10 Ivy League AI Courses for High School Students
For high school students interested in exploring artificial intelligence, Ivy League courses offer a competitive opportunity to learn from top-tier institutions at the cutting edge of technology. These programs allow you to dive into specialized AI concepts, build practical skills, and gain a meaningful edge in college applications — all while studying under renowned professors. By engaging with prestigious institutions, students not only enhance their understanding of complex subjects but also demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence.
These courses provide valuable exposure to advanced concepts and immersive learning experiences, making them a great option for any student aiming to get a head start in their chosen field. Whether you’re looking to kick-start a career in AI or simply gain a solid foundation, these courses offer a pathway to explore your interests and prepare for an exciting future in technology.
In this blog, we highlight 10 Ivy League AI courses for high school students!
1. Stanford University Pre-Collegiate Summer Institute - Artificial Intelligence Course
The Artificial Intelligence Course at Stanford University’s Pre-Collegiate Summer Institute is an engaging introduction for high school students eager to delve into AI fundamentals. This program covers essential techniques in modern AI, including supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning algorithms. You’ll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of these algorithms, examining the data biases that can arise and exploring strategies to counteract them. The course also provides insights into underlying mathematical concepts, such as linear algebra, statistics, calculus, and optimization, which are crucial for AI development.
You’ll also develop hands-on programming skills by implementing AI algorithms in Python, working with both instructional and real-world datasets to build effective and ethical AI solutions. The program is designed to equip students with a broad understanding of machine learning algorithms, along with the skills to apply them in building modern AI systems.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $3,050 (financial aid available)
Program dates:
Session I: June 17 - 28 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Session II: July 8 - 19 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Application deadline: Applications typically close in March.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-11 with basic proficiency in Python.
2. Columbia University’s Introduction to AI: Search Algorithms
Columbia University’s Introduction to AI: Search Algorithms course offers students with a solid foundation in programming an opportunity to dive deeper into artificial intelligence. Beginning with a look into AI’s historical roots, you’ll explore the evolution of search algorithms and advanced problem-solving techniques, gaining insight into optimization and probabilistic strategies. As you progress, you’ll study and apply various search strategies to tackle classical problems like the N-Queens, Knapsack, and Chess puzzles, assessing the tradeoffs between different methods in AI.
This course challenges you to work on thought-provoking assignments that build on your knowledge of object-oriented programming and recursion. By coding in both Python and Java, you’ll develop practical skills in implementing search algorithms that can efficiently solve complex problems. With projects designed to push your understanding and creativity, this course pushes you to create fully functioning AI programs that reflect real-world applications of intelligent search techniques, setting a solid foundation for advanced studies in computer science and AI.
Location: Columbia University, New York, NY
Cost:
Residential: $12,154
Commuter: $6,100
Program dates: June 24 - July 12 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Application deadline: Applications typically close in April.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12 with prior programming experience
Princeton AI4ALL is a 3-week residential program focused on introducing high school students from underrepresented backgrounds to AI. Through a blend of projects, lectures, and group discussions, you’ll dive into AI's core principles and its wide-reaching societal impacts. You’ll collaborate in small teams to tackle research projects, exploring real-world AI applications, such as developing algorithms for self-driving cars or creating methods to detect misinformation. With guidance from AI experts and Princeton faculty, you’ll gain a foundational understanding of the ethical and social implications of AI.
A unique highlight of Princeton AI4ALL is the two-day trip to Washington, D.C., where you’ll explore the intersection of AI and public policy. This experience provides a deeper look into how AI interacts with fields like economics, psychology, and sociology, offering insight into the role of technology in addressing societal challenges. The program also emphasizes diversity in AI, encouraging applicants from underrepresented communities and offering substantial financial aid to ensure accessibility.
Location: Princeton University campus, Princeton, NJ
Program dates: July 14 - August 3 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Application deadline: Applications typically close in March
Eligibility: Rising 11th graders from low-income backgrounds in the U.S. or Puerto Rico, especially those from underrepresented groups, such as women, non-binary students, Black, Hispanic/Latino/Latina, and Native American students
4. Harvard University’s Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python
Harvard University’s Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python offers a comprehensive entry point into the field of AI, designed to equip you with both theoretical understanding and practical skills. Throughout the course, you’ll explore core AI concepts like graph search algorithms, reinforcement learning, machine learning, and intelligent system design, learning to apply these to real-world applications. Each topic builds on the last, covering technologies behind innovations like handwriting recognition and game-playing engines. As you progress, you’ll develop your own Python programs, including technologies behind handwriting recognition systems, chatbots, and other real-world AI solutions.
