10 STEM Programs for High School Students in California
STEM programs can be a useful way for you to explore subjects like science, technology, engineering, and math outside of your regular classes. They allow you to build skills in problem-solving, analysis, and collaboration while working through structured activities and projects. You can also gain exposure to different STEM fields and better understand how these subjects are studied and applied.
Why should you attend a program in California?
California is home to universities and organizations that offer a wide range of STEM programs across different subject areas. Depending on the program, you might take part in research, experiments, or technical projects while developing relevant skills. These opportunities can be worth considering, whether you are a local student looking for options nearby or an out-of-state student interested in exploring programs in a new academic environment.
In this article, we’ve covered 10 STEM programs for high school students in California.
If you’re looking for college programs in California, check out our blog here.
Quick recommendation: If you want hands-on research, start with SIMR; for a virtual AI program, look at Veritas AI; for a residential STEM experience, consider COSMOS; and for credit or format flexibility, check UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars.
1. Stanford’s Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an eight-week research program where high school students work in biomedical labs under one-on-one mentorship from Stanford researchers. Students are placed into research areas such as bioinformatics, genetics, neuroscience, or cancer biology, where they contribute to ongoing scientific projects and learn research methodologies. The program includes lectures, seminars, and training sessions that introduce students to scientific careers and advanced topics in medicine and biology. Students conclude the program by presenting their research at a formal poster session, gaining experience in scientific communication and academic research.
Subject areas: Immunology, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Neurobiology, and more.
Location: Stanford University campus (Stanford, CA)
Cost: None
Application deadline: February 21
Program dates: June 8 – July 30
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors (age 16+) who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and currently attending high school in the U.S.
2. Veritas AI Programs
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students looking to get started in AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program.Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and have the opportunity to work on real-world projects. Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students have the opportunity to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here and read about a student’s experience in the program here.
Subject areas: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Data Science, Programming, Computer Science, Technology
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program. Need-based financial aid is available.
Application deadline: The program runs in cohorts throughout the year with multiple deadlines. Apply here.
Program dates: Rolling with multiple cohorts throughout the year.
Selectivity: Open enrollment (AI Scholars program), Moderate (AI Fellowship)
Eligibility: High school students. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
3. Sally Ride Science Academy at the University of California, San Diego
This program offers dynamic workshops spanning a wide range of subjects, including traditional STEM fields such as astronomy, biology, engineering, computer science, and robotics. Beyond conventional STEM topics, the program offers workshops in coding, data science, digital design, and psychology.
Guided by proficient instructors and scientists, these interactive workshops offer a platform to explore diverse interests, cultivate critical thinking skills, and participate in collaborative projects. Most courses are held in person, supplemented by online options for added flexibility.
Subject areas: Environmental Science, Biotechnology, Coding, Data Science, Digital Design, and Psychology.
Location: University of California, San Diego
Cost: Fees vary by course, ranging from $175 to $495.Scholarships are available.
Application deadline: Varies by course.
Program dates: July 6 – July 24
Eligibility: Open to all high school students.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program (STEM Track)
Established by Harvard and Oxford PhDs, Lumiere is a highly selective research program designed for ambitious high school students. This program offers an opportunity for one-to-one collaboration with a PhD mentor, allowing students to pursue independent research across STEM disciplines such as biology, physics, engineering, mathematics, and technology.
With the flexibility to choose research topics, participants not only stay abreast of the latest developments in their chosen field but also expand their technical skills. This personalized approach makes Lumiere an excellent choice for those interested in interdisciplinary research and seeking a deeper understanding of their chosen STEM discipline.
Subject: Multidisciplinary, including a range of STEM subjects.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type. Full financial aid available.
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort.
Program dates: Varies by cohort: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.
Eligibility: You must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate a high level of academic achievement.
5. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)
COSMOS, the California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science, is a prestigious summer program designed for bright, enthusiastic students passionate about STEM subjects. Throughout the program, participants immerse themselves in rigorous, hands-on coursework and research across diverse STEM disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Students have the opportunity to pinpoint and advance a research topic aligned with their specific field of interest, utilizing university resources, including teaching laboratories and libraries, for their final research project. With its unique on-campus residence, COSMOS offers an immersive glimpse into college academic life.
Subject areas: STEM disciplines
Location: University of California, San Diego (residential)
Cost: $46 non-refundable application fee +$5,518 for the residential program, including housing, meals, orientation, field trips & activities, and on-site support. Financial aid is available for California residents.
Application deadline: February 6
Program dates: July 5–July 31
Eligibility: Students in grades 8–12, who excel in mathematics/science, and are attending a California high school are eligible to apply.
6. UCLA’s Applications of Nano Science Summer Program
The Nanoscience Lab Summer Institute at UCLA introduces high school students to nanotechnology through a focused, hands-on laboratory experience. Participants conduct experiments designed by UCLA researchers, exploring topics such as photolithography, supercapacitors, and nanoscale materials while developing practical lab skills. The program emphasizes how nanoscience principles are applied in real research settings, helping students connect concepts in chemistry and physics to modern technological applications. Through structured lab work and guided instruction, students gain exposure to emerging scientific fields and develop a stronger understanding of experimental methods in advanced STEM research.
