000 stipend.
Eligibility: At least 16 years old and completed at least one high school science course.
Start Date: July 10 - August 3, 2024
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
The Wistar Fellowship in Biomedical Research, located in Philadelphia, PA, offers a hands-on research experience for students interested in biomedical sciences.
Participants work on research projects and gain valuable skills under the mentorship of professionals in the field. The program aims to provide opportunities for students to explore biomedical research regardless of their prior experience.
Location: Research groups are located on all NIH campuses.
Program Length: Varies
Dates: Varies
Cost: Free; students receive a stipend.
Eligibility: Must be 17 years or older by June 15, 2024, and a current junior or senior in high school. If under 18 by June 15, 2024, must live within 40 miles of the NIH campus.
Application Deadline: February 16, 2024, at noon ET.
The High School Senior Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) allows high school students to engage in biomedical, behavioral, and social studies research.
Participants work on research projects alongside NIH professionals and present their findings at the end of the program. It's a valuable opportunity to delve into scientific research and gain practical experience.
