10 Tech Internships for High School Students in Massachusetts
High school is a pivotal time to explore interests, build skills, and set the stage for future academic and career paths. Internships provide a unique opportunity to dive into real-world experiences, offering hands-on learning that extends beyond the classroom. In the fast-evolving world of technology, a tech internship holds particular significance. It allows students to work alongside industry professionals, tackle real-world challenges, and gain exposure to cutting-edge innovations in fields such as coding, engineering, data science, and robotics.
If you’re a high school student in Massachusetts with a passion for technology, there’s no shortage of opportunities to dive into the tech world. Here are 10 tech internships for high school students in Massachusetts that can kickstart your journey in the field!
The Ladder Internship Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to gain experience with high-growth startups, including in the tech sector. As an intern, you'll collaborate directly with industry leaders from startups specializing in fields like AI, machine learning, and deep tech. Over eight weeks, you’ll work on real-world projects that directly contribute to the company’s goals, whether it’s developing tech solutions, optimizing digital tools, or exploring innovative applications of AI and machine learning.
In addition to project work, the program emphasizes professional growth through personalized coaching. You’ll receive one-on-one mentorship in areas such as communication, time management, and project planning, alongside group training sessions with peers in your cohort. Further, the virtual format allows you to engage with startups and mentors from around the globe, giving you a window into the fast-paced, innovative environment of modern technology-driven industries.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,490 (Financial aid available)
Internship dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students!
The Veritas AI Internship allows high school students to dive into the dynamic field of artificial intelligence through hands-on projects that address real-world challenges. As an intern, you'll collaborate with seasoned mentors and innovative startup founders to create impactful AI solutions. Past projects have included developing machine learning models to predict customer churn in e-commerce or designing AI-driven tools to enhance emotional well-being. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to work on the practical applications of AI, building technical expertise while understanding its broader societal and industry implications.
The internship also offers exposure to the entrepreneurial side of AI, connecting you with professionals from prestigious organizations like Y Combinator and McKinsey. You’ll gain insights into startup culture, participate in one-on-one mentorship, and receive guidance on refining essential skills. The program culminates in tangible achievements, such as completed projects and potential letters of recommendation, making it a strong addition to your academic and professional journey.
Location: Remote
Cost: $2,490
Internship dates: Multiple sessions throughout the year
Application deadline: Deadlines vary depending on cohort
Eligibility: Open to high school students who have prior experience with AI/ML or have completed a Veritas AI program.
3. Broad Scholars Summer Program
The Broad Summer Scholars Program (BSSP) is a six-week research-intensive opportunity designed for high school students who are passionate about science and innovation. You’ll work alongside world-class scientists at the Broad Institute, engaging in groundbreaking research in areas like cancer biology, psychiatric disorders, chemical biology, infectious disease, and computational biology. During the program, you’ll take on your own research project, applying experimental or computational techniques to explore cutting-edge scientific questions. You’ll also gain experience in presenting your findings through poster sessions and scientific talks, honing essential skills for future academic and professional settings.
The program further offers a range of enriching activities such as college fairs, career exploration events, and social activities, all while building connections with like-minded peers. BSSP provides exceptional support, including a solid stipend, transportation reimbursement, and access to a tutor to help with scientific concepts.
Location: Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA
Stipend: $3,600
Internship dates: June 30 - August 8, 2025
Application deadline: January 22, 2025
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who are US citizens, Permanent Residents, or non-US citizen with employment authorization (i.e. DACA)
4. MIT’s Research Science Institute (RSI)
The Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT is a prestigious summer program that brings together 100 of the most accomplished high school students from around the globe. Over 6 weeks, you’ll dive into an intensive research experience that encompasses the entire scientific process — from literature review and research planning to conducting experiments and presenting findings. The program begins with a week of advanced STEM classes and seminars in topics such as biology, physics, engineering, and mathematics, taught by distinguished professors. This is followed by a 5-week research internship, during which you’ll work closely with a mentor to execute a personalized project in a cutting-edge field.
Beyond hands-on research, RSI offers access to MIT’s extensive resources and a series of evening lectures from Nobel laureates and industry pioneers. The program also incorporates field trips to cultural and technological sites in the Boston area, providing a well-rounded experience.
Location: MIT campus, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free; paid internship (exact stipend amount is undisclosed)
Internship dates: June 22 - August 2, 2025
Application deadline: December 11, 2024
Eligibility: High school juniors with a strong academic background
5. Northeastern University’s Young Scholars Program (YSP)
Northeastern University’s Young Scholars Program (YSP) engages high school seniors in advanced research in fields like engineering, science, and health sciences. Over 6 weeks, you’ll work in state-of-the-art research labs, tackling projects such as designing algorithms for energy-efficient computing, optimizing battery chemistries for renewable energy applications, or evaluating cutting-edge cancer therapies. Guided by faculty and graduate student mentors, you’ll gain in-depth knowledge of your chosen research topic while developing critical problem-solving and analytical skills. The program also includes access to seminars that introduce a range of engineering disciplines, exposing you to topics like robotics, lasers, environmental challenges, and biotechnology. You can view past participating labs here.
