20 Best STEM Internships for High School Students
Internships provide a structured way for you to gain practical experience, build skills, and explore potential career paths while still in high school. They offer exposure to real-world applications of STEM concepts, connecting you with industry professionals and helping you understand the nuances of various fields.
For those interested in STEM, some of the best STEM internships for high school students are with prestigious organizations like NASA, research labs, and tech companies. They present opportunities to work on impactful projects while learning from experts. In fact, the best STEM internships for high school students are often more accessible and cost-effective than other options, making them a practical choice. To simplify your search, we’ve curated a list of 20 of the best STEM internships for high school students.
1. NASA OSTEM High School Internship Programs
Location: NASA centers across the country; virtual options are available too
Stipend: Awarded based on academic level and session duration
Acceptance Rate: Selectivity varies based on the specific internship
Application Deadline: February 28 (Summer); May 16 (Fall)
Program Dates: Summer session: Late May – August; Fall session: Late August – Mid December
Eligibility: U.S. high school students at least 16 years old at the time of application; cumulative 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale); specific eligibility requirements vary based on internships
The NASA OSTEM (Office of STEM Engagement) high school internship program offers some of the best STEM internships for high school students. It gives you access to practical experience in STEM fields, particularly in areas related to space exploration, satellite communication, and aerospace engineering. As an intern, you will work on hands-on projects using advanced technologies, allowing you to apply your academic knowledge to solve real-world challenges. The program includes mentorship from NASA professionals, who guide students through complex projects while offering insights into the aerospace industry's unique demands.
You’ll also benefit from collaboration with peers who share a passion for STEM and space, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. With access to state-of-the-art resources and opportunities to present your work, you will gain valuable skills and build connections that can enhance your future academic and career prospects.
Location: Remote
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Acceptance Rate: Selective; 2023 saw over 700 applications to 70 spots
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. March 9 for the priority admission to the upcoming summer cohort
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year. The summer cohort starts on June 2
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who are available for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks
Ladder Internships is a selective start-up internship program where ambitious high school students get the chance to work with a high-growth start-up on an internship. These start-ups offer internships that range across a variety of industries, from tech/deep tech and AI/ML to health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can explore all the options here on their application form. Ladder’s start-ups are high-growth companies on average raising over a million dollars.
The virtual internship is typically eight weeks long. During the program, you will work closely with your start-up managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects and present your work to the company. Here is the application form.
Location: MIT Campus, Cambridge, Masschusetts
Cost: Free (except a $60 application fee)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; around 100 students
Application Deadline: December/January (tentative)
Program Dates: July – August
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors with a PSAT Math score of 740 or above and an evidence-based reading and writing score of 700 or higher. The recommended minimum scores for the ACT are 33 in math and 34 in verbal sections.
The Research Science Institute (RSI), hosted by the Center for Excellence in Education, is a summer program that brings together 100 high-achieving high school students from around the globe. You’ll engage in an intensive research experience, combining scientific theory coursework with hands-on science and technology projects. A key feature of the program is the five-week research internship, where you work closely with faculty and staff mentors on individual research projects.
Through this program, you gain practical skills in conducting research, analyzing data, and presenting your findings through written and oral reports. As one of the best STEM internships for high school students, the program also emphasizes collaboration and mentorship, offering a platform to connect with professionals and peers passionate about STEM fields. You can find more about the RSI program here.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,490
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: Varies based on cohort. February 23 for the spring cohort
Program Dates: Multiple 8-week cohorts throughout the year. The spring cohort starts in March.
Eligibility: High school students with experience in AI/ML or those who have completed a Veritas AI program
The AI Internship Program by Veritas AI is founded and run by Harvard graduate students. Through the 8-week internship, you will have the opportunity to work with VC-backed startups on real-world AI/ML projects. In the past, students have worked directly with mentors from Harvard, Wharton, Google, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, and more.