This course, accessible through Harvard’s edX platform, emphasizes project-based learning, where you’ll implement and experiment with AI algorithms directly in Python. You’ll work with libraries essential for machine learning, honing your skills in classification, optimization, and search techniques. The course also provides a broader context on how AI is shaping fields like healthcare, autonomous systems, and recommendation engines, helping you see the direct impact of your work.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free for audit; $299 for verified certification
Program dates: Self-paced, approximately 7 weeks to complete
Application deadline: Open enrollment
Eligibility: Open to everyone with prior experience in Python
5. Brown Pre-College Programs - Introduction to Machine Learning and AI with Python
Brown University's Introduction to Machine Learning and AI with Python course is a hands-on introduction to AI and machine learning, emphasizing practical applications across various industries. This course is part of Brown's Pre-College Programs, designed to provide a rigorous academic experience that mirrors the university's undergraduate offerings. Without requiring complex math, the course breaks down key machine-learning algorithms, allowing you to understand how they work and when to apply them. You’ll use Python to develop skills in applying machine learning techniques, gaining a well-rounded view of how data science informs fields like healthcare, business, and environmental science.
The program combines lecture-based learning with an active, studio-style classroom with discussions, activities, and coding exercises. You’ll engage in a flipped-classroom approach, watching video lectures and completing preparatory exercises at home before diving into hands-on projects and group discussions in class. This dynamic environment further helps you practice analyzing data, deploying algorithms, and collaborating with peers to solve real-world problems.
Location: Brown University campus, Providence, RI
Cost:
Residential: $7,452
Commuter: $5,682
Program dates: June 16 - July 25, 2025
Application deadline: Applications typically close in May.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12 (previous knowledge of algebra or pre-calculus is recommended)
6. Carnegie Mellon University: AI Scholars
Carnegie Mellon’s AI Scholars program is a unique, fully funded, four-week immersion into artificial intelligence for high school seniors with a strong interest in STEM. Hosted on the CMU campus, this merit-based program provides students with the opportunity to engage in college-level courses, hands-on research projects, and industry interactions under the guidance of leading faculty and researchers. You’ll dive into college-level AI concepts and computing, building skills in areas like machine learning, neural networks, and data analysis. The program is highly collaborative, featuring hands-on group projects where you’ll apply AI techniques to develop solutions that benefit society. As an AI Scholar, you’ll also have access to weekly seminars on college readiness, financial aid, and personal well-being, equipping you with the knowledge and skills necessary for higher education.
Throughout the program, you’ll attend lectures, work closely with peers on projects, and have access to one-on-one support during evening office hours. The curriculum integrates guest lectures from industry experts and academic tours. Beyond the classroom, you’ll get to explore Pittsburgh’s culture, join on-campus clubs, and participate in field trips that enhance your experience of this program.
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, PA
Cost: Free, covering tuition, housing, meal plans, and program-related activities. Travel assistance is available for families facing transportation barriers.
Program dates: June 21 - July 19, 2025
Application deadline: March 1, 2025
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA students) who are at least 16 years old by the start of the program
7. MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI)
MIT’s Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI) is a 4-week intensive program for high school students passionate about STEM fields like AI and data science. Designed for those who have completed their online prerequisites in coding and Python, BWSI places you directly into hands-on courses covering specialized topics such as machine learning and autonomous robotics. Here, you’ll work in teams to build real-world applications of artificial intelligence, like designing intelligent systems in “CogWorks” (Autonomous Cognitive Assistance), guided by MIT faculty, graduate mentors, and industry professionals. This project-focused environment fosters technical skills and encourages innovative problem-solving, preparing you for advanced STEM studies and careers.
Throughout the program, you’ll participate in guest lectures from leaders in technology, gain insight into various career paths, and connect with other driven students and mentors. BWSI offers an engaging mix of technical learning and collaborative projects, helping you deepen your STEM knowledge. With financial aid available for qualifying families, BWSI makes a highly valuable program accessible to students ready for a deep dive into the forefront of tech innovation.
Location: MIT campus, Cambridge, MA (with some virtual courses)
Cost: Free
Program dates: Tentatively July 2025, with specific dates announced closer to spring. Virtual courses are open for interested students till November.
