14 Summer Programs for High School Students in New Jersey
Summer programs can be a strong option if you’re a high school student looking to explore your interests outside of your regular classes. They allow you to build skills in STEM, humanities, and the arts while learning in a structured, focused environment. You can also gain exposure to different subjects and connect with peers and mentors who share similar interests.
Why should you attend a program in New Jersey?
New Jersey is home to universities and organizations that offer a wide range of summer programs across different subject areas. Depending on the program, you will conduct research, explore academic topics, or develop skills through projects and guided activities. These opportunities can be worth considering, whether you are a local student looking for options nearby or an out-of-state student interested in exploring a new academic environment.
To help you get started, we have compiled a list of 14 summer programs for high school students in New Jersey!
If you’re looking for college programs in New Jersey, check out our blog here.
Quick Picks
Free programs: Princeton Laboratory Learning Program, M.I.N.D.S., Princeton Summer Journalism Program, Princeton Plasma Physics Lab Internship, NJIT Summer Research Internship, Governor’s School of NJ in Engineering & Technology
Paid opportunities: M.I.N.D.S., Mercer County Student Internship Program
Virtual options: Veritas AI Programs, Horizon Academic Research Program, Lumiere Research Scholars Program
1. Summer Internships for High School Students (Laboratory Learning Program) at Princeton
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: March 15 (tentative)
Program Dates: 5-6 weeks in June-July
Eligibility: Students who are 16 or older by June 15 and are enrolled in high school can apply.
Location: Princeton University, NJ
The Princeton Laboratory Learning Program is a great opportunity for students keen to explore scientific research and engineering. Unlike typical summer programs, this initiative offers a six-week experience and the opportunity to actively contribute to ongoing projects at Princeton labs. Facilitated by Princeton faculty and research staff, students can make genuine contributions to current projects while gaining valuable hands-on experience. While research opportunities change every year, there’s always a wide range of options for students to choose from. Some past projects students have worked on include Machine Learning Methods for Power Magnetics Modeling and Chicken Embryo Lung Development. By participating in such projects, you not only gain exposure to advanced research methodologies but also contribute to the advancement of knowledge in your chosen field. One notable aspect of the program is its flexibility, allowing students to customize their participation based on the research personnel’s schedules and specific project requirements.
2. Veritas AI Programs
Cost: Varies by program type; need-based financial aid available
Application deadline: Rolling basis
Program Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 and middle school students with some coding experience can also be considered for the program. Apply here
Location: Online
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, introduces high school students to foundational concepts in AI, machine learning, and data science. The AI Scholars program is a virtual, 25-hour boot camp that introduces participants to AI and teaches them how to code and execute a data science project. Students will learn Python programming, and the course material will cover neural networks, deep learning, image classification, AI ethics, and more. The AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase program is a 1:1 mentorship program in which students create unique AI projects under the guidance of PhD mentors. Over 12-15 weeks, you can pick a field of interest at the intersection of AI, ML, or data science to produce an individualized research paper, software/model, app, or presentation. Veritas has a publication team available to help students publish their papers in journals. Here are some past projects you can look at!
3. Medical Internship Navigating Diversity and Science (MINDS)
Cost: Free. Participants will be paid a stipend.
Application Deadline: May 1
Program Dates: 6 weeks, July-August
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors from underprivileged backgrounds, with a minimum 3.0 GPA, can apply.
Location: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, NJ
M.I.N.D.S. (Medical Internship Navigating Diversity and Science) is a 6-week paid internship program designed specifically for underrepresented or financially disadvantaged high school juniors and seniors who are interested in pursuing medicine. This program provides a comprehensive experience, offering valuable insight into various medical professions. It's an ideal opportunity for you to explore the vast and varied landscape of healthcare careers and get a realistic understanding of the field. During the internship, you will explore the study of social determinants of health, learning how factors like environment, social status, and education impact health outcomes. One of the key components of this program is the development and execution of a research project focused on health disparities in New Jersey. Another exciting aspect is the practical exposure interns receive through medical simulations and field trips. Participants receive BLS (Basic Life Support) Certification, an essential qualification for any medical professional.
4. Horizon Academic Research Program
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer, and Fall cohorts.
Program Dates: The spring and fall cohorts run 15 weeks, while the summer cohort runs 10 weeks (June-September).
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (GPA of 3.67 on a 4-point scale) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th- or 11th-graders! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites; more details are available here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, and more! Horizon is one of the few research programs for high school students that offers you the choice to engage in either quantitative or qualitative research. Once you select a particular subject track, Horizon pairs you with a professor/PhD scholar who acts as a mentor throughout your research journey. As a participant, you will be expected to develop a 20-page research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student and detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects.
5. Princeton Summer Journalism Program
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February 15 (tentative)
Program Dates: A multi-week, hybrid summer intensive beginning with online workshops in July and culminating in a 10-day residential experience on Princeton's campus in early August
Eligibility: Students who are high school juniors at the time of application, live in the US and intend to attend college in the US, have a minimum unweighted GPA equivalent to a 3.5 out of 4.0, and meet at least one of the socioeconomic conditions listed here can apply.
