15 Math Programs for High School Students in Chicago
If you are a high school student interested in mathematics, participating in a structured program can help you explore the subject beyond standard coursework. Through lectures, discussions, and collaborative problem sets, you can deepen your understanding of how mathematical ideas are developed, tested, and communicated. Many programs also place you alongside peers who share similar academic interests, creating opportunities for long-term academic connections.
Why should you attend a program in Chicago?
Chicago is home to major universities, research institutions, and science organizations that support a wide range of math-focused programs for high school students. Depending on the program, you may work on abstract problem-solving, explore applications of mathematics in science and engineering, or take part in early research-style projects under academic guidance. The city’s strong academic environment makes these opportunities accessible to students who live in Chicago as well as those who are able to commute or arrange temporary housing.
To make this easier to navigate, here is a curated list of 15 math programs for high school students in Chicago.
If you are interested in research opportunities in Chicago, check out our blog here.
1. Math Circles of Chicago
Location: Multiple locations across Chicago, IL
Cost: No cost / Need-based annual stipend of $150 (10 points or more), $300 (20 points or more)
Dates: Year–round
Application Deadline: Varies by pathway
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–12
Math Circles of Chicago’s College Pathways program offers motivated high school students the opportunity to engage with advanced mathematics. Through a structured set of pathways, you explore higher-level math concepts while developing academic, leadership, and teaching skills. You may also work closely with mentors on mathematical research, assist in facilitating middle school math circles, or take part in enrichment experiences such as math camps and seminars. The program is designed to support long-term growth, helping you build confidence in mathematical thinking while gaining exposure to both research and education-focused pathways.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Online
Cost: Varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple 12–15 week cohorts across the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions. You can apply to the program here.
Eligibility: High school students. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with 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 get a chance to work on real-world projects. Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance 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.
3. Adler Planetarium Teen Programs (Far Horizons & Light Pollution Mapping)
Location: Adler Planetarium, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend paid, amount not specified
Dates: Spring: March – May; Summer: July – August
Application Deadline: Spring: Late January; Summer: Early March
Eligibility: All high school students (grades 9–12)
At the Adler Planetarium, you step into the role of a researcher, applying mathematics to explore the edge of space and the city environment. You will explore practical statistics, spatial data mapping, and the algebraic modeling needed to track high-altitude balloon trajectories. Throughout the program, you actively build scientific payloads, launch them into the stratosphere to gather telemetry, and analyze complex datasets to map light pollution trends across Chicago. You will develop high-level skills in data visualization, computational logic, and technical problem-solving by the program’s end.
4. Lumiere Research Scholars Program – Math Track
Location: Online
Cost: Varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple cohorts offered throughout the year, including Summer, Winter, Spring, and Fall
Application Deadline: Varies as per cohort; Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), Winter (November)
Eligibility: Currently enrolled high school students with strong academic records (accepted students typically maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.3 or higher)
Lumiere’s Math Track is designed for high school students who want to explore mathematics beyond standard coursework and apply it to original and college-level research. You work closely with a PhD-level mentor to investigate advanced topics such as number theory, mathematical modeling, game theory, cryptography, or applied mathematics, depending on their interests and background. Over the course of the program, you move from foundational exploration to developing an independent research paper, gaining exposure to how mathematical inquiry is structured, tested, and communicated in academic settings. The program is well-suited for students who enjoy abstract thinking, problem-solving, and pursuing ideas in depth rather than following a fixed syllabus.
5. YPP Chicago - Young People’s Project
Location: Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend paid, amount not specified
Dates: Spring Session: February – May; Summer Session: Late June – early August
Application Deadline: Varies by session; Summer: Typically, May; Spring: Rolling until full
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9–12 who live in Chicago
The Young People’s Project (YPP) in Chicago trains high school students to lead math literacy workshops and organize community events, giving them hands-on experience in teaching and leadership while strengthening their own math skills. You explore real-world math problems, present solutions, and engage with peers and mentors to develop confidence, initiative, and professional skills. Beyond math, you take part in social justice discussions, college-preparation workshops, and STEM-focused activities in partnership with organizations like DePaul University, Chicago Public Schools, and the Illinois Institute of Technology. Many students continue year-round involvement, building peer networks, gaining mentorship, and preparing for future academic and career opportunities.
