20 Summer STEM Programs for High School Students in 2025

AI Student Blog
Written By Kuda Cee

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, summer STEM programs for high school students offer unparalleled opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). These programs empower teens to dive into cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotechnology while building skills for future careers. Whether you're passionate about coding, space exploration, or environmental innovation, this guide highlights 20 exceptional summer STEM programs for 2025 that cater to diverse interests and backgrounds. From NASA internships to global research opportunities, these programs provide hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a chance to stand out in college applications.

Summer STEM Programs for High School Students

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Why Summer STEM Programs Matter

Participating in summer STEM programs equips high school students with practical skills, fosters creativity, and exposes them to real-world challenges. These programs often include project-based learning, networking with industry professionals, and opportunities to earn college credit or prestigious awards. By engaging in STEM early, students gain a competitive edge in college admissions and develop problem-solving skills that are critical in today’s innovation-driven world.

Ready to ignite your passion for STEM? Explore our curated list of the best summer STEM programs for high school students below!

20 Must-Join Summer STEM Programs for High School Students

1. NASA High School Internship Program (HIP)

Dream of exploring the stars? The NASA High School Internship Program immerses students in real-world space projects, from designing spacecraft to analyzing planetary data. Mentored by NASA scientists, participants gain insights into aerospace engineering and astrophysics.

  • Location: Various NASA facilities (virtual options available)
  • Duration: 8–10 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors
  • Application Deadline: Early February 2025

2. Inspirit AI Scholars Program

The Inspirit AI Scholars Program offers a two-week intensive in artificial intelligence and computer science. Students learn Python programming and apply AI to interdisciplinary projects like climate modeling or healthcare innovation. Mentors from Stanford, MIT, and Harvard guide participants.

  • Location: Online
  • Duration: 2 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 9–12
  • Application Deadline: Rolling admissions

Learn more about Inspirit AI Scholars.

3. Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program

Empowering young women in tech, the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program is a seven-week course teaching coding, leadership, and computational thinking. Participants work on projects in languages like Python and JavaScript, connecting with female tech leaders.

  • Location: Virtual and in-person (select cities)
  • Duration: 7 weeks
  • Eligibility: Girls in grades 9–12
  • Application Deadline: March 2025

4. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Hosted at MIT, the Research Science Institute is a six-week program for top high school juniors. Participants conduct university-level research in fields like bioinformatics or quantum physics, collaborating with leading scientists. RSI is fully funded.

  • Location: MIT, Cambridge, MA
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising seniors
  • Application Deadline: January 2025

5. Simons Summer Research Program

The Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University offers hands-on research in mathematics, physics, or computer science. Students work on advanced projects under faculty mentorship, gaining skills in data analysis and scientific communication.

  • Location: Stony Brook, NY
  • Duration: 7 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising seniors
  • Application Deadline: February 2025

6. Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES)

MITES is a six-week program at MIT for underrepresented students, offering rigorous coursework in calculus, physics, and engineering. Participants engage in hands-on projects and build a supportive community.

  • Location: MIT, Cambridge, MA
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising seniors from underrepresented backgrounds
  • Application Deadline: February 2025

7. Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI)

Google’s CSSI is a three-week program introducing students to software engineering through coding bootcamps and team projects. Participants interact with Google engineers and explore tech industry careers.

  • Location: Virtual and in-person (select locations)
  • Duration: 3 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising college freshmen (high school seniors)
  • Application Deadline: March 2025

8. Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation

The Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation program offers college-level engineering courses, allowing students to earn credits. Through labs and projects, participants explore disciplines like robotics and biomedical engineering.

  • Location: Baltimore, MD, and virtual
  • Duration: 4 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 10–12
  • Application Deadline: April 2025

9. Research Mentorship Program (RMP) at UC Irvine

The RMP pairs students with UC Irvine faculty for hands-on research in fields like neuroscience or environmental science. Participants present their findings at a symposium.

  • Location: Irvine, CA
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 10–12
  • Application Deadline: March 2025

10. Clark Scholars Program

The Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University focuses on research in medicine, engineering, or sustainability. Students work on impactful projects and engage in community service.

  • Location: Lubbock, TX
  • Duration: 7 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors
  • Application Deadline: February 2025

11. iD Tech Camps

iD Tech Camps offer tech-focused courses in coding, game design, and robotics. With flexible online and in-person options, students learn tools like Unity or Arduino.

  • Location: Nationwide and online
  • Duration: 1–2 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 7–12
  • Application Deadline: Rolling

12. Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) Germany

RISE Germany provides international research opportunities at top German universities. Students collaborate on projects in chemistry, physics, or biology.

  • Location: Various cities in Germany
  • Duration: 6–8 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors
  • Application Deadline: January 2025

13. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS)

YYGS offers STEM-focused sessions on sustainability and technology. Students engage in seminars and projects led by Yale faculty, exploring global challenges.

  • Location: New Haven, CT
  • Duration: 2 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 10–12
  • Application Deadline: January 2025

14. Simons Summer Research Fellowship

Supported by the Simons Foundation, this fellowship allows students to conduct independent research.generator in math or physics. Participants present their work at a conference.

