13 Best STEM Summer Camps for Middle School Students
- Stephen Turban
- 3 hours ago
- 9 min read
If you’re a middle school student interested in science, technology, engineering, or math, a STEM summer camp is a great way to explore these subjects beyond the classroom. These camps blend experimentation with problem-solving, helping you develop technical skills, creativity, and teamwork. You might learn to code, design robots, conduct lab experiments, or explore environmental science.
STEM camps also give you early exposure to advanced concepts and introduce you to mentors and peers who share your interests, which can help shape your academic and career goals. Many of these camps are affordable or even free, making them a good way to build a strong foundation in STEM before high school. We’ve rounded up the 13 best STEM summer camps for middle school students!
13 Best STEM Summer Camps for Middle School Students
1. MIT dynaMIT
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited number of seats each year. No specific numbers listed
Dates: Week 1: August 11 to August 15 for rising 6th to 7th graders | Week 2: August 18 to August 22 for rising 8th to 9th graders
Application Deadline: February 10. Based on previous years and subject to change
Eligibility: Rising 6th to 9th grade students
MIT’s dynaMIT is a free, weeklong summer program that introduces middle school students to hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and math. Designed for students with limited access to enrichment opportunities, the program features experiments and projects such as analyzing fingerprints in mock investigations and programming with Arduino microcontrollers. Led by MIT undergraduate and graduate mentors, dynaMIT emphasizes active learning, creativity, and collaboration. Throughout the week, you’ll participate in workshops, build a capstone project, and explore topics like electromagnetism, polymers, or forensics. The program not only strengthens your technical and problem-solving skills but also fosters curiosity and confidence in STEM through mentorship and teamwork.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies. Financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive admissions
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Middle school students in grades 6 to 8
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a fully virtual program designed for middle school students who want to explore academic interests and create a project with personalized mentorship. Over six weeks, you’ll work one-on-one with a mentor, typically a scholar from leading universities such as Harvard, MIT, or Stanford, to explore topics within your chosen field, define a project idea, and bring it to life. The program’s structure combines guided exploration with independent work, helping you develop research, critical thinking, and communication skills. Founded by Harvard and Oxford PhDs, Lumiere emphasizes academic curiosity and creativity while maintaining a rigorous yet supportive environment. Need-based financial aid is also available for eligible students.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies. Financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive admissions
Dates:Spring cohort. 25 hours over 10 weekendsSummer cohort. 25 hours over two weeks on weekdays only
Application Deadline: Rolling deadlines based on cohorts
Eligibility: Students in grades 6 to 8
Veritas AI’s AI Trailblazers is a virtual program designed for middle school students to explore the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Across 25 hours of instruction, you’ll learn Python programming and key AI concepts such as data analysis, regression, image classification, neural networks, and AI ethics. With a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio, the program combines lectures with small-group sessions that provide personalized guidance. You’ll also get to apply your learning through real-world projects, such as building a machine learning model to classify music genres or creating an algorithm that recommends educational resources. This hands-on approach helps you understand both the technical and ethical dimensions of AI while building your first portfolio-worthy project.
Location: Andries Hudde Junior High School, Brooklyn, NY. STAR Early College School, Queens, NY
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: No information available
Dates: July 7 to August 1. Based on previous years
Application Deadline: May 15. Based on previous years
Eligibility: Rising 7th to 8th graders who live in New York City
The Sounds of New York City (SONYC) program at NYU Tandon School of Engineering introduces middle school students to environmental engineering through the study of urban noise pollution. Over the course of the program, you’ll explore sound waves, measure local noise levels, and analyze their impact on public health. You’ll also learn to design and build devices using sensors, circuits, and microcontrollers to monitor and reduce noise pollution in city environments. The program incorporates elements of engineering, coding, and science communication, supported by workshops from the Irondale Theater Group to help you present your ideas effectively. It all culminates in an expo where students showcase their smart-city projects that address real-world urban challenges.
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI. Michigan Engineering Zone, Detroit, MI
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates:June 23 to June 27 at U-M Ann Arbor CampusAugust 4 to August 8 at Michigan Engineering Zone in Detroit
Application Deadline: Typically closes in April
Eligibility: Students in grades 6 to 8 who reside in Michigan
Thinkabit Lab Summer Camp is a one-week program that introduces middle school students to engineering, robotics, and coding through hands-on, creative projects. Hosted by the University of Michigan, the camp focuses on using technology for good while helping you develop problem-solving and design skills. You’ll learn the fundamentals of robotics and the engineering design process, build and program your own robotic creations, and collaborate with peers to tackle real-world challenges. Along the way, you’ll meet engineers and industry professionals who share insights into STEM careers. The camp concludes with a “Tech for Good” project showcase, where you present your own robotic innovation.
Location: Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited enrollment
Dates: June 9 to June 13
Application Deadline: April 17
Eligibility: Current 7th and 8th grade students
Physics Inside Out is a summer program that introduces students to the fundamentals and frontiers of physics through experiments, lab visits, and workshops. You’ll explore topics such as astrophysics, nanotechnology, and the evolution of modern physics under the mentorship of Purdue faculty and researchers. The program includes guided tours of world-class facilities like the PRIME Lab particle accelerator, the PUR1 nuclear reactor, and the Birck Nanotechnology Center, offering you a real-world look at scientific research in action. Alongside daily experiments and discussions, you’ll hear from faculty and graduate researchers about their paths in science and gain insights into college life and potential STEM careers.
