f you’re trying to figure out how to spend your high school summer, a STEM summer camp might be an awesome option to explore.
What kind of students tend to enjoy STEM summer camps and programs? A few key characteristics come to mind:
Students who are naturally curious and enjoy solving problems.
Students who love exploring technology, science, math, or engineering hands-on.
Students who want to meet others who share their interest in science and innovation.
And while you don’t have to be leaning toward a career in STEM to enjoy one of these programs, that’s definitely a good reason to explore (on the other hand, if you’re actually interested in, say, creative writing, probably don’t apply to some STEM summer program just ‘cause you think it’ll “look good”).
So, if some or all of that sounds like you, below, we’ll break down what STEM summer camps and programs are all about.
We’ll also cover common questions, like:
“How much do STEM summer programs cost?” or
“What do you do at a STEM summer camp?” or
“How do I figure out if one of these programs is right for me?”
You’ll find all the answers here, plus a comprehensive list of 60+ STEM summer camps and programs to consider.
Let’s dive in.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(click to skip ahead)What are STEM summer camps?
STEM summer camps give students a chance to dive deep into these subjects in a fun and interactive environment. They are also a great way to develop critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. You probably know this, but just in case: STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. It’s a rapidly growing area of focus in education and careers.
For example, you might find a summer program that teaches students how to build and code a robot. Some STEM summer camps even offer mentorship opportunities with industry professionals or college professors.
What do students do at STEM summer camps?
A typical day at a STEM summer camp might include
Workshops
hands-on experiments
and team-based challenges.
You might also spend time working on a project, like designing an app or creating a science experiment.
If the camp includes guest speakers or field trips, you’ll get to see STEM in action. Many students also enjoy the chance to connect with peers who share their interests.
For example, click here to see what a typical day looks like at the Secondary Student Training Program at the Belin-Blank Center (more info on this STEM summer camp below).
How much do STEM summer programs cost?
Many of the best STEM summer programs are free, but they’re highly competitive. Often hosted by universities or prestigious organizations, these programs select students based on academic achievement, essays, or teacher recommendations. Their free cost reflects their mission to support talented students regardless of financial background.
There are also paid programs, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. However, if you’re considering a paid program, you should know they might not have the same impact on your college applications as free options.
Still, paid STEM summer programs can deepen your STEM knowledge (which is worthwhile regardless of how it impacts college apps). Even if it doesn’t carry the weight of a free, selective program, it can show admissions officers your initiative and a passion for learning.
(Want to learn more about how college applications are read? Read this: What do colleges look for in students?)
STEM summer camps and programs: 60 options
Here’s a list of over 60 STEM summer camps and programs. There’s a mix of free and paid programs, in-person and online options, and opportunities for various grade levels. There are also some internship components that offer participants stipends for conducting research or gaining real-world experience in STEM fields.
1. MITES Summer
MITES Summer (formerly MIT Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science) is a highly selective program empowering high school juniors from underrepresented backgrounds to explore STEM fields. Hosted by MIT, it offers rigorous coursework in math, science, and engineering alongside hands-on projects and mentoring from top faculty.
Quick Facts
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Age/Grade Range: High school juniors
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Six-week program, beginning in late June
2. Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)
The Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) is a rigorous program designed for high school students from underrepresented backgrounds who are passionate about STEM. Hosted by Carnegie Mellon University, SAMS offers intensive courses in math, science, and engineering alongside hands-on projects and mentorship. Participants build technical skills, gain exposure to cutting-edge research, and prepare for STEM college programs.
Quick Facts
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors; must be at least 16 by the start of the program
Cost: Free, including room and board; must demonstrate financial need
Program Dates: 6-week sessions; late June to early August
3. Mathcamp
Mathcamp is a rigorous and fun summer program for mathematically talented high school students. The program offers an in-depth exploration of advanced mathematical topics beyond the typical high school curriculum. Students attend lectures, participate in problem-solving sessions, and collaborate on projects with peers and instructors who share their passion for mathematics.
Quick Facts
Location: Varies (typically hosted at a college campus in the U.S.)
