Curious about science, tech, or engineering? You don't need to wait until college to dive into real research. There are plenty of free programs designed just for high school students — and many offer hands-on experience guided by experts.
Whether you’re passionate about AI, biology, math, or space exploration, there’s likely a program out there for you. Here are 7 free STEM research opportunities that offer hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and a chance to explore future careers.
1. MIT PRIMES
Focus: Mathematics and computer science
Location: MIT Campus, Massachusetts
Eligibility: High school juniors and sophomores residing in the United States
Deadline: 2026 applications open in October 2025
MIT PRIMES is a year-long research program in which high school students collaborate closely with MIT mentors to carry out research in mathematics, computer science, and computational biology. Students begin with an advanced reading phase to develop core knowledge, followed by hands-on research projects that include issue creation, data analysis, and collaboration with teachers and peers. They produce detailed reports, discuss their findings, and may submit their work to professional journals or contests, acquiring valuable research experience.
2. Steam In AI
Focus: AI ethics, data science, design thinking
Location: Remote
Eligibility: Middle and high school students
Deadline: Rolling admissions
STEAM in AI is an experiential learning initiative run by teachers from Stanford, UC Berkeley, and MIT that aims to make AI more accessible and meaningful for middle and high school students. The curriculum combines data science, AI basics, design thinking, entrepreneurship, and research, all while emphasising ethics and social impact. Students work on hands-on AI projects from various industries, earning skills that will help them stand out in college admissions and prepare for future professions. The program includes three tracks customised to different experience levels and age groups, ensuring that each participant has a personalised and challenging experience.
3. Heithoff-Brody High School Scholars Program at the Salk Institute
Focus: Biological Research, wet lab techniques, bioinformatics, data analysis
Location: Salk Institute, San Diego County
Eligibility: San Diego County high school students aged 16 or older, with one year of chemistry and biology, and a minimum GPA of 2.75
Deadline: 2025 Applications closed - 2026 applications to start early 2026.
The Heithoff-Brody High School Scholars Program provides an opportunity for San Diego County high school students to participate in cutting-edge biological research during an 8-week paid summer internship. Students collaborate with world-class scientists in cutting-edge labs, obtaining practical expertise with wet lab techniques, bioinformatics, and data analysis. Along with research, interns attend seminars, workshops, and biotech site visits, which culminate in a final presentation of their projects to mentors and peers. This comprehensive curriculum develops scientific skills, professional networking, and insight into jobs in biomedical research.
4. Clark's Scholar Program
Focus: Laboratory techniques, multiple STEM disciplines
Location: Texas Tech University, Texas
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
Deadline: 2026 Applications to begin early spring
The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University is an intensive seven-week summer research experience designed for high school juniors and seniors. Students participating engage in hands-on research alongside university faculty mentors across a variety of scientific disciplines, gaining practical laboratory skills and exposure to real-world scientific inquiry. The program also includes professional development workshops, seminars, and opportunities to present research findings, preparing students for future STEM academic and career paths.
5. Research Science Institute
Focus: Scientific research across various STEM disciplines
Location: MIT, Massachusetts
Eligibility: High school juniors only
Deadline: Early January annually
The Research Science Institute (RSI) brings together 100 of the world's best high school juniors for an immersion experience in scientific research and theory. Students begin with a week of intensive STEM coursework taught by renowned professors, followed by a five-week guided research internship during which they design and implement innovative ideas. The program culminates in students presenting their findings in the form of written papers and conference-style oral presentations, giving them a thorough understanding of the research cycle.
6. Simons Summer Research Program
Focus: Science, Mathematics, Engineering, and Laboratory techniques
Location: Stony Brook University, New York
Eligibility: High school students
Deadline: Early Spring Annually
The Simons Summer Research Program provides an opportunity for high school students to conduct hands-on research in science, mathematics, or engineering. Students spend six weeks working closely with notable faculty mentors, learning laboratory skills and research tools while contributing to active research projects. Participants also live on a bustling research university campus, obtaining significant insights into STEM jobs and academic paths.
7. SEAP (Science and Engineering Apprentice Program)
Focus: Various STEM disciplines
Location: Navy DOD laboratories across the United States
Eligibility: U.S. citizens in high school
Deadline: Applications open on 1st August and close on 1st November every year
The Science and Engineering Apprentice Program (SEAP) provides high school students with a chance to immerse themselves in real-world STEM research at Department of Defence (DoD) laboratories across the United States. Students work as apprentices with Navy scientists and engineers for eight weeks during the summer, obtaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge research that extends far beyond the classroom. Participants gain mentorship, learn technical skills, and explore prospective STEM careers while working on meaningful projects that benefit national defence and innovation.