21 Psychology Internships for High School Students
Are you in high school and looking to do an internship in psychology or other related fields? Participating in an internship can offer valuable exposure that sets you up for success in college and makes for a great mention on your college application. Below are 21 psychology internships to consider, some of which are offered in the summer and others during the school year. While some entries in this list aren’t marketed as internships, they follow a similar structure to traditional internships. You can also check out our blogs on psychology research opportunities and some great research ideas in psychology.
If you want to explore opportunities independently, also check out our guide on how to find internships as a high schooler. We cover essential strategies such as cold emailing and preparing for interviews. Also check out the 10 best internships for high school students, 10 psychology research opportunities for high school students, and 10 free online psychology courses for high school students. Note that the following information is based on the most recent program, with dates subject to change but generally similar from year to year.
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students!
Ladder Internships is a selective start-up internship program for ambitious high school students! In the program, you work with a high-growth start-up on an internship. Start-ups that offer internships range across a variety of industries, from tech/deep tech and AI/ML to health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can explore all the options here on their application form. Ladder’s start-ups are high-growth companies on average raising over a million dollars. In the program, interns work closely with their managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects and present their work to the company. Here is the application form. The virtual internship is usually 8 weeks long.
Cost: None
Location: Dallas, Texas
Application Deadline: February
Program Length: 2 weeks
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school
The UT Southwestern Medical Center offers an internship program to demonstrate the range of careers available in mental health. Clinician-scientists, licensed social workers, psychiatrists, and neuropsychologists are among the many professionals who offer interactive sessions to students. It is a rigorous program designed to prepare you for a professional career in the field. You will need to complete readings before sessions and answer questions. You will engage with psychology in settings ranging from hospitals to laboratories and form mentoring relationships.
Cost: No cost
Location: Remote or Washington, D.C.
Application Deadline: Rolling, see the application portal for open opportunities
Program Length: Year-round
Eligibility: High school student, specific details vary based on the internship
The American Psychological Association is a scientific and professional organization representing psychologists in the United States. Internships at APA are intended for students passionate about applying psychological knowledge for societal benefit, with positions ranging from policy and research to communications and financial services. Internship applications require a cover letter, resume, and writing sample. An internship with APA is a great opportunity to foster a greater understanding of professional psychology at a prestigious and nationally recognized organization.
Cost: Unpaid
Location: Stanford, CA
Application Deadline: March
Program Length: Eight weeks
Eligibility: High school juniors
Offered by Stanford University, SHTEM is an interdisciplinary internship opportunity in various fields, including psychology. Over the course of a summer, you will work with Stanford faculty and graduate students on a project that “transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries.” In this way, you can combine multiple interests, such as psychology and computer science, in an innovative way. Beyond the independent project, you will collaborate with peers in a series of program-wide activities.
Cost: Paid
Location: Remote, hybrid, and in-person options available
Application Deadline: March-May
Program Length: 14 months
Eligibility: Any high school student in California
The Child Mind Institute Program is a long-term internship program designed to promote career development through the lens of community. You will first complete a paid project-based learning program in the summer, followed by workshops and activities throughout the second year. Then, you will complete an internship in a mental health-related field in the second summer, receiving mentorship from early-career professionals. Eligible students must demonstrate a strong interest in mental health and belong to a structurally marginalized community. This internship is a great way to demonstrate a long-term commitment while working on a unique project in psychology.
Cost: No cost, scholarships available
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Application Deadline: March
Program Length: Four weeks
Eligibility: At least 16 years of age, enrolled in high school full-time
The Barrow Neurological Institute is the world’s largest neurological disease treatment and research institution, regarded as one of the best in the United States. The Summer High School Internship Program allows high school volunteers to conduct lab work with cutting-edge technology. You will learn advanced scientific techniques and how to evaluate scientific literature while developing your communication skills. You will work with a Barrow specialist for the summer.
Cost: Ranging from $7,000-10,000, depending on commuter vs residential status
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Application Deadline: May for domestic students, March for international students
Program Length: Four weeks
Eligibility: Rising 10th-12th grade students
The University of Southern California offers a psychology program as one of its pre-college programs. While this is not a traditional internship, over four weeks, you will learn the fundamentals of being a psychological scientist and even undertake independent projects. You will gain exposure to various career paths and opportunities to pursue research in the clinical and social sciences. Social media and mental health, games, narcotics, and happiness are some of the many topics of study offered.