Age/Grade Range: High school students (ages 13-18)
Cost: $5,500; financial aid available; free for US and Canadian students from families with household incomes under $100,000
Program Dates: 5 weeks; Late June to early August
4. SUMaC—Stanford University Mathematics Camp
SUMaC (Stanford University Mathematics Camp) is a prestigious program for high school students passionate about advanced mathematics. Through rigorous coursework and collaborative problem-solving, participants explore topics like abstract algebra, number theory, or topology.
Quick Facts
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA or online
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Cost: Online - $3,580; Residential - $8,575; financial aid available
Program Dates: Multiple program sessions; mid-June to late July
5. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program
The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program offers high school students the chance to engage in cutting-edge biomedical research. Participants work in labs alongside world-class scientists, focusing on genetics, cancer research, and other areas of biomedical science. This immersive experience allows students to develop hands-on research skills and gain insight into careers in science and healthcare.
Quick Facts
Location: Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine
Age/Grade Range: High school seniors; must be at least 18 years old by the start of the program
Cost: Free, including room and board; participants receive a $6,500 stipend
Program Dates: 10 weeks; Late May to early August
6. Summer Science Program (SSP)
The Summer Science Program (SSP) offers highly motivated high school students a chance to dive deep into advanced STEM topics through intensive, hands-on research projects. Participants collaborate in small teams to tackle real-world scientific challenges, such as asteroid orbital calculations or biochemical research.
Quick Facts
Location: Program held on various college campuses
Age/Grade Range: High school juniors or exceptional sophomores; must be 15-19 years old during the summer program
Cost: $8,800; financial aid available
Program Dates: Programs begin mid-late June
7. Smith Science and Engineering Program (SSEP)
Hosted by Smith College, the Smith Science and Engineering Program (SSEP) is an immersive, hands-on experience for high school girls interested in STEM. Students learn about engineering, biology, computer science, and more through interactive workshops and research projects. They also collaborate with faculty and peers in a supportive, all-female environment, gaining confidence in their technical skills while exploring potential STEM careers.
Quick Facts
Location: Smith College, Northampton, MA
Age/Grade Range: Students entering 9th–12th grade
Cost: $4,864 per 2-week session
Program Dates: 2-week sessions in July to August
8. Women’s Technology Program (WTP)
MIT's Women’s Technology Program (WTP) is a four-week summer program designed to spark high school girls’ interest in engineering and computer science. Participants engage in rigorous hands-on projects, attend lectures, and work in teams to tackle real-world challenges. With mentorship from MIT faculty and students, WTP offers a supportive environment where young women can develop technical skills, build confidence, and explore careers in technology and engineering fields.
Quick Facts
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors
Cost: Free
Program Dates: 4-week program starting in late June
9. Roswell Park’s Summer Cancer Research Experience Program
Roswell Park’s Summer Cancer Research Experience Program offers high school students a chance to work alongside world-class researchers in the fight against cancer. Participants gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge labs, contributing to projects in cancer biology, immunology, and genetics. Through mentorship and seminars, students develop research skills and learn about careers in oncology and biomedical sciences.
Quick Facts
Location: Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors
Cost: Free; some students may receive a stipend based on qualifications and funding
Program Dates: 6-8 weeks; Late June to early August
10. The Research Science Institute (RSI)
The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a prestigious summer program for high school students passionate about STEM research. Hosted by MIT, RSI combines coursework with hands-on research experience, pairing students with mentors to tackle advanced projects in fields like physics, engineering, or biology. Participants attend lectures, conduct experiments, and present their findings, gaining invaluable skills and insights into research careers. (Here’s our guide to the RSI program.)
Quick Facts
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors
Cost: Free, including room and board
Program Dates: 6 weeks; Late June to early August
11. SIMR—Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) offers high school students a chance to engage in cutting-edge biomedical research. Participants work alongside Stanford faculty and researchers on projects in fields such as cancer biology, immunology, bioengineering, and genetics. This immersive experience includes hands-on lab work, mentorship, and opportunities to present findings.
Quick Facts
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Age/Grade Range: High school juniors and seniors; must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program
Cost: Free; students must provide their own housing and transportation; students receive at minimum a $500 stipend
Program Dates: 8 weeks; Early June to late July
12. Secondary Student Training Program - Belin-Blank Center
The Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) at the Belin-Blank Center provides high school students with a unique opportunity to conduct university-level research in STEM fields. Participants work with faculty mentors at the University of Iowa, gaining hands-on lab experience and contributing to real-world projects. The program includes workshops, seminars, and opportunities to present research findings.
