15 Computer Science Research Opportunities for High School Students
If you're a high school student passionate about computer science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or data science, research opportunities can be a crucial step in your academic and career journey. These programs provide a hands-on learning experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, collaborate with experts, and gain industry exposure.
Whether you're interested in software development, machine learning, robotics, or ethical hacking, these programs can help you develop valuable skills, build a strong portfolio, and make connections that could shape your future in tech.
To help you navigate the best options, we've curated a list of 15 computer science research opportunities for high school students!
1. BlueStamp Engineering Summer Program
The BlueStamp Engineering program is designed for you to engage in hands-on, research-based engineering projects. Each participant selects a project from the BlueStamp project book and collaborates with instructors to develop, test, and refine their ideas. You will conduct in-depth research on the technical aspects of their project, exploring engineering principles, problem-solving strategies, and real-world applications.
You’ll also document your findings in detailed portfolios, reflecting your research and demonstrating your ability to tackle engineering challenges. The program culminates in a Demo Night, where you will present your work to an audience. Additionally, workshops, guest speaker sessions, and access to professional tools offer you exposure to the latest developments in engineering.
Location: BlueStamp Engineering, San Jose, CA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited spots available
Dates: June 16 - July 25
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; early admissions encouraged
Eligibility: Incoming 9th-12th grade students
2. Veritas AI - AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase
Veritas AI focuses on providing high school students who are passionate about the field of AI with a suitable environment in which to explore their interests. The programs include collaborative learning, project development, and 1-on-1 mentorship. Students are expected to have a basic understanding of Python or are recommended to complete the AI scholars program before pursuing the fellowship.
The AI Fellowship program will allow students to pursue independent AI research projects. Students work on their research projects over 15 weeks and can opt to combine AI with any other field of interest. You can find examples of previous projects here.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here.
Dates: Various according to the cohort. Multiple 15-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Application Deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
3. Boston University RISE Internship Track
The Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship Track at Boston University is a 6-week research program for rising high school seniors interested in conducting cutting-edge scientific research. You will work 40 hours per week under the mentorship of faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, or graduate students. The program offers research opportunities in computer science, biomedical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and related fields, allowing you to engage in real-world scientific investigations.
As interns, you’ll gain technical and analytical skills, work on independent research projects, and present your findings at a Poster Symposium. Some students may even have the opportunity to submit their research to national science competitions like the Regeneron Science Talent Search. In addition to lab work, the program includes weekly workshops covering topics such as scientific research methods, ethics, and networking in the scientific community.
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive, varies by year
Dates: June 29 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 14 (11:59 pm EST)
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (students entering their final year of high school)
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler.
The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June - August), Fall (September - December), Winter (December - February), and Spring (March - June).
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Eligibility:
You must be currently enrolled in high school
Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!
5. CISA Cyber and IT Internship Program
The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offers a paid internship program for high school and college students interested in cybersecurity, computer science, and IT research. As an intern, you will work on mission-driven projects alongside cybersecurity professionals, engaging in real-world threat analysis, forensics, penetration testing, and security automation.
Research-based assignments may include developing cybersecurity tools, analyzing network vulnerabilities, and supporting industrial control security efforts. The program provides exposure to federal cybersecurity initiatives, networking opportunities with government and industry experts, and access to professional development events such as lab tours and security conferences.
Location: Multiple locations (Remote and in-person options available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies based on federal hiring needs
Dates: Varies (rolling applications based on availability)
Application Deadline: Posted individually on USAJOBS
Eligibility: High school students, first-year college freshmen, and above
6. Carnegie Mellon University CS Scholars Program
The CS Scholars Program at Carnegie Mellon University offers a four-week residential experience on campus for rising high school juniors. This fully-funded program provides you the opportunity to explore computer science through hands-on research projects, industry engagement, and collaboration with CMU faculty and staff. You will learn Python programming and focus on core concepts like algorithms, data structures, and problem-solving techniques while working on group projects that address real-world challenges in computer science.
At the end of the program, you’ll present your research to peers and mentors, showcasing your work's practical applications. The program also includes college prep seminars, lectures by industry leaders, and field trips to tech companies. Students who complete this program may also be invited to return the following summer as part of CMU’s AI Scholars program, further extending their research opportunities.
