15 Programs for Middle School Students in Illinois
As a middle school student, structured programs allow you to build skills and gain exposure to diverse fields like medicine, computer science, and engineering. These experiences can sharpen your analytical thinking, boost confidence, and give you early insight into fields you might explore later in high school and beyond. You can also learn from mentors and connect with peers who share your interests, helping you build your network early on.
Why should you attend a program in Illinois?
In Illinois, institutions and organisations, such as the Chicago Botanic Garden and the University of Illinois, host a variety of programs that cater to middle-schoolers. Through these programs, you can work on projects, developing both academic and creative skills along the way. Whether you’re a local student or traveling from another state, Illinois provides an encouraging environment where you can grow, learn, and connect with others who share your curiosity.
To help with your search, we’ve narrowed down 15 programs for middle school students in Illinois.
If you are looking for online summer programs, check out our blog here.
1. Science First – Chicago Botanic Garden
Location: Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, IL
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited seats per grade level
Program Dates: Science First I (Middle Schoolers): June 24 – July 12; Science First II (High School Freshmen & Sophomores): July 15 – August 9
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 offers an immersive introduction to environmental and biological sciences in a hands-on setting. Over three weeks, you’ll explore ecosystems, conduct experiments, and engage in outdoor fieldwork such as kayaking, soil sampling, and building aquaponics systems. Daily lab activities and guided nature walks strengthen your scientific observation and teamwork skills. Returning students can advance into Science First II, a paid internship where you work alongside Garden scientists to design and present independent research projects. With free participation, mentorship, and experiential learning in one of Illinois’s most scenic research environments, this program is an excellent choice for middle schoolers passionate about science, sustainability, and discovery.
2. Veritas AI Trailblazers
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program type; need-based financial aid available
Program Dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (weekends, spring cohort) or 25 hours over 2 weeks (weekdays, summer cohort)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8
The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI is a fully virtual course designed to help middle school students explore the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Over the course of 25 hours, you will learn Python programming and explore key AI concepts, including data analysis, regression, image classification, neural networks, and AI ethics. Sessions combine live instruction with small-group mentorship, maintaining an impressive 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio. By the end of the program, you’ll complete a personalised AI project—past examples include building a model to classify music genres or designing an algorithm to recommend educational resources. It’s an ideal choice if you’re curious about coding, data science, or the real-world applications of AI.
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
Program 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) is a long-term, enrichment pathway designed to help Chicago students build strong foundations in mathematics, coding, and engineering design. Starting as early as kindergarten, students progress through a math-first model that prepares them for advanced STEM learning by middle school. As a participant, you’ll engage in Saturday sessions during the school year featuring hands-on lessons, group projects, and problem-solving workshops. During the summer, ChiS&E offers week-long intensive programs focused on engineering design challenges and coding applications. With mentorship from STEM professionals and strong family engagement, this free program offers a comprehensive and community-driven approach to nurturing scientific curiosity and academic confidence among Chicago’s youth.
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
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer sessions beginning in June/July
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Middle school students (grades 6–8)
The Junior Explorer Program by Lumiere Education allows middle school students to pursue independent research or creative projects with personalised mentorship from scholars at leading universities such as Harvard and Stanford. Over several weeks, you will explore a topic of your choice, ranging from climate science and computer programming to art history and psychology, and develop your project through structured one-on-one sessions. Each phase includes guided topic exploration, research design, and iterative feedback, helping you build both academic and creative confidence. By the end of the program, you’ll produce a completed research paper or project portfolio that reflects your interests and intellectual growth. This program is best suited for curious, motivated students eager to experience real academic research at an early age.
5. America’s Cup Endeavour Chicago – STEM + Sailing Program
Location: Monroe Harbour, Chicago, IL
Cost: Free to low-cost; scholarships available (up to 100% financial aid)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited; small group sessions per cohort
Program 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 – STEM + Sailing Program blends science, engineering, and outdoor adventure through a hands-on sailing experience at Monroe Harbour. Over the course of a week, you’ll explore key STEM concepts such as wind dynamics, buoyancy, and engineering design, while learning the fundamentals of sailing and water safety. Activities include on-water instruction, collaborative experiments, and lab-based investigations that connect physics and environmental science to real-world navigation. Field trips and STEM lab days further reinforce classroom concepts through experiential learning. With scholarships and full financial aid available, this program makes high-quality STEM and sailing education accessible to students from across Chicago, fostering confidence, teamwork, and curiosity in a unique setting.
6. Mini Health Professions Program
Location: University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited seats for eligible students
Dates: January – May (sessions held 1–2 Saturdays per month)
Application Deadline: December 22
Eligibility: 4th–8th-grade students from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds
The Mini Health Professions Program (MHPP) is a pathway initiative at UIC that introduces students from underrepresented backgrounds to health sciences and medical careers. Held twice monthly on Saturdays, the program blends lectures, dissections, experiments, and visits from healthcare professionals to help you explore body systems like the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurovascular systems. You’ll participate in hands-on anatomy labs, conduct experiments, and learn about public-health concepts linked to each body system. Graduate student mentors guide every session, ensuring a supportive learning experience that fosters scientific curiosity and confidence. Designed to spark early interest in STEM and healthcare, MHPP offers an engaging, community-based introduction to medicine right in Chicago.
