15 Science Programs for High School Students in Virginia
If you are interested in science, a structured program can help you explore subjects beyond your regular school curriculum. Programs may involve conducting experiments, analyzing datasets, reviewing scientific literature, or contributing to research projects in fields such as biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, and medicine. Through these experiences, you can learn how scientific questions are investigated, strengthen your analytical and problem-solving skills, and gain a clearer understanding of the subjects you may want to pursue in college.
Why should you attend a Science program in Virginia?
Virginia offers access to major research universities, government-connected institutions, medical centers, and science-focused organizations that create meaningful learning opportunities for high school students. The state’s mix of academic hubs, natural landscapes, and STEM infrastructure gives you a broad range of experiences across disciplines. Depending on the program, you may conduct biomedical research in university labs, explore engineering and applied science projects, or investigate environmental systems through fieldwork. Local students may appreciate the chance to access strong programs close to home, while out-of-state students can benefit from residential or summer options that combine academics with a new environment.
To help you compare the strongest options, we have curated a list of 15 science programs for high school students in Virginia.
If you’re looking for online summer programs, check out our blog here.
1. Virginia Aerospace Science and Technology Scholars Program (VASTS)
Location: Online + in-person at NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Online component: December – May + Summer academy: One week in May – August
Application deadline: October 26
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are Virginia residents, at least 16 years old, and U.S. citizens; applicants must have a GPA of 2.7 or higher.
VASTS is a hybrid program that combines online coursework with an in-person summer academy hosted at NASA's Langley Research Center. During the school year, you will follow an online curriculum learning about aerospace science, systems design, and NASA missions. Upon completing the virtual modules, you will work on solutions and design upgrades for the International Space Station and develop plans for a new crew exploration vehicle. You will also participate in online discussion forums on space-related topics. Based on your online course performance, you may get to attend a week-long Summer Academy at NASA Langley Research Center. During the weeklong summer phase, you will work with peers to design a mission to Mars, tour NASA facilities, and present your work to NASA professionals.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple 12 – 15-week cohorts throughout the year
Application deadline: Rolling enrollment; deadlines vary by cohort: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November). You can check details and apply to the program here.
Eligibility: High school students; AI Fellowship with Publication and Showcase accepts previous AI Scholars participants or those with some experience working with AI or Python.
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers a range of online programs for high school students passionate about artificial intelligence. If you are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science, you can choose the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, you will learn about the fundamentals of AI and data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects. Another track for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. During this program, you will get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A key feature of this program is that it offers you access to the in-house publication team to help you secure publications in high school research journals. You can check out some examples of past projects here and read about a student’s experience in the program here.
3. George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: Virtual or George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
Cost: $25 application fee + $1,299 tuition for three course credits; fee waivers available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 18 – August 12
Application deadline: February 15
Eligibility: High school and undergraduate students who are at least 15 years old (or 16+ for wet-lab and in-person projects)
ASSIP is a summer program that offers high school and college students hands-on science and research experience. Over eight weeks, you will work closely with faculty mentors on original research projects using advanced tools and technology across a wide range of STEM fields. Depending on the project, you may explore areas such as biology, computer science, environmental science, engineering, data science, or interdisciplinary research. The program emphasizes more than just lab work, letting you strengthen your scientific writing, presentation, and communication skills while learning how research is shared professionally. You will engage with mentors, role models, and career panels to better understand future pathways in STEM. ASSIP also offers the chance to earn three college credits from George Mason University.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program: Tech track
Location: Remote! You can participate in the program from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Varies depending on program type; full financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Varies by cohort: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.
Application deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort
Eligibility: Students enrolled in high school who 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 across a wide range of subject areas for high schoolers to explore. The program pairs you with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the program, you will have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as data science, psychology, physics, economics, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here, and check out students’ reviews of the program here and here.
5. Building Leaders for Advancing Science and Technology (BLAST)
Location: Multiple Virginia campuses (William & Mary, UVA, Virginia Tech, Radford University, and Old Dominion University)
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 21 – July 29 (three-day sessions; varies by campus)
Application deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Virginia 8th and 9th-grade students who are U.S. citizens/legal permanent residents with at least a C+/B- average (minimum 2.7 GPA)
BLAST is a free summer program designed to introduce Virginia students to STEM through immersive, hands-on learning. Over three days, you will stay in college dorms, experience campus life, and take part in activities led by faculty and university staff. Through experiments, demonstrations, and collaborative challenges, you will gain exposure to a wide range of fields while building your confidence. BLAST is hosted across multiple university campuses, offering you an early look at college environments and future academic pathways.
