15 Summer Internships for High School Students in Washington State

While in high school, a summer internship can be a productive way to explore your interests and spend your break. Internships offer opportunities to gain exposure to real-world careers, build practical skills, explore fields you want to pursue in college, and connect with professionals who can guide you. Unlike traditional summer programs that often come with high costs, internships are usually low-cost or free, and many of them even offer stipends. 

If you live in Washington or wish to study in the state, you can access a diverse range of opportunities in technology, healthcare, environmental science, and business, among other fields. From opportunities offered by research labs at universities like the University of Washington to internships at major organizations and nonprofits, you can choose from internships that align with your interests and develop valuable skills. 

To help you with your search, we have narrowed down a list of 15 summer internships for high school students in Washington State. 

1. Department of the Navy’s Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)

Location: Multiple U.S. Navy laboratories nationwide, including facilities in Washington State
Stipend: $4,000 for new participants and $4,500 for returning participants
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; ~300 placements across 38+ U.S. labs
Dates: Eight weeks in the summer (specific dates vary by lab)
Application deadline: November 1
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old

SEAP offers high school students the chance to conduct research alongside Navy scientists and engineers. Over eight weeks, you will work on projects in STEM fields that directly connect to naval science and technology. You will gain exposure to laboratory methods, technical problem-solving, and the practical application of classroom concepts. In addition to building research skills, you will receive mentorship from professionals working on defense and engineering challenges. The program also offers professional development opportunities, including seminars, shadowing researchers, and lab tours.

2. Veritas AI 

Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program; need-based financial assistance available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple 12–15 week cohorts around the year, including summer sessions
Application deadline: Varies; multiple deadlines for each spring, summer, fall, and winter cohort
Eligibility: High school students; AI Fellowship applicants should have completed AI Scholars or demonstrate experience with Python and AI concepts

Although not a traditional internship, Veritas AI offers opportunities to conduct independent research and acts as a work-learn program. Founded by Harvard graduate students, it provides high school students with structured pathways into artificial intelligence and machine learning. In the AI Scholars program, you will join a 10-session boot camp that introduces the fundamentals of AI, data science, and coding, culminating in collaborative projects. If you have some experience with AI or Python, the AI Fellowship will pair you with mentors from institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT to design an independent research project, with the option of pursuing publication support through Veritas AI’s editorial team. Throughout the program, you will have access to mentorship, technical training, and opportunities to explore real-world applications of AI. Its flexible virtual model makes it accessible to students in Washington State interested in exploring artificial intelligence.

3. University of Washington’s Neuroscience Summer Student Program

Location: Various labs in Seattle, WA
Stipend: Paid; limited housing support available for out-of-town students
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; ~190 students accepted since 2008
Dates: June 22 – August 14
Application deadline: December 14
Eligibility: Students who are 18 years or older by program start, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and hold a minimum GPA of 3.2; high school graduates and undergraduates can apply

The UW Neuroscience Summer Student Program provides students with an introduction to neuroscience and lab environments. Over eight weeks, you will conduct research in a neuroscience laboratory, shadow physicians in neurology and neurological surgery clinics, and observe neurosurgical procedures in the operating room. Weekly activities include attending Grand Rounds, faculty lectures, and resident education discussions, which can offer sme exposure to both research and clinical medicine. You will also present your own project focus at the program’s conclusion. This NIH-funded program combines mentorship, research work, and clinical immersion.

4. Ladder Internships

Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; small cohorts matched to start-ups
Dates: 8–12 weeks; multiple cohorts (spring, summer, fall, winter) every year
Application deadline: Varies by cohort; May/June deadlines for summer cohorts
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap-year students who are able to commit 10–20 hours/week

Ladder Internships connects students with high-growth startups across various industries, including health tech, journalism, AI/ML, marketing, consulting, and more. During the program, you will take on real-world projects, work closely with start-up managers, and receive guidance from a dedicated Ladder Coach. You will also present your work directly to the company, building both technical and professional communication skills. Some participating start-ups are fast-growing companies backed by significant venture capital funding, providing you with exposure to entrepreneurial environments. This virtual format allows you to gain hands-on work experience from anywhere.

5. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) 

Location: Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; small cohort of local students
Dates: Eight weeks in the summer (including two weeks of training + six weeks in research labs)
Application deadline: Posted in November; typically due in early spring
Eligibility: Rising 12th graders who are at least 16 years old and living in the Greater Seattle area (no housing provided); prior research experience not required

SHIP provides students with an introduction to biomedical research within a Fred Hutch research group. The program begins with two weeks of training in lab safety, techniques, and an orientation to Fred Hutch, followed by six weeks of mentored research in one of the institute’s labs. You will also participate in seminars, professional development workshops, and social activities with your peers. The internship culminates with a formal research presentation to the Fred Hutch community, family, and friends. This program is designed for those with limited prior research experience, offering an accessible pathway into scientific research.

6. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

Location: Opportunities throughout the U.S., including in Texas. You will be assigned a mentor in your area within a 45-minute distance from your home.
Stipend: $3,000

Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Eight weeks in the summer; flexible dates
Application deadline: January 19
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors and recent graduates who are at least 16 years old and live in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Canada

The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program, sponsored by the American Fisheries Society, offers paid learning experiences to high school students interested in fisheries and aquatic science. Over eight weeks, you will work under the mentorship of fisheries professionals, engaging in projects within habitat restoration, protection, and management. The program offers insights into the life of a fisheries biologist and other career paths in the animal and aquatic sciences. Additionally, you will work on tasks such as examining aquatic specimens, conducting fish population surveys, electrofishing, and data processing. Also part of the program is the Hutton Scholars Summit, offering insights into college prep and fisheries as a career path. You will also present your project at the end of the program. 

7. Bank of America Student Leaders Program

Location: Multiple locations in the country, including in WA
Stipend: Paid; amount not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: ~300/year
Dates: Eight-week summer internship starting soon after the end of the school year

Application deadline: January 15; application opens on October 14

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors

Every summer, Bank of America offers students the opportunity to work with nonprofit organizations in their area through the Student Leaders Program. As a participant, you will explore various aspects of running a nonprofit, engage in community service initiatives, and develop a clearer understanding of social issues. The program also conducts a week-long Student Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., where you can gain insights into the collective efforts of the government, business, and nonprofit sectors to address critical community needs. In the process, you will find opportunities to sharpen your social, civic, and business leadership skills. 

8. Research Training Program @ Seattle Children’s Research Institute

Location: Seattle Children's Research Institute: B. Wayne Hughes Building, Seattle, WA Stipend: $2,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; up to ~16 students selected
Dates: July 14 – August 8 + orientation on May 20
Application deadline: March 9
Eligibility: Current 10th-graders (rising juniors) who live within commuting distance of downtown Seattle and have an SSN or ITIN

The Research Training Program (RTP) offered by Seattle Research Training Institute is an opportunity to gain hands-on exposure to biomedical research in a professional lab setting. Over four weeks, you will attend lectures on topics such as immunotherapy, gene editing, and infectious diseases while also training in lab techniques like microscopy, PCR, bacterial transformation, and gel electrophoresis. You will work toward completing your own independent research project, which will culminate in a final oral presentation. Alongside lab work, you will take part in college readiness and career workshops, facility tours, and mentorship sessions. 

9. Microsoft High School Discovery Program

Location: Microsoft’s Redmond office, WA
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited placements for those associated with Microsoft partner organizations/schools
Dates: July 7 – August 1
Application deadline: Early February
Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors within 50 miles of Redmond, WA who have completed pre-calculus; applicants must be members of Microsoft-supported organizations (e.g., Computing for All, Washington MESA, Rainier Scholars, Technology Access Foundation, UW STEMsub Program, College Success Foundation)

Microsoft’s High School Discovery Program offers graduating high school seniors a chance to explore careers in technology while developing hands-on skills. Over four weeks, you will complete projects, participate in professional development workshops, and receive mentorship from Microsoft employees. Here, you will be part of a team working on the design phase of the product development cycle, gaining insight into UX design fundamentals. You will also work on a group project, where you will try to identify customer issues and needs and help with product design to meet those requirements. The program is designed to help you explore future opportunities in technology and gain some software engineering and product design experience.

