As a high school student, participating in free STEM programs isn't just a boost to your learning—it's a critical step in distinguishing yourself in college applications. These programs allow high school students to explore complex subjects, work on projects, and connect with professionals.

Free or fully funded programs often come with a badge of prestige—they're typically selective, offering quality education and resources. These experiences not only sharpen your technical skills but also help you demonstrate the curiosity and commitment that is compelling to admissions committees. Note that the following information is based on the most recent program, with dates subject to change but generally similar from year to year.

10 Free AI Programs for High School Students

1. Veritas AI

Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects. Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here. 

Location: Virtual

Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here. 

Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).

Program dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.

2. AI4ALL Open Learning

The AI4ALL Open Learning Program allows high school students worldwide to explore artificial intelligence through a self-paced, project-based learning model. The program aims to introduce students, especially those from underrepresented groups, to AI and its potential for social impact. The curriculum aligns with various standards: NGSS Engineering, ISTE, Common Core ELA/Literacy, and CSTA standards. You will work on projects that tackle real-world problems using AI, understanding the technical aspects and ethical implications of AI.

Location: Virtual

Application deadline: N/A

Program dates: Self-paced, typically completed in 3-6 months.

Eligibility: Open to all 

Application Requirements: Simply access the Open Learning modules online.

3. Harvard's Pre-College Program

Harvard's Mathematical Elements of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence course explores the mathematical aspects of modern data science algorithms in Python. This course is ideal for those seeking to understand how logic and mathematics are applied to teach computers how to perform tasks and improve continuously. Alongside working with Harvard faculty and 12 to 18 students, you will gain insights into the newest AI trends. The course covers single-variable calculus, three-dimensional geometry, elementary statistics, and coding in Python. You'll earn university credit for your academic achievements. This is a paid program, but you can apply for need-blind financial aid. 

Location: Harvard campus

Application deadline: Early applications are due mid-January. Regular applications are due mid-February.

Program dates: Summer Session I: June 23–July 5; Summer Session II: July 7–July 19; Summer Session III: July 21–August 2

Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old and not older than 19 years old.

Application Requirements: Submission of an online application, unofficial high school transcript, standardized test scores (optional), responses to essay prompts, and two letters of recommendation. 

4. Carnegie Mellon University AI Scholars

This program, which is completely merit-based and grant-funded, emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving in AI. With a selective cohort size of approximately 30 students, the program fosters a collaborative learning environment. During the three-week course, you will take a rigorous curriculum that includes both theoretical components and practical AI projects. You will work on projects under the guidance of CMU faculty and graduate students, enhancing your understanding and AI skills. The program also offers preparation for college academics and post-graduate studies.

Location: Carnegie Mellon Campus. 

Application deadline: Early March.

Program dates: June 22 - July 20

Eligibility: High school juniors who are at least 16 years of age and U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or registered with DACA; no prior coding experience is required.

Application Requirements: Submission of an online application and supplemental materials, including application fee, counselor report, and transcripts.

5. UCSD Research Experience for High School Students

Hosted by the San Diego Supercomputer Center, this eight-week summer program pairs students with faculty mentors to work on projects that span various scientific disciplines, including bioinformatics, machine learning, and data analytics. The curriculum includes training in advanced computational techniques and tools alongside workshops on scientific communication skills. Additionally, the program often features guest lectures from industry professionals and academia, providing a broader perspective of the opportunities and challenges in the field of computational sciences. Do note that this program is only free for non-research projects. 

Location: Main UCSD campus

Application deadline: Mid-March.

Program dates: June 17 – August 9

Eligibility: Students must be Southern California residents who have completed their most recent semester of high school and be in grade 10, 11, or 12 with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0.

Application Requirements: Submission of an online application and cover letter.

