If you’re a high schooler in California and would like to pursue computer science in the future, internships are the perfect opportunity for you to get early exposure to one of the most dynamic and evolving fields in the tech industry. These internships can provide practical, hands-on experiences in various areas of computer science, including software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. 

Securing an internship in high school can be challenging, but to help you get started, we have put together a list of 10 computer science internships for high school students in California! 

1. Ladder Internships

Location: Virtual.

Cost: $1,990. Financial aid is available. 

Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year

Internship Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year. The deadline for the upcoming spring cohort is January 14, 2024.

Eligibility: Open to all high school students, who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. These internships are also open to undergraduates and gap-year students! 

Ladder Internships is a selective program for you to experience working with startups and nonprofits around the world. The organizations range across a variety of industries, and each student can select which field they would most love to deep dive into. As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project and present their work at the end of their internship. 

These internships provide a structured pathway for you to engage in real-world research and innovation, ensuring a balance between academic enrichment and practical skill development. What sets the Ladder Internships apart is their emphasis on mentorship, giving students the chance to work alongside tech professionals who worked at companies like Google, Microsoft, McKinsey, and more! You will gain hands-on experience, exposure to diverse technology disciplines, and the chance to explore areas such as AI, machine learning, and programming. 

The program's emphasis on hands-on experience allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, fostering a sense of confidence and adaptability. If you’re interested, check out this detailed guide on why Ladder Internships might be a good fit for you! 

2. AI Internship Program by Veritas AI

Cost: $2,490
Application Deadline: October 20, 2024
Internship Date: Start date for the cohort is November 11, 2024
Eligibility: Open to high school students who have prior experience with AI/ML or 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, students have the opportunity to work VC-backed startups on real-world AI/ML projects. Students work directly with mentors from Harvard, Wharton, Google, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, and more.This program is a great opportunity for students who have prior experience with AI/ML and are looking to gain real world exposure to a career in the field. Students 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.

3. SFUSD Work Based Summer Internships

Location: San Francisco

Cost/Stipend: Free; students will be paid a weekly salary.

Application Deadline: Applications typically close in April.

Internship Dates: Dates vary based on the internship, but the program is typically held in the summer months.

Eligibility: Internships are intended for sophomores and juniors to extend their learning outside of the classroom. Priority is given to 11th grade students (rising seniors).

SFUSD's Work-Based Summer Internships is a great opportunity for you to explore computer science and connect classroom theory to tangible, real-world applications. This program is strategically designed to immerse you in the heart

of California’s vibrant tech landscape, providing an unparalleled view into the inner workings of the industry. As an intern, you’ll engage in projects that go beyond the basics – these projects might range from software development and data analysis to innovative tech solutions, offering a broad perspective of the tech sector's diverse nature.

One of the most valuable aspects of this program is the mentorship and networking opportunities it provides. You’ll have the chance to learn from experienced professionals in the field, gaining insights that only come from real-world experience. This mentorship is critical in guiding you through complex challenges and fostering a deeper understanding of the industry. By the end of the internship, you’ll have gained not just a robust set of technical skills but also a comprehensive understanding of the tech industry’s nuances and trends. 

4. NASA OSTEM High School Internship Programs

Location: NASA centers across the country. Students in California can select roles based in the state! Virtual options are offered as well.

Cost/Stipend: Free, a stipend will be awarded based on academic level and session duration

Application Deadline: May 26 (Fall), August 30 (Spring), October 20 (Summer)

Internship Dates: Spring session (Mid January - Early May), Summer session (Late May - August), Fall session (Late August - Mid December)

Eligibility: 

• Be a U.S. citizen

• Have a cumulative 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)

• Be a full-time student

• Be a minimum of 16 years of age at the time of application 

The NASA OSTEM (Office of STEM Engagement) high school internship program offers opportunities for students across a range of fields, with many of them in tech, computer science and engineering. These internship programs are tailored to provide hands-on experiences in tech fields, allowing you to engage with state-of-the-art technologies used in space exploration, satellite communication, and aerospace engineering. 

Whether you're interested in robotics, software development, or the intricate mechanisms behind spacecraft, the NASA OSTEM high school internship programs offer an immersive environment where you can apply your theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.

Additionally, you get access to state-of-the-art resources and get a chance to build industry connections. The mentorship you receive goes beyond classroom learning, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities within the aerospace and technology sectors. You can check out a complete list of positions here - you may have to use the “Filter” option to see opportunities only open to high school students. 

