Top 10 Internships for High Schoolers in 2025

The transition from high school to college is both exciting and competitive. One of the best ways to prepare is by joining internships for high schoolers. These programs allow you to apply classroom learning to real-world projects, explore potential career paths, and gain experiences that truly make your college applications stand out.

Whether paid or unpaid, internships offer more than just work experience—they help you develop professional skills, connect with mentors, and discover the fields that inspire you most. In this guide, we’ll explore ten of the best internships for high schoolers in 2025. Each of them is widely recognized by students, educators, and college admissions officers for its quality, selectivity, and lasting impact.

• What Are the Best Internships for High Schoolers?
• 1. NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internships
• 2. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
• 3. Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT
• 4. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
• 5. Stanford SHTEM Internship Program
• 6. NIH High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)
• 7. Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship & Internship
• 8. MITES (MIT Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science)
• 9. Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP)
• 10. Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Are the Best Internships for High Schoolers?

Internships give high school students a meaningful head start on both college and career success. They provide early exposure to professional settings—whether in science, engineering, business, medicine, or journalism—helping students build confidence and discover their passions before even stepping onto a college campus.

A recent ASA survey of U.S. employers found that 86% believe high school internships help strengthen the future workforce, and 81% say these opportunities attract more diverse, promising candidates.

By joining internships for high schoolers, students demonstrate initiative, strengthen their résumés, and gain hands-on experience that colleges deeply value. You’ll also learn key skills (like communication, teamwork, and leadership) that will serve you in any future academic or professional pursuit.

To help you find the right fit, we’ve compiled ten of the best internships for high schoolers in 2025, each offering immersive, skill-building opportunities.

Below is a quick summary of each program’s name, location, and dates:

Let’s discuss each program one by one.

1. NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internships

Dates: Summer 2026 – February 27, 2026 | Fall 2026 – May 22, 2026

Location: NASA Centers Nationwide

Cost: Free; paid internships for high schoolers (stipends vary by academic level and duration)

The NASA OSTEM Internship offers students a chance to be part of NASA’s groundbreaking work in science, technology, aeronautics, and space exploration. A standout feature is the Pathways Program, which connects successful interns to potential full-time employment opportunities at NASA after graduation.

This program welcomes high school and college students who are interested in STEM, research, business, public affairs, or communications. It runs three sessions each year—summer, fall, and spring—with flexible full-time and part-time options across NASA centers nationwide.

Interns work Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., under the guidance of NASA scientists, engineers, and professionals. The program emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning tied to real NASA missions, plus mentorship and professional development workshops.

Participants gain valuable skills in research, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication while experiencing the collaborative environment of a leading STEM organization.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 16 years old, and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. Interns also receive a paid stipend based on academic level and internship duration.

2. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Dates: June 8 to July 30, 2026

Location: Stanford University, Stanford, California

Cost: Free; paid internships for high schoolers (stipends may be provided to selected participants)

Stanford SIMR is an eight-week biomedical research program where high school students work alongside Stanford faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and researchers on medically focused projects.

The program is open to high school juniors and seniors who have a strong interest in biology, health sciences, or medicine. It offers an exciting hands-on research experience that blends lab work, one-on-one mentorship, and interactive workshops focused on biomedical and clinical research.

Throughout the program, students strengthen their analytical, communication, and teamwork skills while exploring future paths in science, healthcare, and research. To apply, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident attending high school in the U.S. and at least 16 years old by June 2026.

Although preference is given to Bay Area students, motivated applicants from anywhere in the country are encouraged to apply. Participants are expected to attend the full eight-week session.

If you want to learn more about SIMR, read our comprehensive guide on the program.

3. Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT

Dates: June 28 to August 8, 2026

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, Massachusetts

Cost: Free

The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a six-week program designed for rising high school seniors who show strong talent and curiosity in subjects like math, physics, biology, chemistry, and engineering. Hosted by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) in partnership with MIT, RSI gives exceptional students the chance to explore advanced STEM topics through a mix of coursework and real research.

Participants begin with intensive academic classes before moving into independent research projects guided by MIT professors and mentors. During the program, students develop valuable skills in data analysis, scientific writing, and research presentation, while gaining insight into what it’s like to work in a university-level lab.