  • Location: Various U.S. institutions
  • Duration: 6–8 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising seniors
  • Application Deadline: February 2025

15. NIH Summer Internship Program

The NIH Summer Internship Program offers biomedical research opportunities at NIH institutes. Students work on projects like cancer research or genetics.

  • Location: Bethesda, MD, and other NIH sites
  • Duration: 8 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 11–12
  • Application Deadline: March 2025

16. Stanford AI4ALL

Stanford AI4ALL introduces students to artificial intelligence through workshops and projects. Focused on diversity, it encourages underrepresented groups to explore AI.

  • Location: Stanford, CA, and virtual
  • Duration: 3 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 9–11
  • Application Deadline: March 2025

17. Boston University RISE Internship

The RISE Internship at Boston University offers research in biology, chemistry, or physics. Students work in labs and present findings.

  • Location: Boston, MA
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • Eligibility: Rising seniors
  • Application Deadline: February 2025

18. PROMYS (Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists)

PROMYS at Boston University is a six-week math program exploring number theory and combinatorics. Students attend lectures and solve challenging problems.

  • Location: Boston, MA
  • Duration: 6 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 9–12
  • Application Deadline: March 2025

19. Tapia Center’s Pre-College Programs

Rice University’s Tapia Center offers coding and data science programs for underrepresented students. Participants learn Python or R and work on projects.

  • Location: Houston, TX, and virtual
  • Duration: 2–4 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 9–12
  • Application Deadline: April 2025

20. COSMOS (California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science)

COSMOS offers advanced STEM courses at UC campuses, covering topics like astrophysics or bioengineering. Students engage in labs and team projects.

  • Location: UC Davis, Irvine, San Diego, Santa Cruz
  • Duration: 4 weeks
  • Eligibility: Grades 8–12
  • Application Deadline: February 2025
 

How Summer STEM Programs Boost College Applications

Participating in a summer STEM program demonstrates initiative, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to your field. These experiences can lead to:

  • Strong Essays : Share stories of challenges overcome or skills gained.

  • Letters of Recommendation : Mentors can vouch for your abilities.

  • Awards and Projects : Showcase research or competitions in your application.

  • Career Clarity : Gain insight into your future major or profession.

 

What Students Say About Summer STEM Programs

"The Inspirit AI Scholars Program was a game-changer for me! I learned Python and built an AI model to analyze climate data, which sparked my interest in environmental science. The mentors from Stanford were incredibly supportive, and I’m now confident about pursuing AI in college."

— Maya S., 11th Grade, Inspirit AI Scholars Participant

"Girls Who Code gave me the confidence to dive into coding, something I never thought I’d love. Working on a Python project with my team and meeting women in tech was so inspiring. I’m already planning my next coding project!"

— Aisha R., 10th Grade, Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Participant

"RSI at MIT was intense but amazing. I researched quantum computing alongside professors and presented my findings at a symposium. It showed me what a career in science could look like and helped me stand out in my college applications."

— Ethan L., 12th Grade, Research Science Institute Participant

Summer STEM Programs for High School Students

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer STEM Programs

What are summer STEM programs for high school students?

Summer STEM programs are intensive courses or internships designed for high school students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These programs, like NASA HIP or Inspirit AI Scholars, offer hands-on projects, mentorship, and exposure to cutting-edge fields such as AI, robotics, or space exploration.

How do I choose the right summer STEM program?

Consider your interests (e.g., coding, biology, or engineering), program format (in-person or virtual), duration, and eligibility requirements. Programs like Girls Who Code or MITES cater to specific groups, while iD Tech Camps offer flexibility. Check application deadlines and funding options early.

Are summer STEM programs expensive?

Costs vary. Some programs, like RSI and MITES, are fully funded, while others, like COSMOS, may charge tuition. Many offer scholarships or financial aid. Research each program’s website for details and apply for funding to offset costs.

Can summer STEM programs help with college applications?

Absolutely! Programs like the Simons Summer Research Program or NIH Internship provide research experience, mentorship, and projects that strengthen college essays and resumes. They demonstrate initiative and passion for STEM, impressing admissions officers.

Do I need prior experience to join a summer STEM program?

Not always. Programs like Inspirit AI Scholars teach beginners Python, while others, like RSI, require strong academic backgrounds. Check each program’s prerequisites and choose one that matches your skill level and interests.

Ready to Transform Your Summer with STEM?

Summer STEM programs for high school students are gateways to innovation, offering hands-on experiences that shape future scientists, engineers, and technologists. From coding with Google to researching at MIT, these 20 programs provide diverse opportunities to explore your passions and make a difference. Start researching, apply early, and take the first step toward a transformative summer in 2025.

Ready to dive into STEM? Check out programs like Inspirit AI Scholars or Girls Who Code to kickstart your journey!

Download our College Admissions Report and learn how 400+ Inspirit AI Scholars got accepted to Ivy League Schools in the past 2 years!

 

About Inspirit AI

AI Scholars Live Online is a 10-session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.

Kuda Cee
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