In today's interconnected world, high school students are increasingly encouraged to explore their interests, develop new skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Hackathons provide an excellent opportunity for students to unleash their creativity, tackle real-world problems, and collaborate with peers in a supportive and dynamic environment. 

From coding challenges to design sprints, hackathons foster innovation and empower students to apply their knowledge to address pressing social, environmental, and technological issues. In this article, we have compiled a list of  25 hackathon project ideas specifically curated for high school students! 

1. Virtual Tutoring Platform

Create a platform where high school students can connect with tutors virtually for various subjects. Students would need to develop a user-friendly interface for scheduling sessions, implementing video conferencing features, and integrating payment systems securely.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of video conferencing APIs, understanding of database management, and experience with payment gateway integration.

Drawbacks: Ensuring security and privacy of user data could be challenging. Managing user accounts and profiles effectively can also be complex.

Tips: Prioritize user experience and security features. Test the platform thoroughly to ensure smooth functionality across different devices and browsers.

Resources: Utilize frameworks like React.js for frontend development, integrate APIs like Zoom or WebRTC for video conferencing, and study secure coding practices.

2. Environmental Awareness App

Develop a mobile application that educates users about environmental issues, offers tips for sustainable living, and allows users to track their eco-friendly habits. Students would need to design engaging user interfaces, implement geolocation features for local environmental information, and integrate databases for storing user activity.

Skills Required: Proficiency in mobile app development (iOS/Android), knowledge of geolocation APIs, familiarity with database management systems, and UI/UX design skills.

Drawbacks: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date environmental data might pose a challenge. Ensuring user engagement and retention over time could also be difficult.

Tips: Gamify the app to encourage user participation and habit-building. Collaborate with environmental organizations for credible information and potential partnerships.

Resources: Use platforms like Flutter or React Native for cross-platform development, integrate APIs like Google Maps for geolocation services, and explore Firebase or MongoDB for database management.

3. Virtual Art Gallery

Create a virtual platform where artists can showcase their work and art enthusiasts can explore various artworks virtually. Students would need to design immersive virtual environments, implement features for artist profiles and artwork categorization, and integrate secure payment systems for art purchases.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, familiarity with virtual reality (VR) technologies, understanding of e-commerce platforms, and UI/UX design skills.

Drawbacks: Creating realistic virtual environments can be resource-intensive. Ensuring copyright protection for artists' work and secure transactions is crucial.

Tips: Prioritize optimizing load times and performance for smooth user experience. Provide interactive elements to engage visitors and encourage exploration.

Resources: Explore frameworks like A-Frame or Three.js for VR development, integrate payment gateways like Stripe or PayPal, and study UX principles for immersive digital experiences.

4. Health and Fitness Tracker

Develop a comprehensive health and fitness application that allows users to track their physical activity, monitor nutrition intake, and set personalized fitness goals. Students would need to implement features for activity tracking, calorie counting, and progress visualization, along with integrating wearable device compatibility for data synchronization.

Skills Required: Proficiency in mobile app development, knowledge of health and fitness APIs, understanding of data visualization techniques, and UI/UX design skills.

Drawbacks: Ensuring accuracy and reliability of health data can be challenging. Balancing user privacy with data collection needs careful consideration.

Tips: Gamify fitness goals to motivate users and encourage long-term engagement. Collaborate with nutritionists or fitness experts for expert input on features and content.

Resources: Utilize platforms like Android Studio or Xcode for app development, integrate APIs like Google Fit or Apple HealthKit, and explore charting libraries for data visualization.

5. Language Learning Game

Design a fun and interactive game-based platform to help users learn a new language. Students would need to create engaging game mechanics that reinforce language skills such as vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, along with implementing progress tracking and personalized learning pathways.

Skills Required: Proficiency in game development, knowledge of language learning methodologies, understanding of database management for user progress tracking, and UI/UX design skills.