Quick Facts
Location: University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Age/Grade Range: High school students in grades 10-11
Cost: $7,500; financial aid and scholarships available
Program Dates: Mid-June to late July
13. Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)
The ARISE program at NYU Tandon School of Engineering offers high school students the chance to conduct original STEM research under the mentorship of university faculty. Participants engage in intensive lab work in fields like robotics, biomedical engineering, or environmental science, gaining valuable technical and analytical skills. The program also includes workshops on science communication and college readiness.
Quick Facts
Location: New York University, Brooklyn, NY
Age/Grade Range: Rising juniors and rising seniors in NYC
Cost: Free
Program Dates: 10 weeks, June to August
14. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program offers high school students a hands-on introduction to fisheries science and aquatic resource management. Sponsored by the American Fisheries Society, the program matches students with mentors for an 8-week paid summer internship. Participants gain practical experience in fieldwork, research, and conservation efforts. Hutton also aims to increase diversity in the profession of fisheries.
Quick Facts
Location: Various locations across the U.S., Puerto Rico, Mexico, Canada, and the Pacific Islands
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors or rising college freshman
Cost: Free; includes a $3,000 stipend
Program Dates: 8 weeks; June to August
15. Anson L. Clark Scholar Program
The Anson L. Clark Scholar Program is an intensive summer research experience for highly motivated high school students. Hosted by Texas Tech University, the program allows participants to work closely with faculty mentors on cutting-edge research across STEM fields. Scholars also attend seminars and present their findings, gaining valuable critical thinking and communication skills.
Quick Facts
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors or rising college freshman; applicants must be at least 17 by the start of the program
Cost: Free; includes room, board, and a $750 stipend
Program Dates: 7 weeks; Mid-June to early August
16. The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program
The AFRL Scholars Program offers high school and undergraduate students the opportunity to work alongside experienced scientists and engineers at various Air Force research facilities. The program includes hands-on research, mentorship, and the chance to explore careers in aerospace and defense technologies.
Quick Facts
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Age/Grade Range: High school students who are at least 16 years old and undergraduate students
Cost: Free; includes a stipend
Program Dates: Dates and number of weeks are based on scholar availability and funding available
17. UW Teton STEM Academy
The UW Teton STEM Academy, hosted by the University of Wyoming, offers high school students hands-on experience in STEM fields like environmental science, engineering, and mathematics. Set in the scenic Teton Mountains, the program provides immersive fieldwork, research projects, and mentorship from university faculty. Students develop practical scientific investigation and data analysis skills while exploring the natural world.
Quick Facts
Location: University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY
Age/Grade Range: Rising 9th, 10th, 11th grade students from Wyoming
Cost: Free
Program Dates: 1 week; Mid-June
18. Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) TREK Summer Program
Hosted by Tuskegee University, the Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) TREK Summer Program offers high school students the opportunity to explore careers in forestry, natural resources, and related STEM fields. Participants engage in fieldwork, learn about ecosystem management, and conduct research on topics like forestry protection, management, and viable use of ecosystems.
Quick Facts
Location: Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL
Age/Grade Range: Students in grades 9–12 and returning to high school the Fall semester following the program
Cost: Free, not including transportation to and from the program; participants may also receive a small stipend of up to $200
Program Dates: 2 weeks; Early to mid-June
19. STREAM Program - Black Girls Dive
The STREAM Program by Black Girls Dive offers middle high school girls of color the chance to explore science, technology, recreation, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STREAM) through hands-on experiences in aquatic environments. Participants engage in activities like scuba diving, underwater photography & videography, environmental conservation, and marine biology while developing leadership skills and confidence.
Quick Facts
Location: Various locations
Age/Grade Range: Middle and high school girls
Cost: Free
Program Dates: Varies
20. Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth
The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) is an academic enrichment program for gifted students, offering immersive experiences in STEM and other subjects. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and collaboration with peers who share a passion for learning.