Applicants must be rising seniors and U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or international students. Strong test scores (such as a PSAT Math of 740+ and Reading/Writing of 700+, or ACT scores of 33+ in Math and 34+ in Verbal) are recommended.

A strong academic record, teacher recommendations, and evidence of leadership in STEM are also important. The experience ends with a research symposium, where each student presents their findings to peers and faculty.

If you’re curious what specifically makes RSI at MIT stand out, read our full guide for insights, tips, and other important details.

4. Bank of America Student Leaders Program

Dates: July 21 to 26, 2025

Location: Local nonprofit organizations across the U.S. and Washington, D.C.

Cost: Free; includes stipend and all-expenses-paid summit travel

The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is an eight-week paid internship that connects high school juniors and seniors with local nonprofit organizations to help address community needs while developing leadership and workplace skills.

Student Leaders work about 35 hours per week during the internship and also attend a week-long national leadership summit in Washington, D.C. There, they meet peers from across the country and participate in workshops on community leadership, business ethics, and public service.

Applicants must be current high school juniors or seniors who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. through September 2025. Students must be able to complete the full eight-week internship and attend the summit. They should also be in good academic standing, permanently reside in an eligible community, and submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or coach by the deadline.

Students who were not previously selected may reapply, but Bank of America employees and their immediate family members are not eligible.

The program offers meaningful work experience, mentorship, and leadership development. Take a look at our complete guide to learn more about the Bank of America Student Leaders.

5. Stanford SHTEM Internship Program

Dates: June 17–August 9, 2024 (program currently on hiatus and being updated for future cohorts)

Location: Fully virtual (online)

Cost: Free; unpaid internship with financial assistance available for qualifying students

The Stanford SHTEM Internship, offered by the Stanford Compression Forum, is an eight-week virtual research experience designed to give high school and early community college students hands-on exposure to interdisciplinary research that bridges science, humanities, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Participants collaborate in small, mentor-led project groups that combine fields such as computer science, engineering, neuroscience, psychology, linguistics, philosophy, and design. Through this immersive experience, students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills while learning how research and innovation connect across disciplines.

Applicants must be current high school juniors or seniors, or community college students within their first three years of study. High school participants must be at least 14 years old by June 17, and community college students must be between 17 and 21 years old.

Students are expected to attend the entire eight-week program and will be placed in peer-based groups according to their academic level. Although free and unpaid, the program offers financial assistance for students who may face barriers to participation.

6. NIH High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

Dates: June 19 to August 11, 2026 (tentative)

Location: NIH research centers nationwide, including the main campus in Bethesda, Maryland.

Cost: Free with stipends based on education level and experience.

The NIH HS-SIP offers high school students a full-time opportunity to explore biomedical, behavioral, and social science research within the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Interns work alongside leading scientists and researchers, gaining early exposure to laboratory environments and hands-on experience in health-related fields such as biology, chemistry, psychology, epidemiology, physics, and computer science.

Throughout the program, participants join Principal Investigator–led research groups within NIH Institutes and Centers, contribute to ongoing projects, and attend professional development sessions, career advising workshops, and wellness programs. Interns also present their findings during NIH’s annual Summer Poster Day and connect with peers and mentors at the Graduate & Professional School Fair.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, at least 18 years old by June 1, 2025, and enrolled at least half-time as a high school senior or in an accredited college or university.

All participants must show proof of health insurance, maintain full-time research hours, and demonstrate a strong interest in science or healthcare. Accepted students receive a competitive stipend (adjusted annually by NIH) and gain invaluable research and communication skills in a collaborative academic setting.

To learn more about the NIH SIP, check out our in-depth guide.

7. Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship & Internship

Dates: Applications reopen in Fall 2025 for the upcoming academic year

Location: Various Amazon offices across the United States

Cost: Free; includes a scholarship of up to $40,000 and a paid internship at Amazon

The Amazon Future Engineer (AFE) Scholarship & Internship is a dual opportunity that supports high school seniors pursuing degrees in computer science, software engineering, or related STEM fields.

Each year, Amazon selects 400 students nationwide—spanning nearly 40 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico—to receive up to $10,000 per year in college funding (for up to four years) and a guaranteed paid summer internship at Amazon.

During the internship, students join professional teams to work on real-world projects in technology and innovation while receiving mentorship from experienced Amazon engineers and industry leaders. This combination of financial aid and hands-on experience helps students gain the confidence, technical skills, and professional exposure needed for long-term success in STEM careers.

