If you are a high school student with an interest in engineering and space, you should consider doing an internship! Securing an aerospace engineering internship as a high school student is no small feat, given how competitive it is and the advanced skill set required for these positions. Nonetheless, if you're passionate about diving into the world of mechanics, aerodynamics, and material sciences, landing one of these internships will significantly bolster your applications. 

To make things easier, we have compiled a list of the top 5 aerospace engineering programs that you should definitely keep on your radar.

1. NASA OSTEM High School Internship Programs

Location: NASA centers across the country

Cost: Free and students will be awarded a stipend 

Application Deadline: May 26 (Fall), August 30 (Spring), October 20 (Summer)

Program Dates: Spring session (Mid January - Early May), Summer session (Late May - August), Fall session (Late August - Mid December)

Acceptance Rate: 5%

Eligibility:

• Be a U.S. citizen

• Have a cumulative 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)

• Be a full-time student

• Be a minimum of 16 years of age at the time of application 

If you're a high school student with a passion for aerospace engineering and space exploration, the NASA OSTEM (Office of STEM Engagement) High School Internship Programs are perfect for you. You'll have the chance to engage with cutting-edge technologies that are at the forefront of space exploration, satellite communication, and aerospace engineering. Whether your interest lies in the realm of robotics, software development, or the complex mechanics behind spacecraft, these internships are a great opportunity for you. 

You will work alongside NASA's seasoned mentors, including research scientists and engineers, gaining invaluable insights into what it means to work in MechE industries. The internships can be either full-time or part-time and might take place at a NASA center, a facility, or remotely.

For a deep dive into these programs, check out this article!

2. Air Force Research Laboratory Scholars Program 

Location: In-Person (Various locations across the US)

Cost: Free with weekly stipend of $468

Acceptance Rate: 8-10%

Program dates: June - August

Application Deadline: January 10 (based on previous years)

Eligibility: 

• A grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is highly encouraged for all applicants.

• Must be a US Citizen. Must be at least 16 years of age.

• Must be available to work full-time (40 hours per week) for summer internship positions

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program is a respected and competitive program designed to train the next generation of research and development leaders within the United States Air Force. This program offers you access to state-of-the-art laboratories, cutting-edge technologies, and mentorship from top experts in the aerospace and defense fields. 

You will engage in hands-on research projects that span a wide range of topics related to engineering, from aerospace engineering and materials science to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. The program will not only equip you with the technical skills and knowledge required to address complex challenges but also expose you to the strategic aspects of national defense. This program is a gateway for students to learn what it means to advance the capabilities of the U.S. Air Force while shaping the future of military technology and research.

3. MIT Beaverworks Summer Institute

Location: In-Person at MIT and Virtual

Cost: Free

Program dates: July 8 - August 4, 2024

Application Deadline: March 31, 2024

Acceptance Rate: Undisclosed

Eligibility: Current high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors

The Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI) is a good choice for students looking for a hands-on, immersive experience in the world of aerodynamics, autonomous systems, and aerospace engineering. Through BWSI, you will acquire practical, real-world skills such as designing, building, and programming robotic systems and deepening your understanding of aerospace engineering principles. The MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI) will provide you with a comprehensive foundation in Aerospace Engineering education via project-based learning. 

Since its inception in 2016, BWSI has expanded significantly, offering classes like Autonomous RACECAR Grand Prix, Autonomous Air Vehicle Racing, CubeSat Development, Design of Assistive Technology, and many more. Over the course of four weeks, you will engage in workshop-style courses that emphasize how theory can be applied to more practical, real-world projects. You’ll end the program with a functioning prototype, a research paper, or a presentation.

For a deep dive into BWSI, check out this article!

4. Research in Science and Engineering Internship (RISE)

Location: Boston University

Cost: $8246

Acceptance Rate: 7%

Program dates: June 30 - August 9, 2024

Application Deadline: March 1, 2024

Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who are US citizens

The Research in Science and Engineering Internship (RISE) is a great program for you if you are interested in aerospace engineering. You will get to dive into cutting-edge scientific research, particularly in the aerospace engineering field.

You will work closely with experienced mentors and researchers in a laboratory or research setting, allowing you to gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment. You not only learn the theoretical foundations but also practical skills that are essential for aerospace engineering, such as CAD design, data analysis, and materials testing. At the end of the program, you will present a research project that you’ve been working on within aerospace engineering.

Before you apply, you should know that RISE requires you to have a high level of independence, making it challenging if you are not prepared for such a demanding research experience. 

5. Ladder Internships - Engineering Track

Location: Virtual

Stipend: Unapid. Fee of $1,990. Up to 100% financial aid available. 

Application deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year (Winter cohort deadline on November 26, 2023)

Program dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year

Application Deadline: 

Eligibility: All high school students

Ladder Internships are great for you if you have an interest in aerospace engineering by providing real-world experience in engineering environments. As a Ladder Intern, you will be exposed to various aspects of aerospace engineering, ranging from basic design principles to advanced manufacturing processes. This program places you in settings where you can observe and participate in the development, testing, and refinement of mechanical systems. Whether it's working on automotive parts, robotics, or HVAC systems, you'll gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience that is invaluable for a future engineer. 

Ladder Internships are designed to not only provide you with technical skills but also to develop your problem-solving and analytical abilities. Through tasks such as drafting designs, assisting in simulations, and collaborating on project teams, you will learn how to approach engineering challenges creatively and efficiently. 

For a detailed review on Ladder internships, check out this article!

Looking for an immersive internship experience?

Check out Ladder Internships!

Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program where students work with startups and nonprofits from around the world! The startups range across a variety of industries. As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup they are working with, and present their work at the end of their internship. In addition to working closely with their manager from the startup, each intern will also work with a Ladder Coach throughout their internship. Apply now!

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