This program is a great opportunity if you have prior experience with AI/ML and are looking to gain real-world exposure to a career in the field. You’ll get a chance to network with industry professionals, work closely with company leadership, and receive a letter of completion from the company at the end of the internship. You can learn more about the program here and apply here.
5. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, California
Cost/Stipend: $40 application fee. All students are given a $500 minimum stipend.
Cohort Size: Around 50 students
Application Deadline: February 22
Program Dates: June 9 – July 31 (8 weeks)
Eligibility: U.S. High school juniors or seniors who are 16 years or older by program start; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an eight-week, full-time research opportunity designed for high school juniors and seniors to gain practical experience in medical research. During the program, you’ll collaborate closely with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and scientists on projects conducted in Stanford University’s cutting-edge laboratories. As one of the best STEM internships for high school students, SIMR focuses on fostering a deeper interest in biological sciences and medicine while equipping you with foundational skills in scientific research.
You can choose from one of eight research areas, including fields like cancer biology, neuroscience, and bioengineering. Additionally, SIMR offers a bioengineering boot camp, which provides a hands-on learning experience for students without direct lab work. You’ll develop valuable skills in research techniques, explore advanced methodologies, and gain insights into the day-to-day operations of a professional lab environment.
6. Garcia Summer Scholars – Stony Brook University
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York
Cost: Non-refundable $50 registration fee. More details here
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Application Deadline: March 3
Program Dates: June 26 – August 8
Eligibility: High school students at least 16 years old with an unweighted GPA of 95/100 (3.8/4.0). Standardized test scores (PSAT/SAT/ACT and/or Regents) must be 60% or above. Must have at least 3 of the following subjects:
- English (Honors or AP/IB a plus)
- Chemistry (Honors or AP/IB a plus)
- Mathematics or Calculus (Honors or AP/IB a plus)
- Physics (Honors or AP/IB a plus)
- Biology (optional) (Honors or AP/IB a plus)
The Garcia Research Scholar Program for High School Students offers an immersive experience in polymer science, allowing you to work alongside faculty and staff on innovative research projects. Throughout this intensive seven-week program, you engage in hands-on research while developing essential skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and teamwork. You have the opportunity to design your own original research projects with guidance from experienced mentors, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
You are encouraged to publish your findings in peer-reviewed journals and present your work at national conferences, enhancing your communication skills and building professional networks. The program also provides flexibility, with the option to continue research during the academic year through the Mentor Program, ensuring ongoing support and resources. Additionally, transportation and scheduling are arranged to accommodate students from a wide geographical area, promoting inclusivity and access to this enriching research opportunity.
7. Clark Scholars Program – Texas Tech University
Location: Texas Tech University Campus, Lubbock, Texas
Cost/Stipend: $25 application fee. $750 stipend
Cohort Size: 12 students
Application Deadline: February 24
Program Dates: June 22 – August 7
Eligibility: Students at least 17 years of age by the program start date; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University offers high school students from across the nation and around the world a seven-week research-intensive experience. You work closely with distinguished faculty members at both the main campus and the Health Science Center, allowing you to engage in meaningful research projects that align with your academic interests. The program is one of the best STEM internships for high school students and fosters an environment that promotes critical thinking and career exploration, providing you with the opportunity to collaborate with peers who share similar goals and aspirations.
Throughout the internship, you attend weekly seminars, discussions, and field trips that enrich your understanding of various disciplines, including natural sciences, mathematics, humanities, and fine arts. You are selected based on your academic achievements, teacher recommendations, and defined career objectives, ensuring a competitive and motivated cohort each year. This program has been attracting exceptional students for over 30 years, making it a prestigious opportunity for those looking to deepen their research skills and academic knowledge.
8. Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program
Location: The Jackson Laboratory Campus, Bar Harbor, ME, and The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT
Stipend: $6,500
Cohort size: 40
Application Deadline: January 27
Program Dates: May 31 – August 8 (10 weeks)
Eligibility: Students must have completed grade 12 and be at least 18 years old; U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program provides high school students with a hands-on introduction to advanced research in genetics and biotechnology. Conducted at facilities in Bar Harbor, Maine, and Farmington, Connecticut, this program allows you to collaborate with experienced scientists on innovative projects in areas such as cancer biology, neurobiology, and aging. You can gain exposure to state-of-the-art methodologies and technologies used in mouse genetics, building essential skills for careers in biomedical and biotech research.
