15 STEM Programs for High School Students in Cambridge, Massachusetts
STEM programs can be a strong opportunity if you want to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics beyond the classroom. Many combine coursework with laboratory work, coding, engineering design, and research experience, giving you the chance to build technical skills early on. You can also gain exposure to university-level material and mentorship from researchers and professionals in your field of interest.
Why should you attend a STEM program in Cambridge?
Cambridge is home to several universities, laboratories, and research institutions that offer STEM programs for high school students. Depending on the program you choose, you could explore fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, biomedical research, engineering, mathematics, or biotechnology. Many of these programs are based at institutions like MIT and Harvard, though some are open to you regardless of location through virtual formats.
In this blog, we’ve highlighted 15 STEM programs for high school students in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
If you’re looking for online summer programs, check out our blog here.
Key takeaways
These 15 programs span artificial intelligence, biomedical research, engineering, neuroscience, mathematics, biotechnology, and computer science, so students across a wide range of STEM interests can find a relevant option in or near Cambridge.
Several programs are free or offer stipends, including RSI, Broad Summer Scholars Program ($3,600 stipend), MITES Summer, Girls Who Code Pathways, and NASA GL4HS, while others, such as MIT WTP and MIT Beaver Works, are free for students with family incomes below a specified threshold.
Many programs prioritize underrepresented students in STEM, including MITES Summer, MIT Women's Technology Program, and Girls Who Code Pathways, which is open exclusively to girls and non-binary students in grades 9 to 12.
Programs vary significantly in length and format, from single-weekend experiences, such as MIT ESP Splash, to six-week residential programs, such as RSI and Broad Summer Scholars, so students can choose based on their availability and depth of interest.
Application deadlines for the most selective programs fall early, including RSI (December 10), MIT WTP (December 15), and Broad Summer Scholars Program (January 21), so students should begin preparing materials in the fall.
1. Research Science Institute (RSI)
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: No cost
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: June 21 – August 1
Application Deadline: December 10
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from around the world with exceptional academic credentials
The Research Science Institute is one of the most prestigious and competitive STEM programs for high school students in Massachusetts. During this fully funded six-week program, students first participate in intensive academic coursework before conducting independent research under the mentorship of university scientists and researchers in fields such as engineering, mathematics, and computer science. The experience concludes with a conference-style presentation of their research, giving students valuable exposure to advanced STEM research, academic collaboration, and university-level problem-solving in a highly rigorous environment.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type; financial aid available
Acceptance rate: Selective
Program Dates: Multiple 8-week cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort. 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, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students looking to get started in AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and have the opportunity to work on real-world projects. Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here.
3. Broad Summer Scholars Program – Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
Location: Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: Free; $3,600 stipend
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: June 29 – August 7
Application Deadline: January 21
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors in the Greater Boston area who have earned a B or better in science and math classes
The Broad Summer Scholars Program gives high school students the opportunity to work alongside scientists at the Broad Institute on advanced biomedical and genomic research projects. During this six-week program, students conduct original research in fields such as cancer biology, infectious diseases, and data science while receiving daily mentorship from Broad researchers. Alongside hands-on lab experience, participants take part in journal clubs, professional development workshops, and scientific discussions that strengthen their understanding of research and STEM careers. The program concludes with a capstone symposium where students present their research findings.
4. Lumiere’s Research Scholar Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies; Need-based financial aid is available
Acceptance rate: Selective
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Current high school students with a minimum GPA of 3.3
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, and check out students’ reviews of the program here and here.
5. Youth Neurology Education and Research Program – Massachusetts General Hospital
Location: Massachusetts General Hospital main campus and affiliated labs in Boston, Cambridge, or Somerville, MA
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: June 30 – August 8
Application Deadline: January 31
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors or recent graduates residing or studying in Massachusetts (proof of address required); must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
In this program, you will explore both scientific research and clinical practice in a leading medical environment at Massachusetts General Hospital. You will begin with an intensive boot camp focused on research methods and clinical skills before transitioning into full-time laboratory work on active neurology research projects. Throughout the six-week internship, you will receive one-on-one mentorship from both neurology faculty and undergraduate mentors while working nearly 40 hours per week in research settings. You will also attend faculty-led seminars and present your research findings at the end of the program, gaining valuable exposure to biomedical research, neuroscience, and medical careers.
6. Lemelson-MIT Program
Location: Based at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
Cost: None
Acceptance rate: Open-access learning
Program Dates: Year-round
Application Deadline: No official deadline
Eligibility: Open to K–12 students (middle and high school mainly, grades 6–12) through schools, educators, and partner programs focused on invention and STEM learning.
