15 Free Programs for High School Students in Colorado
As a high school student, exploring structured academic programs is one of the best ways for you to gain exposure to new fields, build practical skills, and make meaningful connections with mentors and peers. For many students, however, cost can be a significant barrier. That’s why free programs stand out; they allow you to access high-quality opportunities without financial strain, while still offering the chance to dive into subjects ranging from STEM and the humanities to leadership and community engagement.
In Colorado, students benefit from a unique mix of opportunities as the state is home to world-class universities and national laboratories. This means that whether you’re interested in research, public policy, environmental studies, or emerging technologies, you’ll find free programs that connect you to experts and give you a chance to apply your learning in practical settings.
To help you navigate the many options available, we’ve compiled a list of 15 free programs for high school students in Colorado.
1. Campos EPC ENvision Summer Program
Location: CSU, Fort Collins, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited to rising juniors and seniors nationwide
Dates: May 31 – June 6
Application Deadline: Spring (varies; typically March–April)
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors from across the U.S.; interest in engineering encouraged
The Campos EPC ENvision Summer Program is a one-week, residential learning experience that introduces you to engineering fields and college life at CSU. Throughout the week, you’ll participate in hands-on engineering activities across multiple disciplines, guided by current CSU students and faculty. Mentors provide support as you explore what it takes to succeed in engineering, from problem-solving and design to collaboration and communication. A unique feature of ENvision is that participation makes you eligible for a scholarship toward an engineering degree at CSU, making it both a learning experience and a potential pathway into higher education.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program type. Full need-based financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; small-group cohorts and 1:1 mentorship available
Dates: Multiple 12–15 week cohorts offered in spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application Deadline: Seasonal deadlines in January, May, September, and November.
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students worldwide; AI Fellowship requires completion of AI Scholars or prior experience with Python and AI concepts
Veritas AI is a student-founded initiative led by Harvard graduate students that introduces you to artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science through hands-on, research-driven programs. In the AI Scholars program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of AI through a 10-session boot camp, where you build projects applying real-world data. More advanced students can join the AI Fellowship, working one-on-one with mentors from top universities to develop an independent AI project. A unique benefit of the Fellowship is access to Veritas AI’s publication team, which helps you pursue publication in high school research journals. With full financial aid available, these programs provide a valuable opportunity to explore cutting-edge technology without financial barriers. Apply to the program here.
3. Cybersecurity Camp Summer Program
Location: CSU Fort Collins (Computer Science Building) and CSU Spur (Denver, CO)
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; space is limited to accepted applicants
Dates: June 9 – June 13 (Fort Collins) | July 14 – July 18 (Denver)
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Open to high school students; no prior experience in cybersecurity or computer science required
The Cybersecurity Camp Summer Program introduces you to the fundamentals of cybersecurity through a mix of classroom instruction, online modules, and hands-on activities. Over the course of five days, you will explore cryptography, phishing, and network security while learning directly from industry professionals about career paths in cybersecurity. The program also incorporates interactive elements like cyber games, T-shirts, and practical exercises to keep the learning engaging and memorable. Hosted at both CSU Fort Collins and CSU Spur in Denver, the camp is designed for beginners, so you don’t need prior technical experience to participate. With its free enrollment and inclusive curriculum, this camp offers a strong foundation for students interested in exploring cybersecurity as a future career path.
4. Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: The program is fully funded
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; small cohorts with 1:1 mentorship
Dates: Multiple cohorts: Spring (March – June), Summer (June – August), Fall (September – December), Winter (December – February)
Application Deadline: Deadlines align with seasonal cohorts (January, May, September, November)
Eligibility: Current high school students with strong academic achievement (typically a GPA of 3.3 or higher); no prior subject knowledge required
The Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation stands as a non-profit research program tailored for gifted students from low-income backgrounds. Stemming from the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, renowned for its extensive one-on-one research opportunities for high school students, the foundation provides the same access to independent research experiences at zero cost. The Lumiere Breakthrough Scholar Program is the equivalent of the Individual Research Scholar Program at Lumiere Education. In the flagship program, talented high-school students are paired with world-class Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll develop an independent research paper. You can choose topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can apply here!
