20 Best Free Research Programs for High School Students
If you’re a high school student, research programs are an excellent way to explore your chosen field and gain hands-on experience. You’ll develop valuable skills and work on real projects while connecting with industry professionals. Many prestigious organizations offer these opportunities, and some programs are free or even provide a stipend. This makes it a cost-effective way to enhance your resume and get a head start on your academic future!
The experience, skills, and professional connections you gain will set you apart, helping you stand out in competitive admissions or job markets. To help get you started, we’ve compiled this list of the 20 best free research programs for high school students!
1. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) by the Department of Navy
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Stipend: $4,000 stipend (new participants); $4,500 stipend (returning participants)
Application Deadline: November 1
Program Dates: June - August (8 weeks)
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16 years old, have completed Grade 9, and are U.S. citizens can apply.
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is a competitive 8-week, full-time summer internship within Department of Navy laboratories. With around 300 spots in 38 labs, you’ll collaborate with top Navy scientists and engineers in areas such as cybersecurity, software development, and robotics.
You will work closely with mentors on real Navy research projects, gaining hands-on experience in labs that specialize in fields like Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR). Participants are encouraged to bring their academic knowledge into practical settings, applying concepts to solve complex, real-world challenges.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars.
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
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.
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects.
Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here.
3. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research (SIMR) Program - Bioengineering Internship
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Stipend: At least a $500 stipend, but those from underrepresented groups in biomedical research may get $1500 through special grants.
Application Deadline: February 22
Program Dates: June 9 - July 3
Eligibility: Current juniors or seniors who are at least 16 years of age are eligible.
The SIMR Bioengineering Internship is an 8-week program where you work one-on-one with a Stanford graduate student or postdoctoral fellow on cutting-edge biomedical research. SIMR offers research opportunities across eight disciplines, including immunology, neurobiology, cancer biology, cardiovascular medicine, bioengineering, and bioinformatics. As a participant, you’ll conduct hands-on research, receive personalized mentorship, and attend lectures and workshops on topics like data analysis, scientific methods, and professional development.
This highly competitive program admits about 50 students, with an acceptance rate below 3%. In the final two weeks, you'll create a research poster to present your findings to peers, mentors, and the Stanford community.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Cost: Need-based scholarship available
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June - August), Fall (September - December), Winter (December - February), and Spring (March - June).
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!
The Lumiere Research Scholars Program is a rigorous, research-focused initiative designed for high school students interested in exploring various fields. You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more.
Students work one-on-one with Ph.D. mentors from top universities such as Harvard, MIT, and Oxford, developing in-depth research projects that culminate in a university-level research paper. The program is flexible, offering 12-week to one-year tracks, allowing students to manage their research alongside their regular school commitments.
Research topics and timelines are customized based on individual interests and schedules, making it suitable for high school students of various academic levels. You can find more details about the application here.
5. MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute - CogWorks
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Application Deadlines:
Online Course: Applications open in December and close in January
Summer Institute: Applications open on March 3 and close on March 31
Program Dates:
Online Course: February 3 – June 20
Four-week Virtual Summer Institute: July 7 – August 3
Eligibility: High school students who have completed their sophomore or junior year are eligible to apply. Completion of the online course is mandatory to participate in the Summer Institute.
The CogWorks program at MIT’s Beaver Works Summer Institute gives high school students hands-on experience in building AI assistants using machine learning. It starts with an online course where you will cover Python, Git, natural language processing, and machine learning basics. Then, in a four-week summer session, students work in teams to design and test AI systems using tools like Amazon Alexa and open-source software.
The program includes daily lectures, and interactive projects, and ends with a final competition where teams showcase their AI assistants.
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free (students are only responsible for transportation to and from MIT)
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: Late June to early August (6 weeks)
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are high school juniors
The MITES Summer Program is a prestigious, 6-week residential experience that introduces high school juniors to advanced STEM topics. You will participate in rigorous coursework and hands-on projects that cover subjects often unavailable in high school, such as engineering design, biotechnology, and physics. In addition to academics, students engage in workshops, lab tours, and interactive sessions with MIT faculty and researchers, offering exposure to the cutting-edge science conducted at the institute.
7. MIT’s Research Science Institute (RSI)
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free
Application deadline: December 11
Program dates: June 22 - August 2
Eligibility: High School Juniors only (U.S. and International)
The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a fully-funded, 6-week program that immerses students in a dynamic research environment, providing them with a unique opportunity to experience the entire scientific research cycle — from intensive STEM coursework to hands-on research projects. The program kicks off with 1 week of intensive classes in STEM subjects taught by MIT faculty. Students then spend the next five weeks conducting original research in various STEM fields, such as physics, computer science, chemistry, biology, and more. Each year, about 80 students are selected from a highly competitive pool.
In 2019, only 5% of applicants were accepted. To be competitive, students should have strong research experience. International students should check their country’s eligibility.
8. Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) High School Internships
Location: Various labs across the U.S.; Virtual options are available too.
