15 Medical Internships for High School Students in the Bay Area
- Stephen Turban
- Jun 13
- 10 min read
If you are a high school student in the Bay Area, exploring medical internships before college can open doors to hands-on experiences in clinical settings, research laboratories, and community health initiatives. These medical internships allow you to work directly with experts, participate in patient care activities, or assist in ongoing research projects.
Given the competitive nature of medical fields and the rigor of internships students often look for, we’ve only included medical internships that are well-regarded, provide rigorous professional exposure, and offer funded or cost-free options to ensure accessibility.
In this list, we've compiled 15 medical internships for high school students in the Bay Area that meet these criteria, prioritizing programs offered by prestigious hospitals, universities, and research institutes.
Cost/Stipend: Starting at $2,490; financial assistance available
Location: Virtual
Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Open to high school students, including undergraduates and gap-year students; must be able to commit 10–20 hours per week
Ladder Internships offers a flexible, project-based experience where you will be matched with startups working on healthcare, biotechnology, or health innovation projects. As part of the Medical & Health Innovation Track, you can collaborate on real-world projects such as health tech app development, medical data analysis, or community health initiatives.
You will be paired with both a company mentor and a dedicated Ladder Coach, ensuring weekly mentorship and personalized feedback. Projects typically end in a final presentation, helping you build a strong portfolio of work that can support future applications in the medical field.
The virtual format and flexible hours make this internship accessible to Bay Area students seeking medical internships that align with their school-year schedules, while providing rigorous mentorship and real-world experience.
Cost/Stipend: $850 program fee + $40 application fee; financial aid available
Location: Virtual
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: ~25 interns accepted per session
Dates: June 16 – 27
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: California high school students aged 14+; undergraduates with computer science experience may apply as student leads
The Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship offers a structured introduction to the role of artificial intelligence in medicine through a two-week virtual experience. You will engage in research projects, attend lectures led by Stanford engineers and scientists, and participate in mentorship sessions focused on how machine learning is transforming healthcare. Key topics include medical diagnostics, AI in imaging, and innovations in healthcare systems.
The program also features “Lunch and Learn” sessions where you will interact with professionals from government, academia, and nonprofits, offering valuable insights into diverse healthcare applications of AI. An optional extended independent research experience is available to students who wish to continue their projects beyond the core program.
Cost/Stipend: $5,000 stipend
Location: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited to KIPP-SFCP students
Dates: June 17 – August 9
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors at KIPP San Francisco College Preparatory; must be 16 or older, and have participated in the spring lecture series
The Bay Area Youth Science (BAYS) Program at UCSF offers an intensive, eight-week STEM research experience for students from KIPP San Francisco College Preparatory. You will conduct hands-on research in UCSF laboratories, working on projects in areas like cancer biology, drug discovery, and infectious disease, under the supervision of experienced scientists. The program also includes weekly coursework on research skills, college preparation, and professional development, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Fridays are reserved for workshops and seminars, and the program concludes with a formal research presentation to the UCSF scientific community. BAYS continues to support participants beyond the summer through college application advising, making it a comprehensive pathway into medical and scientific careers.
Cost/Stipend: Stipend support available upon application
Location: Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: ~20 students accepted
Dates: June 23 – August 8
Application Deadline: Typically in November
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older by June
The Stanford STaRS (Stanford Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Summer) Internship Program offers high school students an immersive experience in cutting-edge medical and bioengineering research. You will work on interdisciplinary projects in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and surgical device development, collaborating directly with Stanford faculty and research teams.
Throughout the program, you will participate in seminars and collaborative projects, gaining insights into how research can advance surgical and medical technologies. The experience concludes with a formal research presentation to the Stanford scientific community.
Cost/Stipend: Free; need-based scholarships available
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Dates: June 16 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ from Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, or Santa Cruz counties with a minimum 3.0 GPA and prior coursework in biology, chemistry, or programming
The Genomics Research Internship Program for High School Students (GRIPS) offers an intensive, eight-week research experience in genomics and biomedical data science at Stanford University. You will assist faculty and graduate researchers on projects in molecular biology, computational genetics, and bioinformatics. The program also includes weekly seminars, cohort-based activities, and mentorship, helping you develop both lab and coding skills.
