10 Math Research Programs for High School Students in Florida
If you’re a high school student interested in mathematics, participating in a research program can be an effective way to explore the field in depth. Math research programs help you strengthen analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and logical reasoning while working closely with faculty mentors, graduate students, and fellow students. Through these experiences, you learn how to approach complex problems, develop mathematical proofs, work on open-ended projects, and communicate your ideas clearly, all skills that are essential for future study in STEM and quantitative fields.
Why should you attend a program in Florida?
Florida is home to a growing network of universities, research centers, and academic institutions that offer accessible summer and year-round opportunities in mathematics and related disciplines. From pure and applied mathematics to data science, computational modeling, and interdisciplinary research, students can explore a wide range of mathematical topics while benefiting from strong mentorship, modern facilities, and collaborative learning environments. With so many options available, you can dive into your interests and begin building a strong academic and professional foundation in mathematics.
To help you get started, we’ve put together 10 math research programs for high school students in Florida.
If you are looking for internships in Florida, check out our blog here.
1. University of South Florida (USF) STEM for Scholars Summer School
Location: University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
Cost: Free admission offered for qualified applicants; general participants pay $500 per week
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 16 – July 3
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students
The STEM for Scholars Summer School is designed to introduce you to high-level STEM topics through a combination of research-based learning and advanced problem-solving. This multidisciplinary math program for high school students in Florida can help you gain insights into how mathematics supports innovation across scientific fields. You will study modern fields such as quantum information, nanotechnology, and mathematical modeling in epidemiology, connecting theory with practical applications. Sessions on machine learning and bioinformatics will help you approach complex systems with analytical and computational tools. You will also participate in projects that often lead to publications or competition submissions, gaining experience in applying research methods to real-world contexts.
2. Veritas AI's AI Fellowship
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: Varies by cohort. Multiple 15-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Application Deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November). You can apply to the program here.
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python
Veritas AI focuses on providing high school students passionate about AI with a supportive environment to explore their interests. The programs include collaborative learning, project development, and 1-on-1 mentorship. Students are expected to have a basic understanding of Python or are recommended to complete the AI scholars program before pursuing the fellowship. The AI Fellowship program will allow students to pursue independent AI research projects. Students work on their research projects over 15 weeks and can opt to combine AI with any other field of interest. You can find examples of previous projects here.
3. Florida State University (FSU) – Young Scholars Program (YSP)
Location: Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL
Cost/Stipend: No cost; supplemental stipend for available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 40 students
Dates: June 7 – July 18
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Rising high-school seniors (completed 11th grade) and exceptionally qualified 10th graders; minimum 3.0 GPA, math score in the 90th percentile or higher on a standardized exam, enrollment or completion of Pre-Calculus, and Florida residency required
YSP is a six-week intensive math and science program at Florida State University for high school students ready to tackle advanced topics. You’ll take courses such as Linear Algebra and Game Theory that extend beyond standard coursework and apply mathematical thinking to real-world problems, including encryption and competitive strategy. Alongside coursework, you’ll engage in discussions, written problem-solving, and team projects. A major highlight is the Independent Research Project, in which you join university research labs in fields such as physics, biology, and computer science. The program concludes with a formal research paper and poster presentation, giving you firsthand experience in academic research.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program – Math Track
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June - August), Fall (September - December), Winter (December - February), and Spring (March - June)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: You must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate a high level of academic achievement.
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is an intensive research experience designed for high school students who want to pursue advanced academic work. You are matched one-on-one with a Ph.D. mentor and guided through the process of designing and completing an independent research project. Over 12 weeks, you develop a full research paper while receiving individualized feedback and support. Students may choose topics from a wide range of disciplines, including mathematics, psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more.
5. Florida State University – Upward Bound Math and Science
Location: FSU Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement, Tallahassee, FL
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Year-round academic year engagement + six-week summer experience
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students (9th–12th grade) who meet federal income guidelines or are first-generation college-bound, are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The Upward Bound Math and Science program strengthens your academic skills in math, science, and related subjects while preparing you for college. During the academic year, you’ll receive in-person or virtual academic support and participate in workshops on leadership, financial literacy, and college planning. The summer portion includes six weeks of residential coursework and project-based learning at Florida State University, with opportunities for collaborative learning, career exploration, and a real college campus experience.
6. Florida Gulf Coast University STEM Academy
Location: Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, FL
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 14 – 26
Application Deadline: March 13
Eligibility: Current high school freshmen, sophomores, or juniors from Lee, Collier, Hendry, Glades, or Charlotte Counties with a minimum 3.0 GPA and completed Algebra I
The STEM Academy introduces high school students to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive, hands-on learning. Each week includes math instruction, professional communication training, and faculty-led activities that showcase how STEM concepts address real-world problems. You will tour local industries, meet technical professionals, and collaborate on team projects that build problem-solving and teamwork skills, strengthening both academic foundations and career awareness.
7. Florida State College GRADS Program
Location: Florida State College, Jacksonville, FL + other FSCJ campuses
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Begins each summer
Application Deadline: Varies annually
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–12 who meet academic and economic criteria
The GRADS Initiative (Gain Resources and Develop Skills) helps high school students connect their academic work with future college and career goals. Through test preparation, academic enrichment, and internship opportunities, the program strengthens both academic performance and professional readiness. You may choose math-focused learning options and take part in experiences such as university visits, career development workshops, and networking sessions with local professionals. The program also provides guidance on scholarships and college applications while helping you build the skills needed for long-term success.
8. University of Florida Student Science Training Program (UF SSTP)
Location: University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Cost: $50 application fee + $5,500 program cost; need-based scholarships available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 90 students each summer
Dates: July 7 – 25
Application Deadline: April 1 for non-Florida students | April 15 for Florida students
Eligibility: Students entering their senior year of high school who are at least 16 years old by the start of the program
The University of Florida’s Student Science Training Program offers a seven-week immersive research experience where you work closely with faculty mentors. The program blends laboratory research with daily science and mathematics lectures, along with an honors seminar focused on writing, discussion, and presentation. You’ll contribute to active university research projects in fields such as mathematics, engineering, and computer science while learning how to analyze data and scientific publications. Strong emphasis is placed on communication through regular technical reports, research papers, and poster presentations.
9. Stanford University Mathematics Camp
Location: Virtual
Cost: $3,750; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 64 students
Dates: Session 1: June 15 – July 3 | Session 2: July 6 – 24
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) is a rigorous summer program centered on advanced pure mathematics, including number theory, abstract algebra, and algebraic topology. Through daily lectures, proofs, and collaborative problem-solving, you explore mathematics as it is practiced in research environments. You will select between two specialized tracks: one focusing on algebra and number theory, the other on algebraic topology, both connecting classical theories with contemporary mathematical applications. The program’s intensity reflects college-level study and encourages independent exploration supported by discussion and guided research, while also connecting you with mathematically driven students from around the world.
10. George Mason University Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: Virtual opportunities available for Florida students
Cost: $25 application fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 18 – August 12
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Students who are at least 15 years old by program start
ASSIP offers mentored summer research internships across disciplines, including mathematics, statistics, and data and computational sciences. You can choose mentors who offer remote math-focused research projects. Over eight weeks, you’ll contribute to ongoing research while developing skills in scientific writing and professional communication. The program also introduces you to STEM career paths and provides opportunities to build relationships with university researchers. The experience concludes with a research symposium showcasing participants' completed projects.