15 Prestigious Online Research Opportunities for High School Students
Prestigious online research opportunities offer high school students valuable exposure to college-level academics, practical skills, and industry insights, all without the high cost of traditional programs. These programs allow you to work on real-world projects, develop research and critical thinking skills, and connect with professionals and peers in your field of interest. Many of these opportunities are affordable or even free, making them accessible to a wide range of students eager to enhance their academic and career prospects.
We’ve carefully narrowed down our list of the top 15 prestigious online research opportunities, focusing on programs that are fully funded, have extremely low acceptance rates, and are hosted by renowned organizations. These programs offer a unique chance to engage in college-level academics, develop practical skills, gain industry exposure, and build valuable connections — all without the high cost typically associated with such opportunities.
Note: The following information is based on the most recent program, with dates subject to change but generally similar from year to year.
Here are 15 online research opportunities for high school students!
If you’re a high school student with a strong interest in advanced mathematics, consider applying to Stanford University’s Mathematics Camp (SUMaC), a free summer program designed for students in grades 11 and 12. The program offers a challenging curriculum, including lectures, hands-on research, and group problem-solving activities. As a participant, you’ll work on mathematical problems, learn advanced techniques, and enhance your analytical skills.
During the program, you’ll have opportunities to collaborate with peers on projects, guided by experienced mentors, including Stanford faculty and graduate students. You’ll gain exposure to mathematical research and explore real-world applications of the subject. In addition, SUMaC encourages a community-focused approach, providing chances to present your work and engage in discussions with both professionals and fellow students. This program offers an academically enriching experience that could be valuable for both personal growth and future college applications.
Cost: Fully funded
Application Deadline: February 3
Program Dates: Session One: June 16— July 4| Session Two: July 7— July 25
Eligibility: Students who are in 10th or 11th grade at the time of application, and who demonstrate genuine interest in mathematics are encouraged to apply.
2. Veritas AI — AI Fellowship
Veritas AI offers high school students a specialized platform to explore artificial intelligence through hands-on projects, collaborative learning, and 1-on-1 mentorship from Harvard graduate students and alumni. The AI Fellowship program invites you to engage in independent AI research over 12–15 weeks, with a focus on interdisciplinary exploration. While proficiency in Python is preferred, you can complete the AI Scholars program first if needed.
During the fellowship, you’ll work on research projects that apply AI to fields like medicine, finance, environmental science, and education. The program provides opportunities for mentorship, skill-building in AI, and collaboration with professionals. You’ll gain experience in conducting research and may present your work at the end of the program. Find examples of previous projects here.
Cost: Need-based financial aid is available. You can apply here.
Application deadline: On a rolling basis.
Program dates: Various according to the cohort
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit prior experience with AI concepts or Python.
The MIT THINK Scholars program is a unique opportunity for high school students who have already developed a research proposal in science, technology, or engineering. As a finalist, you’ll receive weekly mentoring sessions, technical support, and up to $1,000 in funding to help bring your project to life. In addition to hands-on experience with your research, the program includes an immersive four-day visit to MIT’s campus in Cambridge, MA (virtual participation is also available).
You’ll gain valuable skills in research design, project management, and technical communication, while collaborating with experts in the field. Presenting your work and engaging with professionals further enriches the experience. This program provides a platform to showcase your skills and strengthen your college applications by demonstrating your commitment to innovation and scholarly inquiry in STEM.
Cost/Stipend: Fully funded. A $1,000 budget will be awarded to 6 finalists with weekly mentoring, and a paid trip to MIT’s campus.
Application Deadline: January 1
Program Dates: Finalists are announced in February and projects are completed by that year’s summer in June.
Eligibility: All high school students can apply as individuals or in teams of two.
4. Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI) Summer Research Internship
The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging offers a competitive 2-week virtual internship for high school students, particularly those interested in the intersection of AI and healthcare. The program combines lectures, mentorship, and collaborative research projects, providing you with hands-on experience in AI applications within medicine.
As a participant, you’ll engage in technical work, learn research methods, and improve your problem-solving and communication skills. You’ll also have the chance to interact with professionals through virtual Career Lunch and Learns and gain insights from guest speakers. The program’s focus on mentorship, collaborative work, and exposure to cutting-edge research in AI will help prepare you for future academic and career opportunities in this field.
Cost/Stipend: Fully funded. This is an unpaid internship. Students will receive a certificate upon completion and the potential to extend their internship.
