12 Research Opportunities for High School Students During The School Year
If you are a high school student curious about research, participating in a research opportunity during the school year is a great way to explore the process. Research programs for high schoolers allow you to see how research is conducted, develop valuable skills, and connect with like-minded peers. Many colleges and organizations offer research opportunities during the academic year, with some online programs allowing you to work remotely. Conducting independent research in high school can also help you stand out in a competitive college admissions process.
To help you get started, we have compiled a list of 12 research opportunities for high school students during the school year!
1.PRIMES-USA AT MIT
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Runs year-round
Application Deadline: November 18
Eligibility: Current High school juniors and seniors residing in the United States outside the Greater Boston area.
PRIMES-USA is a prestigious research program for high school students with a strong interest in mathematics. Throughout this year-long virtual program, participants experience every stage of mathematical research, from studying advanced literature and identifying open problems to developing original solutions and writing formal papers. The program starts with structured exercises in mathematical writing and reading to prepare students for research. Weekly, students meet one-on-one or in small groups with mentors to discuss ideas, tackle difficult problems, and get continuous feedback. As their projects progress, students work independently or collaboratively to construct proofs, test examples, and examine mathematical patterns. They also build strong skills in communicating their work through both written papers and oral presentations.
2. Veritas AI - AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Application deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Program dates: Varies according to the cohort: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Eligibility: 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 who are passionate about the field of AI with a suitable environment in which 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. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program
Location: Various AFRL research sites across the U.S
Stipend: Starts at $501.60/week
Program Dates: Dates vary based on the AFRL sites and/or projects to which you are applying
Application Deadline: January 10
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16; Check the detailed eligibility criteria here
The Air Force Research Laboratory program targets high school students keen on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Participants select up to three topics at each AFRL location, such as machine learning, atomic physics, satellite navigation, or astrodynamics. They then undertake hands-on research guided by full-time AFRL scientists and engineers. The work involves real-world, mission-critical projects across fields like aerospace, materials science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and others. The program also offers professional development activities, including lab tours, seminars, and networking events, to help students develop career-ready skills.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort.
Program Dates: Varies by cohort: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.
Eligibility: You must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate a high level of academic achievement.
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler. The program pairs high school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
5. Sandia National Laboratories Internship Program
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Stipend: Competitive pay provided
Program Dates: Summer internships: 10-12 weeks (from May to the last Thursday in August) | Co-op internships: 3-8 months during the academic term, including an adjacent summer term | Year-round internships: during academic terms (up to 25 hours a week)
Application Deadline: Internships are posted year-round with rolling deadlines
Eligibility: U.S. citizens at least 16 years old and enrolled as a full-time high school student; minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 (for high school students applying for Research and Development, Technical, or Business positions); more details here.
The Sandia National Laboratories Internships program targets high school students eager to gain practical experience in technical and business areas related to science, engineering, and national security. Participants will work full-time on actual projects and have access to year-round part-time internships that align with their academic calendars. Additionally, the program offers co-op opportunities, enabling students to switch between full-time work and school attendance. You will be paired with mentors and involved in research and development tasks across fields like cybersecurity, engineering design, software development, and energy. In addition to work experience, the program offers access to health services, networking events, and professional development workshops.
6. AI4ALL @ University of Washington
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Program Dates: September 8 – January 26
Application Deadline: July 31
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors, seniors, and college freshmen from underrepresented backgrounds
The AI4ALL @ University of Washington is a 20-week introductory course in data science and machine learning for international high school students, with a particular emphasis on students from underrepresented backgrounds. It covers technical skills and also prompts students to consider the societal impact of AI, focusing on reducing bias and fostering fairness in technology. Throughout the program, you'll participate in beginner-friendly lessons, practical coding exercises, and small group discussions led by faculty and researchers from the University of Washington. You'll develop hands-on skills in programming and data analysis, enhance your critical thinking, and discover how AI can influence your future education and career.
7. Internships at American Psychological Association (APA)
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Program Dates: Offered year-round, including summer, spring, and fall sessions
Application Deadline: Rolling, see the application portal for open opportunities
Eligibility: High school students; specific details vary based on the internship
The American Psychological Association (APA) provides internships to students interested in pursuing careers in clinical, counseling, or school psychology. These internships offer hands-on experience through research support, client sessions, policy analysis, and professional development workshops. You will participate in research activities such as literature reviews and data analysis, support policy development and program evaluation, and take part in client observations or supervised therapy sessions within clinical environments. In addition to helping you build valuable skills in research, data analysis, and technical writing, the program concludes with participants receiving a certificate or letter of accomplishment.
