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10 Prestigious Scholarships for High School Researchers

10 Prestigious Scholarships for High School Researchers

10 Prestigious Scholarships for High School Researchers

10 Prestigious Scholarships for High School Researchers

Abhishek Mishra

Abhishek Mishra

Jun 26, 2025

Jun 26, 2025

High school student presenting research on stage at a youth academic conference, symbolizing achievement and scholarship opportunities.
High school student presenting research on stage at a youth academic conference, symbolizing achievement and scholarship opportunities.
High school student presenting research on stage at a youth academic conference, symbolizing achievement and scholarship opportunities.

Scholarships and fellowships provide secondary school researchers a lot more advantages than funding: mentorship, research experience, and exposure to networks that will fuel educational and career development. Scholarships and fellowships can be viewed as upper-level awards which, while they do offer grants, exist to recognize bright and committed students and give them a chance to pursue activities that will spark innovative and leadership abilities. This article presents ten upper-level scholarships to young researchers which can aid in helping them make valuable contributions.

1. Davidson Fellows Scholarship

Davidson Fellows Scholarship is among the most distinguished fellowships for high-achieving students under the age of 18 who have achieved so much in the field of science, technology, engineering, math, literature, music, philosophy, or any other subject. The award-winners receive $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000 awards. The contestants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and provide original work that will be a positive impact on society.

2. Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)

Commonly referred to as the country's premiere science research competition for high school seniors, Regeneron STS welcomes submissions of individually created research studies in the STEM areas. There are 300 scholars named who each receive $2,000 among approximately 1,800 participants, and 40 finalists who vie in Washington, D.C. for awards up to $250,000.

3. Atlas Fellowship

The Atlas Fellowship offers a $10,000 grant and an 11-day paid visit to the San Francisco Bay Area on scientific discovery, artificial intelligence and personal development. The fellowship is offered to any student between the age of 13–19 from anywhere in the world, and invites them to explore challenging intellectual issues and meet other students interested in similar things.

4. Earthwatch Institute Girls in Science Fellowship

Girls in Science Fellowship of the Earthwatch Institute funds California (and Oregon's Rex Putnam High School) high school girls and non-binary students to take fully funded, hands-on field research courses in environmental science. Students gain experience and confidence in STEM subjects of study while doing project work that is part of real projects with women scientists.

5. Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT

The MIT Research Science Institute (RSI) is an extremely selective, fully funded summer school that gives students university-level instruction and permits students to conduct original and independent research with top scientists. The graduates have won well-deserved huge awards and grants. Any student in a high school anywhere in the world may apply for the program and it is all free.

6. Sigma Xi Grants-in-Aid of Research

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society, offers grants of up to $5,000 for science and engineering research by high school and undergraduate students. Observe that teachers may be able to apply for students, and teachers can be an excellent source of funds for independent research.

7. National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Assistantships for High School Students

NSF provides research assistantships for high school students who are ready to take up biological sciences. The scholarship is usually below $6,000 for each student, but will enable students to take part in actual research work, collaborating with professional scientists. These opportunities are excellent stepping stones to STEM careers.

8. Garcia Summer Scholars Program

The Garcia Program at Stony Brook University provides summer research intensive experience in polymer science and technology. Students are assigned to projects that may be patented or published, seminars, and career development. The Garcia Program is competitive and highly recognized in STEM communities.

9. Slingshot Challenge (National Geographic Society)

The Slingshot Challenge invites 13–18-year-old students to develop and submit a one-minute video proposing new and innovative solutions for solving environmental issues. The winners' projects will receive funding of up to $10,000, all of which is a wonderful way of coming together to integrate research, creativity, and solutions.

If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Research offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world. 

Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE Research helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Research’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!