5. Black Issues Forum
Location: Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited cohort of rising seniors
Dates: June 10 – June 14
Application Deadline: April 21
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (graduating May of the following year); open to in-state and out-of-state students
The Black Issues Forum (BIF) is a five-day summer program designed to help you strengthen leadership skills while engaging with issues relevant to African Diasporic communities. As a participant, you will live in CSU’s residence halls, take part in research activities, and attend personal development workshops. You will also interact with faculty, staff, and current CSU students who serve as mentors throughout the program. A unique feature of BIF is that you earn one free CSU credit hour upon completion, and you may become eligible for the Partnership Award scholarship if you later attend CSU. In addition to academic enrichment, you will have the chance to connect with peers from across the country and gain exposure to a supportive community of students who share your interests and values.
6. El Sistema Colorado – Summer String Festival
Location: CSU Spur, Denver, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; intermediate/advanced string musicians only
Dates: July 21 – July 27
Application Deadline: Varies; applications accepted until program is filled
Eligibility: String musicians ages 12–18; must be able to perform at grade 2 orchestra level or above
El Sistema Colorado’s Summer String Festival is a free, week-long orchestral program that combines musical training with personal growth and community building. As a participant, you’ll join daily rehearsals, electives in music history and improvisation, and wellness activities such as instrument-based yoga. Faculty and guest artists provide masterclasses, including conducting workshops, and lead discussions around leadership, identity, and social awareness through music. The festival also includes daily performances and culminates in a full ensemble showcase. Designed for intermediate to advanced string players, the program emphasizes not only artistic excellence but also empathy, resilience, and community engagement.
7. Build a Better Book (BBB) Teen Internship Program
Location: Colorado (university-based internship site); other sites in NJ and MA
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; small cohorts across partner sites
Dates: Summer sessions
Application Deadline: Varies by site
Eligibility: High school students, with priority given to students from underrepresented or underserved backgrounds in STEM
The Build a Better Book Teen Internship Program immerses you in empathy-driven engineering and design projects that address real community needs. As an intern, you’ll work on creating accessible materials for blind or visually impaired clients using Maker technologies such as 3D modeling and printing, sound design, laser cutting, and computer programming. The program emphasizes universal design principles and multi-modal learning styles, giving you a strong foundation in both STEM skills and inclusive design. A distinctive aspect of this program is its focus on connecting engineering work with social impact, preparing you to see STEM as a tool for accessibility, equity, and innovation.
8. Drone Aviation Summer Program
Location: CSU Spur, Denver, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; space limited to accepted applicants
Dates: June 23 – June 27 | July 7 – July 11 | July 21 – July 25
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: High school students ages 14–18; no prior drone or aviation experience required
The Drone Aviation Summer Program offers you the chance to explore aviation technology and flight skills through a week-long immersive experience at CSU Spur. Each session includes hands-on flight training with multiple types of UAVs, as well as classroom instruction, breakout sessions, and mission-planning exercises. You will also learn the fundamentals needed to prepare for the FAA Part 107 exam, which certifies you as a remote pilot. Beyond technical training, the program highlights real-world applications of drone technology in areas such as environmental monitoring and aerospace innovation. By the end of the week, you’ll have both practical flying experience and a strong foundation in drone operations that can serve as a stepping stone toward certification and future opportunities in aviation.
9. GirlsGetMath@CSU
Location: CSU, Fort Collins, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited spaces available
Dates: June 2 – June 6
Application Deadline: April 4
Eligibility: Open to current high school students (all genders welcome); no prior advanced math background required
GirlsGetMath@CSU is a five-day summer program that introduces high school students to advanced mathematical concepts in an engaging, hands-on format. Throughout the week, you’ll explore topics such as cryptography, data science, image processing, fractals, and geometry through interactive activities and computer-based labs. The program emphasizes building confidence in your mathematical ability, while also showing how math connects to STEM careers. You will work alongside undergraduate and graduate teaching assistants, gaining mentorship from those already pursuing math-intensive fields. The week concludes with a closing reception for students and families, celebrating your accomplishments and community connections.
10. IT in Business
Location: CSU, Fort Collins, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited spaces available
Dates: June 2 – June 6
Application Deadline: May 11
Eligibility: Open to high school students interested in technology and business; no prior technical experience required
The IT in Business summer program is a five-day experience designed to introduce you to the technologies shaping modern business. Taught by Computer Information Systems faculty, the program combines hands-on activities with real-world applications. You’ll get to build an app, work with robots, play cybersecurity games, and create data visualizations, all while exploring how IT drives business innovation. Additional activities include virtual reality and AI demonstrations, along with a tour of CSU’s campus technologies. By the week's end, you'll gain an understanding of IT's business integration and develop practical technical and problem-solving skills, preparing you for future academic or career paths.