6. George Mason University ACCESS Academy Artificial Intelligence Summer Camp
Location: Fuse at Mason Square, Arlington, VA
Cost: Free (lunch included)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Session 1: July 13 – 17 | Session 2: July 20 – 24 | Session 3: July 27 – 31
Application deadline: Not specified; applications open on May 4
Eligibility: Rising 9th – 12th graders residing in Virginia
This is a free, week-long day camp hosted at George Mason University's Fuse facility, where you will explore artificial intelligence and related technologies. During the camp, you will work on hands-on projects covering the basics of machine learning, design challenges, and beginner-friendly tech tools. You will also collaborate with peers to build a prototype using an original idea, developing skills in critical thinking and creativity. At the end of camp, you will present your ideas to peers and program instructors.
7. VALHEN STEM Academy @ George Mason University
Location: George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: July 29 – 31
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors in Virginia with a GPA of 2.5+; public school, private school, and homeschooled students are eligible.
George Mason University’s VALHEN STEM Academy is a selective pre-college program that combines academic exploration with residential campus experience. You will explore a wide range of STEM fields through faculty-led sessions, hands-on challenges, and collaborative learning. Each year centers on a theme, letting you take on STEM and sustainability challenges and design solutions to complex global problems. Beyond experiments and workshops, you will complete a research-driven group project, building problem-solving, teamwork, and science communication skills in the process. You will also connect with university faculty, professionals, and peers from across the state who share similar academic interests. The program also offers residential participation, providing you with a preview of college life alongside academic enrichment.
8. Emerging Engineers @ University of Virginia
Location: UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science, Charlottesville, VA
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: July 27 – 31
Application deadline: April 15
Eligibility: Rising 9th to 12th graders
The University of Virginia’s Emerging Engineers program is a free summer experience designed to introduce high school students to the possibilities within engineering. Over the course of a week, you will explore how engineers develop solutions to real-world challenges through activities and campus-based learning. You can choose between two focused tracks: Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering, getting a chance to investigate a chosen interdisciplinary scientific discipline in depth. The program also includes lab tours, guest speakers, student panels, and community-building sessions that help you connect classroom ideas to college study and future careers. Additionally, you will interact with faculty, current students, and professionals during the program.
9. Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS)
Location: Online + NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Online modules during the school year starting in December + seven-day summer academy (dates TBA)
Application deadline: October 26
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are Virginia residents, at least 16 years old, and U.S. citizens; applicants must have a GPA of 2.7 or higher.
VESSS is a free, hybrid program for students interested in climate science, Earth systems, and space-based research. The program combines online STEM learning with exposure to NASA’s satellite missions and the science of remote sensing. You will examine major issues such as climate change and global environmental systems while learning how scientists use data to better understand the planet. A key feature is the opportunity to interact with NASA scientists, engineers, and technologists who guide students through research and mission design concepts. On successfully completing the online academic portion of the program, you can join a seven-day residential summer academy at NASA’s Langley Research Center, where you will work with a team to design a satellite mission to explore the Earth's systems. You may also earn up to five transferable dual-enrollment college credits through Virginia Peninsula Community College.
10. Aspiring Inventors' Fellowship Program @ George Mason University
Location: George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
Cost: $1,200 + $5 application fee (need-based fee waivers available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Maximum 48 students
Dates: June 23 – August 6 (Tuesdays and Thursdays); Graduation Symposium: August 12
Application deadline: Rolling admissions; application opens April 15
Eligibility: High school students
The Aspiring Inventors' Fellowship Program is a seven-week part-time program at George Mason University's Fairfax campus, where you will work in teams to develop, build, and pitch original inventions. You will use tools like 3D printers, AI software, and CAD design through access to GMU's Innovation Exchange Lab to create a working prototype of your idea. You will also complete an official Patent Disclosure Form and attend a guest lecture from patent attorneys and examiners. At the end of the program, you will present your invention at a public Graduation Symposium and receive a Certificate of Completion. You will additionally create a research poster that you can use for college applications or design competitions.
