8 Free AI Programs for Middle School Students
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping the future of nearly every industry, and for middle school students, it’s never too early to start exploring this transformative field. Free AI programs provide a unique opportunity to dive into cutting-edge technologies, understand how AI impacts the world, and develop valuable skills through hands-on learning experiences.
Designed with beginners in mind, these programs introduce core concepts like machine learning, neural networks, and real-world AI applications in an approachable and engaging way. For those curious about technology or considering potential career paths in AI, we’ve compiled 8 free AI programs for middle school students designed to foster your critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: None (registration required at course start)
Program Dates: Available year-round
Google offers a collection of free, beginner-friendly AI courses designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These resources are a great starting point for middle school students and anyone eager to explore the potential of AI without needing prior technical experience.
Key offerings include:
Machine Learning Crash Course (MLCC): This comprehensive course combines interactive lessons, coding exercises, and real-world examples to teach foundational AI concepts like neural networks, classification models, and ethical AI considerations.
Teachable Machine: A hands-on platform that allows students to build simple machine-learning models without coding experience. Users can train AI to recognize images, sounds, or poses, making it an interactive and accessible entry point to AI.
The courses are entirely self-paced, encouraging students to explore AI applications across various fields such as healthcare, entertainment, and education. By providing interactive content and practical activities, these programs can provide essential skills and insights into the growing influence of AI in everyday life.
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Program Dates:
Summer Immersion Program (SIP): Multiple 2-week sessions during the summer; exact dates for 2025 to be confirmed.
Self-Paced Program: 6 weeks to complete coursework at your own pace
Eligibility: Students who identify as female, non-binary, or gender nonconforming, of grades 6-12
Girls Who Code offers free virtual summer programs designed to equip high school students who identify as female, non-binary, or gender nonconforming, with essential computer science skills and insights into the tech industry. These programs cater to various experience levels, from beginners to those with prior coding knowledge. There are two virtual program offerings:
Summer Immersion Program (SIP): This 2-week virtual program features live, instructor-led classes sponsored by leading tech companies. Students delve into game design, coding, user experience (UX) design principles, and the iterative design process. Participants also engage with industry professionals, gaining mentorship and exposure to tech careers. U.S.-based students with financial need may qualify for a $300 grant.
Self-Paced Program: Offering flexibility, this 6-week self-paced program allows students to independently explore topics such as web development, cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence. Participants learn coding languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python, with opportunities to build community through live events.
Both programs foster a collaborative and immersive environment, equipping students with valuable skills, professional connections, and a strong foundation for future tech careers.
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual and in-person camps across various U.S. cities
Application Deadline: Rolling basis (Priority applications due by March)
Program Dates: Multiple 2-week sessions during the summer; exact dates for 2025 to be announced
Eligibility: Young women and gender-expansive youth aged 13–18
Kode With Klossy offers free, 2-week coding bootcamps designed to empower young women and gender-expansive teens in the field of technology. The camps provide an inclusive environment where participants can build coding skills while forming connections with like-minded peers and mentors.
Participants can choose from four specialized tracks:
Web Development: Learn to build websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Mobile App Development: Develop mobile applications, focusing on user experience and functionality.
Data Science & Visualization: Explore data analysis techniques and create visual representations of data.
Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence: Understand AI fundamentals and design machine learning models.
Regardless of prior experience, participants will learn fundamental coding concepts and work on hands-on projects, gaining practical skills in tech. The curriculum not only covers technical skills but also encourages discussions on the cultural aspects of technology, aiming to spark a lifelong passion for STEM fields.
4. SUCCESS: A Survey of Computing, Coding, and Engineering Software Systems
Cost: Free
Location: Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Application Deadline: TBD
Dates: July 9-12, 2024 (Tuesday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM)
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-12
The SUCCESS: A Survey of Computing, Coding, and Engineering Software Systems camp at Arizona State University (ASU) is designed to introduce middle and high school students to various computing fields through hands-on, engaging activities. No prior programming experience is required—just a willingness to explore computing as a potential pathway for future study.
Over the course of this weeklong camp, participants will explore various fields of computing, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented and Virtual Reality, Mobile and Web Development, Game Development, Embedded Systems, and Cybersecurity. Students will have the opportunity to create their own games, experiment with virtual reality headsets, build an LED message wall, develop AI-based web applications, and enhance their cybersecurity skills.