Cost: $3,000
Location: Winston-Salem, NC or online
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Length: One week
Eligibility: All high school students
The Psychology Institute is a week-long program that combines university-level learning with hands-on experiences. At Wake Forest, you will explore academic psychology with the guidance of industry professionals and faculty from the university. It is an intensive overnight program where you will conduct observational studies, participate in brain dissections, and present your research findings.
Cost: Varies for residential/commuter students, ranging from $7,000-$13,000
Location: New York City, NY
Application Deadline: TBA, more information here
Program Length: Three weeks, two sessions offered per summer
Eligibility: Current high school students, domestic or international. Residential options only available for students aged 16 or older.
Columbia University offers a three-week experience to introduce students to the fundamental concepts of psychology: the science of the mind and behavior. In the program, you will learn from clinical and social psychology instructors. The biological bases of behavior, learning and memory, sensation and perception, cognitive development, language acquisition, personality, and social influences on behavior are among the many topics covered. This is part of Columbia’s Pre-College Summer Immersion Programs. Interested students should demonstrate high intellectual curiosity and an eagerness to contribute original ideas to the cohort.
Cost: Paid
Location: Baltimore, MD
Application Deadline: February
Program Length: Eight-ten weeks
Eligibility: Current junior or senior high school student
The Intramural Research Program is offered by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) on the Johns Hopkins Bayview Campus. It is an interdisciplinary opportunity for students interested in learning more about drug abuse and its impact on mental health and human psychology. As a branch of the National Institute for Health, this is a popular program that can serve as a stepping stone for students interested in conducting research in psychology. Students from marginalized backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply for this opportunity.
Cost: TBD
Location: Gettysburg, PA
Application Deadline: Rolling until camp is full; see their website for updated information
Program Length: Roughly seven weeks
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Offered by Gettysburg College, this camp offers experience in a practical setting and research. Over the course of the summer, you will learn to apply concepts to real-world dilemmas. The program is run by professionals and professors in psychology from universities like Columbia University. Past alumni of the program have said that this program solidified their decision to pursue a career in psychology.
If you are interested in doing university-level research in psychology, then you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for high school students. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Location: Washington D.C
Cost: Not specified
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Length: N/A
Eligibility: High school students
Note: For more information, email kdixit@jssa.org.
JSSA is a nonprofit dedicated to providing care for the elderly and offering therapy to families and children. Its high school internship is flexible, with students encouraged to dedicate 12-16 hours per week. Those who participate in the internship can also earn credit toward their service-learning hours, as JSSA is an approved Student Service Learning site. The internship involves tasks such as case consultations, assisting with administrative work, helping develop presentations on mental health topics, attending departmental meetings to learn about ongoing projects, and supporting various JSSA departments as needed.
Location: Multiple internship locations
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Length: Between June-August
Eligibility: High school students
DOROT is a nonprofit that combats social isolation among older adults by fostering connections between interns and seniors. This hybrid internship, combining 1-2 days of virtual work and 2-3 days of in-person activities, provides experience in addressing older adults' psychological and emotional needs. You will lead art projects, teach technology skills, and facilitate social interactions through games. This experience benefits those interested in pursuing a career in social psychology or mental health. You will develop crucial skills in empathy, communication, and leadership. The opportunity to work with individuals in need provides a practical understanding of mental health care.
Location: Oakland, CA
Program Dates: Between March and April
Cost: $1,800
Eligibility: High school students
Application Deadline: Applications open from January 15
MISA offers an internship program for high school students interested in pre-med and pre-health fields. This program provides clinical experiences across various healthcare settings, equipping you with essential skills. Through partnerships with local healthcare organizations, including Alameda Health Systems, Samuel Merritt University, and private clinicians in Oakland, MISA gives you a glimpse into medicine and healthcare professions. You can also earn valuable certifications such as CPR, First Aid, Stop the Bleed, Teen Mental Health First Aid, and Bloodborne Pathogens.
Location: Virtual and in-person at Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost: Virtual session - $1,595 | In-person session - $2,895 (Financial aid available)
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Dates: Session 1 (Virtual via Zoom): June 16–27; Session 2 (On-campus): July 7–18; Session 3 (On-campus): July 21–August 1
Stanford University’s Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X) is a 10-day program that introduces high school students to neuroscience, psychiatry, and psychology. You will explore research from Stanford’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and attend lectures and seminars by Stanford faculty. This program covers neuroscience, neuropsychiatry, psychiatric epidemiology, and behavioral science. You will also collaborate in small teams guided by mentors to propose solutions addressing social issues related to these fields. The program concludes with a capstone presentation, where you will present your solutions to classmates, faculty, and families.