Location: Princeton University, NJ
The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) is the only summer program of its kind, offering free journalism training for high school juniors from low-income backgrounds. Throughout July, you will participate in online sessions with distinguished journalists from across the country, learning about the intricacies of the field. These workshops will cover essential skills required in the field and include discussions on current events. Next, you’ll come to Princeton for the residential portion of the program. This experience involves staying in the university dorms and getting a glimpse of real college life while attending workshops and lectures led by experienced educators and journalists. The curriculum takes a liberal arts approach, encompassing discussions on humanities, arts, culture, social events, and history, enriching students' contextual understanding of journalism. You also get to collaborate with college counselors to work on your college applications. The program includes visits to major news organizations such as The New York Times, The Huffington Post, and Bloomberg. You will cover professional sports events, report on news in the Princeton area, produce digital content, attend cultural productions, and even undertake investigative reporting. The culmination of your efforts is The Princeton Summer Journal, a student-authored newspaper that reflects the cohort’s collective dedication to reporting, writing, editing, and design.
6. Lumiere Research Scholars Program
Cost: Varies by program type; need-based financial aid available
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: 12 weeks between June and August
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible. Apply here
Location: Virtual
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program helps students work 1-on-1 with a Ph.D. mentor to learn about cutting-edge research in their field of interest and produce an independent research project. This 12-week program, founded by Harvard and Oxford researchers, is well-suited for talented high school students passionate about exploring a specific field in depth. Students can choose from a range of research fields, including computer science and engineering, as well as history and psychology. Your mentorship is a core part of the program, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and insights needed to conduct advanced-level research. Over 12 weeks, students will participate in 9 individual sessions with their research mentor. The program culminates in a 15-page research paper that students produce. This program is designed for students interested in interdisciplinary research!
7. Rutgers University’s Waksman Institute Summer Experience (WISE)
Cost: $2,000
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: August 12 to August 23
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Location: Rutgers University, NJ
Rutgers University offers this 2-week program for high school students interested in conducting research in molecular biology and bioinformatics. This program is particularly focused on DNA sequence analysis of genes from the duckweed Landoltia Punctata, a freshwater aquatic plant of significant interest to the scientific community. During the program, students are immersed in a real-world research environment. They participate in daily seminars led by Rutgers faculty that introduce and deepen their understanding of molecular biology concepts and techniques. Following these seminars, students actively engage in laboratory sessions where they learn to purify and analyze DNA fragments. This hands-on experience in molecular biology is a key aspect of the program, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. One of the most exciting aspects of WISE is the opportunity for students to conduct DNA sequence analysis using the same bioinformatic tools used by scientists worldwide. A significant outcome of the program is that students' vetted DNA sequence analyses are submitted for publication in GenBank, the international repository of DNA sequences maintained by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Each published sequence acknowledges the student by name, providing a tangible outcome of their hard work.
8. Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory High School Summer Internship
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: March 1 (tentative)
Program Dates: 8-10 weeks in the summer (Monday-Friday) after graduation. The exact dates of the internship depend on the intern’s school schedule. Some internship options that run during school semesters are also offered.
Eligibility: Students who are at least 16 years old and graduating high school seniors when the internship begins may apply. Students must obtain their own transportation to and from the Laboratory. Housing is not provided. Those applying must be US citizens or have permanent resident status. Note, the internship begins the summer after you graduate, not the summer after your junior year.
Location: Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, NJ
If you’d like to work in a plasma physics lab under the guidance of professionals, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory offers internships during the semester and summer periods for high school seniors – the summer after you graduate and before college begins. Internships in the fall or spring can count for academic credit. This internship is tailored for high school students who have demonstrated both a passion for the field and a solid academic foundation in relevant subjects. These internships are a chance for you to work on a project with a member of the laboratory’s research or engineering staff. You will engage in a range of activities, from experimental work to computational simulations, gaining practical skills and insights into scientific research. Through this program, you will have the chance to delve into various aspects of plasma physics, fusion energy, and related fields, broadening your understanding of these complex subjects.
9. New Jersey Institute of Technology’s High School Summer Research Internship
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February 26 (tentative)
Program Dates: June 24 - August 1 (tentative)
Eligibility: Students who will be completing grades 10 or 11 in June with an unweighted GPA of 3.75 or higher may apply. Students applying must be New Jersey high school students and New Jersey residents.
Location: New Jersey Institute of Technology, NJ
The High School Summer Research Internship at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) offers you a comprehensive experience in STEM research, along with a chance to develop your professional and career skills. Through the Provost Summer Research, faculty-centered grants, and research centers, students gain hands-on experience and explore different STEM fields. The program's structure allows students to deep dive into a specific research project under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Students learn to navigate the complexities of research, from the initial stages of design and hypothesis to data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Students will also collaborate with a research team comprising undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers. One key outcome of the internship is the development of an electronic poster. At the end of their internship, students share this poster and their research outcomes at the annual Summer Research Symposium with faculty and peers.