Drawbacks: Balancing game mechanics with effective language learning strategies can be challenging. Ensuring that the game remains engaging and educational for users of different proficiency levels is essential.

Tips: Incorporate multimedia elements like audio and visuals to enhance learning. Provide opportunities for social interaction, such as multiplayer features or leaderboards.

Resources: Utilize game engines like Unity or Godot for development, integrate language learning APIs like Duolingo or Babbel, and explore user interface design principles for intuitive navigation.

6. Community Volunteer Connection Platform

Develop a web platform that connects volunteers with local community service opportunities and nonprofit organizations. Students would need to create user-friendly interfaces for browsing volunteer opportunities, implementing search and filtering functionalities, and integrating communication features for coordination between volunteers and organizations.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of database management for storing volunteer and organization data, understanding of secure user authentication systems, and UI/UX design skills.

Drawbacks: Ensuring the authenticity and credibility of volunteer opportunities and organizations can be challenging. Managing communication channels effectively while respecting user privacy is crucial.

Tips: Collaborate with local nonprofits and community organizations for input on platform features and usability. Implement features for volunteer feedback and reviews to foster trust within the community.

Resources: Use frameworks like Django or Ruby on Rails for web development, integrate mapping APIs like Google Maps for location-based services, and explore user authentication libraries for secure login systems.

7. STEM Education Resource Portal

Create an online portal that provides resources, tutorials, and interactive activities for students interested in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Students would need to curate educational content, design intuitive navigation for accessing resources, and implement features for user engagement such as forums or discussion boards.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of content management systems for organizing resources, understanding of user engagement strategies, and UI/UX design skills.

Drawbacks: Ensuring the accuracy and relevance of educational content across different STEM disciplines can be challenging. Maintaining user interest and participation over time requires consistent updates and community involvement.

Tips: Collaborate with educators and professionals in STEM fields to curate high-quality content. Implement interactive elements like quizzes or simulations to enhance learning experiences.

Resources: Utilize platforms like WordPress or Drupal for content management, integrate multimedia tools for creating interactive content, and explore community-building plugins for user interaction.

8. Mental Health Support App

Develop a mobile application that offers mental health resources, coping strategies, and support networks for users dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Students would need to implement features for anonymous peer support chats, mood tracking, access to professional resources, and crisis intervention hotlines.

Skills Required: Proficiency in mobile app development, knowledge of mental health support services and resources, understanding of secure data storage and encryption for sensitive user information, and UI/UX design skills with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity.

Drawbacks: Ensuring the confidentiality and security of user data is paramount and can be challenging. Providing accurate and helpful mental health resources requires careful vetting and collaboration with mental health professionals.

Tips: Prioritize user privacy and data protection throughout the development process. Incorporate features for self-care reminders and mindfulness exercises to promote holistic well-being.

Resources: Utilize frameworks like React Native or Swift for app development, integrate mental health APIs like Crisis Text Line or Talkspace, and study accessibility guidelines for designing inclusive interfaces.

9. Financial Literacy Simulation Game

Create an interactive simulation game that teaches high school students the fundamentals of personal finance, including budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. Students would need to design realistic financial scenarios, implement decision-making mechanics, and provide feedback and educational resources to help players improve their financial literacy skills.

Skills Required: Proficiency in game development, knowledge of financial concepts and principles, understanding of data modeling for simulating financial scenarios, and UI/UX design skills with a focus on clarity and ease of use.

Drawbacks: Balancing realism with game mechanics to keep the experience engaging and educational can be challenging. Ensuring that players receive accurate and relevant feedback requires careful calibration of simulation parameters.

Tips: Incorporate real-world examples and case studies to illustrate financial concepts in context. Provide opportunities for reflection and debriefing after gameplay to reinforce learning outcomes.

Resources: Utilize game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine for development, integrate financial APIs for real-time market data, and collaborate with financial educators for content development and validation.

