10 University Programs for High School Students
Participating in university programs for high school students is an excellent way to gain practical skills, industry exposure, and valuable academic connections. Most university programs for high school students allow you to engage with advanced coursework and research, offering hands-on experiences that deepen your understanding of subjects like science, technology, humanities, and business. Prestigious institutions often run such programs, giving you access to top-tier faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a college-like learning environment.
Many university programs for high school students are designed to be accessible, offering scholarships or financial aid to reduce barriers for students from diverse backgrounds. They also serve as a stepping stone for college readiness, helping you explore your interests while building an impressive academic portfolio. University programs for high school students connect you with like-minded peers and mentors, fostering a network that can benefit you in your educational and professional journeys.
In this blog, we’ve put together a list of 10 university programs for high school students for you to explore. By participating in these programs, you will not only enrich your academic skills but also strengthen your college applications, showcasing your initiative, curiosity, and commitment to learning.
1. University of Maryland Eastern Shore: Geosciences Bridge Program
Location: University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD
Stipend: $500 per week
Application Deadline: May 31 (tentative; as per 2024)
Dates: July 1 – August 9 (as per 2024 dates)
Eligibility: High school graduating seniors who have been accepted into a U.S. college or university and are pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a related field; U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Preference is given to applicants entering partner institutions. More info here.
Acceptance Rate: Medium selectivity
The National Science Foundation and NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Centre at UMES fund this competitive, fully-funded university program for high school students. In this program, you will engage in a variety of fields related to geoscience, including marine biology, marine chemistry, and physical oceanography. You will participate in lectures and hands-on activities under the guidance of field experts and faculty. You will also receive college credits for this program.
Aside from this, you are also required to take two college-level courses (College Algebra or Calculus I and Freshman Seminar Course) that will help you prepare for college academics.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,490
Application Deadline: February 23 for the spring cohort.
Program Dates: Multiple 8-week cohorts throughout the year. The spring cohort starts on March 3
Eligibility: High school students who have prior experience with AI/ML or have completed a Veritas AI program
Acceptance Rate: Selective
The AI Internship Program by Veritas AI is founded and run by Harvard graduate students. It is an 8-week internship where you will have the opportunity to work with VC-backed startups on real-world AI/ML projects. You will get to 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. You’ll 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. Engineering Summer Academy at Penn (ESAP)
Location: The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: $90 non-refundable application fee + $9,000 program fee (limited financial aid available)
Application Deadline: January 2 – March 1
Dates: July 6 – 26
Eligibility: High school rising sophomores to rising seniors who are at least 15 years of age by the program's start; a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants with a strong performance in math and science subjects and honors and advanced coursework are preferred. See here for more info.
Acceptance Rate: Very selective
ESAP is a university program for high school students that provides motivated students with an immersive, college-level engineering experience at the University of Pennsylvania. The goal of the program is to provide students of maths and the sciences with the opportunity to explore the field of engineering before they can apply to college.
Over 3 weeks, you will engage in rigorous coursework and hands-on projects in one of their six offered courses: artificial intelligence, biotechnology, complex networks, computer graphics, nanotechnology, and computer science. As a participant, you’ll also have the opportunity to work with Penn’s leading faculty, live on campus, and connect with like-minded peers from around the world.
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. February 9 for the spring cohort.
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year. The spring cohort starts on March 3
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students!
Acceptance Rate: Relatively selective
Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual start-up internship program for ambitious high school students that is usually eight weeks long. In the program, you will get to work with one of many high-growth start-ups on an internship. These start-ups on average raise over a million dollars and also offer internships across a variety of industries, from tech/deep tech and AI/ML to health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can explore all the options here on their application form. In the program, you will work closely with your managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects and present their work to the company. Here is the application form.
5. Temple Summer Pre-College Workshops
Location: Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
Cost:
$1,300 for each two-week, full-day session (includes two workshops)
$700 for each two-week, half-day session (includes one workshop, morning only)
Financial aid is available.
Application Deadline:
Priority Deadline: February 14
Regular Deadline: March 144
Final Deadline: April 14
Dates:
Session I: July 7 – July 18
Session II: July 21 – August 1
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10 – 12; minimum 3.0 GPA
Acceptance Rate: High
Temple University offers one of those summer university programs for high school students looking to engage with various academic fields through 2-week non-credit workshops. As a participant, you can select a morning and an afternoon workshop from over 25 options, including ecology and biodiversity, photo storytelling, inside criminal law, creative writing, materials science, and more.
The program also includes a professional development or college readiness seminar. You will also get to engage in project-based learning with Temple University’s labs and resources. Moreover, there are social activities and field trips to enhance the community experience.
