15 Programs for Middle School Students in Chicago
As a middle school student, academic and structured programs offer you an early opportunity to explore subjects that spark your curiosity, whether it’s coding, medicine, robotics, or creative writing. At this age, learning experiences can help you build practical skills, critical thinking abilities, and connections with peers and mentors. Participating in these programs also provides early exposure to college-level topics, encouraging you to develop confidence and curiosity beyond the classroom.
Why should you attend a program in Chicago?
Chicago is home to a thriving ecosystem of leading universities, research centers, and innovation hubs that offer programs across STEM, the arts, leadership, and social sciences. With major institutions such as the University of Chicago and Northwestern University anchoring the city’s academic landscape, you have access to high-quality learning experiences throughout the year. Whether you’re a local or out-of-city student, you can find a program that suits your interests and helps you build your profile.
To help you find the best fit, we’ve compiled 15 programs for middle school students in Chicago, including both local and virtual opportunities.
If you are looking for programs for middle schoolers, check out our blogs here and here.
1. Science First – Chicago Botanic Garden
Location: Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, IL
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited seats per grade level
Dates: Science First I (Middle Schoolers): June 24 – July 12
Application Deadline: April 16
Eligibility: Current 6th–10th graders enrolled in Chicago Public Schools; strong interest in science and nature required
The Science First Program at the Chicago Botanic Garden introduces middle and high school students to hands-on scientific discovery in one of the country’s most beautiful natural settings. As a middle school participant, you’ll spend three weeks exploring the Garden’s ecosystems, conducting experiments, and taking part in field trips that include activities like kayaking and building aquaponics systems. The program emphasizes environmental science, critical thinking, and teamwork through daily lab activities and nature walks. High school students can progress to a paid four-week research internship, where they work directly with scientists to design and present their own experiments. Free lunch, mentorship, and field experiences make this program both accessible and inspiring—perfect for curious learners ready to explore the world of science up close.
2. Veritas AI Trailblazers
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program type; need-based financial aid available (up to 100%)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small group sessions with 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio
Dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (spring cohort, weekends) or 25 hours over 2 weeks (summer cohort, weekdays)
Application Deadline: Rolling; you can apply to the program here.
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8
The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI introduces middle school students to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning through an engaging, hands-on curriculum. Over 25 hours, you’ll learn Python programming and explore key AI concepts such as data analysis, image classification, regression, and neural networks, while also discussing the ethical implications of AI applications. Sessions are led by mentors from top universities, offering personalized guidance in small cohorts. You’ll participate in collaborative group projects; previous examples include building models to classify music genres or design educational recommendation systems.
3. Chicago Pre-College Science and Engineering Program (ChiS&E)
Location: Various partner schools across Chicago (including Langston Hughes Elementary and Kenwood Academy High School)
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; space-limited by grade level
Dates: Saturdays during the academic year; weekday sessions offered in summer
Application Deadline: Typically opens in late spring for the following academic year
Eligibility: Students in elementary through high school; middle schoolers (grades 6–8) participate in advanced STEM and coding tracks
The Chicago Pre-College Science and Engineering Program (ChiS&E) provides a unique, long-term pathway into STEM fields for Chicago students. Beginning as early as kindergarten, participants progress through a math-first curriculum that introduces increasingly complex concepts—from early algebra and engineering design to real-world coding projects—by the time they reach middle school. During the school year, you will attend Saturday sessions that combine interactive lessons with collaborative projects. The summer program expands these experiences into week-long workshops focused on hands-on experimentation and engineering design challenges. ChiS&E’s approach emphasizes consistent growth and confidence-building through mentorship, parent involvement, and cumulative learning. This program is an excellent opportunity for motivated middle school students to develop a strong foundation in mathematics and STEM problem-solving.
4. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program type; need-based financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited mentorship slots available
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer sessions beginning in June/July
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; you can apply to the program here.
Eligibility: Middle school students (grades 6–8)
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program allows middle school students to conduct independent research or creative projects under the guidance of mentors from top universities such as Harvard and Stanford. Over several weeks, you’ll work one-on-one with your mentor to explore a topic you’re passionate about—ranging from climate science and computer programming to art history and psychology. Each session involves personalized mentoring, structured feedback, and project development from start to finish. By the end of the program, you’ll produce a polished research paper or creative project that showcases your interests and skills. This program is ideal if you’re curious, self-motivated, and eager to experience what real academic research feels like at an early age.
5. America’s Cup Endeavour Chicago – STEM + Sailing Program
Location: Monroe Harbor, Chicago, IL
Cost: Free to low-cost; scholarships available (up to 100% financial aid)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited; small group sessions per cohort
Dates: One-week sessions, June – August (Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Application Deadline: Opens in the spring through the Chicago Park District
Eligibility: Students entering grades 5–8; no prior boating experience required
The America’s Cup Endeavour Chicago Program combines STEM education with hands-on sailing experiences to introduce students to the science and technology behind navigation and water safety. Hosted at Monroe Harbor, this one-week summer camp lets you explore concepts like wind dynamics, buoyancy, engineering design, and teamwork through on-water and lab-based activities. You’ll work alongside instructors to understand real-world physics and environmental science while learning to sail in a safe, structured setting. The program also offers field trips and STEM lab days that connect classroom lessons to outdoor exploration. Open to students across all Chicago neighborhoods, Endeavour Chicago provides full and partial scholarships to ensure accessibility for all interested participants.
