>

>

>

10 Underrated YouTube Channels for High School Students That Will Make You Smarter

10 Underrated YouTube Channels for High School Students That Will Make You Smarter

10 Underrated YouTube Channels for High School Students That Will Make You Smarter

10 Underrated YouTube Channels for High School Students That Will Make You Smarter

Aditya Bhat

Aditya Bhat

Jul 19, 2025

Jul 19, 2025

Teen watching educational YouTube videos, inspired by RISE Research summer programs for motivated high schoolers.
Teen watching educational YouTube videos, inspired by RISE Research summer programs for motivated high schoolers.
Teen watching educational YouTube videos, inspired by RISE Research summer programs for motivated high schoolers.

With a vast library of content that can help high school students expand their knowledge, pique their curiosity, and develop skills outside of the classroom, YouTube has become a powerful tool for self-education in the digital age. Even though popular channels like Crash Course and Khan Academy are well-known, there are a tonne of lesser-known gems that offer excellent, captivating, and occasionally unusual educational opportunities. One video at a time, these ten underappreciated YouTube channels will help you become a true smarter person in addition to helping you ace your exams.

1. BBC Teach

With thousands of free, curriculum-based videos covering English, maths, science, business studies, music, history and design technology, BBC Teach is a veritable gold mine for secondary school students. You can easily find what you need thanks to the channel's subject and key stage organisation. Beyond academic content, BBC Teach supports students holistically, with a particular emphasis on mental health and well-being. Both independent study and classroom use benefit greatly from their captivating, excellent videos.

2. Veritasium

Veritasium is unique because of its practical scientific investigations and capacity to simplify difficult ideas into easily understood, interesting content. Veritasium's method makes science approachable and enjoyable, regardless of your interest in the Magnus Effect, quantum mechanics, or gravitational waves. Students who wish to observe science in action and gain a better understanding of how the world functions will find the channel's practical demonstrations and lucid explanations to be perfect.

3. MinutePhysics

MinutePhysics is your new best friend if physics intimidates you. This channel focuses on short, animated videos that make some of the most difficult physics concepts, like relativity and quantum mechanics, easier to understand. Abstract ideas are simple to visualise and retain thanks to the clear explanations and sparse animations. MinutePhysics is ideal for people who prefer learning through brief, powerful content or for brief revision sessions.

4. CGP Grey

Videos on history, economics, and social issues produced by CGP Grey are renowned for their depth and intelligence. From the complexities of the Electoral College to the distinctions between the UK and Great Britain, the channel covers it all with straightforward but powerful animations. Students who want to deepen their understanding of the world and broaden their general knowledge will find that CGP Grey's content is perfect.

5. Big Think

Leading authorities in disciplines including science, philosophy, politics, and psychology are interviewed and share their thoughts on Big Think. The channel pushes students to consider big concepts like innovation, mental health, self-improvement, and the direction of technology. Videos are ideal for igniting debate or delving deeper into contentious or thought-provoking subjects because they are usually brief and direct.

6. Edutopia

The George Lucas Educational Foundation's Edutopia project features actual instances of creative teaching methods and instructional techniques. The channel discusses subjects like classroom management, project-based learning, and social-emotional learning. Edutopia is an excellent tool for educators, but high school students can also gain from its insights into how learning occurs and how to study more efficiently.

7. SmarterEveryDay

SmarterEveryDay uses slow-motion filmmaking and real-world experiments to examine the intriguing facets of science and engineering. From aerodynamics to the natural world, the channel breaks down difficult concepts into easily understood material. Each video explores the mechanics of commonplace phenomena thanks to host Destin Sandlin's contagious curiosity.

8. The DadLab

Despite its name, The DadLab is full of simple science experiments and imaginative activities that are ideal for high school students who prefer experiential learning. The channel showcases physics projects, vibrant art activities, and more using common household objects. For students who learn best by doing and wish to make science more relatable at home, this is an excellent resource.

9. Amberstudent.com

In addition to videos about studying abroad and scholarships, Amberstudent.com provides helpful advice, insights, and virtual tours of student housing across the globe. Their content is arranged in playlists, which facilitates finding university information, city guides, and tips for students. Students thinking about studying abroad or seeking guidance on navigating student life will find this channel particularly helpful.

10. Bozeman Science

Under the direction of teacher Paul Andersen, Bozeman Science offers succinct, understandable lessons in chemistry, biology, physics, and other subjects. Because his videos concentrate on important ideas and test-taking techniques and are in line with high school curricula, they are especially beneficial for AP and IB students. Even the most difficult subjects are manageable thanks to Andersen's thorough and approachable teaching style.

How to Make the Most of These Channels

  • Define clear learning objectives. Choose your goals, be they learning a difficult subject, getting ready for an exam, or discovering new interests.

  • Make a study playlist: Make playlists with the videos from these channels so you can easily access them when you're revising.

  • Make notes and raise enquiries: Watch YouTube videos as if they were short lectures. Stop, fast-forward, and make notes on important details or enquiries for additional study.

  • Interact with the community: A lot of channels have lively comment sections or related websites where you can interact with other students and post questions.

  • Even though YouTube is a great resource, make sure to balance your screen time with offline activities and experiential learning.

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 and take your college preparation to the next level!