20 Best Summer Programs for Middle School Students
A summer program offers middle school students a multitude of benefits. They provide a new learning environment where students can delve deeper into subjects they’re passionate about, reinforce concepts learned during the school year and even explore new academic interests. Whether it’s a STEM camp, an art workshop, or a sports clinic, these experiences enrich academic knowledge and promote invaluable life skills like teamwork, leadership, and resilience.
Hence, summer programs are a compelling choice for any middle schooler eager to make the most of their summer break. Here are 20 of the best summer programs for middle school students!
1. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: $1990. Financial aid is available
Application Deadline: Upcoming summer cohort deadlines - regular admission I - April 14, 2024 | regular admission II - May 12, 2024. Apply here!
Program Dates: Upcoming summer cohort start date - June 3, 2024
Eligibility: Middle school students (grades 6-8)
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program offers an enriching 8-week journey tailored for middle school students to pursue their academic passion with personalized guidance. Paired with mentors from esteemed research universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, participants embark on researching a subject they are passionate about.
In the initial weeks, spanning from 1 to 4, students delve into four distinct topics within their chosen track, broadening their horizons. Weeks 5 to 6 witness a focused immersion into one specific area of interest, allowing for in-depth understanding. The program culminates in week 8, with mentors providing support as participants bring their research projects to fruition.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: AI Trailblazers — $1,790 | AI Junior Fellowship — $2,900. Need-based financial aid is available
Application Deadline: For the summer cohort - April 21, 2024 (regular admission I) | May 12, 2024 (regular admission II). Apply here!
Program Dates: AI Trailblazers — 25 hours over 10 sessions | AI Junior Fellowship — 12 weeks. You can find all the dates for the summer here!
Eligibility: Middle school students (grades 6-8)
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers a virtual AI program tailored for middle school and high school students. For middle schoolers, there are two enticing options: the AI Trailblazers bootcamp and the AI Junior Fellowship. In the bootcamp, students dive into the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning, alongside mastering Python basics.
Alternatively, the Junior Fellowship caters to those with prior Python knowledge or bootcamp completion. Through personalized mentoring over 12 weeks, students craft their own AI projects or research papers, exploring the intersection of AI with various disciplines! Take a look at the program brochure here!
3. UCSD’s Introduction to Python Programming and Machine Learning
Location: UCSD Campus, CA
Cost: Not specified
Application Deadline: Rolling Admission
Program Dates: Held in the summer. Dates to be announced. Reach out to the Pre-College Program department to get the specific dates for the program!
This summer course by UCSD introduces students to programming in Python and one of the most common applications in machine learning – image classification. Throughout the program, you will create a basic image classifier and will integrate it into an application framework — both in a web page and a Raspberry Pi platform. By the program’s end, participants will proficiently write Python scripts for basic math operations, loops, and conditional statements, create and implement Python functions, and develop an image classification model with a minimum of three classes using Google Teachable Machine.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2900, financial aid is available on a need-basis
Application Deadline: Regular Admission Deadline 1: April 14, 2024 | Regular Admission Deadline 2: May 12th, 2023
Program Dates: June 5 -26, 2024
Eligibility: Open to students in grade 8 and above
The Young Founder’s Lab, spearheaded by Harvard entrepreneurs, is a fully virtual startup boot camp for developing innovation and entrepreneurship skills. With mentorship from professionals at Google, Microsoft, and X, participants receive invaluable guidance to create revenue-generating startups tackling real global challenges. Beyond startup incubation, the program offers interactive classes spanning business fundamentals, ideation techniques, and immersive workshops. Engaging in skill-building sessions, case studies, and illuminating panel discussions, participants are empowered to unleash their entrepreneurial spirit and drive impactful change in the world.