6. The University of Illinois Chicago – Young Scholars Program (YSP)
Location: University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), East Campus, Chicago, IL
Cost: None
Dates: Four 1-week sessions in July
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Rising 9th through 12th graders, including graduating seniors
At the University of Illinois Chicago’s Young Scholars Program (YSP), you explore advanced mathematical concepts that are not usually touched upon in a standard high school classroom. Over four independent weeks, you explore topics like number theory, cryptography, graph theory, and game theory. You will engage in interactive lectures, collaborative problem-solving sessions where you tackle puzzles, and talks from guest speakers about real-world STEM careers. You will leave with critical thinking skills and a much clearer vision of how mathematics powers modern industries.
7. Young Scholars Program (YSP) - University of Chicago
Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost: Household income >$150,000/yr: $1,000 fee; Household income $75,000 to $150,000: $600 fee; Household income <$75000: $250 fee
Dates: June 30 – July 25
Application Deadline: April 11
Eligibility: All high school students
The Young Scholars Program at the University of Chicago is designed for mathematically curious students who want to explore how mathematicians actually think, reason, and solve problems. You will participate in lectures, guided discussions, and small-group work, which will help you develop both confidence and intellectual independence in mathematics. The program is well-suited for students who enjoy mathematical challenges, competitions, or simply thinking deeply about why math works the way it does. Because it is structured as a day program, YSP primarily serves students in the Chicago area. However, out-of-area students may attend if they arrange their own lodging and transportation.
8. Chicago State University PREP Program
Location: Chicago State University, Chicago, IL
Cost: Chicago residents: None; Non-residents: $150
Dates: 6 weeks between late June and late July
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students; often prioritizes students from groups historically underrepresented in STEM
At the Chicago State University PREP Program, you will strengthen your foundational mathematics skills to prepare for a rigorous engineering curriculum. Your coursework focuses on high-level college preparatory math such as advanced algebra, trigonometry, and geometry applied directly to real-world engineering challenges. You will spend your summer engaging in hands-on engineering projects, participating in competitions like the Ten80 racing challenge or robotics leagues, and visiting major science and engineering corporations to see these concepts in action. The program integrates with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Jr., connecting you with a strong mentorship network that prioritizes underrepresented students in STEM.
9. MathCON Summer Camp
Location: Loyola University Chicago, Water Tower Campus (Chicago, IL)
Cost: $2,150 (without housing); $2,450 (with housing)
Dates: June 23–27
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Grades 7-12 students registered for MathCON
MathCON Summer Camp is a one-week intensive program designed for mathematically talented students who have qualified through the MathCON Online Round. The camp emphasizes advanced mathematical thinking through focused study of number theory, algebra, geometry, combinatorics, and problem-solving strategies. Alongside rigorous coursework taught by experienced instructors, you engage with peers who share a strong interest in competitive and exploratory mathematics. The program also supports preparation for AMC 8, AMC 10, and AMC 12, making it a strong option if you’re looking to deepen both conceptual understanding and competition readiness.
10. Summer at the University of Chicago - Proof-Based Discrete Mathematics
Location: University of Chicago (Residential)
Cost: $9,300; need-based financial aid is available
Dates: June 15 – July 2
Application Deadline: March 12
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-11 who have completed Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry
This three-week residential program gives high school students an immersive introduction to higher-level mathematical thinking and proof techniques, bridging the gap between high school and college math. You explore foundational concepts in set theory, counting, and infinite sets, while tackling challenging topics such as paradoxes, countability, and advanced counting methods. Through daily lectures, small-group problem solving, and presentations, you strengthen your logical reasoning, analytical skills, and ability to communicate mathematical arguments clearly. This program is ideal for students passionate about mathematics, computer science, data science, or the physical sciences.
