15 Summer Programs for High School Students in Wisconsin
If you're looking to spend your summer on college and career preparation, consider exploring a summer program for high school students. These programs provide opportunities to explore new topics, enhance academic or creative skills, and gain experience in professional environments.
From research internships and STEM labs to arts intensives and college prep courses, there's something here for nearly every interest. Some programs focus on academic exploration, while others offer research opportunities, portfolio development, or early exposure to specific career paths.
To get you started, we’ve compiled 15 summer programs for high school students in Wisconsin!
1. Badger Summer Scholars
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Cost: $4,250 (domestic), $2,500 (commuter), $4,600 (international) + $100 application fee
Dates: July 20 – August 1
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: 9th to 12th graders with an unweighted 3.0 or higher GPA, and demonstrated interest and success in topics related to their course choice. Some courses may have specific prerequisites
Badger Summer Scholars is a summer program for high school students in Wisconsin that introduces you to college-level coursework, campus resources, and the ins and outs of the admissions process. Course topics span diverse fields like STEM, political science, psychology, entrepreneurship, and more. You will participate in small, discussion-based classes led by UW faculty and Badger Precollege instructors. Additionally, there will be individual meetings with instructors, opportunities for peer collaboration, and organized study sessions designed to foster your growth as an independent learner. The program also includes a weekly “Jump Forward” series, focused on college readiness, covering topics such as financial aid and life in the dorms.
2. UW-Madison’s Engineering Summer Program
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Around 50 students per cohort
Dates: July 12 – August 1
Application Deadline: March 11
Eligibility: High school sophomores or juniors with a strong interest in science, math, and engineering, who have completed at least one year of algebra and geometry, and have a minimum unweighted 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
If you’re looking for summer programs for high school students in Wisconsin with a strong STEM focus, the Engineering Summer Program (ESP) at UW–Madison offers a focused introduction. Over three weeks, you'll live on campus and take part in a structured curriculum covering math, chemistry, physics, and introductory engineering design. The program includes lectures, lab work, team-based projects, and problem-solving activities that mirror the collaborative nature of real-world engineering. You’ll also participate in site visits to companies like GE Healthcare and Rockwell Automation, providing a firsthand look at how engineering works in the industry.
3. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type
Dates: Several cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions throughout the year
Eligibility: Motivated high school students. Applicants for the AI Fellowship program should have completed the AI Scholars Program or have experience with Python
Veritas AI offers virtual summer programs that introduce high school students to core concepts in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. If you're just getting started, the AI Scholars program offers a 10-session boot camp that covers foundational topics and includes hands-on group projects exploring how AI intersects with fields such as medicine, economics, and climate science. For students with prior experience, the AI Fellowship pairs you one-on-one with a mentor to develop an original research project, with the opportunity to submit your work for publication. All programs are taught by mentors from top universities and are designed to support both technical growth and real-world application. You can check out some examples of past projects here.
4. Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) Pre-College Summer Programs
Location: Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, Milwaukee, WI
Cost/Stipend: $1,785 (Core Studio Concepts), $2,130 (Advanced Studio Concepts)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 255 students were accepted in the last cohort
Dates: Core Studio Concepts: July 14 – July 25 | Advanced Studio Concepts: July 14 – August 1
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: High school students
The Summer Pre-College Program at MIAD provides high school students with an in-depth exploration of visual art and design through intensive studio work. You can choose from two tracks: Core Studio Concepts (for beginner to intermediate students) and Advanced Studio Concepts (applicants are required to submit a portfolio of 10 images). In Core Studio, students explore two focus areas, such as illustration, interior architecture, or textiles, through full-day classes centered on composition, color, and design. Advanced Studio simulates a college foundation year and is intended for students prepared to specialize in a specific field, critically analyze their work, and earn college credit. Classes run five days a week, with dedicated time for creating, thinking, and experimenting.
5. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Several deadlines throughout the year
Eligibility: Academically strong high school students
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students a chance to conduct independent research under the guidance of a Ph.D. mentor. Over the course of 12 weeks, you’ll explore a subject of your choice, from psychology, data science, and engineering to economics or international relations, and develop a research paper based on your findings. The structure is individualized, allowing you to dive deep into a topic that aligns with your interests and goals. Mentorship is a one-on-one approach that helps build research, writing, and analytical skills while also simulating a college-level academic experience. This program is ideal for students who want to explore a discipline beyond the classroom or prepare for future research opportunities. The final product is a formal research paper that can serve as an addition to academic portfolios or college applications.
6. Summer Healthcare Experience (SHE) in Oncology
Location: Virtual
Stipend: $500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Anywhere between 20 and 100 students, depending on the institution
Dates: July 21 – August 1
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors interested in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine
SHE in Oncology is a two-week virtual program for high school students interested in cancer research and healthcare careers. The first week centers on a hands-on lab investigation using Drosophila (fruit flies) to study how nutrients affect cancer-related genes. You’ll conduct at-home experiments using a provided lab kit and work in groups across institutions to collect and present data. The second week includes live presentations from oncology researchers, discussions on medical ethics, and a team-based cancer case study project guided by near-peer mentors. Career exploration is built into the experience, with targeted breakout sessions and exposure to clinical and research roles across the cancer continuum.
7. High School Science Research Internship Program
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 30 students per year
Dates: 9 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: High school juniors attending a Madison Metropolitan School District school
This research internship places current high school juniors from Madison public schools in UW–Madison labs for a summer research experience. As an intern, you’ll work directly with a university faculty mentor and contribute to ongoing scientific projects while gaining hands-on experience with lab techniques, data analysis, and research design. You’ll attend weekly seminars to support your development and help connect your work to long-term goals, such as college majors or careers in science. You'll earn college and high school credit, as well as a Wisconsin Youth Leadership Skill Certificate. The program concludes with a scientific poster session where you’ll present your findings to peers, mentors, and family.
8. Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) Explore Summer Programs
Location: Milwaukee School of Engineering, Milwaukee, WI
Cost: $1,100
Dates: Session 1: July 6 – 11 | Session 2: July 27 – August 1
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students with a 3.5 GPA or higher with an interest in pursuing degrees at MSOE
MSOE provides multiple summer programs for Wisconsin high school students to explore various engineering and healthcare fields before selecting a college major. Throughout a week, participants engage in hands-on workshops, rotating through two majors daily, such as software, biomedical, mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. The curriculum is taught by MSOE faculty and supported by current students, providing you with a preview of both the academic and social environments on campus. You'll learn how engineering principles are applied across disciplines and explore which area best fits your interests and skills.
9. Summer Music Clinic | Senior Session
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Cost/Stipend: Residential: $1,220, Daily commuter: $840, International: $1,350 + nonrefundable $150 fee
Dates: June 29 – July 5
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Students completing grades 9–12, including recently graduated high school students
The Summer Music Clinic offers high school students a week-long opportunity to explore and grow in music, whether you're just starting out or have years of experience. You’ll choose your courses based on your interests and goals, whether that means performing in ensembles, focusing on a specific instrument or style, or exploring music theory, composition, or music activism. Instruction is delivered in both large and small groups, and you’ll engage with a wide range of genres and techniques. Community building is a central part of the program, featuring campus activities, peer collaboration, and performances by guest musicians.
10. UW-Green Bay High School Freshwater Summer Scholars Program
Location: University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Green Bay, WI
Stipend: $1,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10 interns are accepted
Dates: June 16 – August 22
Application Deadline: April 14
Eligibility: High school students. For graduating students, priority will be given to those enrolled in a UW-system school
The Freshwater Summer Scholars Program allows high school students to participate in authentic water science research. Throughout 120 hours, you will work on a specific project, like water quality monitoring or habitat restoration, and learn about careers in environmental science through fieldwork and facility visits. Mentorship is a key feature of the program, with guidance provided by UW–Green Bay faculty, staff, or experienced students. You’ll get a well-rounded view of the field with activities in labs, on campuses, or outdoors across partner sites. You'll also have the opportunity to present your work at the Lakeshore Water Summit in the fall.