5. Data Science to AI at the Berkeley Coding Academy
Cost: $2,495. Limited scholarships are available
Application Deadline: Unspecified, but limited slots are available
Program Dates: June 17–28 | July 8–12
Eligibility: Middle school students ages 12 and above are eligible to participate
Berkeley’s summer course on data science to AI aims to introduce students aged 12–18 to the fundamentals of AI, machine learning (ML), and big data science. The academy offers personalized 1-on-1 classes for older students and a junior Python coders program tailored for ages 7–11. Through these programs, participants will learn to write and evaluate Python code for AI applications and construct ML models using real-world data. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced coder, there are different levels available to suit your coding background.
Working in small groups, students will collaborate to create their own projects and models. Additionally, participants gain access to valuable long-term resources such as Berkeley Coding Academy lecture videos, slides, and portfolio projects. If you’re eager to enhance your technical and programming skills in a supportive learning environment, this course is an excellent choice!
6. State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S-PREP) at Columbia University
Location: Columbia University campus
Cost: None
Program Dates: July 8, 2024, to August 2, 2024
Application Deadline: May 15, 2024
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in Grades 7 to 12, reside in New York State, and come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds benefitting from academic enrichment
The State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S-PREP) at Columbia University is tailored for students interested in medicine and STEM fields. Supported by the New York State Education Department, the program aims to increase representation of historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students in STEM professions.
S-PREP offers competitive and comprehensive courses in subjects like calculus, statistics, biochemistry, and brain & cognitive science. Additionally, participation in S-PREP makes students eligible for future programs such as the Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia (BRAINYAC) and the HICCC Cure Program!
7. Summer Teen Research Program
Location: UC Berkeley Campus, CA
Cost: NA
Program Dates: Sunday, June 23, at 4:00 p.m. and ends Friday, June 28, at 5:00 PM
Application Deadline: May 15th, 2024
Eligibility Rising 7th-9th graders can participate!
The Lawrence Program at UC Berkeley presents an extraordinary research opportunity tailored for middle school students eager to delve into the world of science firsthand! This 1-week immersive experience offers experiments, campus tours, and interactive lab sessions meticulously crafted to ignite curiosity and foster a love for STEM subjects. The program comprises four distinct tracks, each incorporating a research component: Body Systems and Biomedical Innovations, Coding and Engineering Nano-Satellites, Solar Energy and Electrical Engineering, and Designing and Engineering Bridges! Each track provides a unique avenue for students to engage with cutting-edge research and develop skills while delving into their chosen field.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Starting at $1990. Financial aid is available
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year. Summer cohort: April 14, 2024 (Regular Admission 1) | May 12, 2024 (Regular Admission 2)
Program Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year.
Eligibility: Open to grade 8 students and above, who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. These internships are also open to undergraduates and gap-year students!
Ladder Internships, created by Harvard alumni, provides an exciting opportunity for grade 8 students to intern with startups and nonprofits worldwide. Students can explore a variety of fields like technology, engineering, journalism, healthcare, and more. During this 8-week virtual internship, students will work on real projects tailored to their interests.
Participants collaborate closely with startup managers and receive guidance from a dedicated Ladder Coach. This mentorship ensures a supportive learning experience, helping students develop new skills and showcase their work after the internship ends. It’s a fantastic chance for middle schoolers to gain hands-on experience and explore their passions!
9. Science of Smart Cities (SoSC)
Location: New York University, NY
Cost: Full Scholarship
Application Deadline: April 14th, 2024
Program Dates: July 8 — August 2 | Orientation: June 28 (via Zoom 1:00 PM — 4:00 PM ET)
Eligibility: Applicants must be between 12–14 years
The School of Sustainable Cities (SoSC) in New York offers a three-week summer program where middle school students explore energy, engineering, computer science, and urban/environmental science developments through research. With access to cutting-edge facilities, students conduct experiments, gather data, and engage in independent research projects. Emphasizing community-engaged research, SoSC encourages collaboration with local organizations to address pressing community issues.
To apply, submit an online application including personal and academic history questions and two short essay responses. This is a great opportunity for students passionate about sustainability to delve into interdisciplinary research and make a meaningful impact.
