15 Chicago Summer Internships for High School Students
Summer internships are a great way for high school students in Chicago to gain hands-on experience while exploring potential career paths. These programs allow you to develop professional skills, build a strong network, and enhance your resume with meaningful work experience. By working in real-world settings, you’ll gain insight into various industries and strengthen essential skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
If you're looking for summer internships in Chicago, it’s important to focus on opportunities that offer both prestige and rigor. We’ve carefully selected a list of top internships based on three key factors: prestige, the rigor of professional experience, and opportunities to network. These programs provide exposure to high-level work environments and meaningful professional connections.
Note: For students interested in research or STEM-focused internships, check out our blogs on prestigious research programs, internships, and region-specific programs in engineering and STEM.
Here are 15 internships for high school students in Chicago.
The ResearcHStart program gives high school students the opportunity to engage in cancer research at leading laboratories within partner institutions. You will work alongside experienced researchers, gaining hands-on experience in fields such as bioengineering, cancer immunology, and experimental cancer treatments.
As part of the program, you’ll receive training in research methods, attend faculty-led lectures, and participate in career development workshops. You will also contribute to a research project, collaborating with a team and working independently to analyze data and present findings. The program culminates in a research symposium where you will share your work with faculty, students, and family. Admission is highly selective, with only 30 students chosen each year.
Location: University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Chicago, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, Rush University.
Cost/Stipend: No cost; students receive a taxable stipend of $3,000.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January.
Dates: Second week of June through the first week of August (8 weeks).
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors, at least 16 years old, from the Chicago and Urbana-Champaign areas.
The Chicago EYES (Educators and Youth Enjoy Science) on Cancer program offers high school and college students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cancer research over two consecutive summers. You will work full-time in university labs alongside experienced cancer researchers, contributing to ongoing studies in areas such as basic, clinical, and population-based research.
Beyond lab work, the program includes a lecture series on key topics in cancer research and year-round career development workshops. You’ll also be paired with faculty and peer mentors who will provide guidance throughout the experience. At the end of the program, you will present your research at a symposium attended by faculty, researchers, and peers.
Location: University of Chicago Medicine, Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost; stipend of $5,000 provided annually. Funded by the National Cancer Institute through an R25 YES grant.
Application Deadline: Currently closed. Sign up for updates via their mailing list.
Dates: Typically from the second full week of June through the first week of August. Specific dates announced in the fall.
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors, or college freshmen or sophomores, at least 16 years old, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and able to commit to two consecutive summers of full-time research and monthly activities.
The Data Science Institute Summer Lab program at the University of Chicago is an eight-week, paid internship for high school students interested in data science. You will work closely with a mentor to explore how data science techniques apply to fields such as public policy, computational modeling, and scientific research.
As a research assistant, you will gain hands-on experience with data analysis, pattern recognition, model-building, and interpreting results. The program also features a weekly speaker series, where professionals discuss how data science addresses real-world challenges. The internship concludes with a summer symposium, where you will present your research through a final video.
Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend of $4,800 provided
Application Deadline: January 12
Dates: June 16 — August 8
Eligibility: High school or undergraduate students from the Chicago area; international students must provide U.S. work authorization documentation.
The Chicago Botanic Garden offers two programs for high school students interested in environmental and conservation science. Science First is a four-week, nature-based learning experience for about 60 students from Chicago Public Schools. You will work with research scientists, explore the Garden’s 385 acres, and engage in hands-on activities alongside peers with similar interests.
College First is a paid, seven-week internship for eligible Chicago Public High School students. This program provides experience in field ecology and conservation science, along with mentorship, college preparation, and career development activities. Both programs offer opportunities to develop scientific skills while gaining a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship.
Location: Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, IL
Cost: Free; participants may earn a stipend for the College First Program
Application Deadline: Typically in May. TBD
Dates: Science First — July 15 — August 9 | College First — June 17 — August 9 (includes the Orientation). TBD
Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in a Chicago Public School. Science First applicants must be high school freshmen or sophomores, while College First applicants must be sophomores or juniors.
The University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford offers a summer internship focused on medical research and its practical applications. In collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific, the program includes projects in vaccine development, drug discovery, and cancer research. You will work as part of a research team, receiving mentorship from faculty and scientists while developing key lab skills.
The internship also includes professional development training and concludes with a research forum where you will present your work through oral presentations and posters. Admission is highly selective, with only five spots available. For those seeking a shorter experience, a week-long STEM camp is also offered.
