Summer research programs for high school students

Compare campus research programs before you plan your summer. Grade requirements, school nominations, and full-time attendance can narrow your options.

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.

Summer research programs for high school students
Program and sources	Who can apply	Costs to check	What you will work on
Research Science Institute (RSI) Residential research Program details on SciTeens Program source 1 Program source 2	High school juniors, age 16 by July 1. International applicants need a participating-country route.	Tuition, housing, and meals are covered. The application fee is US$75; need-based waivers may be available. Confirm travel costs.	Six weeks of classes and mentored research, ending with a written report and presentation.
Simons Summer Research Program Research on campus Program details on SciTeens Program source 1 Program source 2	Grade 11; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; age 16 by the program start. A school nomination is required.	No tuition. Application fee: US$75, with need-based waivers. Students pay housing, meals, transport, and personal expenses as applicable.	Six weeks in a Stony Brook research group. Biology-related placements depend on the available mentors; students present a research poster.
Rockefeller Summer Science Research Program Research on campus Program details on SciTeens Program source 1	Current high school juniors and seniors; age 16 or older by the start. Full-time attendance in New York City is required.	The reviewed program overview does not specify fees, housing, or travel support. Ask the provider before making a budget.	Team-based laboratory research, followed by data analysis and a poster. The provider lists about 35 hours per week.
Summer Science Program (SSP) Residential research Program details on SciTeens Program source 1 Program source 2 Program source 3	Current high school juniors, age 15–18 during the program, with the required science and mathematics courses. International applicants are eligible.	Paid program with need-based aid, including for international students. The 2027 fee is not yet published; aid can include travel.	Residential team research in astrophysics, biochemistry, bacterial genomics, or cell biology. Each track has its own course prerequisites.

How this list was selected

These providers describe a summer research experience with supervision and a defined project. This list includes both tuition-free programs and paid programs with aid.

Before you apply

Start with eligibility, then record the application and recommendation deadlines separately. Check the full attendance dates before booking travel or accepting another commitment.

SciTeens does not run these programs or decide admissions. A listing does not mean applications are currently open.

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