13 Summer Programs for High School Students with Financial Aid
Summer programs are a great way for high school students to explore their interests and build knowledge. These programs provide exposure to college-level academics, practical skills, and industry insights that can shape your future career path. Programs with financial aid ensure that financial barriers don’t prevent students from accessing these opportunities.
From STEM pre-college programs to creative arts residencies, summer programs for high school students offer academic and personal growth. Since summer programs that offer financial aid tend to be more prestigious, participating in one can also boost your college admissions profile. Completing a competitive program for free can show admissions officers that you are a driven and capable student.
In this blog, we’ve curated a list of 13 great summer programs for high school students that offer financial aid.
The Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation stands as a non-profit research program tailored for gifted students from low-income backgrounds. Stemming from the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, renowned for its extensive one-on-one research opportunities for high school students, the foundation provides the same access to independent research experiences at zero cost.
The Lumiere Breakthrough Scholar Program is the equivalent of the Individual Research Scholar Program at Lumiere Education. In the flagship program, talented high-school students are paired with world-class Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll develop an independent research paper. You can choose topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can apply here! This program is a solid option if you are interested in interdisciplinary research and want to create an individual research paper.
Cost: The program is fully funded!
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Application Deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Vary based on yearly cohort. Multiple 12-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Eligibility: You must be currently enrolled in high school or plan to enroll as a freshman in college in the fall and must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement.
The Harvard Pre-College Program is a summer experience offering a glimpse of college life on Harvard’s campus. You will take one rigorous, non-credit course, exploring topics ranging from law and politics to STEM and medicine. You will engage in debates, explore complex articles, solve problem sets, and deliver presentations on your research. At the end of the program, you will receive a written evaluation and an official transcript with a grade, which can enhance your college application. To learn more about summer programs at Harvard, check out our complete guide here.
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA.
Cost: $5,800 tuition and $75 application fee. Need-based financial aid is available and covers a portion of the tuition.
Cohort Size: 12-18 students.
Dates: Session I: June 22 – July 3 | Session II: July 6 – 18 | Session III: July 20 – August 1.
Application Deadline: Online and financial aid applications open on December 2 and close on February 12.
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors at least 16 years old at the program's start are eligible to apply.
3. Veritas AI
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects.
Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here.
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world.
The Cardiothoracic Surgical Skills and Education Center’s Stanford Summer Internship offers high school students an introduction to careers in science and medicine. It focuses on cardiothoracic surgical anatomy, physiology, and techniques commonly used in pre-medical and medical training. This summer program provides exposure to basic and advanced surgical skills, including knot tying, dissection, suturing, coronary artery bypass grafting, and cardiac valve replacement. Lectures cover topics ranging from cardiothoracic anatomy and physiology to advanced surgical procedures, such as heart transplantation and lung surgery. Technical skills sessions focus on practical training using provided instruments, supplies, and simulation models. Instructors will guide you through demonstrations and offer personalized feedback to enhance your surgical skills and understanding of cardiothoracic medicine.
Location: Virtual.
Cost: $4,500 tuition and $95 application fee. Need-based financial aid is available.
Dates: Session I: June 23 – July 4 | Session II: July 14 – 25.
Application Deadline: Applications open on January 13 and close on March 14.
Eligibility: High school students at least 16 years old at the program's start are eligible to apply.
New York University’s High School Summer Art Intensive provides students with studio projects, visits to New York City’s art institutions, and trips to artists’ studios and other off-campus sites. As a participant, you’ll develop a new body of work to strengthen potential college application portfolios. You will explore new materials and technologies, such as textiles and laser cutting. You’ll also engage with practicing artists at various stages of their careers, gaining a real-world understanding of life as an artist in New York City. This highly competitive program with financial aid is divided into three cohorts that attend studio classes together. It culminates in a final exhibition at NYU’s galleries, where you’ll showcase your creations.
Location: NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York, NY.
Cost: $7,272. Financial aid is available.
Cohort Size: 54 students.
Dates: July 6 – August 2.
Application Deadline: Financial Aid Deadline: February 15 | Final Deadline: March 1.
Eligibility: High school students aged 15 – 18 can apply.
Babson Summer Study is designed to develop your entrepreneurial skills and help you address real-world challenges. You’ll explore social, economic, and environmental issues through the lens of the United Nations Global Goals, work on collaborative projects, and earn 4 college credits. The course Introduction to the Entrepreneurial Experience will give you problem-solving and teamwork skills while covering key concepts like leadership, marketing, finance, and business communication. Beyond the classroom, you’ll connect with Babson’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and work with academic mentors to refine your social impact project. To learn more about this program, check out our complete guide here.
Location: Virtual.
Cost: $6,295 tuition and $95 application fee. Need-based financial aid is available via full- or partial-tuition scholarships.
Dates: July 7 – 28.
Application Deadline: Applications open on December 5 and close on March 14.
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors at least 16 years old at the program's start are eligible to apply.
The Wake Forest Summer Immersion Program allows high school students to explore fields like STEM, health sciences, business, law, and more. This program combines academics with access to industry professionals and faculty. You’ll participate in group projects and earn a Certificate of Completion by attending the five-day program. With both on-campus and online options and the availability of financial aid, the program provides flexibility. It offers insights into college life, networking opportunities, and connections with peers from around the globe. To learn more about this program, check out our complete guide here.