10. AI for Oceans
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: None; only registration is required when you start a course
Program Dates: The courses are available all year round
Eligibility: Students of all ages are eligible
AI for Oceans, a collaboration between Code.org and Microsoft, offers a unique program merging marine biology and AI in an accessible format. Beyond coding, participants delve into artificial intelligence, machine learning, and ethical considerations, training actual machine learning models. Throughout the program, participants explore marine life intricacies using technology, enhancing pre-trained models and utilizing Support-Vector Machines.
Participants in the program learn to leverage AI for addressing challenges encountered by ocean ecosystems, catering to individuals with a passion for computer science, marine biology, or environmental conservation alike. Valuable skills include analyzing oceanic data, developing AI models for marine life study, and designing AI-based solutions for issues like pollution and climate change!
11. MIT’s Beaver Works Middle School Program
Location: Both in-person (on MIT campus, MA) and virtual options are available.
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: The program is currently shut for 2023, but you can expect applications for the 2024 batch to open in May (tentative)
Program Dates: 4 weeks starting the Monday after the July 4 weekend, Monday-Friday
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply. Specific eligibility criteria TBA
The Beaver Works Middle School Program, an extension of MIT’s Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI), offers an immersive gateway to AI and engineering for middle school students. Emphasizing teamwork, you’ll engage in collaborative projects to solve real-world challenges using AI and engineering concepts. With a focus on crafting and programming intelligent systems, exploring robotics, and gaining hands-on exposure to cutting-edge technologies, it’s a unique opportunity to delve into these fields, discover their applications, and cultivate skills alongside like-minded peers.
Here is everything you need to know about MIT’s Beaver Works Institute!
12. Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development’s Summer Camp
Location: Northwestern University, IL
Cost: $4650 (Residential camp). Financial aid is available for qualified students
Program Dates: June 23 — July 12, 2024(Other sessions available as well)
Application Deadline: June 5th for session 1
Eligibility: Middle and high school students can participate
Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development Summer Camp provides students with immersive research experiences guided by university faculty mentors. Tailored for high-achieving and motivated individuals, these camps offer opportunities to engage in high school, college-level, and pre-professional instruction under the mentorship of master teachers and industry leaders.
Participants delve into fast-paced, intensive courses exploring advanced concepts in math, science, writing, technology, leadership, and service learning. Students tackle complex problems through rigorous coursework, fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills.
13. Intermediate Marine Science Camp Program
Location: Seal Harbor, Maine
Cost: $3,200 for a two-week session
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: June 23 — July 5 and August 4–16, 2024
Eligibility: Students aged 12–15 participate!
In this two-week summer camp, participants will explore the complexities of natural history and its integration with oceanography. They will be introduced to key marine concepts and laboratory procedures. Through hands-on activities, students will analyze island geology, compare salt marshes and bogs, set up a saltwater tank, and explore the diversity and zonation patterns within tidal pools.
Many students who engage in an Intermediate session often opt to return for an Advanced session in subsequent years, particularly after completing at least one year of high school. A tentative schedule of the program can be found here.
14. Emory University: Middle School Summer Debate Workshops
Location: Emory University, GA
Cost: N/A
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: July 8–12 | July 15–19
Eligibility: Rising 6th-8th graders can apply!
This onsite debate camp offers students the chance to develop crucial debate skills. Participants will learn foundational techniques, including crafting responses, evaluating evidence, improving public speaking, and enhancing research literacy. Those with prior experience from Atlanta Urban Debate League (AUDL) middle school tournaments can enroll in advanced skills camps to refine their abilities in a more challenging environment. Details on the schedule and curriculum can be found here.
15. MSM Steam Academy (Morehouse School of Medicine)
Location: Morehouse University, GA
Cost: $800
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: June 3 — June 28, 2024
Eligibility: Rising 5–8th graders
In this intensive four-week program, students engage in a wide array of enriching opportunities covering engineering/technology and exploratory studies, with a focus on creating mobile applications related to health science.
Topics addressing engineering and technology to health and wellness supplements core academic content, meeting extracurricular educational needs. Additionally, inquiry-based activities are incorporated to reinforce the program curriculum and establish connections to real-life applications.