Application Deadline: February 28
Program Dates: June 16 — 27| 9 am-1 pm PT
Eligibility: Must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, entering 9th through 12th grade in the Fall, over 14 years old by the program start date, with strong preference given to those with math, computer programming skills, or healthcare project experience.
This highly selective program offers you the opportunity to work on a year-long astrophysics research project with scientists from Harvard or the Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. Each year, 10–16 students are selected to join teams of 5–8, conducting in-depth research under expert guidance.
Whether in-person or remote, you’ll develop research skills and deepen your understanding of astrophysics through monthly workshops and lectures. At the end of the program, you’ll present your findings at a symposium, sharing your research through posters and presentations. This program offers valuable mentorship, hands-on experience, and collaboration with professionals in the field, providing a unique chance to contribute to ongoing scientific research.
Cost/Stipend: Fully funded. A stipend is provided courtesy of the City of Cambridge.
Application Deadline: Applications are expected to open in May for the next cohort.
Program Dates: September — May
Eligibility: Must be a Cambridge Rindge and Latin School student, but they are looking to broaden the scope of their program.
PRIMES-USA is a prestigious, year-long, tuition-free research program for high school students passionate about mathematics. Mentored by top university faculty, including those from MIT, the program unfolds in four phases:
In Phase 1, you’ll engage in advanced readings to build a solid foundation in mathematics.
Phase 2 focuses on collaborative research with graduate students and faculty, tackling complex mathematical problems.
Phase 3 allows you to work independently on your own research project.
Phase 4 culminates in presenting your findings at the Fall-Term PRIMES conference.
Throughout the program, you’ll develop research, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the opportunity to submit your work to professional journals and competitions. The program offers valuable mentorship, hands-on experience, and collaboration with leading experts, enhancing your academic profile.
Cost: None
Application Deadline: November 18. Admissions for the next cycle will open on October 1
Program Dates: Year-Round, from January 1 to December 31 of the calendar year.
Eligibility: High school juniors and sophomores (including home-schooled) residing in the United States are eligible if they live no closer than 50 miles from Boston (Students residing within driving distance from Boston should apply to the MIT section of PRIMES).
SPINWIP is a 3-week virtual summer program designed to spark your interest in physics. You’ll explore advanced topics like quantum physics and astrophysics, while also learning Python coding, with no prior experience needed. The program includes online lectures, group projects, and workshops on college planning and career development, giving you valuable academic and professional insights.
Throughout the program, you’ll receive mentorship from Stanford students and professors, who will guide you through your learning and research. While there are no site visits, you’ll collaborate with peers and professionals, gaining hands-on experience and the skills necessary for future academic pursuits in physics and related fields.
Cost: Fully funded
Application Deadline: Usually falls around May
Program Dates: July 8 to July 26
Eligibility: Female and gender minority students in 9th to 11th grade are encouraged to apply, regardless of their country of residence. Preference will be given to first-generation students, those from underrepresented backgrounds in physics, and rising seniors.
The UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Program offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to explore neuroscience, focusing on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD). You can choose between a six-week in-person summer session or a virtual option, both designed to introduce you to neuroscience research and public health.
In the virtual program, you’ll attend seminars on various neuroscience topics, learn how to establish an Alzheimer’s Awareness Club at your school, and connect with faculty and staff. You may also choose to participate in a research project, gaining hands-on experience. The program provides valuable mentorship and collaboration with professionals, giving you a deeper understanding of neuroscience and the chance to apply what you’ve learned through practical projects.
Cost: Fully funded
Application Deadline: March 3
Dates: June 16 — July 24
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (16–18 years old), particularly from underrepresented communities or those interested in working with underrepresented populations. Applicants must be motivated and interested in neuroscience.
The University of Maryland’s MathQuantum Fellowships offer high school students the opportunity to explore quantum information science (QIS). The two-week online program is designed for both students interested in QIS and those with existing knowledge seeking to strengthen their mathematical skills. During the program, you’ll engage in lectures, seminars, interactive activities, and a mini-project.
You’ll also receive mentorship from experienced professionals, gaining valuable insights into research at the intersection of mathematics and QIS. Additionally, selected students will have the chance to attend the Quantum Computing Summer Camp at no cost. The program offers hands-on learning, mentorship, and the chance to explore advanced topics in QIS, preparing you for further academic pursuits in the field.