Application deadline: Applications typically close in March.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-11 who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Applicants must also have completed the online prerequisite courses.
8. MIT’s Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python
MIT’s Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python is a comprehensive course designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of programming and computational problem-solving. This course introduces you to Python 3.5 and emphasizes computational thinking, providing an accessible yet rigorous foundation in computer science concepts. You’ll learn essential skills such as writing algorithms, testing and debugging code, and understanding algorithmic complexity. Beyond simply coding, the course aims to help you "bend the computer to your will," enabling you to solve analytical problems across various fields, including AI.
In this virtual course, you’ll complete lecture exercises and hands-on problem sets, pushing you to apply Python to tackle diverse challenges. Topics range from basic computation to data structures, with a focus on breadth rather than deep technical specialization — perfect for students looking to explore multiple computer science applications without prior programming experience. Courses are taught by MIT faculty and researchers, providing insights into Python and its AI applications.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free ($149 for an optional verified certificate)
Program dates: January 22, 2025 - March 26, 2025
Application deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Individuals with sufficient knowledge of high school algebra; prior programming experience is beneficial but not required.
9. MIT Jameel Clinic AI & Health Summer High School Bootcamp
The MIT Jameel Clinic AI & Health Summer High School Bootcamp is an intensive, 1-week program focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare. In just one week, this intensive program delivers 3-4 hours of daily instruction in AI and machine learning (ML), exploring how these technologies are transforming healthcare precision and efficiency. You’ll dive into core programming with Python, learn machine learning fundamentals, and understand high-level concepts like clinical AI and drug discovery— all taught by MIT faculty and researchers. As a participant, you’ll also have the chance to connect with guest speakers and visit research organizations affiliated with MIT, enriching your perspective on potential careers in health-focused AI.
Hosted on the MIT campus, you’ll work closely with peers on a group project, applying the skills you’ve learned to real-world healthcare challenges. At the program’s conclusion, you’ll present your project to instructors and peers, demonstrating your grasp of the material and its applications. Courses such as Introduction to Machine Learning in Health and Introduction to Clinical AI will give you a glimpse into the ways AI is shaping everything from disease diagnosis to drug development. Completing the program awards you a certificate from MIT, underscoring your accomplishment and providing a unique credential as you pursue further studies in STEM.
Location: MIT campus, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free
Program dates: Typically held in July (2025 dates to be announced)
Application deadline: Applications will open in January 2025
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-12; preference is given to students from the Boston area, as housing and transportation are not provided.
10. MIT’s Day of AI
MIT's Day of AI is an annual initiative for high school students looking to explore AI tools and concepts in a way that's accessible and engaging. Whether you're new to coding or have some experience, the program offers two tracks tailored to different skill levels. The “High School” track is ideal for those with no prior knowledge of programming, focusing on the practical applications of AI without requiring any coding experience. On the other hand, the “High School CS” track is designed for students who are familiar with programming and want to dive deeper into technical aspects such as Python, data science visualization, and image classification. Both tracks introduce real-world concepts like data activism, allowing you to see how AI can be used to address social issues.
You'll work on practical projects and gain exposure to open-source AI tools, giving you a glimpse into how AI is shaping industries such as healthcare, technology, and even social justice. Developed by MIT RAISE (Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education), the program is free, making it an accessible and valuable experience for any high school student interested in learning more about AI.
Location: Implemented within participating schools
Cost: Free
Program dates: Typically held on a designated day in May; specific dates vary annually
Application deadline: N/A
Eligibility: Open to all K-12 students; participation is coordinated through schools
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!
AI + Medicine
Veritas AI is an AI program for ambitious high school students, founded and run by Harvard graduate students. In the AI + Medicine program, students learn how AI is used in the healthcare and medical industry. Students get a chance to work on real-world projects using AI & ML models to diagnose diseases, sharpen medical scans, and explain their outcomes to aid doctors and patients. Here is the program brochure and the application form.
AI + Finance
Veritas AI is an AI program for ambitious high school students, founded and run by Harvard graduate students. Through the AI + Finance program, students gain a deeper understanding of AI applications in the financial field. They get a chance to engage in lectures, code walkthroughs, and real-world projects using AI & ML models to predict future financial patterns using past data, forecasting stock prices, and more. Here is the program brochure and the application form.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
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