Location: Gallatin College, Bozeman, MT
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Small cohorts
Dates: June 16 to June 20
Application Deadline: June 1
Eligibility: Montana middle or high school students in grades 6 to 10
Gallatin College Montana Cybersecurity Summer Initiative (CSI) Camp is a free, weeklong day camp that introduces middle and high school students to the fundamentals of cybersecurity through games, discussions, and hands-on activities. You’ll learn about cyber hygiene, network functionality, and file management, as well as how to navigate and protect both Linux and Windows systems. The camp focuses on practical lessons that help you recognize online risks like identity theft and ransomware, and teaches techniques used by professionals to stay secure. Designed for beginners, CSI Camp provides a supportive environment where you can build new technical skills and gain confidence in using technology safely. The week concludes with a fun cybersecurity competition where you’ll put your new knowledge to the test.
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: July 7 to July 11
Application Deadline: Typically due in early spring
Eligibility: Rising 8th and 9th graders who live within commuting distance of campus
SEE is a free, week-long program that introduces middle school students to engineering through design and problem-solving. In the “Making & Engineering” session, you’ll explore different branches of engineering by completing two major projects: one structured and collaborative, and another where small teams design their own solutions using simple, household materials. These activities emphasize creativity, iteration, and teamwork while teaching key design principles. Alongside project work, you’ll attend presentations by CMU faculty and engineers who share how engineering concepts are applied to real-world challenges. The program provides an accessible, engaging way for students to experience what it’s like to think and work like an engineer.
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: No information available
Dates: Various one-week sessions from July 11 to August 12
Application Deadline: June 2
Eligibility: NYC residents currently in 4th to 7th grade
NYU’s Creativity in Engineering, Science, and Technology (CrEST) program introduces middle school students to the foundations of engineering and robotics through hands-on, lab-based sessions. Over one week, you’ll explore topics such as circuitry, electronics, mechanical systems, and physical computing while designing and building interactive devices. Each session follows a unique theme and integrates 3D modeling, design, and simulation tools like Tinkercad and Autodesk Fusion 360, helping you bring real-world ideas to life. Led by NYU faculty and graduate mentors, classes emphasize creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Whether you’re programming a robotic car or designing a 3D prototype, CrEST offers an engaging introduction to how science and engineering intersect with innovation and design.
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 60 middle school students
Dates: July 6 to August 7
Application Deadline: Opens early February
Eligibility: Students in grades 6 to 8 from the Ypsilanti area
The University of Michigan Math Corps Summer Camp is a free program that blends math enrichment, mentorship, and community building for middle school students. Using a “kids teaching kids” model, you’ll learn from college instructors and high school teaching assistants who guide you through both foundational and advanced math concepts. The program places a strong emphasis on developing personal growth, confidence, and teamwork. Students are organized into small, mixed groups that include middle schoolers, high school TAs, and college mentors. Beyond academics, the camp focuses on core values like kindness, integrity, and leadership, fostering both academic skills and a robust sense of community.
Location: United States Military Academy at West Point, West Point, NY
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: No information available
Dates: June 1 to June 5
Application Deadline: February 13
Eligibility: U.S. citizens currently in 6th or 7th grade for the middle school session; must have strong academic record and interest in STEM
West Point Summer STEM Program offers middle and high school students a weeklong, hands-on introduction to science, technology, engineering, and math on the U.S. Military Academy campus. Guided by West Point faculty and cadet mentors, you’ll work on projects like building bridges, programming robots, testing water chemistry, and designing fuel cell vehicles. The program is designed to strengthen problem-solving and collaboration skills while highlighting how STEM connects to both military and civilian innovations. You’ll live in the West Point barracks, eat in the Mess Hall, and follow a structured daily schedule that mirrors aspects of cadet life. This immersive experience helps you explore STEM in a disciplined, team-oriented environment while gaining insight into college-level learning and leadership.
Location: University of California, Berkeley, CA
Cost: $850 + $75 for Extended Care. Full scholarships automatically granted if family qualifies for a government assistance program
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive. 75 students
Dates:Session 1: July 7 to July 11Session 2: July 14 to July 18
Application Deadline: March 28
Eligibility: Grades 6 to 8 students from the San Francisco Bay Area, with priority for underrepresented or disadvantaged applicants
Girls in Engineering at UC Berkeley is a weeklong, NSF-funded summer camp designed to allow middle school girls and gender-minority students to explore engineering. Led by UC Berkeley faculty, staff, and students, the program combines design innovation, leadership development, and hands-on learning. You’ll work in teams on engineering projects, such as designing prosthetic hands or experimenting with generators, while also building collaboration and communication skills. The program includes field trips to sites like Pixar and the Lawrence Hall of Science, offering exposure to real-world engineering careers. Each day features interactive workshops, lab demonstrations, and small-group sessions that help you strengthen your problem-solving, creativity, and leadership abilities.
Location: Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 25 students
Dates: July 14 to July 18
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Students in grades 7 to 12
Summer Cyber Camp at Old Dominion University is a one-week program designed to introduce middle and high school students to the fundamentals of cybersecurity through hands-on labs and interactive sessions. You’ll explore topics such as cryptography, computer forensics, penetration testing, and network security while working on challenges like traffic analysis and firewall protection. The camp also integrates robotics through Zumi car lessons, live cyberattack demonstrations, and a Zumi racing challenge. Alongside these activities, you’ll attend expert-led lectures, industry panel discussions, and a field trip to ODU’s Data Center. The program wraps up with cybersecurity games and a poster showcase, giving you a practical and engaging introduction to the cybersecurity field.
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.
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