Subject areas: Nanoscience
Location: UCLA campus (Los Angeles, CA). Living on campus is optional.
Cost: $1,981 (commuter); $2,470 (residential option not consistently available depending on session)
Application deadline: May 25
Program dates: August 3 – August 7
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–12 (age 15+), with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and prior chemistry coursework
7. Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy (City of Hope)
The Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy at City of Hope is a research-focused program where high school students work full-time in biomedical laboratories alongside scientists and researchers. Participants are matched with labs based on their interests and contribute to ongoing research projects, developing skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific inquiry. The program also includes seminars, workshops, and journal discussions that build understanding of scientific concepts and professional research practices. Students present their work through talks and a final poster session, gaining experience in communicating research findings and engaging with a broader scientific community.
Subject areas: Medicine, biology
Location: City of Hope, Duarte, CA
Cost/Stipend: Free to attend with a $4,500 stipend upon completion of the program
Application Deadline: March 11 (supplementary materials due March 12)
Program Dates: June 1–August 7
Eligibility: High school and undergraduate students aged 16+, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with coursework in biology and chemistry
8. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
SUMaC stands as a residential or virtual program hosted at Stanford University, specifically tailored for high-achieving high school juniors and seniors who crave a challenging experience in mathematics. Geared towards those with a keen interest in the latest mathematical research and its applications across scientific domains, the 4-week camp combines advanced mathematics learning through lectures, guided research, and collaborative problem-solving.
Beyond traditional coursework, SUMaC exposes participants to a college-level workload. This immersive program aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of advanced mathematical concepts and their real-world applications.
Subject areas: Math
Location: Virtual OR Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost: $3,750 (online) or $8,950 (residential); financial aid available
Application deadline: February 2
Program dates: June 15–July 3 (Session 1 online), June 21–July 17 (residential), July 6–July 24 (Session 2 online)
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–11 with a strong background in mathematics, including proof-based reasoning
9. Research Mentorship Program at the University of California, Santa Barbara
UC Santa Barbara’s Research Mentorship Program is a competitive summer initiative for high school students eager to participate in hands-on, interdisciplinary research at the university level. Enabling students to choose a research project in their preferred field, covering a range of STEM disciplines, participants collaborate closely with mentors.
Throughout the program, students not only delve into their chosen projects but also gain valuable insights into research techniques and professional opportunities. Particularly beneficial for those intrigued by the intersection of STEM with other disciplines, this program offers an outstanding opportunity to explore and engage in meaningful research.
Subject areas: STEM
Location: University of California, Santa Barbara, CA.
Cost: $5,675 (commuter) or $13,274 (residential, including housing and meals); limited need-based scholarships available
Application Deadline: March 9
Program Dates: June 15–July 31
Eligibility: Students in grades 10 and 11 (outstanding 9th graders may be accepted on a case-by-case basis) with a minimum weighted GPA of 3.80 may apply.
10. UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars (Credit Tracks)
This program presents a diverse array of experiences catering to various subject interests, with three distinct tracks: residential, commuter, and virtual. For students intrigued by STEM subjects, a range of engaging courses is available, with the entire course list available here. Explore topics such as Planetary Exploration, Integrative Biology Methods, Mechanical Engineering Principles, Advanced Mathematics, and Computer Science Applications.
Each course aims to deepen your understanding of the field, support your future academic endeavors by offering academic credit, and assist you in planning your career in your chosen STEM industry.
Subject areas: Engineering, Mathematics, Planetary Sciences, Integrative Biology, Computer Science, and a plethora of other STEM disciplines.
Location: University of California, Berkeley. CA. There is a virtual track option as well.
Cost: $25 application fee + $15,987 (residential track, session C) | $14,687 (residential track, session D) | $635 + $585 + $73 (per unit fee, commuter and virtual tracks). Financial aid is available.
Application deadline: March 17 (residential track) | June 3 (commuter track) | June 3 (virtual track)
Program dates: June 22 — August 14 (residential track, session C) | July 6 — August 14 (residential track, session D) | Students on the commuter and virtual tracks can choose the courses they wish to attend.
Eligibility: Students who have completed 10th or 11th grade by the start of summer classes and are 16–17 years old by the start of the program can apply.
Key Takeaways
Top pick for research: Stanford’s Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) — an 8-week, free biomedical research program at Stanford for juniors and seniors, with a typical February 21 deadline.
Best virtual AI option: Veritas AI Programs — a virtual option with rolling cohorts throughout the year, including a beginner-friendly AI Scholars track and a more advanced fellowship track, with need-based financial aid available.
Best residential STEM experience: COSMOS — a residential California STEM program with hands-on coursework and research, running from July 5–31, with financial aid available for California residents.
Best for flexibility or college credit: UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars — offers residential, commuter, and virtual tracks, with credit-bearing coursework across STEM fields.
Image Source - COSMOS Logo