10 Best Summer Programs for Middle Schoolers
- Stephen Turban
- Jul 18
- 8 min read
If you're in middle school and looking for a more enriching way to spend your summer, joining a summer program can be a smart choice. Summer programs for middle schoolers give you the chance to try out advanced academic subjects, explore future career paths, and meet students from different places who share your interests. Unlike college-prep camps that focus on standardized tests, these programs often center on real-world skills—such as public speaking, coding, or scientific research—without the pressure of grades or high tuition costs. They also give you a glimpse of college life, with many hosted by universities or run by respected institutions.
For students curious about learning beyond the classroom, online summer programs for middle schoolers can also be a flexible way to dive deeper into a topic you're passionate about. Whether you’re interested in STEM, writing, leadership, or the arts, the programs on this list were selected because they’re more rigorous than your average camp, offer strong mentorship or peer collaboration, and are often connected to top organizations or schools. Some are highly selective or even fully funded, making them especially worth considering if you're serious about academic growth. We’ve narrowed it down to ten standout options based on their prestige, depth, and opportunities for learning and connection.
Subject Areas: STEM (e.g. Computer Science, Biology, Physics, AI & Data Science), Humanities (e.g. History, Sociology, Economics, International Relations), and Engineering
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8; no prior experience required, but best suited for motivated and academically curious students
Application Deadline: August 24 (Fall Cohort); other deadlines vary by cohort
Program Dates: Start date for September 14 (Fall Cohort); sessions also available earlier in the summer and spring
Cost: Varies; need-based financial aid available
In this rigorous research program, you’ll work one-on-one with a mentor from a top university (Harvard, Oxford, etc.) to pursue a project of your interest. You'll learn how to design a research question, conduct an independent inquiry, and present your findings. Lumiere encourages intellectual curiosity through structured support and real academic practice. You’ll build analytical and writing skills while gaining exposure to the research process. The final product - a research paper or presentation - can be a meaningful addition to your academic portfolio.
Subject Areas: Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics
Location: Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
Eligibility: Current 7th and 8th grade students
Application Deadline: March 21 – April 17
Program Dates: June 9 – June 13
Cost: Free
Physics Inside Out is a one-week summer program where you'll explore the core principles of physics through hands-on labs, research-style experiments, and campus-based activities. Faculty and research staff lead sessions on topics like magnetism, laser optics, thermodynamics, and astrophysics, with experiments that range from synthesizing ferrofluids to analyzing infrared light. Each day includes both morning and afternoon lessons, plus a visit to Purdue’s dining halls and facilities like the France Cordova Recreational Center or the PRIME Lab particle accelerator. You'll also hear personal stories from scientists about their career paths in research. As one of the more immersive summer programs for middle schoolers, this program introduces real lab techniques and encourages scientific thinking in a university environment.
Subject Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Python Programming, Data Science
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8; no coding or technical background required
Application Deadline: July 20 (Fall Cohort, early deadline); other sessions may be offered throughout the year
Program Dates:
Weekend Track: 25 hours over 10 weekends
Summer Track: 25 hours over 2 weeks (weekdays)
Cost: $2,290; full financial aid available for students with demonstrated need
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: Academic Writing, Math Enrichment, High School Preparation
Location: Online (offered by Stanford University, Stanford, CA)
Eligibility: Current 6th or 7th grade students residing in and attending school in the U.S.; applicants must come from low-income households (typically under $90,000 annual income)
Application Deadline: March 20
Program Dates: July 7 – July 25
Cost: Free
The Stanford Middle School Scholars Program (SMSSP) offers a hybrid experience of summer and academic-year learning designed to support students from low-income backgrounds preparing for academically rigorous high schools. Over the summer, you’ll join a small online cohort for daily live instruction focused on writing, math, and foundational academic skills. The program emphasizes real-time interaction and mentorship from experienced Stanford Online High School faculty, many of whom hold advanced degrees. Among summer programs for middle schoolers, SMSSP is unique for its extended support model and its role in bridging students to advanced academic environments like Stanford OHS.
Subject Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Product Management, Technology Innovation
Location: University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC Campus), Baltimore, MD
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–8
Application Deadline: Rolling admission; open until filled
Program Dates: July 28 – August 1
Cost: $299
In this one-week course, you'll explore the basics of AI and product development by stepping into the role of a young product manager. The curriculum introduces foundational concepts in generative AI and user-centered design through hands-on activities, teamwork, and real-world case studies. Throughout the week, you'll identify local problems, brainstorm AI-powered solutions, and prototype simple products using accessible tech tools. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making and critical thinking, helping you understand the responsibilities involved in designing AI tools. As one of the more interactive summer programs for middle schoolers, this course encourages innovation, collaboration, and early exposure to how modern technologies shape products and businesses.
