10 Computer Engineering Internships for High School Students
In today’s technology-driven world, the demand for skilled professionals in computer engineering continues to grow at an unprecedented rate. As the backbone of technological advancement, computer engineers design, develop, and maintain the hardware and software systems that power everything—from smartphones to spacecraft.
For high school students passionate about problem-solving and innovation, gaining experience in this field early on can offer a substantial advantage. Participating in computer engineering internships not only deepens technical knowledge but also enhances critical thinking, collaboration, and project management skills.
Computer engineering is a multifaceted field that blends computer science with electrical engineering, focusing on the design, development, and optimization of hardware and software systems. High school students interested in computer engineering should be familiar with subjects like mathematics, programming (Python, Java, C++), computer architecture, and electronics. Through internships, students can dive into these topics, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Let’s look at 10 great computer engineering internship opportunities for high school students!
Location: Fully remote, making it accessible to students across the globe
Cost: The program fee for 2024 starts from $2490. However, full financial aid is available for students, especially those from underrepresented communities.
Dates: The Winter Cohort starts on Dec 16 and runs for around 8 weeks.
Application Deadline: 2024 Winter Cohort: Nov 24
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors worldwide. Coding or relevant tech experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
Ladder Internships offer an 8-week experience where high school students collaborate with companies from various industries like health tech, deep tech, machine learning, and media. Students are assigned projects based on their interests, such as market research or product development.
As part of the program, you will get the chance to work on a real-world project that’s essential to the start-up you’re working for. You will also get to have frequent 1-on-1 meetings with your manager from the company as well as a Ladder Coach. They will provide you with the guidance and mentorship you need during your time at the start-up.
Alumni from Ladder Internships have been accepted into prestigious universities such as Stanford, Princeton, and UPenn. The program offers students access to networking opportunities with CEOs, startup founders, and other industry professionals.
2. NASA STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internship
Location: Opportunities are available remotely as well as in person at various NASA centers, including NASA Ames Research Center (CA), NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (MD), and others.
Stipend: Most internships are paid, but some are unpaid volunteer opportunities.
Dates: Programs run all year round
Application Deadline: Summer 2025: Oct 25, 2024 + Feb 28, 2025 | Fall 2025: May 16, 2025
Eligibility: U.S. citizens aged 16 and older are eligible to apply. A solid academic background in STEM subjects is required.
NASA’s STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internship provides a hands-on learning experience for high school students, allowing them to work on real-world projects in software engineering, data science, robotics, and space exploration. As a participant, you will get the chance to contribute to actual NASA missions.
NASA internships are highly prestigious, and this experience can significantly enhance college applications by providing firsthand exposure to cutting-edge research and space technology.
3. Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI)
Location: The program is primarily online with select in-person options at Google offices across the U.S.
Cost: The program is fully funded, and all expenses, including meals, travel (if in-person), and materials, are covered.
Dates: This is a 3-week summer program.
Application Deadline: The application period runs from March to May.
Eligibility: Open to graduating high school seniors planning to pursue computer science in college. Preference is given to students from historically underrepresented groups in tech.
CSSI is a 3-week summer program designed for high school students with an interest in computer science. Participants engage in coding projects, receive mentorship from Google engineers, and learn about software development and technology trends.
Since Google is one of the leading tech companies globally, participating in this program will provide unparalleled exposure to the tech industry, making it a prestigious addition to any college application or resume. You’ll also get to stay at one of Google’s campuses if you’re doing an in-person program and gain the opportunity to learn more about Google’s emerging technologies.
4. MITRE High School Student Program
Location: The program is offered in a hybrid format, with students working at MITRE offices in McLean, Virginia, and Bedford, Massachusetts, as well as having remote participation options.
Cost/Stipend: The program is free, and some positions come with stipends.
Dates: This is an 8-week summer program.
Application Deadline: Applications for 2024 are now closed. Keep an eye on their website for updates.
Eligibility: Must be high school juniors and seniors based in the U.S. with a strong academic record and an interest in computer engineering or related fields. Prior coding experience is advantageous.
As a top government research organization, MITRE provides an elite internship experience, where students gain valuable knowledge and skills in STEM fields that are highly sought after by universities and employers.
This program offers a hands-on experience where students engage in projects involving cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software development. Participants will also get to work on research and development projects funded by the U.S. government, often focusing on national security. You will also benefit from collaborating with industry experts and realizing your full potential under their guidance.
Location: Remote and in-person options in San Francisco, New York City, and other locations.
Cost: $2200-$4900
Dates: 3 to 6-week summer program
Application Deadlines: Rolling | Dates for 2025 not out yet
Eligibility: Open to 9th-12th grade students focused on independent learning and problem-solving.
Bluestamp Engineering offers two main types of summer programs to high school students – virtual and in-person. Both programs allow students to create 2-3 working prototypes of their own engineering projects, focusing on hands-on experience in robotics, programming, mechanical engineering, and electronics. Participants are guided through brainstorming, designing, building, and testing their projects. Past projects have included custom-built drones, Bluetooth speakers, and 3D-printed prosthetics.