8. EnergyMAG Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Program Dates: Half-time (20 hrs/week): Summer only, for 2 to 8 weeks | Quarter-time (8 hrs/week): Available year-round, lasting 1 to 9 months
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors who have taken at least one honors science or honors English class, and maintain a GPA of 3.25 or higher
The EnergyMag Internship is a remote research program designed for high school students interested in renewable energy, particularly energy storage technologies. It provides two adaptable formats: a summer program (approximately 20 hours weekly for 2 to 8 weeks) and a year-round program (about 8 hours weekly for 1 to 9 months), allowing students to conveniently accommodate their school schedules. During the internship, you'll work remotely researching a particular energy company, technology, or market trend. Your responsibilities might involve interviewing industry experts, gathering and analyzing data, and preparing clear, organized reports with guidance from a mentor. You might also have the opportunity to publish your work on EnergyMag’s website, providing valuable experience in scientific writing and communication.
9. Foreign Policy Research Institute - High School Internship Program
Location: Virtual or in-person at Foreign Policy Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA.
Cost: None
Program Dates: Offered year-round, including summer, spring, and fall sessions
Application Deadline: Varies depending on cohort
Eligibility: Current High school students
The program is divided into groups (or cohorts) for high school students interested in foreign policy and international relations. Each participant is paired with a mentor working or studying in the field, who will guide you through your projects and assist in developing your knowledge of international relations and research skills. Throughout the program, you will develop key skills, including research, teamwork, clear communication, and organization. Simultaneously, you will enhance your understanding of global issues and the ways countries engage with each other on the international stage. The program includes opportunities to attend weekly seminars featuring guest speakers who discuss foreign policy topics and career options. Additionally, you'll have the chance to get a feel for working in a think tank by participating in seminars, panel discussions, and workshops.
10. California Academy of Sciences Careers in Science (CiS)
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA
Stipend: Paid internship
Program Dates: Begins in June as rising 10th–11th graders and continues year-round through high school graduation
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Students enrolled full-time as a 9th or 10th grader at an SFUSD school; minimum 2.5 GPA with a C or higher in science and math; valid work permit; ability to commit 2–3 years; reliable commute; demonstrated interest in science
The Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program at the California Academy of Sciences is aimed at San Francisco high school students interested in science, nature, and the environment, providing an opportunity to explore scientific careers. Participants will engage in outdoor fieldwork, help facilitate educational activities for museum visitors, and support Academy scientists with research projects. The program also offers professional development through workshops on science communication, financial literacy, and college readiness. Additionally, you will be paired with mentors who assist in developing key skills such as public speaking, teamwork, and scientific thinking.
11. U.S. Department of the Treasury Student Internship Program
Location: Washington, DC
Cost: None
Program Dates: Spring: January – May | Summer: May – August | Fall: September – December
Application Deadline: Fall: June | Spring: October | Summer: December
Eligibility: U.S. citizens enrolled full-time at an accredited high school
The Student Internship Program by the U.S. Department of the Treasury provides high school students interested in government, economics, public policy, law, or technology with opportunities to engage in real work related to tax policy, economic research, cybersecurity, communications, and HR. The program provides practical experiences in data analysis, report creation, and attending meetings that offer a behind-the-scenes view of federal government operations. In addition to your daily responsibilities, you'll participate in mentoring sessions, career discussions, and skill development activities designed to enhance your communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills, all while preparing you for college and future careers.
12. Wildlife Conservation Society | Bronx Zoo Project TRUE
Location: Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Summer program: June 30 – August 21 (3 days a week) | Fall program: September 13 – December 20 (14 Saturdays) with an additional Saturday in January for final presentations.
Application Deadline: March 7
Eligibility: High school sophomores or juniors from the Bronx who are comfortable working indoors and outdoors
Project TRUE is a year-long program for high school students who want to learn about nature and do real environmental research. The program is split into two parts: a summer session and a fall session. During the summer, you'll visit locations such as parks, rooftops, and ponds to observe animals, plants, and the impact of city life on the environment. You will collaborate in teams with college students and scientists to gather information and understand the research process. During the fall, you'll meet weekly to discuss your research, enhance your communication skills, and receive support with college applications and financial aid.