10 After-School Programs for Middle School Students in New York
- Stephen Turban
- Sep 5
- 9 min read
If you’re in middle school and looking for something meaningful to do after class, an after-school program might be one of the smartest ways to use your time. These programs can help you explore subjects beyond what’s taught in school, like coding, medicine, business, or even college-level research, without needing to pay for an expensive course or summer camp. Many after-school programs in New York offer access to industry professionals, advanced academics, and hands-on projects that teach you real-world skills. You might also get the chance to meet peers who share your interests or even work with mentors from universities and companies.
Some of these programs are highly selective, which means you’ll be challenged to do your best—but that also means you’ll get more out of it. And if you’re thinking about applying to an online summer program in the future, starting with a rigorous after-school option can help you build the skills and confidence you need. We've pulled together a list of the best after-school program activities for middle school in New York, using factors like academic rigor, networking opportunities, financial accessibility, and how competitive they are to get into.
If you're serious about learning outside the classroom, these programs could be exactly what you're looking for.
10 After-School Programs for Middle School Students in New York
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies, financial aid available
Program Dates: 8-week program
Application Deadline: November 16 (Winter Cohort)
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is an intensive and highly selective research program providing middle school students the chance to undertake advanced research. The program provides 1-on-1 guidance from PhD mentors from top universities like Harvard, Columbia, and MIT. You are encouraged to pick your subject of interest, which can range anywhere from artificial intelligence to history. Over 8 weeks, this virtual program lets you dive deep into your chosen subject, build high-standard research skills, and complete your own project by the end. Beyond gaining specialized knowledge, you also build the confidence to think critically, innovate, and approach both theoretical and practical academic endeavors with independence.
Subject Areas: Mathematics, Problem Solving, Abstract Reasoning
Location: Online; offered by NYU Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences
Eligibility: 7th and 8th-grade students with strong arithmetic skills and basic algebra experience
Application Deadline: Not yet announced for Spring; check back for Spring 2026 dates
Program Dates: 13-week program in Spring (exact dates to be announced)
Cost: $1,000 tuition + $50 application fee; limited financial aid available
The NYU Math Program for Young Minds is a selective, 13-week online program for mathematically talented 7th and 8th-grade students. Hosted by NYU’s Courant Institute, the program introduces middle schoolers to advanced math concepts beyond the school curriculum, including topics typically studied at the undergraduate level. You’ll meet weekly with a faculty instructor and teaching assistant, engaging in collaborative problem-solving sessions that emphasize abstract reasoning. Classes are active and group-based, designed to sharpen your logic and creativity in math. While the program is not for credit, students who complete it will receive a certificate and may request an official, non-credit transcript from NYU.
This is a strong option if you're looking for advanced after school program activities for middle school in New York that push beyond standard classroom math.
Subject Areas: AI, Programming, Data Analysis, Model Building
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies, financial aid available
Program Dates:
Weekend Track: 25 hours over 10 weekends
Summer Track: 25 hours over 2 weeks (weekdays)
Application Deadline: October 19 (Winter Cohort); other sessions may be offered throughout the year
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8; no coding or technical background required
Veritas AI’s AI Trailblazers program introduces you to core concepts in artificial intelligence and machine learning through live instruction and group collaboration. Over the course of 25 hours, you’ll learn Python programming, explore data analysis, and build models using regression and classification techniques. The program includes small-group mentoring (5:1 ratio), ensuring personalized guidance as you move through increasingly advanced topics, including neural networks and AI ethics. A major component is the team-based capstone project, where you and a few peers apply your new skills to a real-world challenge and present your findings. While the environment is designed for beginners, the curriculum pushes you to think critically about how AI works and how it should be used.
