5 STEM Programs for High School Students in Virginia
If you’re a high school student interested in STEM, participating in a structured program can be a valuable way to explore your interests while building practical skills. STEM programs often combine learning with mentorship from faculty, researchers, or industry professionals, helping you develop a deeper understanding of subjects like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As a participant, you may work on projects, conduct experiments, or engage in research while also learning how to think critically and solve problems.
Why should you attend a STEM program in Virginia?
Virginia is home to a wide range of universities, research institutions, and organizations that offer STEM programs year-round. These opportunities span fields such as computer science, engineering, biotechnology, environmental science, and data analytics. With access to strong academic resources and experienced mentors, you can explore different areas of STEM, gain exposure to advanced concepts, and begin building a foundation for future studies or careers.
To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of 15 STEM programs for high school students in Virginia.
If you’re looking for tech programs in Virginia, check out our blog here.
Key takeaways
Several programs are free, including VIMS Governor's School, Virginia Tech Pathways, BLAST, NOVA Bridge Program, VASTS, VESSS, and VSCS, with three of these being NASA-affiliated programs that combine online coursework with a residential academy at a NASA facility.
Programs span a wide range of STEM fields including marine science (VIMS), aerospace and space science (VASTS, VSCS), earth and climate science (VESSS), AI and machine learning (Veritas AI, Lumiere), bioengineering and data science (ASSIP), engineering technology (NOVA ET Career Scholars), dental sciences (VCU Dental Careers Exploration), and advanced mathematics (SUMaC).
Students seeking paid or stipend-bearing programs can apply to NOVA's Engineering Technology Career Scholars Program (up to $6,500 in combined stipends) and to ASSIP at George Mason University, which offers fee waivers for eligible students.
Several programs are open to students across Virginia regardless of location, including the three NASA-affiliated programs (VASTS, VESSS, VSCS), which begin with online modules before selecting top participants for a residential summer academy.
Most competitive programs have deadlines in October (NASA programs), February, or March, so students should begin identifying programs in the fall and apply well ahead of the spring semester.
1. Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) Governor’s School
Location: Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), Gloucester Point, VA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Up to 6 students selected annually
Dates: 4 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: Applications are coordinated through schools as part of the Virginia Governor’s School process
Eligibility: High school students in Virginia (typically rising 11th–12th graders) with demonstrated interest in marine science
The VIMS Governor’s School for Marine Science is a highly selective, four-week residential program that immerses high school students in real-world scientific research. During the program, you will work closely with faculty mentors at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, contributing to ongoing research projects in marine biology, environmental science, and oceanography. The program follows an apprenticeship model, allowing you to take on defined research responsibilities while learning how scientific inquiry is conducted in professional settings. You can gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, data collection, and laboratory analysis, and you will present your findings at the end of the program.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual Cost: Varies by program type; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application Deadline: Rolling. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November). 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, run by Harvard graduate students, provides programs for high school students interested in artificial intelligence. The AI Scholars program is a 10-session boot camp that introduces core concepts in AI, machine learning, and data science through hands-on projects. For more advanced students, the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase offers one-on-one mentorship from experts at top universities to guide you through an independent project. The program also includes support from a publication team to help you submit your work to high school research journals.
3. Virginia Tech’s Pathways for Future Engineers Program
Location: Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Rising seniors: June 14 – 27 | Rising sophomores and juniors: June 21 – 27
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, or 12th graders who are potential first-generation college students
The Pathways for Future Engineers program at Virginia Tech is a multi-year initiative that supports high school students as they prepare for engineering careers. During the program, you will participate in a combination of summer programs, campus visits, and year-round academic support that introduce you to engineering concepts and college-readiness skills. The summer component includes hands-on design projects and collaborative activities that expose students to real-world engineering challenges. Throughout the program, students also receive guidance on college applications, financial aid, and academic preparation, helping them navigate the transition to higher education.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program — STEM Track
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program type; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June - August), Fall (September - December), Winter (December - February), and Spring (March - June)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: Open to current high school students with a minimum unweighted 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. 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. Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: Remote, hybrid, and in-person at George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
Cost/Stipend: $25 application fee + ~$1,299 tuition (fee waivers available for eligible students) Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 18 – August 12
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Students must be over 15 for remote internships and 16 for in-person or hybrid wet-lab internships.
The Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) at George Mason University is a research-focused STEM experience that allows high school students to work directly with faculty mentors on advanced scientific projects. Over the course of eight weeks, you will engage in hands-on research across disciplines such as bioengineering, environmental science, physics, and data science, using professional-grade tools and methodologies. Students develop key skills in scientific writing, data analysis, and problem-solving while collaborating in a research lab environment. The program also includes discussions with scientists and industry professionals, helping students explore potential STEM career paths.
