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Summer break is an invaluable time for high school students to explore new interests and gain experience that will stand out on college applications. Among the most impactful ways to spend the summer is by participating in research programs. These programs not only enhance academic skills but also offer unique opportunities for intellectual growth. Here’s a look at some of the top summer research programs available to high school students, including both free and fee-based options.


 

Summer Research Programs for High School Students

1. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Often considered one of the most prestigious research programs for high school students, RSI is hosted by MIT. It selects approximately 80 students annually to engage in independent research projects alongside researchers in the Boston area. At the end of the program, students present their findings in a conference format. With about 1,600 applicants for 80 spots in 2019, RSI has an acceptance rate of roughly 5.
 

※ Cost: None

 

2. Simons Summer Research Program

Running from June 27 to July 29, this program offers high school students the chance to conduct research in various fields including science, mathematics, and engineering. Participants join research teams, collaborate with faculty, and gain hands-on experience with lab equipment. Eligibility includes being 16 years or older and providing two letters of recommendation. The program has an admission rate of around 8% and provides a stipend.
 

※ Cost: None

 

3. Spark Summer Internship Program (SIP)

Targeted at students interested in computer science and related fields, Spark SIP provides real-world research experience through an internship program. Students are required to work 30-40 hours per week for 8-12 weeks during the summer. The program offers up to $500 in stipend.
 

※ Cost: None

 

4. Boston University’s Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)

RISE is a 6-week, non-credit program designed for rising seniors interested in science research. It offers two tracks: an internship track where students work under the mentorship of professors, and a practicum track focused on group research in computational neurobiology. Interns work 40 hours a week and acquire valuable technical skills. The practicum track involves collaborative research in a university setting.
 

※ Cost: $8,558 (residential); $5,570 (commuter)

 

5. Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)

ARISE combines university-level workshops and lab research in topics like civil and urban engineering, mechanical and electrical engineering, and robotics. Open to 10th and 11th graders, students work under the guidance of graduate students or postdoctoral researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering. The program includes presentation and public speaking training and concludes with a final colloquium. Participants receive at least $750 in stipend.
 

※ Cost: None

 

6. California Academy of Sciences Career Internship (CiS)

Started in 1996, this program provides learning opportunities in science and sustainability to underserved populations in San Francisco. Students gain exposure to seminars and conferences, and receive mentoring and professional skills development.
 

※ Cost: None

 

7. UC San Diego Academic Connections Research Scholars

This summer program selects 25 students to work individually with UCSD professors on research in fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or nanotechnology. The program, which runs for 6 weeks, offers access to campus labs.
 

※ Cost: $4,200

 

8. Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) at the University of Iowa

Designed for rising sophomores and juniors, SSTP provides research opportunities in diverse fields from biochemistry to religious studies. Students work in university labs for 5 weeks and must apply by February 18.
 

※ Cost: $6,395

 

9. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Clark Scholars is a 6-week program offering research opportunities across almost all fields. Students participate in academic research, weekly seminars, discussions, and field visits. Only 12 students are selected annually, and applicants must be 17 or older by the start of the program. The program includes a $750 stipend.
 

※ Cost: None

 

10. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)

PROMYS is a 6-week program for mathematically gifted students, offering lectures, advanced seminars, and problem-solving activities. Open to all high school students aged 14 and older, the program is highly competitive, with about 80 students selected each year.
 

※ Cost: $5,150 (Financial aid available for families earning under $60,000)

 

11. University of Illinois High School STEM Research Program

Targeted at rising juniors and seniors, this program offers research experiences in areas such as cancer immunology, pharmacogenomics, physics, biophysics, bioengineering, and electrical engineering. Students work with peers and teachers in their chosen field for 6 weeks, investing 30-35 hours per week.
 

※ Cost: None

 

12. The Summer Science Program (SSP)

Operating since 1959, SSP offers research-focused programs in astronomy, biochemistry, and genomics. Students engage in lectures, lab sessions, guest lectures, and field trips. The program is highly competitive with a 10% acceptance rate.
 

※ Cost: $7,450 (Financial aid available for families earning under $70,000)

 

13. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

SIMR allows students to collaborate with Stanford scholars on medical research. Participants choose one of eight research areas and work in a lab with one-on-one mentoring. The program runs for 8 weeks and is open to rising juniors and seniors.
 

※ Cost: None

 

14. Memorial Sloan Kettering Summer Student Program

This program offers high school students the chance to conduct independent research projects under the guidance of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, or research technicians. Students also participate in leisure activities and training. The program concludes with a poster symposium.
 

※ Cost: None

 

15. Research in Materials Science Program (RIMS)

Hosted by the City University of New York’s Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC), RIMS provides research opportunities in materials science. Students participate in professional development workshops and receive a stipend. Admission is highly competitive.
 

※ Cost: None

 

16. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

This 10-week program focuses on genetics and genomics research for high school and college students who have completed 12th grade. About 40 students are selected each year, with participants conducting independent research and presenting their results.
 

※ Cost: None

 

17. Perimeter Institute International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP)

ISSYP offers an intensive summer program for students interested in theoretical physics. The program includes lectures, short courses, and mentoring sessions from experts in the field. The highly competitive program is now conducted online.
 

※ Cost: $195

 

18. Carnegie Mellon University’s Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

SAMS offers high school students from underrepresented backgrounds a chance to earn college credit while learning advanced math and science concepts. The program includes classroom instruction, research projects, and academic development.
 

※ Cost: None

 

19. NIH High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

HS-SIP provides high school students with the opportunity to conduct full-time biomedical research at NIH facilities. The program is highly competitive with an acceptance rate of about 15%, and students must be in 11th or 12th grade at the time of application.
 

※ Cost: None

 

20. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program

This 8-week program is designed for rising seniors interested in biomedical research. Students receive training in lab safety and techniques, attend research seminars, and work with mentors at Fred Hutch.
 

※ Cost: None

 

21. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)

The SSRP at Rockefeller University is a full-time, offline research program held from late June to mid-August. Students must be 16 years or older and currently in 11th or 12th grade. The program requires letters of recommendation and early application.
 

※ Cost: None

 

22. Coriell Institute for Medical Research Summer Experience

This program allows selected students to work with leading scientists in stem cell and genetic research. Participants engage in independent research, data analysis, and final presentations.
 

※ Cost: None

 

23. Howard Hughes Medical Institute Jump Start Program

Focusing on biomedical research, this program offers seminars and professional development sessions. Applicants must be in 11th or 12th grade, have completed AP Biology and Chemistry, and submit transcripts, a science teacher’s recommendation, and a personal essay.
 

※ Cost: $250

 

24. City of Hope Cancer Center Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy

A 10-week program where students create their own research biology projects under the guidance of City of Hope educators. The program ends with a research paper presentation. Applicants must be at least 16 years old and have completed high school chemistry and biology.
 

※ Cost: None


25. GIRE Research Assistant Internship Program
Students will work as research assistants for professors at prestigious U.S. universities, engaging in research across STEM, healthcare, and social sciences. Throughout the 12-week program, they will gain hands-on experience in data analysis, scientific academic writing, and various research-related activities.

※ Cost: 6,600 (for more information, click here to book an info session!)