Location: Multiple locations
Cost: $4,295
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Length: Between June-August
Eligibility: Grades 9-12
The NSLC on Psychology & Neuroscience offers high school students the opportunity to explore the science behind the mind, including child development, personality types, and strategies for motivating others. You will engage in clinical psychology simulations and neurology workshops to better understand how the brain influences human behavior. With a focus on applying theoretical knowledge in practical settings, the program allows you to expand your knowledge of psychology and neuroscience. Every NSLC program includes a leadership curriculum to develop skills applicable to all aspects of life.
Location: Washington
Cost: 2 weeks: $5,995 (residential) | $3,695 (commuter); 4 weeks: $11,270 (residential) | $6,950 (commuter)
Eligibility: Ages 12-14
Application deadline: N/A
Program dates: Session 1: Overnight: June 29 – July 12, Day: June 30 – July 11; Session 2: Overnight: July 13 – July 26, Day: July 14 – July 25
EXPLO is a non-profit educational organization that provides enriching programs for middle schoolers, including those in 9th grade. In its Science, Psychology, and Medicine Program, you will participate in a workshop on psychopathology. You will analyze patient files, therapists' notes, and recorded therapy sessions to assess mental health diagnoses. You will conduct mock patient interviews to determine if they meet the criteria for a mental illness diagnosis and then create a care plan involving treatments such as medication, therapy, or group counseling. Throughout the program, you will be guided by American Psychological Association standards and explore the ethical challenges in psychiatric care, such as when it may be appropriate to withhold diagnostic information from a patient.
Location: Illinois Institute of Technology, Illinois
Cost: Overnight: $1500, Daytime: $650
Application Deadline: May 1
Program Length: July 21-25
Eligibility: High school students
This program introduces high school students to psychology as a scientific field. It provides a collegiate-level experience, giving you insights into how psychology can enhance your personal growth. You will explore key psychological concepts such as cognition, emotion, perception, and the influence of social factors on behavior. Through discussions, interactive activities, and practical applications, you will understand how the mind works and how psychological principles can be applied to real-world scenarios. This experience offers valuable insights for those interested in the field of psychology and how it relates to understanding of human interactions
Location: New York University, Washington Square, New York, NY
Cost: $850
Program Dates: March 1-April 5
Application Deadline: February 14
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10, 11, and 12
The NYU School of Professional Studies High School Academy offers Exploring Psychology, a weekend workshop for students interested in psychology. This program introduces you to three core psychological principles, starting with the biological foundations of behavior. Through interactive problem-based learning, activities, and guest lectures, you will explore the real-world applications of psychological concepts. The course emphasizes current research and its role in various professional fields, helping you enhance your problem-solving, teamwork, and socio-emotional skills.
Location: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and online
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (ages 16–18)
Application Deadline: March 3
Program Duration: June 16-July 24
The Mary S. Easton Center Neuroscience High School Scholars Program at UCLA is a six-week summer initiative for high school juniors and seniors, focusing on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related dementia (ADRD). You will engage in neuroscience activities such as brain dissections and research projects while contributing to community outreach efforts. A virtual option is available, with both formats encouraging you to establish Alzheimer’s Awareness Clubs at your school. Additionally, year-round virtual seminars with neuroscience experts provide ongoing learning opportunities in the field.
Location: National Institute of Health
Cost: No cost; stipend provided
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (ages 16–18)
Application Deadline: March 3
Program Duration: TBA
The Summer Internship Program (SIP) in Biomedical Research provides high school students with experience in neuroscience and biomedical research. Hosted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this program connects you with research teams working on fundamental and clinical neuroscience topics, including projects supported by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). You will spend at least eight weeks between May and September conducting research under the mentorship of scientists. Through lab work, training in research methodologies, and exposure to clinical applications, you will gain valuable experience in psychology, particularly in brain function, mental health disorders, and cognitive neuroscience.
Aisha is a student at Princeton University, studying Anthropology and Global Health. On campus, she is involved with student groups centered around health equity and cultural affinity. In her free time, she enjoys podcasting, learning languages, and trying new recipes.
Image Source: APA logo