11. George Mason University’s BioE Buzz Summer Camp
Location: George Mason University, Fairfax Campus and Science and Technology Campus, Manassas, VA
Cost: $1,000 + $25 non-refundable application fee; llimited reduced-rate spots and scholarships available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 18 students/session
Dates: July 6 – 10 | July 13 – 17 | July 20 – 24 (check additional details here)
Application deadline: May 30
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th graders
BioE Buzz is a one-week, in-person bioengineering camp at George Mason University, where you will work alongside faculty and students from the Department of Bioengineering. During the week, you will engage in hands-on activities involving cell culture, 3D printing, animal models, motion capture, and robotics, including building prosthetics with individual digit mobility control. You will also compete in a team challenge focused on biomaterials, biosensing, and microbiology, with the winning team earning a one-week research internship in a GMU lab. The camp includes tours of GMU's Nanofabrication Facility and Innovation Exchange Lab, as well as an outdoor team-building activity at The Edge on the SciTech campus. By the end of the week, you will have a clearer picture of what bioengineering is and how it is used to address real health problems.
12. Virginia Tech’s Engineer the Future with Data and Sensor Technology
Location: Virginia Tech Academic Building One, Alexandria, VA
Cost: Not specified
Cohort size: Not specified
Dates: July 7 – 10 + mandatory virtual orientation: June 16
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: 11th and 12th grade students
This four-day program offered by Virginia Tech introduces you to the science of data, sensor technology, and coding. You will use coding and tech to solve real-world engineering problems. You will also work on projects focused on individual research interests and collaborative work. In the process, you will explore STEM fields and gain hands-on experience with advanced technology. You will additionally connect with peers and Virginia Tech faculty.
13. UVA Advance @ University of Virginia
Location: UVA, Charlottesville, VA
Cost: $7,097 (Virginia residents) | $14,975 (non-Virginia residents)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 25% – 50% acceptance; 60 – 65 students/year
Dates: July 11 – August 7
Application deadline: March 1; applications open December 1
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors, ages 15 – 18, with a GPA of 3.5 or more
UVA Advance is the University of Virginia’s residential pre-college program for academically motivated students who want to experience university-level study while still in high school. Over four weeks, you will live on campus, take intensive classes taught by UVA faculty, and earn six transferable undergraduate credits. While the program is multidisciplinary rather than science-only, you can choose core and elective courses in environmental science, data science, and physics. Beyond classes, you will use campus resources such as libraries, recreation facilities, dining halls, and student support services to get a realistic preview of undergraduate life. The residential format also creates opportunities to build friendships with peers from across Virginia, the U.S., and abroad.
14. UVA Northern Virginia Inspire Summer
Location: Online or University of Virginia, Fairfax, VA
Cost: Varies by course; $800 – $4,200 (need-based aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Multiple 1-4-week sessions in June – July
Application deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: Rising 10th to 12th graders; specific grade-level requirements vary for select programs.
UVA Northern Virginia’s Inspire Summer program offers a mix of short-format courses and varied subject options to help you explore interests in various subjects. You can choose from 1–4-week classes in areas such as neuroscience, AI literacy, design literacy, forensic science, and engineering for human health, which introduce biomedical engineering concepts. Depending on your course, you may work on case studies, applied projects, problem-solving exercises, or subject-specific labs and discussions in small class settings. Science courses may offer access to lab sessions, and many courses let you participate in field trips to connect theory to real-world situations. The commuter format can be convenient if you are based in the region, while online options make some courses accessible from elsewhere.
15. Virginia Tech’s Explore Science Camp
Location: Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Cost: $1,150 (residential) | $700 (day camp)
Cohort size: 32 – 40 students
Dates: June 28 – July 2 | July 20 – 24 (day camp) | July 26 – 30
Application deadline: June 1 or until camp is full
Eligibility: Rising 7th to 10th graders
Virginia Tech’s Explore Science camp is a STEM experience for students who want to sample multiple scientific fields in one program rather than focus on a single subject. You will rotate through hands-on sessions led by university faculty and staff, exploring topics such as neuroscience, DNA, microbiology, paleontology, physics, nanoscience, crime scene investigation, creative coding, and behavioral genetics. This variety can be especially valuable if you are still figuring out which branch of science interests you the most. Activities are designed to be interactive and applied, so you will learn through experiments, demonstrations, and collaborative problem-solving rather than just lectures. The residential option also offers an early look at campus life while allowing you to meet peers with similar interests.