10 Computer Science Camps for High School Students
Are you looking to dive into the world of coding, data science, or AI before college? Attending a computer science camp for high school students can be a game-changer. These camps offer immersive, hands-on experiences, allowing you to develop critical tech skills while giving you a glimpse into what a future in the tech industry could be like. Whether you're building apps, exploring machine learning, or solving complex programming challenges, these programs can ignite your passion for technology and equip you with skills that make you stand out.
But what’s the difference between a summer program and a camp? While both are excellent avenues for learning, summer programs often involve a broader academic curriculum and may include a mix of subjects beyond computer science. Camps, on the other hand, tend to be more focused and intensive, with a heavy emphasis on practical skills and collaborative projects in a shorter, often more interactive format. In this list, you’ll discover 10 computer science camps that can kickstart your journey!
Location: California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA.
Cost: The cost of the camp ranges from $1,279 to $4,899, depending on the course.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Registration for the 2025 summer camp will open in December 2024.
Program Dates: June 23 - August 15, 2025.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
Caltech’s weeklong Summer Tech Camps are designed to provide a practical, immersive introduction to computer science. Students engage in courses covering Python, C++, game development, AI, and robotics, utilizing cutting-edge labs that mirror the dynamic world of technology. The focus is on hands-on projects that allow you to apply what you learn in meaningful ways, from coding apps to building AI models. The camps also include campus tours and interactive traditions, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Throughout the week, STEM experts offer mentorship, helping you refine your projects and understand the broader impact of technology in today’s world.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
Cost: $9,700. Some need-based scholarships are available. Philadelphia public or charter high school students may qualify for a full scholarship through the Penn Summer Scholarship.
Application Deadline: Applications for summer 2025 open in late fall 2024.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for three weeks in July.
Eligibility: Current 9th - 11th grade students are eligible to apply.
UPenn’s Coding Academy is a rigorous three-week residential program focused on front-end web development. You will delve into HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, learning how to create responsive, well-designed web pages for both desktop and mobile platforms. The program combines structured instruction with hands-on activities to solidify core concepts, offering a comprehensive introduction to coding for aspiring web developers. The curriculum emphasizes technical proficiency, with real-world applications and projects that build a solid foundation for future studies in computer science.
3. UCLA Computer Science Summer Institute (Introductory Track)
Location: University of California, Los Angeles, CA. This is a commuter-only program.
Cost: $3,197. Some need-based scholarships are available.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in June.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for three weeks in June and July.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12 who are at least 15 years old are eligible to apply.
UCLA’s Computer Science Summer Institute (Introductory Track) targets high school students interested in understanding the basics of computer science and programming. This commuter program introduces essential concepts, such as data types, control structures, and problem-solving techniques, using Python as the main language. You will experience a blend of classroom instruction and lab tours, giving you a sense of college-level computer science education. The program emphasizes how programming can be used as a tool for analysis and innovation.
Location: Virtual and in-person in New York City.
Cost: The cost ranges from $1,200 to $2,000 depending on the program. Some programs offer early bird discounts.
Application Deadline: Varies according to program.
Program Dates: Varies according to the program.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
NextGen Bootcamp offers a variety of summer computer courses for high school students, both online and in-person. The boot camp provides specialized training in fields like JavaScript and graphic design, along with a comprehensive Computer Science certificate program. Courses are beginner-friendly, catering to students from diverse scientific backgrounds, with flexible durations to accommodate different learning paces.
5. Girls Who Code - Summer Immersion Program
Location: Virtual.
Cost: Free! $300 need-based grant available for eligible U.S. students.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in March.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for two weeks between June and August.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9 - 11 are eligible to apply.
The Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program is a two-week virtual experience tailored for high school students eager to explore coding and game design. This program covers an array of computer science topics from beginner to intermediate levels, including UX design, cybersecurity, AI, data science, and web development. You will gain hands-on experience designing games and coding projects using JavaScript, developing both technical and creative skills while collaborating with peers in a supportive environment.
6. The Coding School - Emerging Technologies Camp
Location: Virtual.
Cost: $695. Some need-based scholarships are available.
Application Deadline: You can register your interest for the 2025 session here
Program Dates: The program typically runs for two weeks in July.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
This two-week summer camp introduces you to cutting-edge technologies shaping the future. The Coding School’s program builds foundational coding skills while exploring emerging fields like artificial intelligence and healthcare technology, areas not typically covered in standard K–12 education. Designed for various skill levels, students are grouped by grade and experience to ensure a tailored, engaging learning experience.
Location: Virtual.
Cost: $2795.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: June 23 - July 4, 2025.
Eligibility: High school students aged 15 and older are eligible to apply.
World Coders Academy offers a two-week intensive course for high school students keen on exploring advanced technology concepts. The curriculum covers high-level topics in engineering, computer science, and tech innovation, preparing you for future academic and career pursuits.
8. FreeCodeCamp
Location: Virtual.
Cost: Free!
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: This is a self-paced program.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
FreeCodeCamp is a comprehensive online platform offering a structured curriculum in web development, from HTML and CSS to JavaScript and backend programming with Node.js. Through interactive coding challenges and real-world projects, you can build an impressive portfolio while gaining practical experience. The self-paced format is ideal if you are looking to develop coding skills in your spare time.
9. MSOE Women in Technology Program
Location: Milwaukee School of Engineering, Milwaukee, WI.
Cost: $950.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: The program typically runs for a week in June.
Eligibility: High school girls entering 10th through 12th grades are eligible to apply.
This Summer Program at Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) is designed for high school students interested in exploring various STEM fields, including computer science. Through hands-on activities, you will experiment with innovative technology, engage in college-level academic challenges, and get a taste of life in the vibrant city of Milwaukee.
10. The Odin Project
Location: Virtual.
Cost: Free!
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis
Program Dates: This is a self-paced program.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
The Odin Project provides a comprehensive, free, open-source curriculum that teaches full-stack web development. Covering crucial topics like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Ruby on Rails, the program prioritizes practical, hands-on learning. As you work through real-world projects, you’ll be encouraged to create your own websites and applications.
Bonus Programs!
Lumiere Research Scholar Program - CS Track
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!
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15.
Program Dates: Summer cohort runs from June to August, Fall cohort from September to December, Winter cohort from December to February, and Spring cohort from March to June.
Cost: $2,990 (12 weeks) | $5,900 (16-20 weeks). Financial aid is available.
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!
Location: Virtual.
Cost:
$2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program.
$5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship $6,900 for both.
$9400 for the 30-session 1-1 AI Accelerator program.
Need-based financial aid is available. You can apply here
Application deadline: Varies according to cohort. December 1, 2024 for the upcoming winter cohort.
Program dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year.
Eligibility: High school students. Students applying to the AI Fellowship program must complete the AI Scholars program or provide evidence of previous experience in AI and Python.
Veritas AI offers a solid online course designed specifically for high school students who want to pursue artificial intelligence. This AI Scholars program is perfect for those looking to get started with AI, machine learning, and data science. The program offers 10 sessions during which students will learn about the fundamentals of AI and data science. They also gain hands-on experience through real-world projects and help deepen their understanding of the field.
For students with more advanced knowledge, Veritas offers an AI Fellowship that allows students to work 1:1 with mentors from leading universities on personalized projects. The program also encourages interdisciplinary exploration, allowing students to combine AI with fields like finance, medicine, sports, and environmental science. Check out examples of previous projects for inspiration!
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