GRIPS is designed to increase access to elite research environments for Bay Area students from under-resourced schools, with a focus on equity in genomics and medical research. The program is free, with need-based scholarships available for those who require additional support.
Cost/Stipend: $3,000 stipend for students demonstrating financial need
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Dates: June 16 – July 25
Application Deadline: Typically in early spring
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors in select Northern California counties with a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0; priority given to students with limited research experience
PIPS offers a six-week mentored research experience for high school students interested in pediatrics, child health, and disease biology. You will be paired with Stanford researchers and spend approximately 30 hours per week in the lab, gaining exposure to scientific methods and biomedical research. The program also includes seminars and workshops on professional development and science communication.
With a focus on accessibility, PIPS prioritizes students from Northern California counties who have limited prior research experience and offers a $3,000 stipend for those demonstrating financial need. This is a strong option for those seeking medical internships for high school students in the Bay Area with an emphasis on pediatrics and health equity.
Cost/Stipend: $500 minimum stipend; $1,500+ for students from underrepresented backgrounds
Location: Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 50 students admitted
Dates: June 9 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 22
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 16+ who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is one of the most prestigious biomedical research internships for high school students in the Bay Area. Over eight weeks, you will be placed in a Stanford lab focusing on fields such as immunology, cancer biology, neurobiology, or bioengineering. Under faculty mentorship, you will participate in lab experiments, data analysis, and collaborative research projects.
The program includes daily lectures and workshops, culminating in a formal poster presentation, which offers students both rigorous laboratory experience and scientific communication training. SIMR also provides enhanced stipends for students from underrepresented backgrounds, ensuring access and inclusivity.
Cost/Stipend: $3,200 (part-time) or $4,500 (full-time)
Location: University of California, San Francisco, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 25 students selected
Dates: June 9 – August 1
Application Deadline: March 2
Eligibility: High school juniors from SFUSD, SF charter schools, or College Track SF; priority given to underrepresented students in STEM
The SEP High School Intern Program at UCSF provides an eight-week, paid research experience for students interested in biomedical science. You will be paired with UCSF researchers to contribute to projects in fields such as neuroscience, cancer biology, and immunology. Alongside lab work, the program integrates college readiness workshops, including resume building, campus tours, and mentorship sessions.
The program seeks to create a collaborative atmosphere where you can engage with colleagues, scientists, and staff while acquiring practical research experience. SEP prioritizes students from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM, supporting their access to elite research environments.
Cost/Stipend: Cost applicable (see website for latest fees); no stipend available
Location: Virtual (Stanford University Faculty-led)
Dates: Two-week sessions during summer
Application Deadline: Varies by year
Eligibility: High school students interested in science and medicine
The Stanford Cardiothoracic Surgical Summer Internship is a two-week virtual program led by Stanford University faculty, offering high school students an intensive introduction to cardiothoracic surgery. Each day includes morning lectures on cardiac and thoracic diseases, ECG interpretation, and various imaging techniques, including CT, MRI, and echocardiography. In the afternoons, you will participate in surgical simulation labs, receiving instrument kits to practice skills such as suturing, vessel anastomosis, and dissection on practice models.
You will also explore real porcine heart anatomy and develop essential surgical skills, including knot tying and proper instrument handling, in a virtual setting guided by Stanford residents and clinical staff. This is a specialized option for Bay Area students seeking medical internships that focus on surgical techniques and hands-on learning
Cost/Stipend: Free to attend; $1,250 stipend provided
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: ~24 students selected per year
Dates: June 23 – July 25
Application Deadline: March 17
Eligibility: Current high school juniors from Northern California who are low-income and first-generation college-bound
The Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP) is a prestigious, five-week residential program designed for first-generation, low-income high school juniors from Northern California who have an interest in medicine and public health. Hosted at Stanford University, you will engage in clinical shadowing, participate in public health research, and attend seminars on human anatomy, epidemiology, and health equity.