6. MATHCOUNTS Competition
Location: National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Annual Convention, Chicago, IL
Cost: Free for registered NSBE Jr. members (travel and lodging not included)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; four students per registered team
Dates: March 5 – 9
Application Deadline: January 3
Eligibility: Teams of four middle school students (grades 6–8) who are active NSBE Jr. members
The MATHCOUNTS Competition at the NSBE Annual Convention in Chicago offers middle school students the chance to challenge their math abilities in a collaborative, high-energy setting. The competition promotes problem-solving, logical reasoning, and teamwork through year-long coaching and preparation. Teams of four students compete in rounds focused on speed, accuracy, and creativity in tackling advanced math problems. You will strengthen your critical thinking and analytical skills while connecting with mentors, peers, and engineers from across the country. This event provides both academic enrichment and professional exposure, helping motivated students see how mathematics powers innovation and engineering.
7. Ten80-NSBE STEM League
Location: National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Annual Convention, Chicago, IL
Cost: Free for registered NSBE Jr. members (materials and travel costs may apply)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; 4–15 students per team
Dates: March 5 – 9
Application Deadline: January 3
Eligibility: Teams of NSBE Jr. members in grades 6–12; middle school teams compete in the Grades 6–8 division
The Ten80-NSBE STEM League gives students the chance to think and act like real-world engineers through an innovative, project-based competition centered on motorsports and autonomous vehicles. Middle school teams build and modify 1:10 or 1:16 scale race cars, analyzing performance data and learning mechanical, electrical, and coding skills to enhance their designs. You can choose between the Racing Challenge, which emphasizes mechanical systems and performance optimization, and the Autonomous Vehicle Challenge, which focuses on programming, sensors, and obstacle navigation. Beyond engineering, teams also engage in enterprise skills, such as project management and marketing, to simulate professional STEM workflows. The competition culminates at the NSBE Annual Convention in Chicago, where top teams from across the country present their projects and race their vehicles before advancing to national finals.
8. Young Scholars Program
Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: Sliding scale ($250–$1,000 based on household income; scholarships available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Four-week summer day camp in July; Academic Year Math Circles meet for 13 Saturday sessions
Application Deadline: Spring (for Summer YSP)
Eligibility: Rising 7th–12th-grade students with a strong interest and ability in mathematics
The Young Scholars Program (YSP) at the University of Chicago aims to deepen your understanding of mathematics through problem-solving, collaboration, and exploration beyond the standard school curriculum. Designed for talented middle and high school students, the program focuses on building mathematical reasoning rather than accelerating coursework. The summer session lasts four weeks and alternates between number theory (in even years) and geometry (in odd years). You’ll take part in two daily faculty-led lectures, small group problem sessions with undergraduate mentors, and computer-based research activities. The academic year program continues this learning through the Math Circles of Chicago, offering 13 Saturday sessions. Financial aid is available, and admission is merit-based rather than income-based.
9. Center for Talent Development (CTD)
Location: Northwestern University, Evanston, IL (with select Chicago-area satellite sites)
Cost/Stipend: Varies by course type; financial aid and scholarships are available. Check here
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small class sizes
Dates: Three-week summer sessions in June – August (residential and day camps); one-week enrichment options for younger students
Application Deadline: Rolling (early application recommended)
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–12; placement based on prior academic performance or teacher recommendation
The Center for Talent Development (CTD) at Northwestern University offers academic summer programs that combine intellectual challenge with hands-on learning and community engagement. You can enrol in day or residential camps, exploring subjects ranging from computer science and engineering to creative writing, mathematics, and leadership studies. Classes are small and taught by expert instructors, encouraging independent thinking and collaboration. Beyond academics, residential students gain early exposure to college life while developing friendships and leadership skills through structured evening and weekend activities. CTD also offers online enrichment and accelerated courses, making it accessible to students nationwide. Financial aid is available to qualifying families, ensuring broad access to high-quality summer learning.
10. Summer Lab – University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
Location: University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Chicago, IL
Cost: $350–$795 per session/course; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; small class sizes
Dates: June – August (varies by program)
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–8
The Summer Lab at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools offers a vibrant and hands-on learning experience for middle school students. You’ll get to explore diverse subjects, ranging from robotics and AI to creative writing, ceramics, photography, and theater. Each day combines academic discovery with recreation, helping you develop new interests in a supportive community environment. Small class sizes ensure personalized instruction and meaningful interaction with teachers. The program also integrates leadership activities and local field trips, giving you the chance to learn both inside and outside the classroom. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for an engaging, well-rounded summer experience that blends academic growth with creativity and fun.