11. Medical College of Wisconsin’s Apprenticeship in Medicine (AIM)
Location: Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
Stipend: A stipend will be provided
Dates: Mid-June to early-August
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA in math and science. Applicants should be at least 16 years old, and should attend a Milwaukee Public School (MPS), a Milwaukee charter school, a Milwaukee area private school, or a surrounding suburban school district
AIM is a six-week summer program for high school students in Wisconsin that introduces you to the medical field through academic enrichment, mentoring, and hands-on learning. You will shadow clinicians, participate in clinical simulations, and join discussions on health issues relevant to your community. Weekly sessions with medical students and health professionals will assist you in exploring various career options in medicine and allied health. The program emphasizes building research skills, requiring you to choose a disease or condition to investigate and then deliver your findings through an oral presentation and a written abstract.
12. LEAP Forward Internship Program
Location: UW-Madison’s campus, Madison, WI
Stipend: $1,000
Dates: June 16 – August 6
Application Deadline: Typically in January
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors attending a Madison Metropolitan School District school. Students in health science pathways will be given preference
LEAP Forward is a six-week internship program providing high school students with practical experience in health sciences through placements at UW–Madison host sites. Participants work about 12 hours weekly at a site related to their interests, such as veterinary medicine, mental health research, disability services, or community science engagement. The program awards both high school and college credit and offers mentorship from industry professionals. In addition to on-site work, you'll participate in campus tours, guest speaker sessions, and workshops focused on communication, decision-making, and cultural awareness. The program also includes a collaborative final project that you’ll present at a closing banquet.
13. Advancing Research In Science with Excellence (ARISE) Summer Cancer Research Program
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Stipend: $15/hour
Dates: June 16 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old
The ARISE program is a summer program for high school students in Wisconsin that provides an introduction to biomedical research through direct lab experience and structured enrichment activities. You’ll spend 20 hours per week in a mentor lab, developing core lab techniques, attending meetings, and contributing to cancer research projects, including one of your own. You’ll also have weekly check-ins with your principal investigator for individualized feedback and guidance. Aside from lab work, you’ll participate in 3–5 hours per week of sessions focused on career exploration, medical ethics, professional skills, and science communication. The program includes visits to UW’s nursing and pharmacy schools and workshops on presenting scientific findings.
14. American Collegiate Adventures
Location: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Cost/Stipend: $6,995 (3 weeks), $5,695 (2 weeks)
Dates: 3-week program: June 29 – July 18 | 3-week program: July 6 – July 18
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school students completing grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 by the summer
ACA’s Wisconsin program blends college-style coursework with personal enrichment in a campus setting. You’ll choose from a wide range of seminar-style classes, covering topics such as public speaking, photography, business, psychology, journalism, and more, taught by university faculty and local professionals. Classes run on weekdays and are graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis, with certificates awarded upon completion. Outside the classroom, you can explore Madison’s active summer environment, including access to Lake Mendota and local trails. Additionally, weekend excursions provide the opportunity to visit other universities and cultural landmarks in Chicago and throughout the Midwest.
15. UW Oshkosh PreCollege Programs
Location: University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI
Cost/Stipend: $1,600
Dates: Session 1: June 22 – 28 | Session 2: July 6 – 12
Application Deadline: March 21
Eligibility: High school students
UW Oshkosh provides summer programs for high school students in Wisconsin that introduce you to life on a college campus while exploring career paths in fields like business, education, healthcare, and STEM. Programs such as ESTEEM and Pulse offer hands-on lab experiences utilizing university facilities, enabling you to engage directly with concepts in science, engineering, or medicine. The Arc of Teaching track features discussion-based courses on education and social justice, while Future Titans emphasizes problem-solving and personal growth through a one-week residential experience. If you're interested in business, the Young Entrepreneurial Scholars program combines academic prep with potential internship opportunities. Each track blends academic content with career exploration, helping you build skills and perspective before entering college.
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