Are you a high school student interested in the multibranched world of science, technology, math, engineering, and math? Whether you're fascinated by the mysteries of outer space, intrigued by groundbreaking biomedical research, or curious about the latest developments in artificial intelligence, STEM programs provide an excellent opportunity to dive deeper into these areas. These experiences often serve as a springboard for future research opportunities, internships, or career paths while demonstrating your commitment to your chosen field. 

Hands-on STEM programs go beyond traditional classroom learning, allowing students to engage directly with practical projects, laboratory work, and real-world challenges. Additionally, free programs help remove financial barriers, making these opportunities accessible to students from all backgrounds. Whether you dream of designing a new technological innovation, discovering solutions to environmental issues, or conducting experiments that could revolutionize medicine, STEM programs offer you the chance to turn those dreams into reality. By taking part in these programs, you’ll not only boost your academic profile but also cultivate a passion for discovery that will serve you well in college and beyond. 

Here’s a curated list of the top 10 free STEM programs for high school students that you can explore to further your academic experience. Dive in, explore, and work on building your future today.

1. Texas Tech University’s Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University is a highly competitive summer research initiative designed for high school juniors and seniors. This intensive seven-week program offers participants a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research across various academic disciplines, ranging from biology and chemistry to business and engineering. As a scholar, you will work closely with experienced faculty mentors, allowing you to delve deeply into your chosen field, develop critical research skills, and contribute to meaningful projects. You will also receive comprehensive support, including on-campus meals, housing, and a $750 stipend upon completing your research project.

The Clark Scholars Program further enriches the student experience through weekly seminars, social activities, and educational field trips. These seminars cover various topics relevant to research methodologies and career development, enhancing the overall educational experience. The program's commitment to mentorship and networking ensures that scholars gain valuable skills and establish connections that can benefit them in their academic journeys.

Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX

Program dates: June 16 - August 1, 2024

Application deadline: Closed for 2024. Applications typically close in February.

Eligibility: High school students who are at least 17 years old. Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident. 

2. MIT’s Research Science Institute (RSI)

The Research Science Institute (RSI) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a prestigious summer program that attracts 100 of the most accomplished high school students from around the globe. This fully funded program merges rigorous on-campus coursework in scientific theory with off-campus research experiences. Over the course of the program, you will get the opportunity to embark on the complete research cycle. Activities range from reviewing current literature to developing detailed research plans, conducting experiments, and ultimately presenting their findings in a professional manner. 

The first week consists of intensive STEM seminars led by distinguished faculty, covering advanced topics in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, etc., laying a solid foundation for the research that follows. This is followed by a five-week research internship where you work closely with experienced scientists and researchers on a specific project, spending your time in a laboratory environment and dedicating “business hours plus” to your research. You will be equipped with access to MIT’s extensive computing resources and guidance on how to navigate scientific literature, model complex systems, and prepare academic presentations. The program culminates in a final week where you compile your research into written reports and oral presentations, simulating the experience of an academic conference. 

In addition to their academic pursuits, you also get to enjoy cultural excursions and opportunities to engage with notable figures in the science and technology fields.

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA

Program dates: 6 weeks, typically in June-August

Application deadline: Closed for 2024. Dates for 2025 to be announced.

Eligibility: High school juniors from across the world can apply.

3. Carnegie Mellon University CS Scholars

The CS Scholars program at Carnegie Mellon University offers an immersive four-week experience designed for those eager to explore the dynamic field of computer science. This fully funded, merit-based initiative invites students from across the nation to engage in an intensive curriculum that includes college-level courses and hands-on research projects. Upon selection as a scholar, you will learn essential programming skills in Python, covering algorithmic concepts such as variables, functions, conditionals, and loops, alongside basic data structures like lists and dictionaries.

In addition to technical training, you will also work on enhancing your problem-solving abilities through a pre-concepts math course aimed at fostering confidence in mathematical reasoning. A key component of the program is a collaborative group project, where students apply their new skills to tackle real-world challenges, culminating in a presentation of their findings to peers and instructors. Beyond academics, CS Scholars emphasizes the importance of personal and professional development through weekly seminars on college readiness, admissions, and social-emotional well-being. The program is rooted in values of inclusivity and equity, encouraging students to engage in discussions about diversity within STEM fields. You will also have opportunities to connect with CMU faculty and industry leaders, gaining insights into the vast possibilities within the tech industry.

Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA

Program dates: June 21 to July 19, 2025 

Application deadline: March 1, 2025

Eligibility: Students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or registered with DACA, who will be at least 16 years old by June 21, 2025, and are high school sophomores at the time of application, are eligible to apply.

4. Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program (SSP) is an exceptional opportunity for high school students to dive into the fields of genetics and genomics research. As a participant, you will be paired with experienced scientific mentors and engage in practical research that involves developing independent projects. You will work on formulating a research plan, implementing it, analyzing the resulting data, and ultimately presenting your findings at the end of the summer. This culminates in presentations to an audience that includes fellow researchers, peers, and family, which will help you refine your scientific communication and presentation skills and gain valuable feedback on your work. Students also receive a stipend of $6500 upon successful completion of the program.

SSP also helps foster a diverse and inclusive environment, welcoming around 40 students from various backgrounds across the U.S. each year. The program is hosted in Bar Harbor, where you can balance your scientific pursuits with exciting outdoor adventures in Acadia National Park, including hiking, whale watching, and swimming. With access to the Jackson Laboratory's fitness center and opportunities for social activities, students are encouraged to develop both personally and professionally, making the SSP a well-rounded experience for aspiring scientists.

Location: Bar Harbor, ME

Program dates: May 31 – August 8, 2025

Application deadline: Applications will be open from late October 2024 to January 27, 2025.

Eligibility: Students who have completed Grade 12, are at least 18 years old, and are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can apply.

5. Stanford’s Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) presents a prestigious opportunity for high school students to engage in hands-on medical research at one of the world’s leading academic institutions. Spanning eight weeks, this program invites students from diverse backgrounds to work collaboratively with Stanford faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students on various medically-oriented projects. Aimed at igniting interest in the biological sciences and providing a comprehensive understanding of scientific research, SIMR begins with an orientation that includes essential safety training, followed by a combination of lectures and intensive lab work.

Throughout the program, you will dedicate approximately 40 hours a week to your research, immersing yourself in the daily operations of a science laboratory. You get to engage in meaningful projects under the mentorship of experienced researchers, which will allow you to explore key scientific concepts and methodologies. In the final weeks, your focus will be on developing a research poster to present your findings at a culminating event, which draws family, teachers, and the Stanford community. 

Location: Stanford University campus, Stanford, CA

Program dates: June 9 - July 31, 2025 

Application deadline: February 22, 2025

Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors who are at least 16 years old at the start of the program, and U.S. citizens or permanent residents can apply.

6. Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE)

The Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) program is an immersive two-week workshop tailored for rising high school seniors interested in engineering and radar technology. Fully funded, this project-based enrichment program focuses on teaching students the intricacies of building small radar systems. As a participant, you will gain invaluable experience by engaging with accomplished scientists and engineers from Lincoln Laboratory, who guide you through the process of creating functional radar systems. This hands-on learning environment emphasizes collaboration and innovation, providing you with a solid foundation in radar principles and engineering practices. 

During the LLRISE program, you work on constructing Doppler and range radar systems, honing your creative problem-solving skills along the way. The curriculum is designed to encourage critical thinking and teamwork, as participants navigate real-world engineering challenges. Through practical projects, you not only develop technical skills but also gain insights into the broader applications of radar technology in fields such as defense, transportation, and environmental monitoring. 

Location: MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Lexington, & MIT campus, Cambridge, MA

Program dates: July 14 – July 27, 2024

Application deadline: March 7, 2024. Applications for 2025 will open in January.

Eligibility: Students who are completing their junior year of high school and are U.S. citizens can apply.

7. Carnegie Mellon’s Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

Carnegie Mellon’s Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) is a transformative program designed to engage students from underrepresented communities in STEM disciplines. This six-week residential experience mirrors the first semester of a college education, providing students with a blend of rigorous academics and experiential learning in a supportive environment. The program begins with a virtual "Jumpstart" phase that focuses on essential skills before you transition to an immersive in-person curriculum. 