Location: Northeastern University campus, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Internship dates: June 23 – July 31, 2025
Application deadline: February 20, 2025
Eligibility: Current high school juniors who are permanent Massachusetts residents and live within commuting distance of Northeastern University
6. Boston University Summer Term - Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship
The Boston University Summer Term Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship provides a six-week immersive research experience. In this program, you’ll work closely with BU faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students on a dedicated research project, committing 40 hours a week to practical investigation in disciplines such as biomedical engineering, computer science, and medical laboratory research. This internship provides a unique opportunity to explore university laboratory research, gaining technical and analytical skills as you contribute to cutting-edge projects.
Beyond research, the program includes weekly workshops that delve into critical topics such as research ethics, scientific communication, and networking. The program also incorporates college admissions guidance and resources for pre-professional health tracks, equipping you with tools to navigate the next steps in your education.
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost: $5,700; $60 non-refundable application fee
Internship dates: June 29 - August 8, 2025
Application deadline: February 14, 2025
Eligibility: High school juniors who are U.S. citizens
7. LEAH Knox: Data Science & Biomedical Research Internship
The LEAH Knox Data Science & Biomedical Research Internship is a unique opportunity for high school students to delve into STEM fields through hands-on teaching and mentorship. During the summer, you’ll participate in an intensive lab experience hosted at MIT, where you’ll engage in research projects that hone your data science and biomedical research skills. The program extends into the school year, requiring you to attend at least 5 STEM-related events to deepen your understanding of these fields. In your second summer, you’ll advance your expertise through placement in an academic, organizational, or corporate lab, gaining real-world experience under the guidance of professional mentors working in STEM.
Designed for students who are curious about science, technology, engineering, math, or teaching, the internship prioritizes inclusivity, encouraging BIPOC youth to apply.t requires a commitment to a rigorous schedule, with full-time summer participation and part-time involvement during the school year.
Location: Boston, MA
Stipend: $2,250 (summer), $2,700 (during the school year)
Internship dates: July - August
Application deadline: Applications typically close in March
Eligibility: Boston-Area Public School students in grades 10-12 who are 16 years old by the first day of the internship
8. Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) Internship Program
The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) Internship Program offers high school seniors a unique opportunity to engage in advanced research in plasma physics and fusion energy. During this summer program, which lasts 8–10 weeks, you’ll collaborate with PPPL’s research or engineering staff on cutting-edge projects that may involve topics such as magnetic confinement devices, fusion energy simulations, or experimental equipment design and maintenance. This hands-on experience provides a deep dive into the practical and theoretical aspects of plasma physics, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to ongoing experiments and innovations in the field.
To succeed in this program, a solid foundation in physics, chemistry, advanced mathematics, or engineering is highly recommended. Experience with coding languages like Python or Java or familiarity with computer-aided design tools such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD can also be beneficial. Besides technical skills, you’ll also cultivate analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities as you analyze experimental data or develop solutions for harnessing fusion energy.
Location: Virtual
Stipend: Paid opportunity, exact amount is undisclosed
Internship dates: To be declared; 8-10 weeks in the summer
Application deadline: March 1, 2025
Eligibility: Graduating seniors in the US who are at least 16 years old at the time of application
9. The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS): Project Pipeline Baltimore
The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science (JHIBS): Project Pipeline Baltimore is a unique opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to delve into the field of neurological sciences. This 5-week virtual summer program is designed to ignite your passion for neuroscience and research, equipping you with foundational skills and a deeper understanding of the scientific process. Through educational presentations, professional development sessions, and hands-on virtual experiments, you’ll explore critical concepts in brain science and gain insights into laboratory techniques and research methodologies.
While JHIBS focuses on brain science, the program emphasizes technical skills relevant to many fields, such as data analysis, research software, and virtual collaboration tools—skills that are increasingly critical in tech-driven research careers. Mentorship is a key component, with experienced scientists guiding you through the program to inspire and support your aspirations in the field. Successful completion of the program comes with a $500 scholarship, making it a rewarding stepping stone for anyone curious about the intersection of science and medicine.
Location: Virtual and in-person options
Stipend: $500 for virtual interns
Internship dates: 5 weeks between July and August
Application deadline: March 1, 2025
Eligibility: Current rising high school juniors or seniors (by June 2025)
10. Museum of Science’s Summer Youth Internship Program
The Museum of Science’s Summer Youth Internship Program allows high school students to immerse themselves in a dynamic environment that combines science, education, and professional growth. Over the course of the summer, you’ll take on hands-on roles in either educational spaces or behind-the-scenes museum operations, gaining a firsthand understanding of how it functions. Whether you’re assisting with interactive exhibits or contributing to operational tasks, this program provides a holistic experience that allows you to develop valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
For students interested in technology, this internship offers opportunities to engage with tech-based interactive exhibits and learn about the role of technology in creating engaging educational experiences. Behind-the-scenes roles may involve exposure to digital tools and platforms used for museum operations, providing insights into how technology drives modern-day institutions.
In addition to your daily responsibilities, the program features weekly professional development workshops covering essential topics like financial literacy, resume writing, and college preparation. Field trips to local colleges and cultural institutions expand your horizons while providing insights into potential career paths. As an intern, you’ll also enjoy perks such as free admission to the museum’s exhibit halls, discounts, and a convenient, commuter-friendly location.
Location: Boston, MA
Stipend: Varies depending on position
Internship dates: 7 weeks between July and August
Application deadline: Rolling enrolment
Eligibility: Students aged 14-19 who are currently enrolled in a high school or equivalent program
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