6. Virginia Commonwealth University’s Dental Careers Exploration
Location: VCU School of Dentistry, Richmond, VA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: July 13 – 17
Application Deadline: May 2
Eligibility: Rising 10th to graduating seniors in the Greater Richmond area with a 3.0+ GPA who are U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents
The Dental Careers Exploration (DCE) Program at Virginia Commonwealth University is a short-term summer experience designed to introduce high school students to careers in dentistry and oral health sciences. Over five days, you will participate in interactive workshops and hands-on lab activities, including tooth carving, dental impressions, suturing, and digital dentistry techniques. Students also learn about the educational pathways and day-to-day responsibilities of dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, and specialists.
7. Building Leaders for Advancing Science and Technology (BLAST)
Location: Hosted at multiple Virginia universities (e.g., Old Dominion University, Virginia Tech, University of Virginia, William & Mary)
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: William & Mary: June 21 – 24 | University of Virginia: June 28 – July 1 | Virginia Tech: July 15 – 18 | Radford University: July 19 – 22 | Old Dominion University: July 26 – 29
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: High school freshmen who are U.S. citizens residing in VA, have a minimum GPA of 2.7, and have not previously attended BLAST are eligible to apply
The BLAST (Building Leaders for Advancing Science & Technology) program is an introductory STEM experience offered by the Virginia Space Grant Consortium for early high school students. The program takes place at partner universities across Virginia, where participants engage in hands-on activities led by faculty and STEM professionals. Students explore core concepts in science, engineering, and technology through interactive sessions, group projects, and exposure to real-world applications.
8. NOVA’s Bridge Program
Location: NOVA campuses
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 22 – August 11
Application Deadline: March 22
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
The SySTEMic Bridge Program at Northern Virginia Community College is a summer STEM initiative that introduces high school students to careers in engineering, information technology, and computer science. Throughout the program, you will engage in hands-on activities such as cybersecurity labs, computer assembly, and engineering simulations, gaining practical exposure to technical concepts. The program also includes visits to industry partners and university labs, allowing students to explore real-world applications of STEM and interact with professionals in the field.
9. NOVA’s Engineering Technology (ET) Career Scholars Program
Location: NOVA Fab Lab at the NOVA Manassas Trailside (MTS) campus
Stipend: $500 (summer bridge), up to $3,000 (academic year), up to $3,000 (internship)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Summer bridge program followed by a full academic year program
Application Deadline: Applications open in January
Eligibility: Graduating or graduated high school students
The Engineering Technology Career Scholars Program at Northern Virginia Community College is a workforce-focused STEM pathway designed to prepare students for careers in high-demand technical fields, including data center operations and semiconductor manufacturing. You will start with a summer bridge program that introduces you to the college environment and core STEM concepts, followed by a structured academic year where you complete a career studies certificate. Students progress as part of a cohort, receiving mentoring, tutoring, and professional development support throughout the program.
10. UVA Advance Pre-College Program
Location: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
Cost/Stipend: Costs $7,097 for Virginia residents | $14,975 for non-residents, with need-based financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 60-65 students each year
Dates: July 11 – August 7
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.5
UVA Advance is a four-week residential pre-college program that allows high school students to experience academic and campus life at the University of Virginia while earning college credit. You will enroll in two undergraduate-level courses, one core course designed specifically for the program and one elective taken alongside UVA students, earning a total of six transferable credits. The curriculum includes STEM options such as data science, environmental science, and physics, depending on course selection. Beyond academics, students participate in college-readiness workshops covering topics such as research opportunities, academic success strategies, and career exploration.
11. Virginia Aerospace Science and Technology Scholars (VASTS)
Location: Online program + NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Late November – spring (online) + 7-day summer academy
Application Deadline: October 26
Eligibility: High school students in Virginia with a minimum GPA of 2.7
The Virginia Aerospace Science & Technology Scholars (VASTS) program is a NASA-affiliated STEM initiative that introduces high school students to aerospace engineering, space science, and technology. You will begin with an interactive online curriculum that explores NASA missions, engineering design, and scientific research. Top-performing participants are then selected to attend a residential summer academy at NASA’s Langley Research Center, where they collaborate on team-based projects and engage with scientists, engineers, and industry professionals.
12. Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS) Program
Location: Online program + NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: Begins in late November and runs through the school year
Application Deadline: October 26
Eligibility: High school students in Virginia with a minimum GPA of 2.7
The Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS) program is a NASA-affiliated STEM initiative that introduces high school students to Earth science and climate research through an interactive, project-based learning experience. You will begin with an online course that explores topics such as atmospheric science, environmental systems, and satellite data analysis using real NASA datasets. Students engage with scientists and engineers while developing research-based solutions to global challenges related to climate and Earth systems. Top-performing participants are selected to attend a week-long residential academy at NASA’s Langley Research Center, where they collaborate on team projects and simulate mission design.
