15 Online Courses for Gifted Middle School Students
- Stephen Turban
- 12 hours ago
- 10 min read
Online courses can be a valuable option if you’re a middle school student looking for more academic challenge than your regular classes provide. Many selective virtual programs welcome students in grades 6–8 who have strong academic records, often with a GPA above 3.7/4.0.
These courses give you the chance to explore topics in depth, work with experienced mentors, and take on projects that go beyond what’s taught in a typical classroom. You can build knowledge in subjects ranging from STEM to the humanities, while also developing skills like managing your time effectively and learning independently, both of which will help you in high school and beyond.
The programs we’ve chosen are fully online, highly selective, provide meaningful opportunities to connect with peers and mentors, and are either free or offer substantial financial support. Here are 15 online courses that can help you make the most of your middle school years.
15 Online Courses for Gifted Middle School Students
Cost: Varies by course ($550 – $2,127); need-based financial aid available
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Courses run year-round; start dates depend on course and format
Eligibility: Grades 5–8; qualifying test scores required
CTY offers over 200 advanced courses in STEM, humanities, and writing, all taught by expert instructors. Students can choose between live (synchronous) and self-paced (asynchronous) formats to suit different learning preferences. The focus is on enrichment and acceleration, with curricula that go well beyond standard grade-level expectations. You will participate in demanding assignments, practical problem-solving, and team projects with motivated classmates. Support options include academic advising, various clubs, and networking opportunities with students worldwide.
Cost: $6,195 (Single Course), $18,580 (Part-Time), $30,970 (Full-Time). Financial aid assistance is available.
Application Deadline: Applications for the next cycle will open in the Fall
Program Dates: Varies based on course load
Eligibility: Students in grades 7 – 12
Stanford’s Online Middle School offers a selection of academically challenging courses for middle school students who are motivated to go beyond the standard curriculum. You can choose from a variety of subjects, including mathematics, writing, science, and computer science, as well as high school–level courses if you meet the placement criteria. The program is flexible, allowing you to enroll in just one course, attend part-time, or follow a full-time schedule, depending on what works best for you. To ensure that your classes match your current skill level and future academic plans, you’ll begin by taking a placement assessment. Afterward, you’ll work with an Academic Advisor to select appropriate courses. Math offerings include topics such as pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, and advanced problem solving. Writing courses focus on analytical and creative writing, while STEM options may cover areas like biology, physics, and coding.
Cost: $1,275 – $1,575 per session
Application Deadline: May 27
Program Dates: Session 1: June 9 – 27 | Session 2: June 30 – July 18 | Session 3: July 21 – August 8
Eligibility: Middle and high school students who can pass the admission test
AwesomeMath offers courses that focus on advanced mathematical problem-solving, particularly in areas relevant to math competitions, such as the AMC and AIME. In each session, you’ll take part in a mix of lectures, group problem-solving activities, and live discussions led by experienced instructors. You’ll study topics that help build both your problem-solving skills and your ability to approach competition-style questions effectively. Courses are structured around group learning, giving you regular opportunities to collaborate with peers and engage with instructors. This setting also allows you to connect with other students who share an interest in advanced mathematics.
Cost:Â $575. Need-based financial aid is available.
Application Deadline:Â Rolling
Program Dates: October 8  –  November 19 (fall) | January 28  – March 11 (winter) | April 8  –  May 20 (spring) | June 24 – August 5
Eligibility: Students in grades 3–8 may qualify by scoring in the 90th percentile or higher on a nationally normed test in the relevant subject OR completing a CTD course in that subject within the past two years OR submitting a report card and teacher recommendation
Northwestern’s Center for Talent Development (CTD) offers online enrichment courses for students in grades 6–8, covering topics like Python programming, genetics, and space science. Courses are flexibly paced with weekly expectations, combining independent work and two optional live sessions for support and discussion. You’ll receive regular guidance, personalized feedback, and a final evaluation. Students who qualify can also enroll in high school–level Online Honors courses, such as Java, C++, or advanced math. Whether for enrichment or accelerated study, the program enables you to explore advanced subjects in a structured yet adaptable format.