Students also receive one-on-one mentorship from professional engineers, providing personalized support throughout the project-building process. The curriculum covers the engineering design process, project management, and technical documentation—essential skills for careers in engineering and computer science. At the end of the program, students present their projects to peers, instructors, and external audiences. They also create a digital portfolio to showcase their work, enhancing their college applications.
By participating in this program, students can connect with a community of aspiring engineers and professionals, fostering collaboration and networking.
6. Lockheed Martin STEM Internship Program
Location: Various Lockheed Martin locations across the U.S.
Stipend: Some positions offer stipends.
Dates: This is a summer program that goes on for 9+ weeks from June to Aug.
Application Deadline: The application period is from Oct to Jan.
Eligibility: Must be 16 at the start of the internship, enrolled in high school, and have a passion and knowledge in STEM. Applicants must also live within commutable distance from a Lockheed Martin Space facility.
The Lockheed Martin STEM Internship Program is an engaging internship where high school students get to participate in projects related to engineering, software development, and aerospace technologies. As an intern, you will collaborate with industry experts on real-world defense and aerospace solutions.
This program offers students a rare opportunity to gain experience in one of the top aerospace and defense companies, providing exposure to cutting-edge technologies and networking with industry experts.
7. Intel AI for Youth Internship
Location: Remote
Cost: Free
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year | 200 hours of teaching content available
Application Deadline: Depends on the program you apply to
Eligibility: Open to high school students globally, particularly those with an interest in AI and coding. No prior experience is required.
Intel's AI for Youth Internship is an inclusive and flexible program that gives high school students the chance to learn about artificial intelligence through hands-on projects, such as coding, machine learning, and data analysis. Interns also receive mentorship from Intel professionals.
Since Intel is a leader in semiconductor and AI technology, participating in this internship will provide students with an excellent foundation in AI. The program aims to provide students with the right skill set and mindset needed to understand AI and implement effective AI solutions. It focuses on three AI domains: natural language processing, statistical data, and computer vision.
8. Microsoft Discovery Program
Location: Redmond, WA
Stipend: $20/hour
Dates: July 7 to August 1, 2025
Application Deadline: Applications run from Feb to Mar
Eligibility: Open to rising high school seniors who live within a 50-mile radius of Redmond, WA.
The Microsoft Discovery Program is a 4-week summer internship program that offers students hands-on experience in software development, cloud computing, and AI. As an intern, you will get to work alongside Microsoft engineers on real-world projects, learn about important computer science concepts, and gain exposure to industry tools and techniques.
Participating in this prestigious program is sure to be a boon as you start your STEM career. It’s also a great learning opportunity and will give you the chance to learn more about the industry and build your skill set in a real-world working environment.
Location: Remote
Cost: Free
Dates: The Summer Immersion Program: 2-week program | The Self-Paced Program: 6-week program
Application Deadline: Applications are closed for 2024. Fill out this form to be notified of the 2025 session details.
Eligibility: Open to high school students who identify as girls or non-binary and are in 9th-12th grade. Read here for more details.
Girls Who Code is a highly respected organization offering programs that provide students who identify as female or non-binary with the chance to improve their foundational skills in coding. It also seeks to offer access to a supportive community in the tech field. There are two main tracks you can choose from: the 2-week long Summer Immersion Program and the 6-week long Self-Paced Program.
These programs offer students the chance to learn more about topics like web development, UX design, game design, cyber security, and more. They also offer participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, attend live seminars, and receive mentorship from industry professionals.
10. Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship
Location: Boston, MA
Cost: In 2024, commuter fees were $5,820 and residential fees were $8,940. The updated costs for Summer 2025 will be posted on Dec 15.
Dates: This is a six-week program that runs in the summer (tentative dates are June 29, 2025, to Aug 8, 2025).
Application Deadline: Applications will open on Dec 15 and close on Feb 14. Read here for more details.
Eligibility: Must be high school seniors who are U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents.
Boston University’s Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship is a 6-week program that gives high school seniors the chance to conduct research under the guidance and mentorship of an experienced professional, like a faculty member or graduate student. During this time, students will also attend weekly workshops that cover topics like research ethics, reading a research paper, networking, and more.
As a participant, you will get to explore university laboratory research across a variety of fields, including but not limited to mechanical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and more. During your internship, you will work on a research project that will give you hands-on experience in the field and improve your technical and analytical skills. At the end of the program, you will present your work at the Poster Symposium and can even enter national science fair contests like the Regeneron Science Talent Search.
Are you looking to start a project or research paper in the field of AI and ML? Consider applying to Veritas AI!
Veritas AI is an AI program founded and run by Harvard graduate students. It was designed for high schoolers and aims to allow them to create unique projects in the field of AI. Participants will get to learn more about AI from researchers and experts and work 1-on-1 with mentors from Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and more. In just the past year, we’ve had over a thousand students learn with us! You too can apply!
Image source - Girls Who Code Logo