Subject Areas: Marine Science, Oceanography, Environmental Studies
Location: Acadia Institute of Oceanography, Seal Harbor, ME
Eligibility: Students ages 12–15; typically grades 6–9
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: June 22 – July 4; August 3 – 15
Cost: $3,200 for a two-week session
At the Intermediate Marine Science Camp, you’ll spend two weeks exploring the ecosystems and ocean environments around Mt. Desert Island in coastal Maine. The program blends fieldwork and lab activities, allowing you to study tidal pool diversity, water chemistry, salt marshes, and island geology. You’ll also participate in activities like whale watching, fishing, and visiting a bird rehabilitation center, all while setting up and managing your own saltwater tank. Working in small groups, you'll learn marine sampling techniques and gain hands-on experience in the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of oceanography. As one of the more immersive summer programs for middle schoolers, this camp offers a strong natural history approach for students interested in environmental science and marine life.
Subject Areas: Environmental Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Sound Technology
Location: New York University, New York, NY
Eligibility: NYC residents ages 12–14; strong academic record and interest in science required
Application Deadline: April 14 (final deadline: April 29)
Program Dates: July 8 – August 4 (orientation on June 28 via Zoom)
Cost: Free (full scholarship provided)
NYU’s Sounds of New York City (SONYC) program introduces you to the science of sound and urban noise pollution through a mix of hands-on experiments, tech-based projects, and public health exploration. You’ll study how sound behaves in a city, use sensors and microcontrollers to collect sound data, and build smart-city devices aimed at monitoring or reducing noise pollution. The program also incorporates engineering principles, electronics, and basic coding, helping you understand how technology can solve real-world environmental issues. A unique feature of SONYC is its collaboration with the Irondale improv group, where you’ll build communication and presentation skills alongside your STEM learning. Among summer programs for middle schoolers, SONYC stands out for blending science, technology, and public impact—all while being completely tuition-free.
Subject Areas: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), College Prep
Location: Baruch College, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY
Eligibility: New York State residents in grades 7–12 with an overall GPA of 80+ and at least an 80 in math, science, and English; must meet academic or state economic criteria
Application Deadline: Rolling admission until all seats are filled (first-come, first-served for eligible applicants)
Program Dates: July 7 – July 31 (Monday–Thursday, 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
Cost: Free
Baruch College’s STEP Academy offers middle school students a free, four-week summer program focused on strengthening STEM and academic skills. As a participant, you’ll take enrichment courses in math and science while also joining college preparation and career-readiness workshops. Activities include hands-on labs, test prep (such as SHSAT or Regents), and exposure to fields like computer science, engineering, and health. You'll also hear from professionals and attend cultural trips across NYC. As one of the more accessible summer programs for middle schoolers, STEP is designed to support academically motivated students from diverse backgrounds in exploring future STEM and college pathways.
Subject Areas: Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, Environmental)
Location: Manhattan University, Riverdale, NY
Eligibility: Students entering grades 5–7
Application Deadline: Rolling admission; space available until filled
Program Dates: July 7 – August 7 (Monday–Thursday, 9:30 AM–3:00 PM)
Cost: $565–599/week; financial support and discounts available
At Manhattan University’s Science & Engineering Summer Camp, you’ll explore five branches of engineering—mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and environmental—each introduced in a dedicated weekly session. The program emphasizes practical learning, giving you access to real university labs and the chance to work on engineering projects that mirror real-world challenges. Each day involves project-based activities, collaborative group work, and virtual lunchtime talks with Manhattan University alumni working in the field. Lab days offer deeper engagement with faculty and hands-on experiments. As one of the more structured summer programs for middle schoolers, this camp combines academic enrichment with creativity and teamwork, all set on a university campus in New York City.
Subject Areas: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Biotechnology
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
Eligibility: Students entering 7th, 8th, or 9th grade in September; 9th grade program currently full
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: June 30 – July 10
Cost: $675
This lab-based program challenges you to expand on your school science curriculum through hands-on experiments, group research, and problem-solving. As a 7th grader, you’ll focus on developing fundamental lab techniques across physics, chemistry, and ecology. If you’re entering 8th grade, you’ll work on themed case studies like cholera and bioremediation to explore genetics, biotechnology, and environmental chemistry. Across all grade levels, you'll read, write, and engage in digital research while working collaboratively on scientific investigations. With small cohorts of 24 students per grade, this program offers one of the more structured and skills-focused summer programs for middle schoolers on a university campus.
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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