Stipend: Varies depending on location and project
Application Deadline: Rolling. Applications open on December 4 and remain open throughout the year.
Program Dates: Summer (specific dates vary by project and lab)
Eligibility: Those applying must be current high school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents. Additional eligibility requirements vary by location. Check details here.
The AEOP High School Internship program gives high school students a chance to work on real research with university scientists or Department of Defense (DoD) experts. As an intern, you'll get hands-on experience using advanced lab equipment and learn from STEM professionals. The research you’ll do is Army-sponsored and focuses on solving big challenges in the U.S.
Whether your interests lie in plasma propulsion, quantum science, or electrical engineering, AEOP offers you access to cutting-edge research labs and facilities that few high school students get to experience. You’ll also receive mentorship from top professionals in the field, providing you with insights and guidance for future academic or career paths.
9. Young Scholars Program (YSP) at Northeastern University
Location: Northeastern University, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February 20
Dates: June 23 – July 31
Eligibility: Open to Massachusetts residents (within commuting distance of Northeastern University) who are rising high school seniors. More info here.
The Young Scholars Program (YSP) at Northeastern University offers an immersive summer experience for rising high school seniors interested in engineering. The program focuses on hands-on research and innovation, allowing you to work with faculty from Northeastern’s College of Engineering.
You’ll explore various engineering fields through research projects, like agent-based modeling, battery chemistries, cancer therapies, and more. The program also includes seminars and workshops on topics such as radar systems, robotics, and laser technology.
In addition to research, you’ll visit companies and government facilities, including Biogen, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, and MIT Chemical Engineering Labs. Career counseling and guidance will help you plan your future in engineering and STEM.
10. Heithoff-Brody High School Scholars Program at the Salk Institute
Location: Salk Institute, La Jolla, CA
Stipend: $17 per hour
Application Deadline: March 5
Program Dates: June 16 - August 8 | 30-40 hours per week
Eligibility:
Be a San Diego County resident and have completed your most recent semester at a public or private high school in the county.
Be at least 16 years old by June 16, 2025.
Be available to work 30-40 hours per week from June 16 to August 8.
Have completed at least one year of high school chemistry and biology.
Have a minimum GPA of 2.75.
Provide your own transportation.
If under 18, you must be able to get a work permit from your school after being hired. (Check your school counseling office for more info.)
The Heithoff-Brody High School Scholars Program is an 8-week paid internship where you will get practical experience in conducting research, helping you figure out which STEM field you wish to pursue. At the Salk Institute, you’ll dive into cutting-edge research projects in a competitive environment with scientists, researchers, and scholars.
During this program, you will also learn practical laboratory techniques for various research projects. This means you will have the opportunity to gain real-life laboratory and research experience, which will help you sharpen the mental tools needed for both an academic and professional STEM career.
Location: Various NASA centers in the country. There are also options for remote participation, depending on the project.
Stipend: Interns may receive a stipend dependent on internship, academic level, and session length.
Application Deadline:
Summer 2025: February 28
Fall 2025: May 16
Program Dates:
Summer Session: 10 weeks, typically from late May or early June to August
Fall Session: 16 weeks, typically from late August or early September to mid-December
Eligibility:
Must be a full-time high school student with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
Must be a U.S. citizen
NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers free internship opportunities in engineering fields related to space exploration and scientific research. As a participant, you can work in a great variety of disciplines, from space science, aeronautics, engineering, technology, space microbiology, to outreach and communications.
You’ll work on projects under the guidance of experienced mentors, gaining hands-on experience in tasks like research, data analysis, and contributing to ongoing engineering projects. Current internships are available in areas like Structural Design, Special Test Equipment Analysis, Data Science, and Software Development. Check here for available positions.
Location: Virtual
Cost/stipend: $850 + $40 application fee
Application Deadline: February 28
Program Dates: June 16 - 27
Eligibility:
High school students over the age of 14 at the start of the program
Students with a mathematical/computer science background or students with experience in the healthcare sector are given preference
Only students in the US may apply
The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging offers a two-week summer internship for high school students interested in technology and AI. This program provides a foundational understanding of AI and its impact on healthcare.
You’ll attend introductory and intermediate lectures on AI in healthcare, and work on activities with Stanford Student Leads and researchers. There will also be hands-on group tasks, social activities, and regular "Lunch and Learn" sessions with guest speakers from academia, non-profits, and government. For those interested, there’s an option for an independent research internship as well.
13. George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: In-person and hybrid at George Mason University, Fairfax, VA (with virtual options available)
Cost: Free ($25 application fee required)
Application Deadline: February 2
Program Dates: June 18 - August 8
Eligibility: Must be 15 years or older at the beginning of the program
ASSIP is an 8-week program where students work with faculty researchers on real-world projects using advanced technology. Each internship is structured by the mentor, offering hands-on experience in different STEM fields. Along the way, you'll develop skills in communication, creativity, and scientific writing. Some research projects may even be published in journals or presented at conferences.