Location: University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford (Rockford, IL)
Cost/Stipend: No cost. You will receive a stipend (amount not specified).
Application Deadline: April 1
Dates: June 9 — August 1 (Tentative)
Eligibility: Illinois high school students who are at least 16 years old by May 1 of the year they apply to the program. Check in the list here if your high school is eligible for this program.
After School Matters (ASM) offers a variety of internship opportunities for Chicago teens in fields such as STEM, arts, and communication. It allows you to choose internships that align with your career interests while receiving a stipend or hourly wage. The program tracks its impact using data-driven methods. You can participate in Apprenticeships, where you gain hands-on experience in a specific field, Assistantships, which involve working in professional environments on team-based projects with mentor support, and Internships, where you focus on leadership and project management, potentially leading or developing your own projects.
Locations: The Michael and Karyn Lutz Center, Chicago | Gallery 37 Center for the Arts, Chicago | After School Matters at Gately Park, Chicago
Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend of $15.80/hour
Application Deadline: February 14 (for Spring internships). TBA for summer.
Dates: Summer internships typically run from June — August. Spring internship dates are February 24 — May 10.
Eligibility: Must be a Chicago resident or attend a Chicago Public High School and aged between 14 to 18.
The CAC Teen Fellows program introduces you to architecture by focusing on research and design skills. You will take college courses at Harold Washington College, earning dual credits, while working on design projects that address community issues. The program spans three semesters, starting with a six-week summer session on research-based design and continuing throughout the school year. You’ll develop a personal portfolio, research architectural solutions, and use software like SketchUp, AutoCAD, Rhino, and Photoshop for digital design. The program also includes visits to architecture firms and site tours, offering insight into the real-world architectural process. Additionally, you can apply for a paid summer internship to gain professional experience in the field.
Location: Harold Washington College
Cost: Fully funded, stipend provided.
Application Deadline: March 31
Program Dates: June 23 — May 9
Eligibility: Incoming sophomores, juniors, and seniors who attend high school in the city of Chicago are eligible.
The University of Chicago Youth Internship Program (YIP) is a paid summer employment opportunity designed to strengthen the pipeline to STEM careers for South Side high school students. The program supports Chicago Public School and charter school students over two summers. In the first year, participants engage in an “earn and learn” experience, which includes career and college preparation activities such as workshops, seminars, a guest speaker series with STEM professionals, workplace tours, leadership lessons, college tours, and post-secondary planning. Students who complete Year 1 can apply for the second year, where they are placed in a six-week internship within a University unit, focusing on fields like health sciences, computer sciences, or IT services. YIP partners with One Summer Chicago, a citywide initiative that provides youth with employment and enrichment opportunities.
Location: University of Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend of $15.80/hour for up to 20 hours a week provided.
Application Deadline: Typically in April. TBA.
Dates: Typically from June — August. TBA.
Eligibility: Open to Chicago residents, 16+ by June 24, 2024, authorized to work in the U.S., with an interest in health, computer sciences, or IT. Priority given to CPS students with a 3.0 GPA from select South Side neighborhoods.
The Northwestern Medicine Governor Discovery Program offers high school students a hands-on introduction to healthcare careers. Participants gain exposure to various medical fields through activities such as job shadowing healthcare professionals, clinical skills workshops, and seminars on medical specialties. The program also provides mentorship from Northwestern Medicine staff, helping you explore potential career paths in medicine, nursing, and biomedical research. This experience not only enhances your understanding of the healthcare industry but also provides valuable skills that can strengthen your college applications and future career prospects.
Location: Various chapters across Illinois, including Cook County (Chicago & North Suburban), Lake County, McHenry County, DeKalb, Kendall, LaSalle, Lee, Ogle, DuPage, Kane, Will, and South Suburban Cook counties.
Cost/Stipend: Varies based on internship.
Application Deadline: September 30.
Dates/Duration: Starts November 16, typically runs every Saturday for 1–2 years.
Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 15, entering sophomore or junior year, with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Those with a GPA below 3.0 may explain unique circumstances on their application.
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Programs at UIUC provide high school students the opportunity to engage in research across fields like cancer immunology, neuroscience, and bioengineering. Over six weeks, you will collaborate with faculty and researchers in specialized groups, such as POETS (power systems), SpHERES (medicine and bioengineering), and GEnYuS (engineering fields like computer science and aerospace). The program includes hands-on learning, mentorship, and collaboration with university faculty, graduate students, and researchers. At the end of the program, you will present your work through a poster and symposium.
Location: The Grainger College of Engineering, Urbana, IL.