The program also includes hands-on workshops and provides individualized support for college preparation and career planning, helping you explore pathways into medical and healthcare professions. SMYSP concludes with a team-based research project addressing real-world health disparities, offering participants both research and presentation experience.
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Location: University of California, San Francisco, CA
Dates: June 12 & 13 (Orientation) + June 16 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 16
Eligibility: Currently in 11th grade (high school) or enrolled at CCSF; at least 16 years old by program start; minimum GPA of 2.5; completed Biology or Chemistry with a grade of B or higher
The UCSF CURE Research Internship Program offers an immersive, eight-week biomedical research experience. Under the mentorship of UCSF faculty, post-docs, and graduate students, you will participate in hands-on research projects across basic, clinical, behavioral, and population sciences. You will develop critical skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, culminating in a Research Symposium to present your findings.
Designed to support educationally disadvantaged students, the program also includes college and career planning resources, including application guidance and professional skills workshops. This is one of the most competitive and impactful medical internships for high school students in the Bay Area, offering both rigorous scientific training and mentorship support.
Cost/Stipend: $15-19 per hour
Location: Various County of Santa Clara departments, Santa Clara County, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Varies depending on placement
Dates: Throughout the calendar year, depending on the department
Application Deadline: Rolling, depending on opportunity
Eligibility: High school students with a work permit and a GPA of at least 2.5 out of 4
The Student Internship Program at the County of Santa Clara offers high school students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working in various county departments, including healthcare, public safety, and governance. You will assist professionals on real-world projects, gaining exposure to county operations and developing workplace skills that can support future careers in public health and healthcare administration.
This is one of the few government-affiliated medical internships for high school students in the Bay Area that operates year-round and provides hourly compensation, making it an accessible option for students seeking flexible internship opportunities. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Cost/Stipend: Free
Location: UCSF Mission Bay campus, San Francisco, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; preference given to UCSF EAOP participants
Dates: July 7 – July 25
Application Deadline: March 23
Eligibility: Rising 10th–11th graders with a minimum 2.5 GPA (UC/CSU GPA); preference for EAOP students and partner school attendees
The UCSF PITCH Program (Program for the Investigation and Training in Careers in Health) is an immersive three-week summer program designed to introduce first-generation and low-income high school students to health and medical science careers. Through hands-on projects and mentorship from UCSF faculty and students, you will explore connections across healthcare disciplines, investigate pressing health issues, and present your work at the PITCH Health Symposium.
In addition to research and mentorship, the program offers expert college readiness support, helping you navigate postsecondary options and plan your educational path. The program takes place on UCSF’s Mission Bay campus and prioritizes students from UCSF’s EAOP partner schools.
Cost/Stipend: Cost applicable; no stipend provided
Location: Stanford University (in-person) or virtual sessions
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Dates:
Session 1 (In person): July 14 – 25
Session 2 (Virtual): July 28 – August 8
Fall Intensive (Virtual): September 11 – November 13 (projected)
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors, seniors, and undergraduate pre-medical students
The Stanford Clinical Summer Internship (CSI) is an immersive program designed to introduce high school and undergraduate students to the art and science of medicine. You will learn alongside Stanford medical students, residents, and faculty through lectures, hands-on activities, and case-based learning. The program offers both in-person and virtual options, providing flexibility for students seeking exposure to clinical medicine and healthcare careers.
You will explore a variety of medical topics, interact with healthcare professionals, and engage in clinical simulations and discussions on patient care. The program fosters collaboration and networking, creating opportunities to build connections within the Stanford medical community.
Cost/Stipend: Free
Location: UCSF Medical Center at Parnassus Heights, San Francisco, CA
Dates: July 28 – August 2
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors interested in neuroscience
Brain Camp @ UCSF is a free, one-week summer program designed to introduce high school students from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds to the fields of neurology, neurosurgery, pathology, and related medical sciences. While not a traditional internship, you can explore various brain science topics through lectures, hands-on activities, and workshops led by UCSF medical students and faculty.
In addition to scientific learning, the camp offers a comprehensive college preparation workshop, providing guidance on the UC application process and higher education planning.
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.
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