14. Princeton University’s Laboratory Learning Program
Location: Princeton University, Princeton, NJ
Cost: Free
Application deadline: March 15
Program dates: Depends on the completion of the research project; it’s a full-time program that spans 5-6 weeks over the summer
Eligibility:
The students must be sixteen or older by June 15th of the year of application.
If enrolled in a US high school, graduates who have not turned 18 by June 15th, may apply.
The Laboratory Learning Program (LLP) at Princeton University offers high school students the chance to engage in hands-on research in the sciences or engineering. Here you will work closely with Princeton’s faculty and research staff on active projects, gaining practical skills and contributing to ongoing research. Each project is tailored to the specific needs of the research team. LLP focuses on academic rigor and professional mentorship, providing an immersive experience in scientific inquiry.
15. New Jersey Governor's School in the Sciences
Location: Drew University, Madison, NJ
Cost: Free (tuition covered by the state)
Application Deadline: Typically in January
Program Dates: July 7 – 27
Eligibility: High school juniors resident in New Jersey who are nominated by their high school
The Governor’s School of New Jersey Program in the Sciences (GSNJS) is a 3-week residential program at Drew University, where high school students conduct college-level research. As a GSNJS scholar, you'll take intensive courses, attend guest lectures from leading scientists, and work on group research projects under the guidance of Drew University faculty. This prestigious program is designed for rising seniors. The project is managed by OSHE, a partner in the initiative.
16. Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science Summer Research Program
Location: Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science, New Brunswick, NJ
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: Third week of June until the second week of August (8 Weeks)
Eligibility:
Student must be 16 years old at start date to be considered
Applicants must be currently enrolled in high school
Students must be entering sophomore, junior, or senior year of high school
GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or all A’s and B’s in math and science classes
The RITMS Summer Research Program is an 8-week research experience in biomedical sciences and translational medicine. As a research intern, you'll join a research team, contribute to real-world projects, and learn how scientific discoveries move from the lab to clinical applications. Throughout the program, you’ll participate in mentored lab work, scientific discussions, and career development sessions, deepening your understanding of disease mechanisms, drug development, and healthcare innovation.
Participants join research teams, help plan and analyze experiments, and present their results, all with guidance from experienced mentors.
17. EnergyMag Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: Applications are open all year round, you can apply here.
Program Dates: Flexible durations are available:
Half-time internships: 2 to 8 weeks, requiring 20 hours per week.
Quarter-time internships: 1 to 9 months, requiring 8 hours per week.
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors only who have taken at least one honors science or honors English class.
EnergyMag offers virtual research internships for high school students interested in renewable energy. You'll work in a startup-style environment, developing research and analytical skills by exploring companies, technologies, and market trends in this growing field. The program is flexible, with part-time options lasting 2 to 8 weeks, requiring 20 hours per week.
Each intern is paired with a mentor who provides support throughout the research process, from gathering and synthesizing information to drafting reports. After completing the internship, students receive a Letter of Accomplishment to highlight their work.
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Stipend: Interns receive a stipend of at least $1000
Application Deadline: February 21
Program Dates: June 2 - August 8
Eligibility: High school students who are completing their 10th or 11th grade
The NYU Tandon ARISE program is a ten-week program that has 4 weeks of online workshops followed by 6 weeks of in-person labs. You will conduct hands-on research in interdisciplinary STEM subjects, such as Bio-and Molecular Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, AI, and Machine Learning. You will be assigned to a lab based on the matching process.
The program includes workshops on topics like scientific ethics, data collection, research practices, and lab safety. You'll also receive college advising to help with the application process.
19. City Tech - College Now STEM Research Academy
Location: New York City College of Technology, New York, NY
Stipend: $1,575 stipend for the summer research internship
Application Deadline: December 13
Program Dates:
Spring Science Research Course: February 8 - May 31
Summer Research Internship: June 26 - August 15
Eligibility: High school sophomores or juniors in a NYC public high school are eligible to apply.
The College Now STEM Research Academy at City Tech is a two-part program designed for NYC public school students interested in scientific research. In the first phase, you will participate in a free pre-college research course in the spring, where you learn to develop research questions, design experiments, and analyze scientific literature. This hybrid course includes on-campus and remote sessions, along with field research in Brooklyn.
Students who perform well in the spring course may be selected for the Summer STEM Research Internship, where they engage in hands-on laboratory research under the mentorship of CUNY faculty. Interns conduct their own research projects, write research papers, and present their findings at the Summer Science Symposium at the American Museum of Natural History.
20. Stony Brook University - Simons Summer Research Program
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
Stipend: Interns receive a stipend.
Application Deadline: February 7
Program Dates: June 30 - August 8
Eligibility: High school juniors who are at least 16 years old at the start of the program are eligible to apply.
The Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University pairs students with mentors or places them in groups to work on a research project. During the program, you will collaborate with faculty mentors, contributing to active research projects and gaining practical experience in scientific investigation. The program includes weekly faculty research talks, workshops, and events.
By the end of the program, you will deliver a research abstract and poster, which will be presented at the poster symposium. You will also receive a stipend when the program concludes.
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