Quick Facts
Location: John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD; residential and commuter options
Age/Grade Range: Students in grades 2-12
Cost: Paid programs with varying costs; financial aid available
Program Dates: Three-week programs; Late June-Early August; multiple sessions
21. Conservation Science Intensive (CSI)
The Conservation Science Intensive (CSI) program, hosted by the Egret Society, offers high school students an immersive experience in environmental conservation and wildlife biology. Participants work with experts to study and protect endangered species, conduct field research, and analyze ecological data. This program is specifically for young people who identify as transgender, non-binary, and/or as women.
Quick Facts
Location: Martin Griffin Preserve in Stinson Beach, CA
Age/Grade Range: Rising juniors, rising seniors, and rising college students
Cost: 1,200; fee waivers and financial aid available
Program Dates: Five days and four nights in late June
22. Joint Science Education Project (JSEP)
The Joint Science Education Project (JSEP) is a collaborative initiative between Greenland, the United States, and Denmark to train the next generation of polar scientists and STEM professionals. Since 2007, high school and university students from these countries have worked together to explore Arctic environments and the effects of rapid climate change. A remote summer program is available for high school students. Students who complete the remote program can later apply for the field program in Greenland.
Quick Facts
Location: Remote; Various locations in Greenland and the U.S.
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors
Cost: Free; $1500 stipend for field program participants
Program Dates: Varies
23. Young Researchers Program
The Young Researchers Program, hosted by the University of Southern California (USC), offers high school students traditionally underrepresented in STEM the opportunity to conduct original research. Participants work closely with USC faculty and graduate students on research projects, developing skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific communication.
Quick Facts
Location: USC, Los Angeles, CA
Age/Grade Range: Rising high school seniors in the Los Angeles, Lynwood, Compton, or Inglewood Unified School Districts
Cost: Free
Program Dates: 6 weeks; Mid-June to Late July
24. Clinical Anatomy Summer Program (CASP)
The Clinical Anatomy Summer Program (CASP) at Stanford University’s School of Medicine offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore human anatomy and medical sciences. Through hands-on experiences like dissections and labs and observations of surgical demonstrations, students gain a deep understanding of the human body’s structure and function. This program is ideal for those considering careers in medical or health-related fields.
Quick Facts
Location: Non-residential program on Stanford’s campus
Age/Grade Range: Must be at least 15 at the start of the program
Cost: $4,000
Program Dates: Multiple program sessions; June-July
25. Physics of Atomic Nuclei (PAN) Program
The Physics of Atomic Nuclei (PAN) Program is an opportunity for high school students to explore nuclear physics. Hosted at Michigan State University's Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), participants gain hands-on experience in nuclear physics experiments, attend lectures from experts, and learn about fields like astrophysics, precision measurement, and nuclear science.
Quick Facts
Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Age/Grade Range: High school students
Cost: Free, including room and board
Program Dates: 1 week; Late July
More STEM Summer Programs
Still looking for more?
Cool, here are another 35 potential STEM summer programs to explore:
Summer Student Program | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)
NIDA IRP Research Training for Under-represented Populations In Science
Step Up to STEM | North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics
Research Experience and Mentoring (REM) Summer Research Program
iCLEM (Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology)
Final thoughts
Attending a STEM summer camp can be an excellent way to deepen your knowledge, build hands-on skills, and explore potential career paths if you’re passionate about science, technology, engineering, or math.
The best STEM summer programs are typically free, making them highly competitive. Still, attending a paid program can also be a valuable experience that showcases your initiative and helps you grow in your chosen field.
Want to discover even more summer programs and extracurricular activity opportunities? Check out this guide next: 400+ Extracurricular Activities: a List of Examples & Opportunities, and a Comprehensive Guide.
Special thanks to Ameer for writing this blog.
Ameer Drane is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about college admissions and career development. Prior to freelancing, Ameer worked for three years as a college admissions consultant at a Hong Kong-based education center, helping local high school students prepare and apply for top colleges and universities in the US. He has a B.A. in Latin American Studies from the University of Chicago and an M.A. in Spanish Linguistics from UCLA. When he’s not working, Ameer loves traveling, weight lifting, writing, reading, and learning foreign languages. He currently lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
Top values: Growth / Diversity / Empathy