11. Sphinx Performance Academy
Location: University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; limited spots for string students nationwide
Dates: July 20 – August 1
Application Deadline: Applications closed; typically due in early spring
Eligibility: U.S. high school students ages 11–17 playing violin, viola, cello, or bass
The Sphinx Performance Academy (SPA) is a full-scholarship chamber music and solo performance program that provides young string musicians with an intensive two-week experience. As a participant, you’ll receive private lessons, masterclasses, recitals, and career enrichment sessions, all led by faculty and guest artists from leading music institutions. The program emphasizes chamber orchestra performance while also developing solo repertoire and technical mastery. Beyond performance, SPA fosters mentorship and community, giving you direct access to professional musicians and peers committed to musical excellence. Hosted at CU Boulder’s College of Music, this program provides not only elite training but also a supportive environment for students from across the U.S.
12. Denver Museum of Nature & Science (DMNS) Teen Science Scholars
Location: Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Denver, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; each track accepts 3 – 4 students
Dates: Session 1: June 4 – June 27 | Session 2: July 9 – August 1
Application Deadline: April (varies by track; applications close in early spring)
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors ages 14–17; priority for students from underserved or underrepresented backgrounds in STEM
The Teen Science Scholars (TSS) program offers you the chance to work directly with museum scientists on hands-on research projects in fields like ornithology, paleontology, entomology, genetics, data science, and anthropology. Depending on your track, you may band birds and analyze DNA, excavate and stabilize fossils, prepare zoological specimens, or study Indigenous jewelry through conservation and materials science. Each internship emphasizes collaboration, professional development, and exposure to museum careers, with mentoring from DMNS staff and scientists. The program concludes with a Showcase event where you’ll present your research and experiences.
13. Achieving Excellence Academy (AEA)
Location: Denver School of the Arts, Denver, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited capacity; selective admission
Dates: June 9 – July 2
Application Deadline: Spring
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th graders; program prioritizes students of marginalized identities but is open to all high school applicants
The Achieving Excellence Academy (AEA) is a cultural summer program designed to affirm and celebrate the experiences of Black/African-American, Latino/a/Latinx, and Asian American/Pacific Islander students. Over four weeks, you’ll engage in workshops and activities that emphasize self-identity, community building, leadership, and joy. The program offers a supportive environment where student voice and belonging are central, enabling you to reflect on your passions and future goals. Beyond the summer session, AEA also includes quarterly remote check-ins during the school year to maintain mentorship and growth. Hosted at Denver School of the Arts, AEA encourages students to return each summer through graduation, building continuity in leadership and cultural development.
14. Colorado Mesa University & CMU Tech Concurrent Enrollment
Location: CMU and CMU Tech campuses, Grand Junction, CO
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open to eligible district high school students; capacity varies by course availability
Dates: Ongoing during the academic year; aligned with high school and college semesters
Application Deadline: Varies by semester; students apply through their high school and CMU Tech advisors
Eligibility: High school students in Mesa County Valley School District 51; eligibility determined by academic standing and advisor approval
The Concurrent Enrollment program at Colorado Mesa University (CMU) and CMU Tech allows you to take college-level courses while completing high school, earning both high school and college credit simultaneously. Through this program, you can graduate with a significant head start on college credits, career certificates, or even an associate degree—all tuition-free. Compared to AP courses, concurrent enrollment guarantees tuition-free credit upon successful course completion, reducing barriers for students seeking higher education. You’ll receive guidance from CMU Tech IRIS advisors and College & Career advisors, ensuring you choose courses that align with your academic and career goals.
15. GenCyber Summer Camp
Location: Online
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited capacity; selective admission
Dates: July 15 – July 19
Application Deadline: Varies; applications typically close in early summer
Eligibility: Open to all Colorado high school students; no prior cybersecurity knowledge required
The GenCyber Summer Camp introduces high school students to cybersecurity concepts through a week of interactive, hands-on learning. You will explore ethical hacking, digital forensics, social engineering, networking fundamentals, cyber threats, and cybersecurity careers using free provided materials like Raspberry Pi kits and virtual labs. The program also highlights key issues such as ethics in cybersecurity and online safety. Taught by CU Denver Business School faculty and supported by the NSA and NSF, the camp gives you exposure to both the technical and ethical dimensions of cybersecurity. At the end of the week, you’ll earn a Certificate of Achievement, signaling your readiness to continue exploring pathways in Colorado’s growing cybersecurity workforce.
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