Cost: Free, except for transportation. Housing, meals, and a monetary award are included.
Application Deadline: March 30.
Dates: June 20–August 1. Online Orientation: May 29, June 11 & 12. In-person Orientation: June 17–18.
Eligibility: Open to students entering grades 10–12 from IL, IN, KY, MI, MO, IA, or WI.
PAWS Chicago, the city’s largest No Kill organization and a national leader in the No Kill movement, offers internships for students interested in animal welfare and non-profit work. As an intern, you will gain hands-on experience in animal care, shelter operations, and community outreach while being mentored by industry professionals. The program provides training to build your skills and understanding of the animal welfare field, allowing you to contribute to PAWS’ mission of saving homeless animals in Chicago. This internship offers valuable career experience while supporting a meaningful cause.
Location: The Grainger College of Engineering campus, Urbana, IL
Cost: Participation in this internship is free, but no stipend is provided.
Application deadline: March 15
Dates: May through September for the summer internships.
Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and commit 12–20 hours per week. Priority given to those seeking academic credit or career experience in a relevant field, though high school students can apply.
The Summer Healthcare Experience (SHE) in Oncology is a virtual program for high school students interested in science and medicine, with a focus on cancer research. The program supports women and underrepresented individuals in the sciences, offering you the opportunity to work on a genetics-based research project and a patient case study. You will participate in faculty lectures, panel discussions, and workshops, gaining knowledge and building connections in the biomedical field. The program also includes opportunities to present your research and learn from others’ projects, providing hands-on experience and career development in cancer science and care.
Location: Virtual
Cost: There is no cost to participate in the program. Students receive a $500 taxable stipend after the program.
Application Deadline: March 3
Dates: SHE is a part-time program that lasts for two weeks, usually occurring during the second half of July.
Eligibility: Applicants must be full-time high school students at the start of the program. Participation is encouraged for females and individuals underrepresented in biomedicine, including those from diverse social, behavioral, and health science backgrounds.
The Kimberly Querrey Summer Research Program at Northwestern University offers a six- to eight-week paid internship for students interested in biological sciences. As an intern, you will work on basic or clinical research projects related to lung disease, guided by Northwestern faculty. The program provides 40 hours of weekly work and includes training in research methods. You will also participate in activities that support college applications and future careers in science or medicine. The program concludes with a presentation at the annual Kimberly Querrey Summer Research Symposium, where you will share your work.
Location: Louis A. Simpson and Kimberly K. Querrey Biomedical Research Center at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
Cost: There is no cost to participate in the program. However, students will need to arrange their housing and transportation to and from the Northwestern campus in downtown Chicago. All participants will receive a competitive stipend.
Application Deadline: February 2
Dates: Typically from early June through the end of July. If necessary, the program will work with a selected intern and their mentor to develop a more flexible schedule.
Eligibility: Current high school juniors who are at least 16 years old can apply. Undergraduate students currently enrolled at an accredited college or university are also eligible.
The Chicago Summer Business Institute (CSBI) offers high school students a paid internship focused on the financial services sector. Through a combination of internships and classroom learning, including workshops and seminars, you will gain hands-on experience in economic research and financial analysis. You will work with organizations such as Siebert Brandford Shank and Co., CSBI, and the City of Chicago Department of Finance. The program is designed for students from low-income backgrounds and provides valuable skills for future studies in economics, business, and finance. Many alumni go on to pursue higher education in these fields.
Location: Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost. Paid (amount not specified)
Application Deadline: Applications will open on Feb 1.
Dates: June-August (6 weeks)
Eligibility: High school sophomores or juniors residing in Chicago with a B or 3.0 average and family income below $80,000/year
Rush University’s MedSTEM Explorers is a six-week pre-internship program for high school students interested in STEM and healthcare careers. Held at Rush University Medical Center, the program combines workshops, research activities, and discussions with professionals, focusing on real-world health issues in Chicago communities. You will develop academic and workplace skills, including critical thinking, time management, and healthcare certifications like first aid and CPR. The program also offers networking opportunities through career panels and community service. Strong participants may be considered for the MedSTEM Pathways internship program.
Location: Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: There is no fee to participate in this program, and it is a paid opportunity.
Application Deadline: February 28
Dates: June 23–August 1
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores or juniors who have a minimum weighted GPA of 2.5 and an attendance rate of 80% and who live in Chicago are eligible to apply.
Bonus - Ladder Internship Program
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. The virtual internship is usually 8 weeks long.
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
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!
One other option — the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
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.
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