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive, merit-based, cohort size varies
Dates: June 21 – July 19
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors (10th to 11th grade students during the summer of 2025)
7. Georgetown Pre-College Online Program – Cybersecurity
The program at Georgetown University is an online enrichment course that explores how cyberspace has evolved, the rise of cyber threats, and the impact of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence on cybersecurity. You will engage in topics such as cyberattack vectors, ethical dilemmas in cybersecurity, and AI exploitation, learning from experts from organizations like the FBI and CISA.
Participants complete a Final Capstone Project, choosing to either analyze a simulated cyberattack or create a visual presentation on cybersecurity risks for teens. Mentorship is a key feature, with mentors offering guidance on assignments, brainstorming ideas, and preparing for the capstone. The course emphasizes flexibility, allowing you to balance learning with your schedules while engaging in 20–30 hours of interactive content, including multimedia lectures and simulations. By the end, you will gain insight into potential college majors and careers in cybersecurity, along with a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University.
Location: Online
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment with no competitive selection process; cohort size varies.
Dates: Multiple sessions available:
March 2 – March 30
March 30 – April 27
May 4 – June 1
Application Deadline: One week before each session begins
Eligibility: Students aged 13 and up
8. University of Chicago DSI Summer Lab
The Data Science Institute (DSI) Summer Lab is an 8-week, paid research program at the University of Chicago, designed for undergraduates and high school students in the Chicago area. You will work on applied data science research projects across various domains, including computer science, social science, climate policy, biomedical research, and public policy.
Each student is paired with a faculty mentor and gains hands-on experience in research methodologies, data analysis, and teamwork. The program provides an opportunity to develop technical skills, contribute to real-world research, and collaborate within a cohort community. At the end of the program, you will present your research findings, gaining valuable experience in communicating scientific results.
Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; varies by year
Dates: June 16 – August 8
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in late fall
Eligibility: Undergraduates and high school students in the Chicago area
9. Girls Who Code Summer Programs
The Girls Who Code Summer Programs offer free, virtual computer science opportunities for high school students worldwide. You can choose between two options:
The Summer Immersion Program (SIP) – A two-week live virtual classroom experience focused on game design, UX design, and coding fundamentals. You’ll gain real-world insights from tech industry leaders while working on interactive projects.
Pathways Program – A self-paced, six-week learning experience where you will explore data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and web development while learning coding languages like Python, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
Both programs allow you to work on real-world coding projects, connect with industry mentors, and gain insights into college and career paths in computer science. You will develop a final project addressing real-world issues like climate change, cyberbullying, or literacy, showcasing your skills and creativity.
Location: Virtual (open to students worldwide)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment, varies by program
Dates:
Summer Immersion Program: Two weeks (live virtual classes)
Pathways Program: Six weeks (self-paced)
Application Deadline: Varies by program (rolling admissions)
Eligibility: Current 9th–12th graders
10. Texas Tech University Anson L. Clark Scholars Program
The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University is a prestigious, 7-week summer research program designed for high-achieving high school juniors and seniors. Limited to only 12 students, this highly selective program offers you the chance to work one-on-one with faculty mentors in cutting-edge research fields, including computer science, engineering, and natural sciences. Scholars engage in full-time research, develop critical problem-solving and analytical skills, and present their findings in a formal research symposium at the end of the program.
In addition to hands-on lab work, you will participate in seminars, networking events, and professional development sessions, gaining insights into careers in STEM and research. This fully funded program provides a stipend, covering the cost of participation.
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective (12 students selected annually)
Dates: June 22 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 24
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (rising 11th and 12th graders)
The Meta Summer Academy is a 6-week summer program designed for high school sophomores to explore careers in technology, coding, and professional development. As a participant, you will be immersed in the day-to-day operations of Meta, gaining insights into how a global tech company functions while developing the soft and technical skills needed for future success.
You’ll work 30 hours per week alongside Meta professionals, learning coding fundamentals and engaging in career exploration activities. This program focuses on equipping you with the tools to achieve economic stability and mobility through early career exploration in the tech industry.