5. The Intern Project Summer Program

Location: Los Angeles

Cost/Stipend: Free. Students will receive a stipend.

Application Deadline: March 12, every year

Internship Dates: June - August

Eligibility: South LA students in grades 10-12, High School DACA/Undocumented Youth, High School Foster Youth & system-involved youth. All applicants must be available to attend at least 80% of the program workshops which are after-school Thursdays 4:30-6:30pm. Majority of the program is virtual.

The Intern Project will provide you with real-world computer science experience and in-depth learning in the field of technology. This project is great for you if you want to explore different aspects of computer science, from software development to data analytics and beyond. The project typically spans several weeks during the summer, offering a hands-on approach to learning and application.

You will be introduced to a specific theme or problem statement that aligns with current industry trends and challenges. For instance, the focus could be on developing a mobile application that addresses a social issue, creating a website for a local non-profit organization, or even working on a small-scale machine learning project. 

As the project progresses, you will be involved in tasks such as coding in languages like Python or JavaScript, utilizing frameworks for web development, or employing tools for data analysis and visualization. The emphasis is on collaborative work, where students not only contribute their individual skills but also learn to integrate their work with others’ contributions, mimicking real-world tech team dynamics. Towards the end of the project, students prepare a presentation or a demo of their work. 

6. Internships at Sandia National Laboratories

Location: Livermore, CA | Albuquerque, NM | other Sandia sites.

Stipend: Students will receive a stipend commensurate to the work they put in, and it will vary with the internship role.

Application deadline: Rolling deadline, as internship openings are continuously updated.

Internship dates: Year-round, if you choose that program option. For the Co-op internships, you can select your internship period, in coordination with Sandia and your school.
Summer Interns - 40 hours per week | Year-round Interns - 25 hours per week 

Eligibility: Students who are at least 16 years old, are enrolled full-time in an accredited college, university or high school, are U.S. citizens can apply. Those applying must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for R&D, technical or business roles. 

Sandia National Laboratories is a contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy’s ‘National Nuclear Security Administration’ (NNSA) and they offer internships to students during the summer and year-round. You can apply for technical, business, and Research & Development internships, which will allow you to work on national projects. As an intern, you will work with experienced scientists and engineers on projects that contribute to technological advancements. Internship work can include cyber security, energy, engineering, and software, under the guidance of a manager, who will help structure your work assignment, schedule and the duration of your internship. Your mentors will be some of the country’s top scientists and experts. These internships are a chance for students to get hands-on experience in a top-notch research environment. 

• Year-round internships: These allow students who attend local schools to work part-time at a Sandia site, working up to 25 hours a week for high school students, and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks.

• Co-op internships: These are conducted in partnership with individual schools, and allow students to take time off during the academic year to gain work experience at Sandia, working up to 40 hours a week. They run for 3–8 months in the academic term and may include an adjacent summer term.

7. UCSC Science Internship Program

Location: University of California Santa Cruz

Cost: $4,000

Application Deadline: March 31, 2024

Internship Dates: June 26, 2024 - August 18, 2024

Eligibility: Students who are at least 14 years of age on the program start date can apply.

Hosted by the University of California, Santa Cruz, this program is a great way for you to dive into computer science research and technology development. You will have various opportunities to engage in projects that may involve software development, computational modeling, data analysis, or exploring new algorithms. These projects are not just theoretical but are often part of ongoing research at UCSC, giving you a real taste of the challenges and breakthroughs in the field of computer science.

You will be matched with a mentor who guides you through a specific research project, tailored to align with your interests and skills in computer science. This mentorship is a cornerstone of the program, enabling you to gain invaluable insights into the research process, problem-solving strategies, and technical skills essential for a career in science and technology. You will engage actively in projects, participate in lab meetings, and contribute meaningfully to their research team’s objectives. The program culminates in a symposium where you will present your findings, demonstrating your learning and contributions to the scientific community. 

8. Stanford’s SHTEM: Summer Internship

Location: Virtual.

Cost/Stipend: Free

Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January.

Internship Dates: June 17, 2024 - August 9, 2024

Eligibility: Students who will be in grades 11-12 at the time of application, OR full-time community college students (within the first 3 years of community college), are eligible to apply.

Stanford's SHTEM: Summer Internship is a unique opportunity that allows you to explore computer science and technological innovation. Throughout the internship, you'll find yourself engaged in cutting-edge projects and collaborative endeavors, providing hands-on experiences that go beyond classroom learning. You will spend most of the time conducting computer science research from where you are residing (if you are working on hardware projects, they will send you materials) and be in regular communication with your mentor(s) and group members. 