6. MIT’s Day of AI

Stemming from MIT’s Media Lab, the Day of AI is a free, annual program offering curriculum and practical experience for K-12 students. Throughout the program, you’ll learn the basics of AI, its benefits and risks, and how to design and create with AI. The “High School CS” track is more technical and ideal for students who are more familiar with coding, ranging from block-based programming languages to Python. Both will provide exposure to data science visualization, image classification, and data activism. If you’re looking for a low-pressure opportunity to study AI, then check it out!

Location: Virtual

Application deadline: NA

Program dates: Global event on May 13

Eligibility: N/A

Application Requirements: Online registration.

7. Curiosity Machine AI Challenge

Have you wondered how you can improve society through AI? Sponsored by Technovation Families, this challenge asks you to identify a problem in your community and devise a solution using AI technology. Before starting the challenge, you must visit the Technovation Families program and take brief modules to learn about the applications of AI and machine learning in different contexts. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about AI and apply your knowledge in a competitive environment. Furthermore, the program invites students to involve their families in these questions and devise a solution as a team.

Location: Virtual

Application deadline: Variable

Program dates: Variable

Eligibility: High school students 18 and under

Application Requirements: Online registration.

8. MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute

The MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute allows talented high school students to engage in project-based learning in technological fields. You will work with MIT faculty, researchers, and industry experts to design, build, and test projects that reflect real-world applications. For example, you might develop autonomous vehicles, build drones, or program sophisticated computer systems. Alongside these projects, you will participate in workshops and lectures that enhance your understanding of the theoretical aspects of their work. Do note that this program is free for those whose families’ incomes are below $150,000.

Location: MIT Campus

Application deadline: March

Program dates: July 8 - August 4

Program selectivity: Very high

Eligibility: All high school students

Application Requirements: Submission of nomination form and online registration.

9. NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute

Designed to make cutting-edge technologies accessible, NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute (DLI) courses cover topics such as AI fundamentals, accelerated computing, and applied deep learning. The self-paced program allows you to learn according to your schedule. The curriculum includes developing AI models for tasks like image classification, natural language processing, and autonomous machines. While the program primarily operates online, it supports learning through an array of resources, such as interactive labs powered by NVIDIA's advanced GPU technology. By demonstrating subject matter competency, you may also earn certificates to prove your hard work!

Location: Virtual

Application deadline: NA

Program dates: Self-paced

Eligibility: N/A

Application Requirements: None; simply check out the modules available on their website

10. Princeton AI4ALL

Princeton AI4ALL is a three-week summer program designed to introduce high school students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to artificial intelligence and machine learning. The program selects a small cohort of approximately 30 students. Students in the Princeton AI4ALL program work on projects that solve real-world problems using AI tools and techniques. The curriculum not only focuses on the technical skills necessary for building AI systems but also emphasizes the social and ethical implications of AI technologies. 

Location: Princeton campus

Application deadline: Mid-March

Program dates: July 14th - August 3rd

Eligibility: Students must be in 10th grade at the time of application, live in the United States, and meet at least one of the socioeconomic conditions below:

• Combined household income does not exceed $60,000.

• Your family income or circumstances qualify you to receive free or reduced-price lunch in your high school.

• Your family income or circumstances qualify you to receive an SAT or ACT fee waiver.

Application Requirements: The application requires an academic transcript and the contact information of someone to write a letter of recommendation, alongside some short answer questions and questions about the applicant.

Our Thoughts

Exploring AI through these programs offers students a jumpstart into a promising field and cultivates a broader understanding of its impacts on society. Engaging with experts, participating in real-world projects, and accessing cutting-edge resources help demystify AI technology while encouraging innovative thinking. For students looking to carve a niche in STEM and bolster their academic profiles, these opportunities are valuable stepping stones that enhance personal and academic growth.

If you’re interested in exploring different AI opportunities as a high schooler, you can look at our blogs on the 11 Best AI Camps or our blog on 8 Machine Learning Internships!

One other option – the Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you are interested in doing university-level research in AI or other subjects, then you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Lydia is currently a junior at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She aims to become a life sciences consultant after graduation.