10. Civic Engagement Platform

Develop an online platform that facilitates civic engagement and political participation among high school students, providing information on local elections, government processes, and advocacy opportunities. Students would need to design features for voter registration, community forums, petition signing, and event coordination, while ensuring user privacy and security.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of government and political processes, understanding of secure data handling and user authentication, and UI/UX design skills with an emphasis on accessibility and usability.

Drawbacks: Navigating legal and regulatory requirements related to political activities and voter registration can be complex. Building a diverse and inclusive community that encourages civil discourse and respectful engagement requires proactive moderation and community management.

Tips: Partner with local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders to promote the platform and provide accurate information and resources. Foster a culture of civic responsibility and empowerment among users through education and outreach efforts.

Resources: Utilize frameworks like Django or Ruby on Rails for web development, integrate civic engagement APIs for voter registration and election information, and study best practices in online community moderation and facilitation.

11. Virtual Career Fair Platform

Create an online platform that connects high school students with career exploration opportunities, internships, and job shadowing experiences offered by local businesses and organizations. Students would need to design features for virtual booths, interactive presentations, and networking sessions, as well as tools for scheduling appointments and managing follow-up communication.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of career development and recruitment processes, understanding of database management for storing participant information, and UI/UX design skills with an emphasis on user engagement and accessibility.

Drawbacks: Coordinating schedules and logistics for virtual events can be challenging, particularly with multiple stakeholders involved. Ensuring that participants have meaningful and productive interactions with employers and mentors requires careful planning and facilitation.

Tips: Partner with local schools, businesses, and industry associations to promote the platform and recruit participants. Provide resources and guidance to help students prepare for networking and professional interactions, such as resume writing workshops and interview practice sessions.

Resources: Utilize platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams for virtual event hosting, integrate scheduling and communication tools like Calendly or Slack, and collaborate with career counselors and industry professionals for content development and mentorship.

12. Interactive History Timeline 

Develop an interactive timeline application that allows users to explore historical events, figures, and movements across different time periods and regions. Students would need to curate content from reliable sources, design intuitive navigation for exploring the timeline, and implement multimedia features such as videos, images, and primary source documents.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web or mobile app development, knowledge of historical research methods and sources, understanding of data visualization techniques, and UI/UX design skills with a focus on storytelling and engagement.

Drawbacks: Curating and organizing historical content can be time-consuming and requires attention to accuracy and context. Balancing breadth and depth of coverage to provide a comprehensive yet accessible overview of history presents a significant challenge.

Tips: Collaborate with historians, educators, and cultural institutions to ensure that the timeline reflects diverse perspectives and voices from different eras and regions. Incorporate interactive elements such as quizzes, maps, and timelines within specific events or periods to encourage deeper exploration and understanding.

Resources: Utilize frameworks like React.js or Vue.js for web development, integrate historical APIs and databases for content aggregation and verification, and explore open-access repositories and archives for multimedia assets and primary sources.

13. Science Fair Project Repository

Create an online platform where high school students can share and explore science fair project ideas, resources, and outcomes. Students would need to design features for project submission, categorization, and search, as well as tools for peer review and feedback to facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of scientific inquiry and research methods, understanding of database management for storing project data and user contributions, and UI/UX design skills with a focus on usability and interactivity.

Drawbacks: Ensuring that projects adhere to ethical standards and safety protocols requires careful moderation and oversight. Encouraging participation and engagement among users while maintaining a supportive and constructive community environment may pose challenges.

Tips: Provide resources and guidelines to help students design and conduct scientifically rigorous and innovative projects, including experimental design, data analysis, and presentation skills. Foster a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing by highlighting exemplary projects and facilitating mentorship opportunities between students and experts in relevant fields.

Resources: Utilize platforms like GitHub or GitLab for project version control and collaboration, integrate multimedia tools for project documentation and presentation, and collaborate with science educators and researchers to develop educational materials and resources.