Cost: Fully funded
Application Deadline: February 14
Program Dates: July 25 – August 6
Eligibility: High school students
This pre-college program is ideal for students interested in medicine and medical research. The program offers flexible learning options, including 1-week, 2-week, and 4-week sessions. You’ll explore clinical research, learn about medical ethics, delve into cancer research, and write a scientific article based on your project.
Through guided projects and mentorship from top researchers, you’ll develop skills in research, critical thinking, and scientific writing. You’ll also have the opportunity to work on a capstone research project, which will help showcase your skills and dedication in your college applications.
Cost: $1,795, scholarships available
Application Deadlines: Rolling deadlines based on the session selected.
Program Dates: Multiple session options to choose from.
Eligibility: Open to all high-school students.
11. Economics for Leaders (EFL) — Foundation for Teaching Economics (FTE)
The Economics for Leaders (EFL) program, offered by the Foundation for Teaching Economics, is a selective summer course designed to equip you with the tools to think critically about economic issues and lead effectively. You’ll explore leadership theory, economic analysis, and how to apply these concepts to real-world public policy challenges.
Throughout the program, you’ll participate in interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and case studies that build your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Additionally, EFL offers the option to earn two semester hours of undergraduate credit through a partnership with the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (for an additional fee), adding further value to your experience.
Cost: $900 for the virtual program + $35 application fee
Application deadline: February 5
Program dates: Several virtual and in-person sessions here over the summe
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors can apply.
12. Stanford AI4ALL
Stanford’s three-week online program, in collaboration with AI4ALL, introduces you to artificial intelligence through lectures, research projects, and mentoring sessions with AI experts. You’ll explore how AI can be applied in fields like medicine, disaster response, and poverty alleviation.
During the program, you’ll work on small-group research projects focused on using AI to solve real-world societal issues. With guidance from graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in computer science and AI, you’ll gain practical experience and develop skills in AI research. The program offers opportunities for mentorship, hands-on learning, and collaboration with professionals in the field.
Cost: $4,000. Need-based financial aid is available.
Application Deadline: January 24.
Program Dates: June 18 — July 2
Eligibility: Must be 9th graders or rising 10th graders, over the age of 14 by the start of the program, with a preference for those possessing math and/or computer skills.
Girls Who Code offers a summer program designed to reduce the gender gap in the tech industry. You can choose between a 2-week immersion program or a 6-week self-paced option. The 2-week program covers intermediate computer science concepts, the iterative design process, and the basics of UX design.
The 6-week program focuses on web development with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript or more advanced Python applications. You’ll work on hands-on projects and gain valuable skills in coding, design, and problem-solving. You’ll also have the chance to network with women in tech and receive mentorship. While there are no site visits, you’ll collaborate with professionals and peers, gaining experience that can help you advance in tech.
Cost/Stipend: No cost, $300 need-based grant provided (for eligible students in the U.S.)
Application Deadline: Applications open by mid-January. Early acceptance is due by mid-February. The general application deadline is in late March.
Program Dates: 2 weeks, typically, in July but may vary depending on the program.
Eligibility: All female and non-binary high school students are eligible.
In the REACH program, you’ll explore the fascinating fields of neuroscience and neural engineering, diving into topics like neuroethics, scientific communication, and the latest advancements in brain-computer interfaces. You’ll also have the opportunity to join partner labs in departments such as Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at CNT. This non-credit program is perfect for students like you who are interested in pursuing a STEM career, particularly in neural engineering and neuroscience. It offers valuable insights and prepares you for future studies in these exciting fields.
Cost: $100 for the virtual program
Application Deadline: March 15
Program Dates: July 14–18
Eligibility: Must be a high school student. Graduating seniors can apply.
The JHIBS 5-week virtual research program is a free opportunity for high school students from underrepresented communities interested in neurological sciences. Participants work on research projects guided by experienced neuroscientists, gaining hands-on experience, developing research and data analysis skills, and attending scientific seminars.
You will also have opportunities for mentorship and personal development sessions. You’ll interact with leading professionals and present your research findings through oral or poster presentations. This program offers a chance to build your skills, collaborate with experts, and contribute to ongoing research in the field.
Cost/Stipend: Fully funded. Virtual interns receive a stipend of $500.
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates: 5 weeks, July — August (virtual)
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors from around the country are eligible to apply to the 5-week, virtual program.
One other option — the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1–1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.