Subject Areas: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), English, Research, College Preparation
Location: NYU Washington Square Campus, New York, NY
Eligibility: New York State residents in grades 7–12 with at least a B average in math, science, and English; must meet income eligibility criteria
Application Deadline: Rolling until full; early submission recommended
Program Dates: Saturdays, October 19 – May 3
Cost: $200 total ($100 per semester); fee waivers available for eligible students
The Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) at NYU is a yearlong academic enrichment program designed to support students from underserved backgrounds who are interested in pursuing STEM careers or health-related fields. You’ll attend full-day Saturday classes focused on math, science, and English, with added support for Regents exam prep, standardized test strategies, and the college admissions process. Classes are taught by NYU faculty and students, and you’ll also have opportunities for project-based learning and mentorship. Older students (grades 11–12) can participate in supervised research projects and present at conferences.
STEP also provides workshops on career development and hands-on labs to help you explore potential college majors and professions. If you’re searching for after school program activities for middle school in New York that offer both academic support and exposure to STEM fields, this is a solid choice.
Subject Areas: Arts, Business, Law, Engineering, Global Public Health, Health Sciences, Humanities
Location: NYU Washington Square Campus, New York, NY
Eligibility: Rising 8th or 9th grade students attending NYC public or charter schools; priority given to first-generation, under-resourced, and underrepresented students
Application Deadline: March 31 at 11:59 PM
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1 (Exploratory Stage)
Cost: Free; includes meals and MTA transportation
The College and Career Lab (CCL) is a free, six-year enrichment program hosted by NYU that begins with a four-week summer session for rising 8th and 9th-graders. During the Exploratory Stage, you’ll explore different academic fields and career paths through immersive workshops and college-style lectures led by NYU faculty from schools like Tisch, Tandon, Stern, and the NYU School of Law. You'll engage in hands-on learning, field trips, and group activities designed to introduce you to subjects like neuroscience, public health, entrepreneurship, and social justice law. After completing the initial summer program, you’ll continue in the Immersive Stage in high school, where you can dive deeper into specific fields through internships, advanced workshops, and college prep. The program also includes year-round Practice Labs that offer help with resumes, networking, and soft skills.
If you're looking for after-school program activities for middle school in New York that support your long-term academic and career goals, CCL offers a structured, multi-year pathway to explore what’s possible.
Subject Areas: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), Arts, Humanities, Test Prep
Location: City College of New York (CCNY), 259 Convent Avenue, New York, NY
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–12 who live or attend school in NYC; no GPA or prior STEM coursework required
Application Deadline: Varies by session; early registration recommended
Program Dates:
Fall Program: 12 weeks, Mondays–Thursdays
Spring Program: 15 weeks, same time structure as fall
Summer Program: July–August, Mondays–Thursdays
Cost: Free
The CCNY STEM Institute offers free after-school and summer enrichment programs for NYC middle and high school students, with a focus on increasing access to hands-on STEM education. You’ll study topics ranging from robotics and game design to chemistry, algebra, and rocket engineering—often alongside real research opportunities and end-of-term presentations. For middle schoolers, after-school sessions are held on weekdays, and summer includes a full-day, five-week program. All students participate in small group learning environments, supported by instructors and teaching assistants. You can also explore other areas like journalism, architecture, creative writing, and financial literacy, depending on your interests. Whether you're preparing for the SHSAT or just curious about building a 3D printer or designing an app, this program offers some of the most wide-ranging after-school program activities for middle school in New York, all at no cost.
Subject Areas: Academic Enrichment, Test Prep, Writing, Research, Cultural Exposure, Leadership
Location: Various NYC locations, including Saint Ann’s School (Brooklyn), Fordham Prep (Bronx), and Kew Forest School (Queens); summer and weekend programming at partner sites across NYC
Eligibility: Current 6th graders in NYC public or charter schools; U.S. citizen or permanent resident; must have 90%+ in all classes, demonstrate financial need, and have strong attendance
Application Deadline: Round 1 application due by January 23, 5:00 PM
Program Dates: Begins spring of 6th grade; year-round through high school and into college
Cost: Free
The TEAK Fellowship is a free, long-term academic and mentoring program for high-achieving, low-income NYC students. If you're accepted in 6th grade, you’ll begin with spring and summer classes to help prepare for selective high school admissions. From there, you'll participate in weekly after-school sessions and monthly Saturday classes in 7th and 8th grade, covering advanced topics in math, science, English, Latin, research, and the arts. You’ll also take part in high school and standardized test prep, personal development programming, and cultural field trips.