Cost: Varies (public school district)
Application deadline: See current district calendar
Program Dates: Full academic year
Eligibility: Middle school grades 6–8; district gifted identification required
Jeffco’s GT (Gifted and Talented) Online Courses deliver advanced instruction in math, science, language arts, and social studies, all taught by certified, gifted education specialists. The curriculum combines synchronous lessons, group activities, and independent projects to achieve both depth and acceleration. Students benefit from ongoing academic and counseling support to help them reach their full potential. Peer networking and extracurricular enrichment grow intellectual and social-emotional skills. Entry requires district-level gifted identification.
Cost: Tuition varies by semester
Application deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Year-round start dates
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8; placement via assessment
As part of IVLA’s GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) program, you can pursue high school-level courses in math, English, or language while still in middle school. Weekly small-group sessions with a Gifted Specialist offer in-depth exploration of challenging real-world projects and problem-solving. The accelerated pathway enables self-paced learning and is customized to match your individual strengths. Admission is based on an aptitude assessment and prior academic achievement. You join a global cohort engaged in advanced educational and creative pursuits.
Cost: Typically $299–$399 per session; Full program and course fees are posted on each course page.
Application deadline: Deadlines vary by session
Program Dates: Summer and academic-year sessions
Eligibility: Grades 6–8; placement based on achievement and teacher recommendation
The UCI GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) program offers a selection of advanced online courses designed for academically talented middle schoolers. Subjects cover mathematics, science, humanities, technology, and writing, with a blend of asynchronous modules and live (optional) webinars. Courses are interactive, focusing on enriched material and hands-on projects developed by university educators. The program emphasizes not only academic acceleration but also creative inquiry and problem-solving.
Cost: Free for Florida residents; tuition applies for others
Application deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Year-round
Eligibility: Grades 6–8; advanced placement available based on performance
FLVS offers more than 190 online courses, with advanced and accelerated pathways including honors, AP, and NCAA-approved options. Your learning plan is tailored to your pace, with subject-certified instructors offering personalized support. Opportunities like leadership roles, peer clubs, and competitions help you grow beyond academics. Flexible scheduling allows you to balance coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal interests. Out-of-state students can also enroll through FlexPoint for a fee.
Cost: Standard rate is $500 per course for U.S. students. International rates may be higher. Details on this page.
Application deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Year-round, flexible self-paced
Eligibility: Grades 6–8; eligibility based on school records, readiness, or teacher recommendation
Mizzou Academy offers online honors courses for middle school students seeking more rigorous academic content. Subject areas include math, science, English language arts, world languages, and social studies. Courses are developed by university faculty and focus on deepening critical thinking and subject mastery. You complete assignments independently but receive instructor feedback throughout the course. Options for acceleration and credit toward high school graduation are available for advanced students.
Cost: Free in most states (as public charter); private options may have fees
Application deadline:Â Rolling
Program Dates: Follows academic calendar; year-round for some resources
Eligibility: Grades 6–8; educational assessment and gifted identification required
Connections Academy’s Gifted & Talented online program provides an accelerated, enriched curriculum in all core subjects. As a student, you enhance your critical-thinking and communication skills through project-based and advanced courses. Customized lesson plans are tailored to your learning pace and strengths. The school also provides specialized gifted accommodations, such as above-grade-level coursework for highly advanced students. Additional activities like interactive clubs and enrichment projects complete the program.
Cost: $300 – $480 per course; varies by course length
Application deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Courses offered year-round; fall, spring, and summer sessions
Eligibility: Grades 4–12, recommended for gifted/advanced learners by ability level.
Athena offers secular, à la carte online courses designed for gifted middle school students, featuring live weekly webinars and flexible recorded materials. Students can choose courses by subject, such as math, writing, science, philosophy, technology, and more, and register based on ability rather than age. These courses include in-depth explorations of niche and advanced topics, discussion forums, and projects. Self-paced learning is supported, and you may join at any time during active sessions. The focus is on providing academic rigor and a community of intellectually curious peers.