The Lemelson-MIT Program is an invention-education initiative in which you will learn to think like an inventor by identifying real-world problems and creating practical solutions. Through hands-on activities, workshops, and classroom resources, you will develop ideas, design prototypes, and use science, technology, engineering, and math skills to solve challenges in creative ways. The program will help you build skills in innovation, critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving while encouraging you to turn your ideas into real projects that can make a positive impact on everyday life.
7. MITES Summer
Location: MIT, Cambridge, MA,
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: Late June – Early August
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in November (deadline not specified)
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The MITES Summer is a rigorous six-week STEM program for high school students interested in challenging themselves academically while exploring future pathways in science and technology. In this program, you will take five advanced courses across mathematics, science, and humanities, with subjects ranging from machine learning and genomics to architecture and engineering. Alongside academics, you will participate in college admissions counseling, lab tours, office hours, seminars led by STEM professionals, and field trips to local companies and research institutions. The experience also includes social and community-building activities, giving students valuable exposure to STEM education and campus life at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
8. Women’s Technology Program (WTP)
Location: MIT, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Tuition-free for students from families with income less than $120,000. For higher family incomes, tiered fees apply in the range of $2,000 - $15,000
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: June 27 – July 25
Application Deadline: December 15
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors; female students; U.S. residents
The MIT Women’s Technology Program is a four-week residential STEM program for high school students interested in exploring engineering and technology through hands-on learning. In this program, you will participate in interactive classes, lab activities, coding and design projects, and engineering challenges while learning from MIT students, faculty, and researchers. The curriculum focuses on real-world problem-solving and teamwork, helping students build technical and analytical skills in an academically rigorous environment. Alongside coursework, you will live on campus, connect with other STEM-focused students, and take part in community activities that offer a firsthand experience of college life at MIT.
9. Harvard Summer School Secondary School Program
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
Cost: $4,180 – $15,735 + $75 application fee
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: 7-Week SSP: June 20 – August 8 | 4-Week SSP: July 12 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 11
Eligibility: Open to high school students
The Harvard Summer School Secondary School Program is a summer program in which you will study college-level courses while still in high school. You will be able to choose subjects like science, business, psychology, and literature, and you may earn college credit for your work. You will learn from Harvard instructors, meet students from different countries, and experience a university-style environment either on campus or online. The program will help you build academic skills, explore your interests, and prepare for future college studies.
10. MIT Educational Studies Program–HSSP
Location: MIT Campus, Cambridge, MA
Cost: $60 total for the program
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: Runs twice a year (spring and summer)
Application Deadline: Runs twice a year (spring and summer)
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 7–12 (at least 11 years old); international students can also apply
The MIT Educational Studies Program (HSSP) is a weekend learning program in which you will take interesting, advanced classes taught by MIT students and instructors. You will explore subjects such as math, science, coding, writing, the arts, and many unique topics not usually taught in school. Instead of exams or grades, you will focus on learning for curiosity and enjoyment in a relaxed environment. The program will give you the opportunity to meet other middle and high school students who share similar interests, learn in a university setting at MIT, and deepen your understanding of topics you enjoy while trying new ones.
11. Harvard Pre-College Summer School Program
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
Cost: $6,100
Acceptance rate: Not specified
Program Dates: June 21 – July 2 | July 5 – 17 | July 19 – 31
Application Deadline: February 11
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors or seniors; aged 16-18 during the program
The Harvard Pre-College Program gives high school students the opportunity to experience academics and student life at Harvard University through an immersive two-week summer program. During the program, you will live on campus and enroll in college-level courses chosen from a wide range of subjects, including medicine, psychology, public health, science, technology, and engineering. Alongside classroom learning, you will participate in social events, co-curricular activities, and community experiences with students from around the world, allowing you to explore potential academic interests while getting a firsthand look at university life in Cambridge.
12. MIT Educational Studies Program (ESP) Splash
Location: MIT Campus, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Cost: $60
Acceptance rate: No formal acceptance rate
Program Dates: Once a year over a single weekend in November (typically Saturday and Sunday).
