Computer science programs for high school students
Choose between learning to code and investigating a research question. These programs range from beginner projects to mentored mathematical and health AI research.
Sources checked Nov 10, 2026
Compare the programs
This is a selected list, not a ranking. Fees and eligibility come from the linked program sources. Check current dates before applying.
Scroll across the table to compare eligibility, costs, and project work.
| Program and sources | Who can apply | Costs to check | What you will work on |
|---|---|---|---|
Girls Who Code Pathways Self-paced coding projects Program details on SciTeens | Grades 9–12, including rising ninth graders and graduating seniors; girls and nonbinary students worldwide. | Free. Check computer and internet requirements for the online activities. | Self-paced projects in game design, data science, AI, cybersecurity, or web development. This is skill-building, not a research internship. |
Kode With Klossy Virtual and in-person coding Program details on SciTeens | Young women and gender-expansive students ages 13–18. No previous coding experience is required for onboarding programs. | Free. Virtual and in-person options vary by program; check travel and equipment needs for the session you choose. | Build coding projects in web development, AI, or data science. Program options include two-day workshops and two-week camps. |
MIT PRIMES-USA Remote mentored research | Grades 10–11, living in the United States outside Greater Boston. This is the remote PRIMES-USA section. | No program tuition. A computer, webcam, and reliable internet connection are required. | Year-long mathematics and bioinformatics research. Applied projects can include theoretical computer science. Expect at least 10 hours weekly in research phases. |
Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship Remote mentored research Program details on SciTeens | For 2027: entering grades 9–12, older than 14 at the start, with strong independent programming skills. International applicants are welcome. | 2027 tuition: US$3,000. Need-based aid is available to eligible U.S. residents; do not assume international aid is available. | Two weeks of virtual team research using health data and AI. Live sessions follow Pacific time, with additional independent project work. |
How this list was selected
We separate skill-building courses from research placements. Beginner courses can prepare you for research, but completing one is not the same as doing original research.
Before you apply
Match the course to your current skills. If it requires independent programming, finish a small project first and document how you tested it.
SciTeens does not run these programs or decide admissions. A listing does not mean applications are currently open.
Prepare for your project
Browse by student need
- Free research programs
- Virtual research programs
- International students
- Biology research
- Summer research