Cost: Tuition for middle school is approximately $3,195/year (full-time); course-only options are also available.
Application deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Flexible year-round enrollment
Eligibility: Grades 6–8; placement assessment required
Forest Trail Academy’s gifted program offers advanced, accredited coursework and personalized pacing for students excelling beyond the standard curriculum. As a student, you can access core and elective course options tailored to your ability and interests. You work closely with certified instructors and advisors to design a personalized academic schedule. Support is available for both academic and social-emotional needs. Students can progress at an accelerated rate and enroll in higher-level courses as appropriate.
Cost: The standard tuition for middle school students is $250 per course; additional costs include textbooks and materials. Check the tuition page for details.
Application deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Self-paced, year-round
Eligibility: Grades 6–8; readiness and prior coursework may be assessed for advanced placement
The University of Nebraska High School offers self-paced online courses for middle schoolers interested in advanced content or acceleration. You can take math, science, language arts, and world languages, including options that prepare you for high school or AP-level coursework. All instruction is developed and facilitated by university-trained teachers. The program’s format supports independent learning while still providing access to teacher feedback and support.
Cost: Rates vary by course type and district; sample rates range from $100 to $325 per semester course. Some offerings are free or discounted for Iowa students. Cost and details available on the Belin-Blank Tuition and Fees page.
Application deadline: Rolling for most school-year programs; summer deadlines vary
Program Dates: Academic year and summer sessions
Eligibility: Grades 6–8 (with acceleration option for younger students); teacher nomination or academic performance required
You may take rigorous, university-designed online courses in subjects such as mathematics, science, computer science, and writing. The Belin-Blank Center’s Iowa Online AP Academy (IOAPA) and Talent Acceleration Programs are tailored for high-ability learners seeking acceleration and enrichment. Placement is based on aptitude and readiness rather than age alone. Programs utilize small cohorts and offer instructor support to promote both content mastery and social connection. The center also offers diagnostic assessments and additional enrichment opportunities in creative writing, STEM, and other subjects.
Cost: $420 per full-credit course for individual study. A comprehensive list of tuition and fees is available on the TTU K-12 Tuition and Fees page.
Application deadline: Rolling enrollment
Program Dates: Self-paced and accelerated options year-round
Eligibility: Grades K–12; academic ability and course prerequisites determine placement
TTU K-12 offers Honors and AP courses for middle school students who are prepared for advanced work. Students can accelerate in subjects like math, science, language arts, or study world languages in a flexible, self-paced setting. Courses are guided by instructors and utilize technology to offer classes to gifted and motivated students, regardless of their location. Learners can choose individual courses or complete entire diplomas based on their objectives. The school is accredited and serves as a college preparatory pathway for ambitious younger students.
Bonus —
Cost: Varies depending on program type. Financial aid is available.
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November). You can find the application form here.
Program Dates:Â Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June - August), Fall (September - December), Winter (December - February), and Spring (March - June).
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8 can apply
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is an eight-week online research experience where you work one-on-one with a mentor to explore your academic interests and complete an independent project. Your mentor will be a researcher affiliated with a university such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke, or the London School of Economics. In the first four weeks, you’ll study four different topics within your chosen track to build a broad understanding of the field. Over the following two weeks, you’ll choose one area to explore in greater depth through focused study and discussion. In the final two weeks, you’ll develop and finalize a project based on your learning, with regular input and guidance from your mentor. By the end of the program, you’ll have gained experience in independent research and subject-specific inquiry, along with a completed project that reflects your work.
Location: Virtual
Application deadline:Â Rolling deadlines.
Program dates:Â 25 hours over 10 weeks (on weekends) during the spring cohort and 25 hours over 2 weeks (on weekdays) during the summer cohort.
Eligibility:Â Students in grades 6-8
The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI is a virtual program that teaches middle school students the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Over 25 hours, you will learn the basics of Python as well as topics like data analysis, regression, image classification, neural networks, and AI ethics. Students learn through lectures and group sessions with a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio. Previous student projects have included building a machine-learning model to classify music genres and creating a machine-learning algorithm to provide a custom list of educational resources based on selected specifications.
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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