Throughout the program, you are actively designing experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to ongoing research. Opportunities for mentorship and guidance from leading experts help you to develop a deeper understanding of genetics and its real-world applications. This immersive experience also encourages critical thinking and teamwork, preparing you for future academic and professional pursuits in STEM fields.
9. NIH Summer Internship Program (SIP)
Location: NIH Main Campus, Bethesda, Maryland, and other NIH campuses nationwide (virtual options available)
Stipend: Awarded based on educational level and is adjusted annually
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Application Deadline: February 19
Program Dates: 8-10 weeks; usually starts in June
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled at least half-time as a senior in high school; 18 years of age or older by June 1; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The NIH High School Summer Internship Program is one of the best STEM internships for high school students that offers an immersive experience in biomedical research at the National Institutes of Health. As a participant, you work closely with renowned researchers and scientists in state-of-the-art laboratories, contributing to ongoing studies in fields such as genetics, neuroscience, and immunology. Through hands-on projects, you develop technical skills, learn advanced research methodologies, and gain insight into the scientific process.
The program also includes seminars and workshops on current biomedical topics, giving participants exposure to cutting-edge research and potential career paths in healthcare and research. Collaboration with professionals and peers fosters a supportive learning environment, while you may have opportunities to present your work during the internship.
10. Simons Summer Research Program – Stony Brook University
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New york
Cost/Stipend: No tuition fees; however, transport and residential costs are applicable. Stipend provided (amount unspecified)
Acceptance Rate: 5%
Application Deadline: February 7
Program Dates: June 30 – August 8
Eligibility: High school juniors (11th grade); U.S. citizens or permanent residents; at least 16 years of age by the start of the program. Prior research experience is not required.
The Simons Summer Research Program provides you, as a rising high school senior, the opportunity to conduct research in a STEM field under the mentorship of faculty at Stony Brook University. During this 10-week apprenticeship, you will work with a research team and take responsibility for a specific project.
At the end of the program, you will produce a written research abstract and a research poster to present your findings. In addition to gaining hands-on research experience, you will attend weekly faculty research talks and participate in special workshops and tours. You will also receive a stipend award at the closing poster symposium, and you must apply while in your junior year to be eligible for this program.
11. University of Iowa Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP)
Location: University of Iowa Campus, Iowa City, Iowa
Cost: $95 application fee + $7,500 program fee (up to 95% financial aid available)
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Application Deadline: February 14
Program Dates: June 18 – July 26
Eligibility: Advanced 10th – 11th graders
The University of Iowa Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) is a research internship that allows you to work closely with university faculty and researchers on ongoing projects. This program provides you with an immersive research experience, exposing you to the challenges and excitement of scientific inquiry. As a participant, you will work full-time in research laboratories, attend seminars and workshops, and collaborate with peers on group projects.
SSTP covers a broad range of research areas, including science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), social sciences, humanities, and the arts. The program promotes interdisciplinary research and encourages the development of intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills, making it one of the best STEM internships for high school students interested in advancing their research capabilities.
12. Roswell Park Cancer Institute’s Summer Research Experience in Cancer (SURE-CAN) Program
Location: Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
Cost/Stipend: No costs. Funding available to select students
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: January 31
Program Dates: June 26 – August 8
Eligibility: High school juniors at least 15 by program start; residents of Western New York, specifically from Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, or Chautauqua counties; U.S. citizen or permanent resident. More details in the “eligibility” section
The Roswell Park Cancer Institute Summer Research Experience Program (SURE-CAN) allows you to engage in cancer research at the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Upstate New York. Over 6 weeks, you will participate in lectures, group discussions, and hands-on lab research, exploring areas such as cancer biology, imaging, and genomics. You will learn about research ethics, basic statistics, and how various scientific disciplines integrate to advance cancer research.