16. Summer Transitional Enrichment Program (STEP) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, WI
Cost: $3,000
Application Deadline: May 1, 2024
Program Dates: June 16 — June 29, 2024
Eligibility: Current 6th to 8th grade students!
The Summer Transitional Enrichment Program (STEP) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a rigorous two-week residential experience aimed at middle schoolers. It fosters the development of higher-level thinking skills, creativity exploration, and a passion for learning. Participants engage in intensive research on a self-selected challenge for five hours daily, tackling complex questions and activities.
Course offerings include Building with Vex Robotics, Forensic Science, Human Body Systems, Game Design, and more. This program serves as an ideal next step for students seeking an above-grade-level challenge as they transition to high school.
17. Programs for Enrichment and Accelerated Knowledge (P.E.A.K.S) at Georgia Tech
Location: Georgia Tech campus, GA
Cost: $450 to $640
Program Dates: June 6 — July 22, 2024
Application Deadline: Rolling. Check program availability here!
Eligibility: Rising 6th to 8th grade students
The P.E.A.K.S program at Georgia Tech University offers middle school students immersive experiences to boost their Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) knowledge through hands-on activities, including research projects and experiential learning.
As part of Georgia Tech’s Expanded Learning Programs, this in-person summer initiative aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to cultivate future STEAM leaders through enhanced learning opportunities. These one to two-week programs provide students with the chance to engage with esteemed mentors across various STEAM disciplines.
If you’re interested in P.E.A.K.S, check out this review!
18. On Being Human by Johns Hopkins University
Location: Session One: Ursinus College, Pennsylvania | Session Two: Skidmore College, New York
Cost: $6,599
Application Deadline: May 3, 2024
Program Dates: Session One: June 23, 2024, to July 12, 2024 | Session Two: June 30, 2024, to July 19, 2024
Eligibility: Current 7th and 8th grade students
The On Being Human program at Johns Hopkins University offers middle school students a unique exploration of knowledge through biological, psychological, and philosophical lenses. The program offers courses such as - Covering Math: Paradoxes and Infinities, Science: Anatomy and Physiology, and Writing: Crafting the Essay, students engage in research and report creation.
These courses are supported by mentorship to refine the skills of students and deepen their understanding. Through lab research utilizing propositional logic, precision, and critical thinking, participants are trained to question the interconnectedness of diverse topics, fostering philosophical reasoning.
19. College Academy at College Gate
Location: Stonehill College, Massachusetts
Cost: $1,100
Application Deadline: Rolling applications, based on first come first serve!
Program Dates: Session One: July 8, 2024, to July 26, 2024 | Session Two: July 29, 2024, to August 16, 2024
Eligibility: Current 4th to 8th grade students can apply
The College Academy at College Gate caters to students seeking rigorous academic challenges in a fast-paced environment. Featuring a research and project-based curriculum fostering collaboration, its STEM-focused summer programs offer courses such as marine biology, advanced robotics, science discovery, rocketry, and graphic design.
With a distinct 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio for each course, the program promotes active engagement and positive peer interaction, facilitating project work. The ultimate aim is to refine skill development through research, equipping students with valuable abilities applicable to both college and the workplace.
20. ActivityBots Camp at Oregon State University
Location: Oregon State University campus
Cost: $170
Application Deadline: May 1 (tentatively, based on previous years)
Program Dates: July 15 — July 19, 2024
Eligibility: Rising 6th to 8th grade students can apply
The ActivityBots Camp at Oregon State University introduces middle school students to robotics through hands-on projects. In teams of two, students use ActivityBot 360 robot kits to embark on a research project, focusing on sensors like touch, visible light, infrared light, and ultrasonic sensors.
The program is designed for beginners, allowing students with minimal experience in mechanical, electrical, or coding to excel and build their circuits.ActivityBots serves as a solid foundation for those interested in robotics and engineering, but are unsure where to start.
Image Source: Columbia University Logo