11. Summer at University of Chicago - Neubauer Phoenix STEM Summer Scholars
Location: University of Chicago, Residential
Cost: $2,500; need-based financial aid is available; for household income below $60,000: tuition fee is waived, and travel is covered; for household income below $125,000: tuition fee is waived, but not travel.
Dates: July 26–31
Application Deadline: March 12
Eligibility: 11th grade students; 15+; enrolled in a U.S. high school
The Neubauer Phoenix STEM Summer Scholars program at UChicago offers rising 11th graders a unique opportunity to explore STEM fields through a hybrid learning experience that combines virtual coursework with an immersive residential week on campus. You begin with an online mathematics course, building foundational skills and preparing for hands-on experiences at UChicago. During the residential portion, students engage with world-class faculty, tour cutting-edge research facilities, and participate in model classes and day trips to institutions such as Argonne National Laboratory, Fermilab, and the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking, creativity, and the value of diverse perspectives in STEM innovation!
12. Northwestern University CTD – Mathematical Modeling
Location: Online
Cost: $860
Dates: June 3 – August 14
Application Deadline: Rolling (varies by session)
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–12; Magenta Tier eligibility required
Northwestern CTD’s Mathematical Modeling course is designed for high school students ready to move beyond procedural math and into real-world problem solving. The course introduces you to discrete mathematics and modeling techniques used in engineering, medicine, finance, and information technology. Through applied scenarios such as infrastructure planning or resource management, you learn how mathematical frameworks are built, tested, and refined to address complex systems. Offered as a flexibly paced, college-level online course, it’s well-suited for motivated students seeking rigorous math enrichment or academic acceleration over the summer.
13. Illinois Tech - Math in Action: Real-World Problem Solving
Location: Online
Cost: $300
Dates: June 15–19
Application Deadline: Typically, mid-May
Eligibility: All high school students
This online program is designed for high school students who want to see how mathematics operates in real-world settings. You engage in interactive problem-solving sessions and virtual demonstrations that highlight the practical applications of math in areas such as engineering, finance, data analysis, and everyday decision-making. You will also get to work on real-world scenarios, learning to model problems, interpret results, and communicate solutions effectively. By connecting abstract mathematical concepts to tangible challenges, the program strengthens critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills while demonstrating how math can inform decisions in both professional and personal contexts.
14. PRIMES-USA
Location: Online
Cost: None
Dates: Year–long (January – December)
Application Deadline: November 18
Eligibility: U.S. high school sophomores and juniors residing outside the Greater Boston area
PRIMES-USA is a free, year-long mathematics research program for high school sophomores and juniors across the U.S., outside the Greater Boston area. You work on original, unsolved problems in pure and applied mathematics, including theoretical computer science and computational biology, under the guidance of mentors from MIT and other top universities. The program is structured in four phases: advanced reading and preparation, active research with regular mentor meetings, independent summer study, and final project write-up and presentation. You collaborate individually or in groups, submitting interim reports, presenting at a Fall conference, and producing a final paper that can be submitted to competitions or journals.
15. Stanford Pre-Collegiate University-Level Online Math & Physics
Location: Online
Cost: $1,700 + $35 application fee
Dates: Spring: January 26 - May 15 (Summer and Fall cohorts are also available)
Application Deadline: January 5
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12
Stanford’s Pre-Collegiate University-Level Online Math & Physics program offers motivated high school students an opportunity to take advanced courses in mathematics and physics that go beyond the typical high school curriculum. You explore topics ranging from multivariable calculus and linear algebra to modern algebra and vector calculus while developing analytic reasoning, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills. Courses are largely self-paced and delivered online, with optional office hours to interact with expert instructors. All courses provide Stanford University Continuing Studies credit and a transcript, giving you exposure to university-level coursework.
Image source - Lumiere Education