14. Community Garden Management App

Develop a mobile application that helps communities manage and organize shared gardening spaces, including task assignments, resource sharing, and communication among garden members. Students would need to design features for garden plot allocation, planting calendars, task reminders, and photo sharing to facilitate collaboration and community building.

Skills Required: Proficiency in mobile app development, knowledge of gardening practices and principles, understanding of user-centered design principles, and experience with backend development for data management and synchronization.

Drawbacks: Balancing the needs and preferences of diverse community members can be challenging, particularly regarding garden layout and resource allocation. Ensuring that the app remains accessible and inclusive for users with varying levels of gardening experience and technological proficiency requires thoughtful design and user testing.

Tips: Collaborate with local gardening organizations, community centers, and environmental groups to gather input and feedback from potential users. Provide educational resources and tutorials within the app to support users in developing their gardening skills and knowledge.

Resources: Utilize cross-platform development frameworks like Flutter or React Native for app development, integrate mapping and geolocation APIs for garden plot management, and leverage cloud-based storage solutions for data synchronization and backup.

15. Digital Portfolio Platform for Student Creativity

Create an online platform where high school students can showcase their creative projects, including artwork, writing, music, photography, and multimedia productions. Students would need to design customizable portfolios, implement features for multimedia content hosting and sharing, and provide tools for feedback and collaboration among users.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of digital media formats and production techniques, understanding of user interface design principles, and experience with content management systems and database integration.

Drawbacks: Managing copyright and intellectual property rights for user-generated content can be complex and requires clear policies and guidelines. Balancing individual expression and creativity with community standards and guidelines for appropriate content can pose challenges.

Tips: Provide users with control over privacy settings and visibility options for their portfolios and projects. Foster a supportive and constructive community environment by encouraging constructive feedback and collaboration among users.

Resources: Utilize platforms like WordPress or Squarespace for website development and content management, integrate multimedia hosting services like Vimeo or SoundCloud for media sharing, and explore frameworks and libraries for interactive and immersive web experiences.

16. Disaster Preparedness and Response App

Develop a mobile application that helps communities prepare for and respond to natural disasters and emergencies, including information on evacuation routes, emergency shelters, first aid procedures, and communication protocols. Students would need to design intuitive interfaces, implement real-time alerts and notifications, and integrate mapping and geolocation features for location-based assistance and resources.

Skills Required: Proficiency in mobile app development, knowledge of disaster management and emergency response protocols, understanding of user experience design principles, and experience with APIs for real-time data integration and communication.

Drawbacks: Ensuring the reliability and accuracy of information during fast-changing and high-stress situations requires robust backend infrastructure and data verification processes. Building trust and credibility among users and stakeholders in the community is essential for effective adoption and utilization of the app.

Tips: Collaborate with local emergency management agencies, first responders, and community organizations to gather input and feedback on app features and functionality. Provide users with educational resources and training materials to empower them to take proactive measures for disaster preparedness and response.

Resources: Utilize platforms like Firebase or AWS for backend infrastructure and real-time data synchronization, integrate mapping and geolocation APIs like Google Maps for location-based services, and collaborate with disaster management experts and organizations for content development and validation.

17. Community Fitness Challenge Platform

Create an online platform where community members can participate in fitness challenges, track their progress, and engage in friendly competition to promote health and wellness. Students would need to design features for challenge creation, participant registration, progress tracking, and leaderboards to encourage motivation and accountability.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of fitness and exercise principles, understanding of gamification techniques, and experience with database management for storing user data and activity logs.

Drawbacks: Balancing competitiveness with inclusivity and encouragement of all fitness levels can be challenging. Ensuring that challenges are safe and promote healthy habits requires careful planning and moderation.

Tips: Collaborate with fitness trainers, nutritionists, and health professionals to design challenges that are diverse, engaging, and aligned with wellness goals. Provide resources and support for participants to set realistic goals, track their progress, and celebrate their achievements.