Location: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC.
Cost: Ranges between $3,200 and $3,400. Need-based financial aid is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dates: The program runs for five days during June and July.
Application Deadline: Applications open on November 1 and are accepted on a rolling basis.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
As a Summer Scholars participant, you will spend two weeks on the University of Notre Dame’s campus, taking a challenging college-level course taught by faculty. Courses include Accounting, Archaeology, Climate Change, Artificial Intelligence, Cryptography, Engineering, Film Production, Neuroscience, Philosophy, Photography and more! With small class sizes, you will benefit from personalized attention. Upon completing your chosen program track, you will earn one transferable college credit. Beyond academics, you will be able to explore the social life on campus. To learn more about this program, check out our complete guide here.
Location: University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN.
Cost: $4,950. Need-based partial to full-tuition financial aid is available.
Dates: Session I: June 7 – 21 | Session II: June 28 – July 12.
Application Deadline: Applications open on October 14 and close on February 19.
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply.
Carnegie Mellon’s Pre-College Summer Programs allow you to experience college life firsthand while exploring your interests. Guided by Carnegie Mellon faculty and staff, you will gain valuable insights and skills in your chosen field, which includes artificial intelligence, architecture, drama, music, computer science, biology, STEM, and more! This summer program supports your academic growth and personal development, preparing you for college.
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA.
Cost: Ranges from $7,480 to $13,792, depending on the location and length of the program. Need-based full-tuition financial aid is available.
Cohort Size: 10-12 students.
Dates: The program typically runs for 3 to 6 weeks, from June through August.
Application Deadline: Applications close on March 1.
Eligibility: High school students at least 16 years old at the program's start are eligible to apply.
YYGS is among the most prestigious and internationally diverse academic summer programs for high school students. Participants from over 150 countries and all 50 U.S. states convene at Yale University for a two-week interdisciplinary session. With $3 million in need-based financial aid available, YYGS provides opportunities for students from a range of backgrounds. The program offers four academic tracks: STEM, social sciences, humanities, and cross-disciplinary studies. Activities include lectures by Yale faculty, interactive seminars, small-group discussions, and symposiums. The program maintains a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio. From capstone projects to reflective “Family Time” sessions, you will engage deeply with peers and mentors. To learn more about YYGS, check out our complete guide here.
Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT.
Cost: $6,500. Need-based financial aid covering up to the full cost of tuition is available.
Acceptance Rate: Typically around 10-20%.
Dates: Session I: June 22 – July 4 | Session II: July 6 – 18 | Session III: July 20 – August 1.
Application Deadline: Applications close on January 10.
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors between the ages of 16-18 years at the program's start are eligible to apply.
UCLA’s Precollege Summer Institutes allow high school students to earn college credit while exploring areas of interest such as STEM, social sciences, creative arts, and more. These programs incorporate projects, field visits, and guest lectures. Designed for motivated high school students, the institutes help you advance your skills and academic goals in a university setting.
Location: University of California, Los Angeles, CA.
Cost: Ranges between $2,600 to $4000 depending on the Institute. Need- and merit-based financial aid is available for California high school students.
Dates: The program typically runs for one to three weeks between June and August.
Application Deadline: Applications open on February 1 and close on March 15.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
Accelerate Pre-College Summer Programs are designed to introduce high school students to college academics. Hosted on Northeastern University’s Boston campus, these programs invite participants from across the globe to learn from their faculty. Courses include bioengineering, cybersecurity, medicine, engineering, entrepreneurship, emerging technologies, physics, storytelling, and more. You will engage in group projects and complete assignments. Most sessions are led by Northeastern professors, supported by other instructors and graduate students, with current Northeastern students often serving as teaching assistants. Upon completion, you will receive a Recognition of Completion signed by a faculty member.
Location: Northeastern University, Boston, MA.
Cost: $6,895. Need-based financial aid is available.
Cohort Size: 15-30 students per program.
Dates: The program typically runs for 12 days between July and August.
Application Deadline: Applications open in early December and close on February 28.
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors are eligible to apply.
The NextGen Leadership Institute is a three-week program for high school students with financial aid. You will explore complex topics and leadership through a feminist lens, supported by Barnard’s Athena Center for Leadership. You can choose from four academic tracks—STEM, Writing and Literature, Global Humanities, or Art, Movement, and Performance. You will engage in rigorous coursework and hands-on projects.
STEMinist Track: You will explore STEM through lectures, labs, and fieldwork while addressing gender inequities in the field.
Writing and Literature Track: You will develop your writing skills through courses, portfolio building, and insights into publishing and careers in writing.
Global Humanities Track: You will study global dynamics in disciplines like sociology, political science, and economics.
Art, Movement, and Performance Track: You will engage with New York’s vibrant art and dance scenes while studying their histories and impact.
The Leadership in Action Series unites students from all tracks to learn from leaders and explore how to apply their knowledge to lead impactful initiatives.
Location: Barnard College, New York, NY.
Cost: Ranges between $8,160 to $10,171, depending on commuter or residential programs. Need-based financial aid is available.
Dates: June 29 – July 18.
Application Deadline: Applications open on December 1 and close on April 15 and are reviewed on a rolling basis. The deadline for financial aid applications is February 10.
Eligibility: Current high school students at least 14 years old at the program's start are eligible to apply.
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.