Stanford's distinguished faculty and industry experts will guide you to deepen your understanding of the evolving tech landscape. Participating in Stanford's SHTEM program equips you with technical skills. The program's emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration mirrors the real-world scenarios in tech industries. The networking opportunities within Stanford's community and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking projects make this internship a noteworthy experience. Note that you will be expected to work 30-40 hours a week as part of the internship. 

9. California Academy of Science Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program

Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA.

Stipend: Students will receive a stipend, but information on the exact amount is not available.

Application Deadline: April 5, 2024.

Internship Dates: After school and on weekends, year-round participation for 2-3 years till graduation.

Eligibility: Students who 

• are currently enrolled full-time as a 9th or 10th-grade student in an SFUSD school - check if your school qualifies here;

• have maintained a GPA of 2.5 and a grade of C or higher in science and math

• can obtain a valid work permit (US citizens and others authorized to work in the US);

• can commit to all attendance requirements for 2 or 3 years, through high school graduation;

• can commute to the Academy and nearby locations after school and on Saturdays during the school year, and on weekdays in the summer (some remote work may be required);

• demonstrate interest and enthusiasm for learning, teaching, and doing science can apply.

Careers in Science (CiS) is a multi-year, year-round, paid internship and youth development program for students from communities that are underrepresented in STEM, including girls and students of color. 

This program offers an opportunity for students to work with scientists, researchers and educators at the California Academy of Sciences. You will also be exposed to scientific research and science communication. As an intern, you will participate in interactive training sessions, outdoor field activities and receive guidance on your college applications. You will also work on a science research or environmental action group project during the program. This program will cover a range of topics in STEM with computer science being one of them.

10. Department of Navy’s Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) 

Location: There are several lab locations to choose from across the country, with several in California.

Cost: There are no registration costs, however, housing, meals, transportation, and medical expenses are not covered. You can expect to have to travel to and from your lab, depending on your placement.

Stipend: $4,000 (new participant) | $4,500 (returning participant)

Application Deadline: November 1, every year.

Internship Dates: Eight weeks in the summer. Exact dates vary depending on the lab you choose.

Eligibility: High school students who have completed at least grade 9, are at least 16 years old when the internship begins, can apply. Graduating seniors are eligible as well. There is room for some exceptions. Students are recommended to check whether their preferred lab choice has any other particular requirements. 

The Department of Navy's Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is a great opportunity that will provide you with hands-on, practical experience in the field of science and engineering. You will explore projects in cybersecurity, software development, algorithm design, or data analysis. These projects not only allow you to apply your classroom knowledge to practical scenarios but also expose you to new and emerging technologies and methodologies in the field. Your lab choice is based on your subject of interest, students inclined towards computer science must search accordingly!

The structure of the SEAP is typically an eight-week summer apprenticeship, providing you with an immersive experience in a professional research environment. Students are paired with mentors who guide them through the intricacies of their assigned projects, offering invaluable insights into the world of scientific research and development. The program is ideal for high school students who have a strong interest in science and a desire to explore its applications beyond the classroom. It's particularly well-suited for those who are considering a career in science and technology, especially in fields related to national defense. 

Bonus - Meta Summer Academy

Location: Menlo Park, CA.

Stipend: Students will receive a stipend!

Application Deadline: March 1, 2024

Program dates: 6 weeks (June through July)

Eligibility: High school sophomores who are full-year residents of East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, or Redwood City are encouraged to apply.

Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has launched a prestigious summer opportunity for high school students, known as the Meta Summer Academy. You will learn about various practices in Meta and learn and be a part of its day-to-day environment as an extern. It runs for 6 weeks, from June through July, and is held in California. 

You will be expected to participate for 30 hours/week. Also, note that interns will be mentored by Meta summer academy mentors – these are employees at Meta. While this program focuses on the workings of Meta, you will learn a lot from the technology and computer science side of things. The position also offers you exposure to the tech industry. Meta provides transportation to all externs, which makes it accessible to applicants from across California. Landing an internship at Meta as a high school student is a matter of prestige, as the selection process is quite competitive, with only 150 students making it to the final cohort.

If you’re looking to build unique projects in the field of AI/ML, consider applying to Veritas AI! 

Veritas AI was founded by Harvard graduate students, and through the programs, you get a chance to learn the fundamentals of AI and computer science while collaborating on real-world projects. You can also work 1-1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn data science and AI with us. You can apply here!

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