The program includes seminars on cancer topics and culminates in a research symposium where you will present a scientific poster of your findings. This experience provides valuable insight into career opportunities in health sciences and cancer research.
13. University of Pennsylvania Summer Science Initiative
Location: University of Pennsylvania Campus, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cost: Free
Cohort size: Up to 28 students
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates: July 7 – July 31 (4 weeks)
Eligibility: High school juniors or well-qualified sophomores; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; within daily commuting distance of Penn’s campus; must have completed chemistry and/or physics courses. Participants are chosen based on scholastic achievements, resumes, interest in science, and recommendations.
The University of Pennsylvania Summer Science Initiative (PSSI) is a free, four-week program designed for local high school students interested in materials science and engineering. During the program, you will engage in lectures on materials science, participate in computer and experimental labs, and take field trips to industrial and Penn facilities.
This intensive course includes formal lectures from Penn faculty and workshops on materials science, lab report writing, and hands-on activities. You will gain exposure to various materials characterization techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy, thermal analysis, and mechanical testing. The program encourages applications from students from underrepresented groups in science, particularly those from the School District of Philadelphia, women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities. As a participant, you will need to complete assignments and projects outside of program hours.
14. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) – Innovation in Science and Technology
Location: Yale University Campus, New Haven, Connecticut
Cost: $6,500 program fee + $75-$90 application fee. Need-based financial aid is available.
Acceptance Rate: Relatively competitive; applicants are from over 150 countries and all 50 U.S. states.
Application Deadline: January 10
Program Dates: June 22 – July 4 (Session 1); July 6 – July 18 (Session II); July 20 – August 1 (Session 3)
Eligibility: Current high school sophomore or junior between the ages of 16 - 18 years old by the first day of Session III; more info here
The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) program is a highly diverse, two-week academic summer program that attracts over 2,000 students from 150+ countries and all 50 U.S. states. For those interested in STEM, the Innovations in Science & Technology track provides an engaging environment where you can explore cutting-edge topics and collaborate with peers from various backgrounds.
The curriculum emphasizes collaborative learning and encourages discussions shaped by international perspectives, allowing you to enhance your understanding of science and technology in a global context. You will benefit from the opportunity to engage with innovative concepts while developing valuable skills for your academic and professional futures.
15. Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP)
Location: University research labs or U.S. Army Research Laboratories and Centers across the United States
Stipend: Paid (educational stipend)
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: Rolling basis; applications open on December 4 and remain open through the year
Program Dates: May – August (Summer internships are 6-10 weeks)
Eligibility: Current high school students; U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents; additional eligibility requirements vary by location
The Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) High School Internship provides students with the chance to work in cutting-edge research labs at universities or U.S. Army Research Laboratories and Centers. Through this program, you’ll explore real-world STEM applications, engage with state-of-the-art technology, and gain exposure to innovative research shaping the future.
As a participant, you will benefit from hands-on experience in lab settings, formal mentorship from professional scientists and engineers, and networking opportunities with peers and STEM practitioners. The program is one of the best STEM internships for high school students because it also includes workshops and webinars to enhance professional skills and college readiness. AEOP internships are free, and all participants receive a stipend for their contributions. You can apply here!
16. NASA’s STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES)
Location: Hybrid! Remote work is followed by an on-site internship at the University of Texas at Austin Campus, Texas
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate: Selective; 2024 saw around 2,000 applicants but only 215 were accepted
Application Deadline: February 22
Program Dates: July 1 – July 19
Eligibility: U.S. high school rising juniors or seniors; at least 16 years old and have a strong interest in earth science and a solid academic record in STEM subjects
The STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES) program, offered by NASA and the University of Texas at Austin, provides high school students with a competitive STEM experience. As an intern, you’ll explore Earth and space sciences through NASA-supported research, focusing on remote sensing, climate science, and astronomy.