Mentorship is another key part of TEAK, you’ll be matched with an adult professional who offers advice, support, and access to new experiences throughout your journey. The program continues to support you through high school and college, offering everything from application guidance to internships. TEAK is one of the most comprehensive after-school program activities for middle school in New York, especially if you're aiming for highly selective schools and want long-term academic and career support.
Subject Areas: Medicine, Biology, Chemistry, Neuroscience, Psychology, Physics, Math, College Prep
Location: Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
Eligibility: New York State residents in grades 7–12 who are economically disadvantaged and/or in need of academic support in STEM; must have at least an 80% average, particularly in math and science
Application Deadline:
Summer: April 15
Academic Year: September 15
Program Dates:
Summer Session: July 28 – August 8
Academic Year: November 9 – May 17
Cost: Free
Columbia’s State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S-PREP) is a no-cost academic prep program for middle and high school students interested in careers in medicine or STEM fields. You’ll take courses in subjects like anatomy, organic chemistry, algebra, statistics, and neuroscience—topics rarely offered in typical school settings. The academic year runs on Saturdays and includes SAT prep, college counseling, and career development workshops. S-PREP students can also apply for exclusive summer research programs like BRAINYAC, which places students in Columbia neuroscience labs, or YES in the Heights, which offers cancer research training. If you’re searching for high-level, free after-school program activities for middle school in New York with long-term STEM pathways, S-PREP is a competitive and enriching option.
9. DREAMChasers
Subject Areas: SHSAT Test Prep, Mentorship, Leadership Development
Location: Online (Fridays) and In-Person (Saturdays and Summer); NYC-based programming
Eligibility: Must be a 7th-grade student as of September; NYC resident; From a low- to moderate-income household; Committed to taking the 2026 SHSAT
Application Deadline: June 12
Program Dates: July – May (11-month program)
Cost: Free
DREAMChasers is a free, yearlong SHSAT preparation and mentorship program for 7th-grade students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds in New York City. The program provides over 300 hours of targeted SHSAT test prep, delivered in partnership with Khan’s Tutorial, alongside personalized mentorship designed to help students build leadership skills and manage academic stress. You’ll attend weekly classes, complete assignments, take diagnostic exams every few weeks, and get regular feedback through parent-teacher conferences. Each student is paired with a mentor who provides monthly guidance, while parents receive tailored info sessions on navigating the high school admissions process. If you’re looking for after-school program activities for middle school in New York that specifically target access to specialized high schools, DREAMChasers is a strong, no-cost option.
10. Liberty LEADS
Subject Areas: College Preparation, Leadership, STEM, Social Justice, Social-Emotional Development
Location: Bank Street College of Education, 610 West 112th Street, New York, NY
Eligibility: NYC students entering grades 5–11; students from public, charter, and parochial schools prioritized; 5th-grade enrollment typically by referral
Application Deadline: Rolling admission; early application recommended due to limited space
Program Dates: Year-round, including after-school sessions, Saturday classes, and summer camp
Cost: Free
Liberty LEADS is a long-term academic and college access program based at Bank Street College, offering wraparound support to underrepresented NYC students from middle school through high school graduation. As a participant, you’ll attend weekly after-school sessions, Saturday programming, and a summer camp, all focused on helping you grow academically and emotionally. Classes and activities include leadership training, STEM project-based learning, writing and discussion on social justice issues, and personalized college counseling.
The program assigns each student a long-term advisor who monitors academic and social progress, working closely with families and even attending school meetings when needed. Liberty LEADS also offers SAT prep, financial aid workshops, and college visits to prepare you for the transition to higher education. If you’re looking for a consistent, well-supported after-school program activity for middle school in New York, Liberty LEADS offers a stable community and academic enrichment through every stage of your educational journey.
Lydia is an alumna from Harvard University and studied Molecular and Cellular Biology & 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 is working as a life sciences consultant after graduation.
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