11. Chicago Academy for the Arts Middle School Programs
Location: The Chicago Academy for the Arts, Chicago, IL
Cost: $250 per 4-week spring session; $995 for summer program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; small studio-based groups
Dates: Spring sessions—March 7 – 28 and April 11 – May 2, Saturdays; Summer session (June 8 – 18)
Application Deadline: Registration opens in December; rolling until full
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–9 with an interest in the arts
The Middle School Programs at the Chicago Academy for the Arts are designed for creative students who want to deepen their skills in dance, media arts, music, musical theatre, or visual arts. During the spring sessions, you’ll attend Saturday classes that focus on building artistic technique and confidence in a collaborative environment. The Summer at the Academy program offers a two-week immersive experience where you’ll train with professional artists, participate in workshops, and showcase your work in a final presentation. Small class sizes encourage individualized feedback and peer collaboration. This program is ideal if you’re passionate about the arts and eager to experience what it’s like to learn in a conservatory-style environment.
12. Elevate College Prep
Location: Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL (in-person and virtual options available)
Cost: Varies by program; financial aid and paid apprenticeships available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies by track; selective for apprenticeships and dual enrollment
Dates: Summer sessions (June – August); year-round enrichment and partnership programs
Application Deadline: Rolling (varies by program)
Eligibility: Middle and high school students (grades 6–12)
The Elevate College Prep Program at Illinois Tech helps middle and high school students build real-world skills and gain early exposure to college-level learning. Through a variety of summer courses, apprenticeships, and academic-year partnerships, you’ll explore subjects such as sustainability, engineering, cybersecurity, and computing. You can participate in future-focused workshops that emphasize creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving in STEM. Older students may participate in paid apprenticeships or dual-enrollment classes taught by Illinois Tech faculty, allowing them to earn college credit and gain hands-on lab experience. The program also connects students with mentors and industry professionals, helping you design a personalized plan for college and beyond. If you’re looking to combine innovation, career exploration, and college preparation, Elevate College Prep offers one of the most comprehensive pre-college experiences in Chicago.
13. MathCON Summer Camp
Location: Loyola University Water Tower Campus, Chicago, IL
Cost: $2,450 (with housing) or $2,150 (without housing); includes meals, excursions, and camp materials
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; open to MathCON Online Round participants
Dates: June 23 – 27
Application Deadline: Opens later in the year (check MathCON website for updates)
Eligibility: Students in grades 7–12 registered for the MathCON Online Round
The MathCON Summer Camp is a one-week intensive program designed for mathematically gifted middle and high school students who have participated in MathCON. Hosted at Loyola University’s Water Tower Campus, this camp helps you explore higher-level mathematics through topics like number theory, combinatorics, algebra, geometry, and problem-solving. You’ll learn from experienced instructors, engage in group challenges, and strengthen your preparation for competitions such as the AMC 8, AMC 10, and AMC 12. The schedule includes both academic sessions and fun extracurricular activities, such as a Lake Michigan firework cruise and an escape room challenge. All meals are provided, featuring classic Chicago favorites, like Giordano’s deep-dish pizza. If you’re passionate about math and eager to push your problem-solving skills further, this camp offers a rigorous yet rewarding summer experience.
14. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) Middle School Summer Program
Location: School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), Chicago, IL
Cost: Varies by course; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; small studio cohorts
Dates: Session 1: June 29 – July 10 (no class July 3), Session 2: July 13 – 24, Session 3: July 27 – August 7
Application Deadline: Rolling; registration opens in spring
Eligibility: Students ages 10–13 (middle school)
The Middle School Summer Program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) provides a two-week immersive experience for young artists eager to develop their creative and technical skills. You’ll choose from courses such as Painting, Drawing, Animation, Comics and Graphic Novels, or Fashion Design, each designed to nurture both artistic technique and conceptual thinking. Led by practicing artists and faculty, classes emphasize self-expression, experimentation, and collaboration. Daily museum visits to the Art Institute of Chicago inspire projects and connect studio work with world-renowned art collections. With small class sizes and a supportive atmosphere, this program is ideal for creative middle schoolers ready to explore their artistic passions and build lasting connections with peers who share their interests.
15. Summer Adventures – Science & Arts Academy (SAA)
Location: Science & Arts Academy, Des Plaines, IL (Chicago-area)
Cost: $540–$1,150 per two-week session (depending on program type); before- and aftercare available for an additional fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; small, interest-based class groups
Dates: Session 1: June 15 – 26, Session 2: June 29 – July 10 (no camp July 4), Session 3: July 13 – 24
Application Deadline: Registration opens early each year; rolling until full
Eligibility: Students entering grades 1–8; preschool and kindergarten options also available
The Summer Adventures program at the Science & Arts Academy offers three two-week sessions designed to spark intellectual curiosity through hands-on, multidisciplinary learning. For middle schoolers, the program includes morning enrichment classes in subjects like math, science, computer programming, visual and performing arts, and specialty athletics. You can be enrolled in the full-day option and continue with afternoon recreation and team-building activities, including cooperative games and creative outdoor play. Each class is taught by experienced educators who specialize in gifted education and creative instruction. Campers receive all materials and a camp t-shirt, and families can take advantage of before- and aftercare options for added flexibility. This program is ideal for curious, motivated learners who want to combine academic exploration with summer fun in a supportive, engaging environment.
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