The program includes remote learning and a two-week on-site internship from July 6 – 19, with mentorship from scientists and engineers. You’ll get to work on hands-on projects, analyze NASA satellite data, and present your findings at the Virtual SEES Science Symposium. Housing, meals, and local transportation are provided, with travel scholarships available. Apply here!
17. Brookhaven National Laboratory: High School Research Program (HSRP)
Location: Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York
Stipend/Cost: Not mentioned
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive
Application Deadline: April 2
Program Dates: July 7 – August 15
Eligibility: High school students who have completed 11th grade; at least 16 years old by the start of the program; U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder). More info here
The Brookhaven National Laboratory High School Research Program (HSRP) is a competitive six-week educational program designed for high school students interested in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This program provides you with access to a real-world scientific community, where you will collaborate with Brookhaven National Laboratory’s (BNL) scientific and technical staff on hands-on projects aligned with the Department of Energy’s mission.
You’ll get to engage in research that addresses energy, environmental, and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions. The program includes research collaboration opportunities available both onsite and remotely, culminating in a chance to present their findings in a poster session or oral presentation. Notably, students have contributed to impactful projects, such as studies supporting COVID-19 research by exploring inhibitor drugs that disrupt proteins used by infectious particles to escape from cells. You can read about it here!
18. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Location: Various locations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico (within a 45-minute commute from the student's home)
Stipend: $3,000
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Around 32-33 students are accepted annually out of over 2,500 applicants
Application Deadline: January 19
Program Dates: June – August (8 weeks)
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors or rising college freshmen who are at least 16 years old by the internship start date
The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is an eight-week paid summer internship and mentoring initiative designed for high school students interested in fisheries and aquatic science. Sponsored by the American Fisheries Society (AFS), this program aims to stimulate interest in the field among underrepresented groups. You are matched with mentors located throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, providing opportunities to engage in unique internship experiences tailored to their interests.
Hutton Scholars participate in various hands-on activities that may include taking fish population surveys, establishing aquatic vegetation and fish habitats, electrofishing, snorkeling, examining specimens under a microscope, and conducting water quality tests. You will also engage in data processing and assist with children's educational programs. Some fieldwork activities can be quite rigorous, involving overnight or week-long trips, allowing you to immerse yourselves in authentic fisheries biology work while gaining practical experience in the field.
Check out this blog on why the Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is a good STEM program to try!
19. Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP)
Location: Stanford’s main campus, Stanford, California
Cost: Free
Cohort Size: 24 students
Application Deadline: March 17
Program Dates: June 23 – July 25
Eligibility: High school juniors who live and attend high school in one of the 8 Northern California counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano
The Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP) is a five-week academic enrichment program for first-generation and low-income high school juniors. As an intern, you’ll engage in hands-on internships at Stanford Hospital, observing medical professionals and gaining experience in healthcare delivery.
You’ll also collaborate on a Public Health Research Project to address health disparities, culminating in a research paper and presentation. The program includes academic seminars on public health and human anatomy, fostering your confidence and college readiness. Additionally, you benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities within the Stanford medical community, enhancing your knowledge of health professions. Find the application form here!
Location: At Amazon headquarters, Seattle, Washington
Stipend: Scholarship of up to $40,000 (up to $10,000 per year)
Acceptance Rate: Around 7%
Application Deadline: January 9
Program Dates: 8 weeks during the summer
Eligibility: U.S. High school seniors; minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.3 on a 4.0 scale; completed a high school or college dual degree course in computer science, engineering, or robotics
The Amazon Future Engineer Program offers high school students an opportunity to gain practical experience in the technology sector. As a participant, you will engage in hands-on projects that reflect the real challenges faced in Amazon's tech environment. This program provides a blend of technical training and mentorship, allowing you to develop skills in computer science while working alongside experienced professionals.
You'll have the chance to collaborate with peers, enhancing your understanding of the tech industry and potential career paths. Additionally, networking opportunities with industry professionals will help you explore various options in technology.