Designed to be fun and experiential, the camp provides a comprehensive introduction to computing, fostering curiosity and enthusiasm for technology. Lunch is not provided, and participants should plan accordingly.
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: None (registration required)
Program Dates: Available year-round
Eligibility: Designed for students in grades 6–12
"How AI Works" is a comprehensive educational series developed by Code.org to introduce students to artificial intelligence (AI) and its significance in today's world. Through a series of short videos and accompanying classroom lessons, students explore core AI concepts, including machine learning, neural networks, and computer vision, as well as ethical considerations like bias and privacy.
The curriculum is structured to allow flexibility, enabling educators and students to select individual lessons based on specific topics or engage with the entire series for a more in-depth understanding. The program also delves into important ethical considerations, such as bias, privacy, and the responsible use of AI. Additionally, students will discover how AI powers technologies like computer vision and impacts industries such as healthcare, finance, and entertainment. This program is an excellent resource for middle and high school students interested in understanding the impact of AI and developing critical thinking skills related to emerging technologies.
6. IBM’s Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: None; open for enrollment year-round
Program Dates: Self-paced; start anytime
The Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) course, offered by IBM on Coursera, provides a comprehensive overview of AI concepts and their applications across various industries. Designed for beginners, this course covers essential AI concepts, including machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks. Participants will explore generative AI models, such as large language models (LLMs), and learn how these technologies power applications in natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and robotics.
The course emphasizes AI’s potential to revolutionize the way we work and live, showcasing its role in driving innovation across domains. It highlights AI’s impact on businesses and career opportunities, helping students recognize how they can leverage AI in their professional lives. In addition to technical knowledge, the course delves into important ethical considerations, governance issues, and the limitations of AI systems.
Through various lectures and projects, students gain practical experience, reinforcing theoretical knowledge and preparing them for further studies or careers in AI.
7. DeepLearning.AI’s AI For Everyone
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: None; open for enrollment year-round
Program Dates: Self-paced; start anytime
AI For Everyone is a non-technical course offered by DeepLearning.AI on Coursera, designed for individuals who want to understand AI, its potential, and how it can be applied within organizations — without needing technical expertise. The course covers fundamental AI concepts, including machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks, and explores AI's capabilities and limitations.
The course also addresses the ethical and societal implications of AI, providing learners with a comprehensive understanding of how AI can be applied across various industries. Through practical examples and insights from industry experts, learners will gain a solid foundation in AI, enabling them to navigate and contribute to AI-driven initiatives effectively.
8. Introduction to AI and Machine Learning on Google Cloud
Cost: Free enrollment with an optional paid certificate
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: None; open for enrollment year-round
Program Dates: Self-paced; start anytime
The Introduction to AI and Machine Learning on Google Cloud course provides an accessible introduction to AI and machine learning technologies offered by Google Cloud. Aimed at beginners with no prior experience in AI, this course walks students through various AI and ML offerings on Google Cloud, including:
AI Foundations: Understanding cloud infrastructure, data management, and AI development products.
AI Development Options: Learning about pre-trained APIs, AutoML, and custom training solutions.
AI Development Workflow: Building ML models using Vertex AI, from data preparation to model deployment.
Generative AI: Exploring the latest advancements in AI, including generative AI workflows and tools like Gen AI Studio and Model Garden.
Participants will explore how to leverage Google Cloud products to solve real-world problems and build AI models that meet specific user goals. The course structure is designed to be flexible, with students able to learn at their own pace, completing the lessons over three weeks, or adjusting the schedule as needed. By the end, learners will have a foundational understanding of AI and ML using Google Cloud, preparing them to dive deeper into these technologies.
If you’re looking to build a project/research paper in the field of AI & ML, consider applying to Veritas AI!
Veritas AI is founded by Harvard graduate students. Through the programs, you get a chance to 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 AI & ML with us. You can apply here!
Tyler Moulton is Head of Academics and Veritas AI Partnerships with 6 years of experience in education consulting, teaching, and astronomy research at Harvard and the University of Cambridge, where they developed a passion for machine learning and artificial intelligence. Tyler is passionate about connecting high-achieving students to advanced AI techniques and helping them build independent, real-world projects in the field of AI!
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