Application Deadline: Registration usually opens in October and closes shortly before the event or when spots fill.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 9–12 (high school students only), with no exceptions
In the MIT Educational Studies Program (Splash), you will spend a weekend at MIT taking short and exciting classes on a wide variety of topics taught by MIT students and other instructors. You will be able to pick from subjects like science, math, coding, arts, writing, and many unusual or creative areas that are not usually part of school learning. You will not have exams or grades, so you will learn freely, guided by curiosity and interest. The program will also let you meet other high school students, try new subjects, and experience learning in a lively university environment at MIT.
13. Girls Who Code: Summer Pathways Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate: Accessible
Dates: June 29 – August 14
Application Deadline: April 15
Eligibility: Girls and non-binary students in grades 9-12
The Girls Who Code Pathways program is a learning program where you will build computer science and problem-solving skills through hands-on coding and project-based learning. You will be able to explore areas like web development, game design, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity while learning tools such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and user experience design. You will work on real coding projects, join mentoring sessions, attend talks from guest speakers, and take part in community activities. The program will also help you understand career opportunities in technology and build confidence, technical skills, and connections with peers and women working in tech.
14. GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS)
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate: Accessible
Dates: June 1 – August 28
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: U.S. rising high school juniors or seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA; Must have taken at least one high school biology course
In this asynchronous NASA program, the GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS) will give you a 12-week opportunity to learn about space biology, omics research, bioinformatics, and space data analysis at your own pace. You will spend about 20 hours per week going through online lectures, Jupyter notebooks, quizzes, and optional office hours to build your understanding of scientific concepts. You will also receive a certificate upon completing the basic level, and you can choose to participate in a capstone project in which you will work in teams to develop a research proposal. The strongest projects may be selected for a symposium, with top teams earning additional recognition and opportunities, such as the chance to attend a scientific conference.
15. EDIT AI High School Summer Internship Program
Location: Free
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Around 8–10 weeks
Application Deadline: April 15
Eligibility: Open to high school students with strong backgrounds in computer science, machine learning, or bioinformatics
The program lets you explore computational pathology and medical AI through mentored projects using biomedical data such as medical images, genetic sequences, pathology reports, and multi-omics datasets with tools like Python, R, and high-performance computing. Through lectures, seminars, and guided research, you will build skills in deep learning, algorithm development, and clinical data analysis while gaining exposure to real-world healthcare applications. You may also contribute to research in areas such as cancer detection, virtual staining, and medical text analysis, while developing scientific writing, communication, and collaborative problem-solving skills under expert mentorship.
Frequently asked questions
1. What STEM programs are available for high school students in Cambridge, Massachusetts?
Options include research programs, such as RSI, Broad Summer Scholars, and Harvard Medical School Project Success, engineering and AI programs, such as MIT Beaver Works and Veritas AI, biomedical programs, such as MGH Youth Neurology and NASA GL4HS, mathematics programs, such as Mathroots, and university enrichment programs, such as Harvard Pre-College and MIT ESP HSSP.
2. Are there free STEM programs for high school students in Cambridge, Massachusetts?
Yes, several programs are free, including RSI, MITES Summer, Girls Who Code Pathways, NASA GL4HS, and MIT ESP HSSP ($60 flat fee). MIT WTP and MIT Beaver Works are free for students from families below a specified income threshold, and programs, such as Lumiere and Veritas AI, offer need-based financial aid.
3. Which Cambridge STEM programs are best for students interested in research?
Students interested in research might consider RSI for broad STEM research, Broad Summer Scholars for biomedical and genomics research, MGH Youth Neurology for neuroscience, and Veritas AI or Lumiere for independent research in AI or other academic fields.
4. What is the most selective STEM program for high school students in Cambridge?
RSI is among the most selective STEM programs for high school students in Cambridge, admitting only around 100 students per year from a global applicant pool. Broad Summer Scholars is also highly competitive, targeting rising seniors in the Greater Boston area with strong academic records.
5. Are there STEM programs in Cambridge for students with no prior experience?
Yes, several programs are designed for students earlier in their STEM journey. MIT ESP Splash and HSSP are open to all high school students with no prerequisites, and Girls Who Code Pathways requires no prior programming experience. Harvard Pre-College and Secondary School programs also offer introductory science and technology courses accessible to students across experience levels.
6. When should I apply to STEM programs for high school students in Cambridge, Massachusetts?
The most selective programs have the earliest deadlines, including RSI (December 10), MIT WTP (December 15), and Broad Summer Scholars (January 21). Others, such as Harvard Pre-College (February 11) and NASA GL4HS (March 15), fall later in the spring. Students should begin monitoring program websites from the fall onward, as some programs, such as MITES Summer, open applications in November without a fixed closing date.