7. Early Outreach Program
Location: University of Illinois, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; space limited
Program Dates: July 6 – August 7 (Summer Educational Program)
Application Deadline: Academic Placement Exam required in September; application opens in spring
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–12 from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds
The Early Outreach Program (EOP) at UIC is a long-running pre-college initiative that introduces middle and high school students from underrepresented backgrounds to careers in the medical and health sciences. Through the Summer Educational Program, middle school participants (starting 6th grade in the fall) take part in hands-on courses like Exploring Opportunities in Pharmacy (EOiPP), along with sessions on research skills, literacy development, and public health. Classes run on weekdays and include academic enrichment, STEM learning, and health-related workshops led by UIC faculty and college partners. The program emphasises critical thinking, social awareness, and early exposure to health science pathways, helping you prepare for post-secondary success and inspiring future careers in healthcare.
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
Program 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 provides an advanced mathematics experience designed to strengthen problem-solving, collaboration, and creative reasoning skills. Aimed at mathematically talented middle and high school students, the program emphasises deep conceptual understanding over rote learning. During the four-week summer camp, you will attend daily lectures, small-group problem-solving sessions, and computational labs led by university faculty and undergraduate mentors. Each year alternates focus between number theory and geometry, allowing returning students to explore new material. The program also extends into the school year through the Math Circles of Chicago, which hosts weekend sessions to continue mathematical exploration. Merit-based admission and financial aid make this one of Illinois’s most respected pre-college math experiences.
9. Center for Talent Development (CTD)
Location: Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
Cost/Stipend: Varies by course type; financial aid and scholarships available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; small class sizes
Program Dates: Three-week summer sessions (June–August); one-week enrichment options for younger students
Application Deadline: Rolling (early application recommended)
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–12; placement based on academic performance or teacher recommendation
Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development (CTD) offers a range of summer academic programs that blend intellectual rigour with experiential learning. Designed for motivated middle and high school students, the program allows you to choose from courses in computer science, engineering, creative writing, mathematics, and leadership studies. Whether attending as a day or residential student, you’ll engage in small, discussion-based classes led by experienced instructors and collaborate with peers who share your academic curiosity. Residential participants also enjoy a preview of campus life through evening and weekend community activities. With both in-person and online options available, CTD provides flexible, high-level enrichment for students ready to explore advanced subjects beyond the school curriculum.
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
Program 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 provides a dynamic and hands-on learning environment where middle school students can explore academics, arts, and technology in equal measure. You’ll choose from a wide range of courses, such as robotics, artificial intelligence, creative writing, ceramics, photography, and theater, designed to nurture both intellectual curiosity and creative expression. Daily activities balance classroom learning with recreation, helping you develop new skills in a collaborative community. Small class sizes ensure personalised attention and strong mentorship from instructors. The program also incorporates leadership-building exercises and local field trips, offering a well-rounded summer experience that blends academic growth, creativity, and fun.
11. The 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
Program 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 refine their artistic abilities in a focused and supportive setting. You’ll choose from disciplines such as dance, media arts, music, musical theatre, or visual arts, and work closely with professional artists and faculty mentors. The spring sessions provide weekend instruction that builds technique and confidence, while the Summer at the Academy program offers a two-week immersive experience culminating in a final showcase. Small studio groups allow for personalised feedback and meaningful collaboration with peers. This program is ideal if you’re passionate about the arts and eager to experience conservatory-style training at one of Chicago’s leading arts institutions.
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
Program 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)
Illinois Tech’s Elevate College Prep program gives students an early start in exploring college-level subjects and professional pathways in STEM. You’ll take part in summer courses, academic-year enrichment programs, or apprenticeships that emphasise sustainability, engineering, computing, and cybersecurity. Each session integrates creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving through real-world projects and lab work. Middle school students can begin with exploratory STEM workshops, while older students may join dual-enrollment or paid apprenticeship tracks for hands-on research and college credit. The program also connects you with Illinois Tech faculty, mentors, and industry professionals, helping you build both technical and leadership skills for future academic and career success.
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
Program 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 at Loyola University Chicago is an advanced, weeklong math immersion program for middle and high school students who have participated in the MathCON Online Round. Throughout the camp, you’ll explore challenging topics such as number theory, algebra, combinatorics, and geometry through lectures, collaborative problem-solving, and group competitions. Faculty-led sessions focus on creative thinking and preparation for math contests like the AMC 8, AMC 10, and AMC 12. Outside the classroom, you’ll enjoy Chicago-based excursions, including a Lake Michigan firework cruise and an escape room challenge, alongside classic local favourites like deep-dish pizza nights. This program is ideal if you’re passionate about mathematics and looking for a rigorous yet engaging environment to strengthen your competition skills.
14. 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
Program 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) offers an inspiring, two-week experience for young artists eager to explore new creative mediums. You’ll choose from courses such as Painting, Drawing, Animation, Comics and Graphic Novels, and Fashion Design, each blending technical skill-building with creative experimentation. Classes are taught by practising artists and SAIC faculty, ensuring exposure to professional studio methods and individualised feedback. Daily museum visits to the Art Institute of Chicago connect your projects with one of the world’s leading art collections. With its small class sizes, hands-on approach, and collaborative environment, this program is ideal for middle school students looking to expand their artistic voice and confidence in a world-class art setting.
15. Summer Adventures – Science & Arts Academy (SAA)
Location: Science & Arts Academy, Des Plaines, IL
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
Program 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 (SAA) provides a multidisciplinary, hands-on summer experience designed to engage bright and curious learners. Middle school participants can choose from enrichment classes in math, science, computer programming, visual and performing arts, and specialty athletics, all taught by educators experienced in gifted instruction. Each two-week session combines academic exploration with recreation, offering a full-day schedule that includes afternoon team-building games and creative outdoor activities. Small class sizes promote collaboration and individualised learning, while flexible before- and aftercare options support family schedules. This program is a great fit if you want to balance intellectual challenge with summer fun in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Image source - Lumiere Education