6. Advance College Experience (ACE)
Location: Community College of Philidelphia, Philadelphia, PA (in-person, hybrid, and online options)
Cost: $250 per course (excluding books)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Dates: July 9 – August 6 (tentative; based on 2024 dates)
Eligibility: Highly motivated students entering grades 9 – 12, as well as students up to age 21 with at least a 2.5 GPA
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
The ACE program is one of those university programs for high school students that offer college-level courses during the summer. It gives you the chance to earn college credits, explore career interests, and experience college life. Courses cover a broad range of subjects, including psychology, sociology, public health, music, computer programming, leadership, and more. By participating in the ACE program, you will be able to experience college-level course material while making new connections.
7. MIT Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science (MITES) Summer
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA. Virtual options available
Cost: Free. Travel scholarships available
Application Deadline: February 1
Dates: Late June – early August
Eligibility: High school juniors who are U.S. citizens. More info here.
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
MIT is one of those universities that offer exceptional university programs for high school students. MITES Summer is a six-week, on-campus program that immerses high school students with strong academic records and a passion into a semester of college. As a participant, you will get exposed to high-level math and science as well as electives that focus on problem-solving and application. The curriculum includes math, life sciences, physics, arts, and more courses!
Apart from academics, this program provides access to workshops, tours, and social events on campus and around Greater Boston. You will learn academic and social life skills and guidance on college applications as well as career opportunities.
8. Boston University's RISE Internship
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost: $5,700; $60 non-refundable application fee
Application Deadline: February 14
Dates:
Residential: June 29 – August 8
Commuter: June 30 – August 8
Eligibility: High school juniors who are U.S. citizens
Cohort Size: 130 students
The Boston University Summer Term Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship provides a six-week immersive research experience. It’s one of those university programs for high school students where you’ll get to work closely with BU faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students on a dedicated research project. As a participant, you’ll have to commit 40 hours a week to practical investigation in disciplines like biomedical engineering, computer science, and medical laboratory research.
Beyond research, the program includes weekly workshops that delve into critical topics, such as research ethics, scientific communication, and networking. The program also includes college admissions guidance and resources, ensuring to equip you with the tools needed to better navigate your future.
9. Drexel University's BIOMED Summer Academy
Location: Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
Cost:
Early Bird Tuition: $1,500 (Deadline: May 31)
Late Registration: $2,000 (After May 31)
Limited need-based scholarships are available
Application Deadline: Rolling; early application is encouraged due to limited spots
Dates:
Session I: July 7 – 11
Session II: July 14 – 18
Session III: July 21 – 25
Session IV: July 28 – August 1
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors in the Philadelphia area and beyond; completed at least 1 year of biology
Acceptance Rate: Selective; preference is given to students with outstanding GPAs and teacher recommendations
The Biomedical Engineering (BIOMED) Summer Academy at Drexel University is a one-week university program for high school students that focuses on giving you an immersive experience in biomedical engineering. As a participant, you will engage in interactive, hands-on learning activities, including laboratory and core research skills, such as nanoparticle fabrication and brain wave measurement. The program also features seminars, site visits, and presentations from industry experts, offering insights into both the academic and professional aspects of the biomedical field.
BIOMED is one of those university programs for high school students that offers a comprehensive introduction to biomedical engineering, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will gain valuable laboratory experience, interact with industry professionals, and explore potential career paths in a dynamic and rapidly evolving field.
10. MathILy at Bryn Mawr College
Location: Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA
Cost: $5,300; financial aid is available
Application Deadline: April 29
Dates: June 22 – July 26
Eligibility: High school students aged 14 – 17
Acceptance Rate: High selectivity
MathILy is an intensive 5-week residential summer program for mathematically talented high school students that focuses on advanced discrete mathematics through interactive classes, individualized instruction, and collaborative problem-solving activities. The program also includes several short classes where you’ll get to explore diverse mathematical topics. This is referred to as the “Week of Chaos.” The program aims to improve mathematical learning in an inquiry-based supportive environment.
MathILy emphasizes inquiry-based learning, mirroring the collaborative problem-solving and independent thinking essential in mathematical research. The advanced topics and skills taught in the program will prepare you to engage in mathematical research during college or in other research-focused programs.
Are you looking to start a project or research paper in the field of AI and ML? Consider applying to Veritas AI!
Veritas AI is an AI program designed for high schoolers. It’s founded and run by Harvard graduate students. The program aims to give students the opportunity to create unique projects in the field of AI. Participants will get to learn more about AI from researchers and experts and work 1-on-1 with mentors from Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and more. In just the past year, we’ve had over a thousand students learn with us! You too can apply!
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