13. Virginia Space Coast Scholars (VSCS)
Location: Online program + NASA Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, VA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: November – spring (online modules) + 7-day summer academy
Application Deadline: October 26
Eligibility: High school sophomores who are U.S. citizens residing in VA (Maryland residents may apply if a parent is a NASA Wallops Flight Facility civil servant or contractor employee) and have a minimum GPA of 2.7 are eligible to apply.
The Virginia Space Coast Scholars (VSCS) program is a NASA-affiliated STEM initiative that introduces high school sophomores to space science, engineering, and technology through a structured learning experience. You will begin with an interactive online course consisting of five modules that explore topics such as aerodynamics, physics, and NASA mission design. The curriculum is designed to build both technical understanding and skills such as scientific writing and time management. Students who successfully complete the online component may be selected for a week-long residential academy at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility, where they collaborate with scientists and engineers on real-world challenges.
14. Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS) Program
Location: Online program + NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not publicly disclosed
Dates: December – spring (online modules) + 7-day summer academy
Application Deadline: October 26
Eligibility: High school students in Virginia with a minimum GPA of 2.7
The Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS) program is a NASA-affiliated STEM initiative that introduces high school students to Earth science and climate research through an interactive, project-based learning experience. Participants complete a series of online modules throughout the school year, using real NASA satellite data to study Earth's systems and environmental challenges. The curriculum emphasizes scientific inquiry, data analysis, and technical writing, while also exposing students to current research conducted by NASA scientists and engineers. Students who perform well in the course are invited to attend a week-long residential academy at NASA’s Langley Research Center, where they collaborate on mission design projects and engage with experts in the field.
15. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) Online Academic Enrichment
Location: Virtual
Cost: $3,750
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 64 participants
Dates: Session 1: June 15 – July 3 | Session 2: July 6 – July 24
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–11 with a strong interest in mathematics
The Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) Online Program is an intensive three-week academic experience designed for high school students with a strong interest in advanced mathematics. During the program, you will attend live, instructor-led classes that cover topics such as abstract algebra, number theory, and topology. The program includes daily lectures, collaborative problem-solving sessions, and virtual guest talks from mathematicians and researchers. Students also work on final research-style projects, which they present at the end of the program.
Frequently asked questions
What types of STEM programs are available for high school students in Virginia?
Options include marine science research internships (VIMS Governor's School), NASA-affiliated aerospace and earth science programs (VASTS, VESSS, VSCS), AI and machine learning programs (Veritas AI, Lumiere), university research internships (ASSIP at George Mason), pre-college residential programs (UVA Advance), engineering introductory programs (Virginia Tech Pathways, BLAST), community college STEM pathways (NOVA Bridge Program, ET Career Scholars), and advanced mathematics intensives (SUMaC).
Are there free STEM programs for high school students in Virginia?
Yes, several programs are free. VIMS Governor's School, Virginia Tech Pathways, BLAST, NOVA Bridge Program, VCU Dental Careers Exploration, VASTS, VESSS, and VSCS all have no cost to participate. ASSIP at George Mason offers fee waivers for eligible students, and UVA Advance offers need-based financial aid. Programs like Veritas AI and Lumiere charge tuition but offer financial aid.
Which Virginia STEM programs are best for students interested in space and aerospace?
VASTS introduces students to aerospace engineering and NASA mission design, with top participants invited to a residential academy at NASA Langley Research Center. VSCS follows a similar model for sophomores, with the residential component held at NASA Wallops Flight Facility. VESSS focuses on Earth and climate science using real NASA satellite data, also with a Langley residential component for top students.
Which programs are best for students interested in hands-on research?
VIMS Governor's School places up to six students directly in marine science research labs for four weeks. ASSIP at George Mason University pairs students with faculty mentors for eight weeks of research across disciplines, including bioengineering, environmental science, and data science. The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers year-round 1-on-1 mentorship with a Ph. D.-level mentor, culminating in an independent research paper.
Do any Virginia STEM programs offer college credit?
Yes, UVA Advance awards six transferable undergraduate credits upon completion of two courses at the University of Virginia. ASSIP at George Mason University also offers college credit options. Students should verify current credit policies directly with each program before applying.
When should I apply to STEM programs for high school students in Virginia?
NASA-affiliated programs (VASTS, VESSS, VSCS) all have an October 26 deadline and begin their online components in late November, making them the earliest deadlines on this list. BLAST and ASSIP close in February, and Virginia Tech Pathways, NOVA Bridge, and UVA Advance close in March. Students should begin researching in the summer or early fall and prioritize NASA program applications before the end of October.