Location: Meta Headquarters, Menlo Park, CA (specific eligibility regions)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: June 16 – July 25 (30 hours per week)
Application Deadline: February 14
Eligibility:
Must be a sophomore during the 2024-2025 academic year
Must reside in East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, North Fair Oaks, or Redwood City
Minimum 2.0 GPA required
12. University of California, Santa Barbara Research Mentorship Program (RMP)
The Research Mentorship Program (RMP) at UCSB is a competitive, interdisciplinary summer research program for high-achieving high school students. As a participant, you’ll work alongside graduate students, postdocs, or faculty mentors on university-level research projects across diverse disciplines, including computer science, neuroscience, biochemistry, and environmental policy. You will engage in data collection, fieldwork, and technical writing, dedicating 35–50 hours per week to your chosen project.
The program begins with a multi-day virtual orientation and continues with a six-week in-person experience at UCSB, where students fully immerse themselves in university life and academic culture. Through the GRIT talks lecture series, you’ll gain exposure to groundbreaking research and innovation from UCSB faculty and researchers. The program culminates in a formal research symposium, where you will present your findings to peers, mentors, and the UCSB community. You will also earn 8 university credits.
Location: University of California, Santa Barbara, CA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; admission decisions made on a rolling basis
Dates: June 16 – August 1
Application Deadline: March 17
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10–12
13. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Summer High School Intern Program (SHIP)
The NIST Summer High School Intern Program (SHIP) is a highly competitive, eight-week summer research program for high school juniors and seniors interested in STEM. Hosted at NIST’s campuses in Boulder, CO, and Gaithersburg, MD, this program provides students with hands-on research experience in computer science, artificial intelligence, physics, next-generation computing, and chemistry.
You’ll work closely with NIST scientists and engineers on real-world research projects, gaining valuable technical skills while contributing to ongoing scientific advancements. You will also participate in experimental design, data analysis, and coding projects, with opportunities to explore Python, Java, AI, LabView, and SQL server applications. Previous SHIP students have worked on research problems ranging from robotics and spectroscopy to machine learning and materials science.
Location: NIST campuses in Boulder, CO, and Gaithersburg, MD
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; varies annually
Dates: Mid-June to early August (8 weeks)
Application Deadline: February 6
Eligibility:
U.S. citizens who are high school juniors or seniors
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Must live near NIST Boulder or Gaithersburg and provide own housing/transportation
14. NYU Tandon Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) Program
The Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) Program at NYU Tandon is a highly competitive, fully funded, 10-week summer research program designed for New York City high school students. In ARISE, you’ll conduct university-level research in areas like computer science, artificial intelligence, robotics, bioengineering, and machine learning.
The program begins with four weeks of virtual evening workshops, where you will gain foundational knowledge in STEM disciplines, research ethics, and technical skills. This is followed by six weeks of full-time, in-person lab work, where participants join NYU faculty-led research projects in cutting-edge labs. You will be paired with mentors to conduct independent research, culminating in a final presentation at the end of the program.
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; limited cohort
Dates: June 2 – August 8
June: Virtual evening workshops
July–August: In-person lab work
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility:
Must be a New York City resident
Must be completing 10th or 11th grade in June 2025
15. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)
The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) is a prestigious 4-week residential summer program for high-achieving high school students interested in STEM research. Hosted at four University of California campuses (UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, and UC Santa Cruz), the program includes college-level STEM coursework, hands-on research, and mentorship from faculty.
You’ll enroll in a thematic "cluster,” each focused on a different area of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Many clusters include computer science, robotics, artificial intelligence, and data science, allowing you to engage in computational research and problem-solving. The program also includes Discovery Lectures, where renowned scientists and engineers present on cutting-edge research topics.
A key component of COSMOS is the Final Research Project, where students work with faculty mentors to design, conduct, and present original research. You’ll gain access to university labs, libraries, and scientific resources, culminating in a STEM symposium presentation on the last day of the program.
Location: University of California campuses (Davis, Irvine, San Diego, Santa Cruz)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; clusters enroll 20–25 students each
Dates: July 6 - August 2
Application Deadline: February 7
Eligibility: Rising 8th graders to rising 11th graders who reside in California
Image Source - NYU Logo