Resources: Utilize frameworks like Django or Ruby on Rails for web development, integrate APIs for fitness tracking devices like Fitbit or Apple Watch, and leverage data visualization tools for displaying progress and statistics.

18. Language Exchange Platform 

Develop an online platform where users can connect with language learners from around the world to practice speaking and writing in different languages through virtual conversations and exchange programs. Students would need to design features for language pairing, scheduling sessions, providing feedback, and cultural exchange to facilitate language learning and intercultural communication.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of language learning methodologies, understanding of user authentication and communication protocols, and experience with community moderation and management.

Drawbacks: Managing user expectations and ensuring respectful and productive interactions across language and cultural barriers requires active moderation and intervention. Balancing the needs and preferences of users with varying language proficiency levels and learning goals can be challenging.

Tips: Implement features for user verification and feedback to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment. Provide resources and guidance for language learners to set goals, track progress, and access supplementary materials and resources.

Resources: Utilize frameworks like React.js or Angular for frontend development, integrate real-time communication APIs like WebRTC or Twilio for virtual conversations, and leverage language learning platforms and open educational resources for content and curriculum development.

19. Community Recipe Sharing Platform

Create an online platform where community members can share, discover, and collaborate on recipes, cooking tips, and culinary traditions from different cultures and cuisines. Students would need to design features for recipe submission, categorization, rating, and commenting to foster culinary creativity and cultural exchange.

Skills Required: Proficiency in web development, knowledge of culinary arts and cooking techniques, understanding of user-generated content platforms, and experience with data management and search algorithms.

Drawbacks: Ensuring that recipes are accurate, safe, and culturally respectful requires thorough review and moderation. Balancing user-generated content with curated resources and expert input can be challenging.

Tips: Provide users with tools and guidance for recipe testing, adaptation, and customization based on dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Encourage users to share stories, traditions, and cultural insights along with their recipes to promote connection and understanding.

Resources: Utilize content management systems like WordPress or Drupal for platform development, integrate multimedia and social sharing features for recipe presentation, and collaborate with chefs, food bloggers, and culinary experts for content curation and validation.

20. STEM Education Subscription Box Service

Develop a subscription-based service that delivers hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) learning kits to students on a monthly basis. Students would need to design educational activities, source materials for experiments and projects, manage inventory, and create engaging instructional materials.

Skills Required: Entrepreneurship skills, project management, knowledge of STEM concepts and education, understanding of logistics and supply chain management.

Drawbacks: Ensuring the quality and safety of materials in the kits is crucial and may require thorough research and testing. Managing subscriptions, shipping logistics, and customer support can be time-consuming and complex.

Tips: Collaborate with educators and STEM professionals to design curriculum-aligned activities that are age-appropriate and engaging. Invest in branding and marketing efforts to attract subscribers and build a loyal customer base.

Resources: Utilize e-commerce platforms for subscription management, partner with manufacturers and suppliers for sourcing materials, and leverage social media and online communities for marketing and promotion.

21. Interactive Science Museum Exhibits

Design interactive exhibits for a science museum that engage visitors of all ages in hands-on learning experiences. Students would need to develop concepts for exhibits, prototype interactive elements, conduct user testing, and collaborate with museum staff and exhibit designers.

Skills Required: Creativity, design thinking, knowledge of science principles, prototyping skills, collaboration and communication skills.

Drawbacks: Designing and building interactive exhibits can be resource-intensive and may require access to specialized equipment and materials. Ensuring that exhibits are accessible and inclusive to visitors with diverse backgrounds and abilities is essential but can be challenging.

Tips: Prioritize user experience and accessibility in exhibit design, incorporating principles of universal design where possible. Engage with museum visitors and gather feedback to iteratively improve exhibits and enhance visitor engagement.

Resources: Explore grants and funding opportunities for museum exhibit development, collaborate with STEM educators and researchers for content development, and leverage emerging technologies such as augmented reality and virtual reality for interactive experiences.