10. Rutgers Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics
Cost: $4,400
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: July 8 - August 2
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible
Location: Rutgers University, NJ
The Rutgers Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics is designed for mathematically talented high school students. This 4-week residential program offers an enriching and challenging introduction to discrete mathematics. During the program, you will engage in an intensive curriculum that is both broad and deep, covering various aspects of discrete mathematics. The program is structured into weekly themes, each focusing on different mathematical concepts and their applications. You will develop and enhance your problem-solving abilities by applying mathematical concepts to a wide range of problems. You will also meet distinguished professionals in discrete mathematics. In week one, students build a general mathematical foundation, laying the groundwork for more advanced topics. Topics covered include Combinatorics and Probability I. Week two shifts focus on an Introduction to Graphs and Number Theory. In the third week, students are introduced to Problem-Based Topics and Cryptography. The final week explores Game Theory and Combinatorics and Probability II, expanding on concepts learned in the first week.
11. The Governor’s School of New Jersey in Engineering & Technology
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: January 12 (tentative)
Program Dates: July 1 - 25
Eligibility: You must be a New Jersey resident and a high school junior
Location: Rutgers University, NJ
The Governor's School of New Jersey in Engineering & Technology is a highly selective summer program that offers talented and motivated students the opportunity to study at Rutgers University's School of Engineering. During this program, students will participate in a number of team-based activities and research projects. The program includes workshops, site visits to local corporations, and activities with professors, professionals, and peers from across the state. The final outcome of GSET often includes a presentation or demonstration of the research projects and team endeavors. This presentation serves as a culmination of the month's intensive study, research, and collaboration. You get to take four academic courses and complete a small research and design project, with the bonus of visiting 2-3 local corporations to learn about future career opportunities. Examples of these projects include designing water purification systems for developing countries and utilizing "Wiimotes" for medical rehabilitation. You will gain hands-on experience in research, working on open-ended problems, and fostering a creative, exploratory learning environment. Additionally, the program is free of grades and official credit, placing a higher emphasis on current research trends, teamwork, and the joy of learning.
12. Pre-College Programs at Stevens Institute of Technology
Cost: $2,905
Application Deadline: March 1 (tentative)
Program Dates: Vary by program. All are typically 1- or 2-week long, held across June and July. See all available programs here!
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to apply.
Location: Stevens Institute of Technology, NJ
Stevens Institute of Technology offers pre-college programs for participants to explore a range of different subjects, from biology to engineering, from AI to business. Participants will not only build knowledge and skills in their chosen subject but also have the opportunity to interact with current students, engage in social activities, and gain valuable insights into the college admissions process. Some of the programs offered include Artificial Intelligence in Modern Society, Biology: Genetics & Medicine, Business Explorer, and Civil Engineering Design. The program extends beyond classroom learning, featuring a variety of interactive and experiential learning opportunities. To complement academic learning, the program includes college admissions prep and student life workshops that offer essential information and tips for navigating the college admissions journey. Students will also benefit from corporate site visits, which give them a glimpse of the professional arena in their fields of interest. During the program, students will also work on a research project, allowing them to apply their learning in a practical context.
13. Mercer County Student Internship Program
Cost: Free. Students will be paid a stipend of $15 an hour
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in April (tentative, based on previous years)
Program Dates: High school students can begin their internship at the end of their school year, typically in late June. The last day for all students in the summer internship program is the Friday before Labor Day weekend.
Eligibility: Students who are at least 15 years old and either live or study in Mercer County can apply.
Location: Mercer County, NJ
The Mercer County Department offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience via their summer internship program. This program provides high school and college students with paid opportunities to work and gain practical training and real-world experience that will help them meet their educational goals and prepare for professional careers. The program boasts a wide array of internship positions across multiple departments, catering to diverse interests – Administration, Boards & Authorities, Constitutional Offices, Correction Center positions, Department of Transportation & Infrastructure, Economic Development, Human Resources, and more. During the program, you will participate in career-oriented activities organized by the Office of Personnel. These activities are tailored to teach new techniques and skills, enhance existing knowledge, and help students explore potential career paths in public administration.
14. Kean University Changemakers Entrepreneurship Pre-College Program
Cost: $1,200 (includes breakfast and lunch)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: 2-3 weeks in July (tentative, based on previous years)
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply.
Location: Hynes Hall, Kean’s University, NJ
The Kean University Changemakers Entrepreneurship pre-college program is perfect for students who envision themselves as future CEOs, innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs. This program is tailored for those who aspire not only to build a profitable business but also to make a meaningful difference in society. Participants will dive into social entrepreneurship, focusing on creating goods and services that are commercially viable and contribute positively to social change. The program encourages students to think creatively and ethically about the impact of their business ideas, fostering a new generation of socially conscious business leaders. Throughout the program, participants will engage in a learning experience that simulates the real-world process of starting and developing a business. They will work in teams, mirroring the collaborative nature of the business world, and will experience all stages of business development, from ideation to launch. This hands-on approach is designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge essential for entrepreneurial success. They will learn not only the fundamentals of starting an enterprise but also the nuances of creating a business that aligns profit-making with social impact.
Check out Kean’s other pre-college programs, too!
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