10. Washington State University’s Soil to Society Summer Research Program 

Location: Pullman, Spokane, and Mount Vernon, WA
Cost/Stipend: $1,200 stipend provided + 1 free college credit (of $630 value); additional credits available at a fee of $595 each
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited placements per site/project
Dates: Summer (dates vary); commitment of 200 – 240 hours total
Application deadline: Typically, April
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–12 with a minimum 3.5 GPA who are U.S. residents; participants must arrange their own housing/transportation; however, summer housing is available in Pullman, WA

The Soil to Society Summer Research Program places high school students within active research teams that are exploring the links between agriculture, nutrition, and human health. Depending on your placement, you may work on projects such as improving soil health, developing new barley varieties, analyzing crop management practices, or studying the effect of foods on mitochondrial function. You will learn laboratory methods, research ethics, and scientific communication. Your research experience will end with you submitting a two-page abstract and participating in a poster symposium. You will also receive college credit and a stipend for your work. 

11. High School Internship Program @ Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)

Location: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA
Stipend: Paid; wage varies by role and hours
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; limited placements available each year
Dates: June–August (full-time commitment); part-time academic year (August–May) internships also available
Application deadline: March; applications open in early February; academic year applications open in early February and close in June

Eligibility: High school students in grades 11–12; applicants must be at least 18 years old to work in laboratory spaces or field sites

The PNNL High School Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to explore both STEM and business career pathways at a leading national research laboratory. You will work closely with scientists, engineers, or business professionals on real-world projects, gaining technical and professional experience. Additionally, you will participate in leadership development activities, career workshops, and laboratory tours. The program offers elective school credit through work-based learning, allowing you to work part-time during the school year or full-time during the summer. The program also offers you exposure to laboratory environments and fieldwork.

12. Port of Seattle High School Internship Program 

Location: Seattle, WA (SEA Airport and waterfront sites)
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; varies by department placement
Dates: Summer; dates vary by placement
Application deadline: May 18
Eligibility: High school students (ages 16 and up), recent graduates (applying within 12 months of graduation), and students in a GED program who are authorized to work in the U.S.

The Port of Seattle’s High School Internship Program introduces students to career pathways in aviation, maritime operations, community engagement, governance, and green jobs. As an intern, you will work on real projects that impact the Seattle region while gaining professional skills such as project management, communications, networking, and public speaking. The program also includes mentorship opportunities, facility tours, LinkedIn workshops, and resume-building sessions. This internship is fully paid and offers exposure to the Seattle waterfront and SEA Airport.

13. Providence Regional Medical Center Everett Junior Volunteer Program 

Location: Providence Regional Medical Center, Everett, WA
Stipend: Unpaid volunteer program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited placements based on hospital needs
Dates: Summer (rolling start date); a commitment of ~3 months to complete 48 service hours required
Application deadline: Varies
Eligibility: High school students who are 16+, can commit to one 3–4 hour shift per week, and complete health screening, orientation, and training

The Junior Volunteer Program at Providence Regional Medical Center Everett introduces students to the healthcare environment while providing them with the opportunity to contribute directly to patient care and hospital operations. As a volunteer, you may help in supportive roles across different hospital departments, gaining valuable exposure to healthcare professionals and systems. The program includes orientation, training, and structured shifts, providing opportunities to build teamwork, communication, and responsibility skills. For high school students in Washington State interested in medicine or healthcare careers, this can be an accessible way to explore the field while actively helping patients and hospital staff.

14. Volunteers in Outdoor Leadership (VOLs) @ IslandWood

Location: IslandWood at Brightwater Education Center, Woodinville, WA
Stipend: Unpaid; up to 80 hours of community service credit available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited volunteer placements per session
Dates: July – mid-August (minimum two-week commitment)
Application deadline: Rolling; applications open in spring until filled
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recent graduates

The VOLs program gives high school students the chance to support IslandWood’s summer day camps in environmental education. As a volunteer, you will assist instructors with art projects, short lessons, and group activities while modeling curiosity and enthusiasm for campers. This role emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and community stewardship, allowing you to gain leadership skills in an outdoor setting. Although unpaid, the program offers up to 80 hours of community service credit and experience in education, environmental science, or outdoor leadership-related work.

15. University of Texas Southwestern Inspiring Careers in Mental Health Internship

Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None

Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified

Dates: Two weeks in June

Application deadline: Early February; applications typically open in late September
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors

This virtual internship offered by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is meant for high schoolers interested in exploring careers in mental health. As an intern, you will spend two weeks interacting with mental health professionals, such as licensed social workers, psychiatrists, physician assistants, and neuropsychologists. Through online sessions, professionals will share their experiences, offering you insights into pursuing a career in the field of psychology. Additionally, you will learn about fields like interventional psychiatry, community psychiatry, neuropsychological testing, psychotherapy, and neuroscience.

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