Throughout the program, you will engage in quantitative and computational skill seminars that cover core subjects such as mathematics and science, alongside a STEM-related research project guided by faculty or graduate student mentors. SAMS also emphasizes personal development and community building among students from diverse backgrounds. You will have the opportunity to participate in weekly writing workshops designed to prepare you for college applications, and complete a credit-bearing course called "Student to Scholar," which helps you navigate your transition from high school to college life. The program also includes workshops with alumni and local industry leaders, addressing topics such as STEM research, career exploration, and college admission processes.

Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA

Program dates: June 21 to August 2, 2025 

Application deadline: Preferred deadline: February 1, 2025; Final deadline: March 1, 2025

Eligibility: High school juniors who are at least 16 years old at the time of application, and are U.S. citizens or permanent residents can apply.

8. Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)

The Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) program at NYU's Tandon School of Engineering provides an immersive summer experience for high school students interested in STEM fields. The program starts with four weeks of remote workshops, followed by six weeks of in-person lab work. During this time, you will be involved in research across various STEM disciplines such as Bio- and Molecular Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, and AI. You will receive guidance from faculty and graduate researchers. You will work in one of 32 to 40 STEM labs at NYU, dedicating your weekdays to substantive research contributions that align with the lab's objectives.

Alongside research, you will also have the chance to participate in workshops on public speaking and presentation techniques, culminating in a final colloquium where you present your findings to peers, faculty, and family members. This not only serves to enhance your technical skills but also provides you with valuable expertise for your future academic and professional endeavors. Offered as a fully-funded program with a $750 stipend, ARISE is designed to cultivate a diverse community of aspiring scientists and engineers, fostering collaboration and networking among students from across New York City.

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY

Program dates: 10 weeks, typically in June- August (4 weeks of remote after-school workshops followed by 6 weeks of in person labs).

Application deadline: March 6, 2024

Eligibility: Students who are completing their 10th or 11th grade at the start of the program and are NYC residents can apply.

9. Girls Who Code

Girls Who Code is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry, specifically targeting young women who are historically underrepresented in computer science. The organization offers two summer programs designed to engage students in coding and technology:

• The two-week Summer Immersion Program (SIP) provides live virtual classes where you can dive into relevant topics like game design, website creation, and app development. Students are encouraged to pursue projects that resonate with their passions, whether that involves creating a cybersecurity chatbot or developing a wearable device for personal safety. 

• The six-week self-paced program allows students to explore major topics in tech independently. This option is ideal if you prefer a more flexible learning schedule while still benefiting from the resources and support of the organization. 

Both programs are backed by partnerships with leading companies such as Microsoft, Apple, and Bank of America, providing unique networking opportunities and access to industry mentors. With a curriculum designed for beginners and intermediate learners, participants receive constructive feedback and can engage with a supportive community, ensuring they develop both their technical skills and confidence in the field. 

Location: Virtual 

Program dates: 2 weeks, typically in July

Application deadline: Closed for 2024. Click here to get notified for 2025 application updates.

Eligibility: Female and non-binary students studying in high school can apply.

10. Princeton AI4ALL

Princeton AI4ALL is an innovative summer program designed to engage high school students from underrepresented backgrounds in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Recognizing the urgent need for diversity in AI, the program aims to inspire and educate students about the ethical implications and societal impacts of AI technologies. In this program, participants immerse themselves in a comprehensive curriculum that combines lectures on cutting-edge topics from Princeton AI professors, practical research projects, and interactive mentorship opportunities.

A key highlight of the program is the small-group research project where students collaborate with graduate students to tackle real-world challenges influenced by AI. This hands-on experience culminates in a group presentation, allowing you to showcase your findings and insights. The program also includes a two-day field trip to Washington, D.C., where students explore the intersection of AI and public policy, engage with professionals, and gain insights into potential career paths. By fostering a supportive community and promoting collaborative learning, Princeton AI4ALL empowers the next generation of AI leaders to think critically about technology's role in society and approach their work ethically.

Location: Princeton University campus, Princeton, NJ

Program dates: July 14 - August 3, 2024

Application deadline: March 14, 2024

Eligibility: Students who are in 10th grade at the time of application and entering 11th grade in the Fall can apply. Click here for more details.

If you’re looking to build a project/research paper in the field of AI & ML, consider applying to Veritas AI! 

Veritas AI is founded by Harvard graduate students. Through the programs, you get a chance to 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 AI & ML with us. You can apply here!

Image Source - Carnegie Mellon University Logo