22. Renewable Energy Awareness Campaign

Develop a multimedia campaign to raise awareness about renewable energy sources and their importance for sustainability. Students would need to create content for social media, organize educational events and workshops, collaborate with environmental organizations, and measure the impact of the campaign.

Skills Required: Content creation (writing, graphic design, video production), social media marketing, event planning, partnership development, data analysis and reporting.

Drawbacks: Generating widespread awareness and engagement with the campaign may require significant effort and resources. Effectively communicating complex scientific concepts and addressing misconceptions about renewable energy can be challenging.

Tips: Tailor messaging and content to target audiences, emphasizing the benefits of renewable energy in terms of environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Partner with influencers, community leaders, and local businesses to amplify the reach of the campaign.

Resources: Utilize social media analytics tools for tracking engagement and reach, collaborate with experts in renewable energy and environmental science for content development, and explore grant opportunities for funding the campaign.

23. Community Science Project

Initiate a community science project that engages residents in collecting data and conducting research on local environmental issues. Students would need to design research protocols, recruit and train volunteers, analyze data, and communicate findings to the community and relevant stakeholders.

Skills Required: Scientific inquiry, research design, community engagement, data analysis, science communication.

Drawbacks: Recruiting and retaining volunteers for long-term projects may be challenging and require ongoing community outreach and support. Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data collected by citizen scientists requires careful training and quality control measures.

Tips: Foster a sense of ownership and participation among community members by involving them in project planning and decision-making processes. Provide training and resources to volunteers to build their capacity for data collection and analysis.

Resources: Collaborate with local universities, environmental organizations, and government agencies for guidance and support, leverage online platforms for data management and analysis, and prioritize transparency and open access to project findings and outcomes.

24. Accessible Playground Design

Design an accessible playground that accommodates children of all abilities and promotes inclusive play experiences. Students would need to conduct research on accessible design principles, engage with community members and stakeholders, develop design proposals, and advocate for funding and implementation.

Skills Required: Design thinking, accessibility awareness, community engagement, project management, advocacy and fundraising.

Drawbacks: Designing and building accessible playgrounds may require compliance with specific regulations and standards, which can vary by location and jurisdiction. Balancing the diverse needs and preferences of different user groups while maintaining a cohesive and functional design can be challenging.

Tips: Prioritize safety, accessibility, and inclusivity in playground design, incorporating features such as ramps, sensory play elements, and wheelchair-accessible equipment. Seek input and feedback from parents, caregivers, and children with disabilities throughout the design process.

Resources: Collaborate with accessible design experts and organizations for guidance and support, explore crowdfunding and grant opportunities for funding the project, and engage with local government officials and park authorities for approval and implementation.

25. Tech for Social Good Hackathon

Organize a hackathon focused on developing technology solutions to address social and environmental challenges in the community. Students would need to plan the event, recruit participants and mentors, facilitate team formation, and coordinate project presentations and judging.

Skills Required: Event planning and management, project coordination, community outreach, technology expertise, communication and leadership.

Drawbacks: Organizing a successful hackathon requires careful planning and coordination across multiple stakeholders and logistics. Ensuring that projects align with real-world needs and have a meaningful impact beyond the event itself can be challenging.

Tips: Define clear goals and themes for the hackathon, focusing on pressing social and environmental issues facing the community. Provide resources, mentorship, and technical support to participants throughout the hackathon, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Resources: Collaborate with local organizations, businesses, and academic institutions for sponsorship and support, leverage online platforms for event registration and communication, and highlight successful projects and partnerships to inspire future collaborations.

If you’re looking to build unique projects in the field of AI/ML, consider applying to Veritas AI! 

Veritas AI was founded by Harvard graduate students, and through the programs, you get a chance to learn the fundamentals of AI and computer science while collaborating on real-world projects. You can also 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 data science and AI with us. You can apply here!