Applicants must be high school seniors enrolled in or having completed a computer science or engineering course (or take an assessment offered by Amazon). They must plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field from an accredited college or university.

Eligible candidates must also be authorized to work in the U.S. (citizens, permanent residents, or EAD holders), have a minimum GPA of 2.3, and demonstrate financial need.

The Amazon Future Engineer Program remains one of the best paid internships for high schoolers, combining academic support, career mentorship, and real-world experience to help students create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

8. MITES Summer Program

Dates: Mid-June to early August

Location: MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Cost: Free

The MITES Summer Program is a prestigious six-week residential program at MIT that provides an immersive, college-level STEM experience for motivated high school juniors from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds.

The program aims to build both confidence and community while giving students the opportunity to explore advanced topics in math, science, engineering, and technology through hands-on learning and mentorship.

Participants take five rigorous courses in math, science, and humanities, attend lab tours, workshops, and seminars, and receive college admissions counseling from experienced advisors. Beyond academics, students engage in social activities, explore the Boston area, and form lifelong friendships with peers who share their curiosity and drive.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently in 11th grade (rising seniors). MIT encourages applications from underrepresented students in STEM, first-generation college-bound, or underserved or rural schools.

Admissions decisions are based on academic performance, essays, recommendations, and demonstrated passion for STEM fields. Students live on MIT’s campus and experience real college life—attending weekday classes from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and participating in evening study sessions and weekend excursions.

At the end of the program, each student receives a written evaluation from their instructors, which can be submitted as part of future college applications.

Curious about the MITES Program? Read our full guide for everything you need to know.

9. Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP)

Dates: First week of July to August 3

Location: Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey (virtual and on-campus)

Cost: Free

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) is a selective, year-long college preparation and journalism initiative for high-achieving high school juniors from limited-income backgrounds. Hosted by Princeton’s Emma Bloomberg Center for Access and Opportunity, PSJP helps students explore the vital relationship between journalism, democracy, and social change while preparing them for college success.

The program begins with virtual workshops and lectures led by Princeton professors, journalists, and alumni, followed by a 10-day residential experience on Princeton’s campus.

Students gain hands-on reporting experience by covering local news, writing features, and publishing articles in The Princeton Summer Journal. They also tour leading media organizations like The New York Times and Bloomberg, attend cultural events, and participate in college admissions seminars.

Each student is matched with a personal college adviser who provides individualized support through their senior year by helping them refine essays, build college lists, and navigate the application process.

Applicants must be high school juniors living and attending school in the United States, with a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5 and a strong interest in journalism. Students must also meet at least one socioeconomic requirement (e.g., family income under $60,000, free/reduced lunch eligibility, or SAT/ACT fee waiver). First-generation college students receive priority consideration.

Applications for PSJP 2026 open December 1, 2025, with three selection rounds concluding in May 2026. For a deeper look at the PSJP,  check out our comprehensive guide.

10. Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI)

Dates: Three weeks in July

Location: Google offices across the U.S. and/or online.

Cost: Free

The Google Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI) is a three-week program that gives graduating high school seniors an exciting introduction to computer science and life at Google. It’s designed especially for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in tech who are passionate about coding, problem-solving, and innovation.

Students learn hands-on coding workshops, learn the fundamentals of programming in Python and JavaScript, and take part in daily team projects and technical challenges. Throughout the program, Google engineers lead guest lectures and mentoring sessions that offer a real look into what it’s like to work in the tech industry.

CSSI also includes college and career readiness workshops, helping students strengthen their academic confidence and explore future STEM pathways. While the program doesn’t offer a stipend, it’s completely free and fully funded, making it accessible to students of all financial backgrounds.

Applicants must be high school seniors who plan to major in computer science or a related field at a four-year college. Google encourages applications from women, first-generation students, and those from groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM.

Graduating from CSSI is a meaningful achievement since it boosts your technical skills and confidence and connects you to mentors and peers who share your passion for technology. Many alumni go on to secure internships and future opportunities at Google and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best internships for high schoolers?

The best internships for high schoolers combine mentorship, hands-on learning, and real-world experience. Top programs like NASA OSTEM, Stanford SIMR, MIT RSI, Google CSSI, and Bank of America Student Leaders help students explore fields in STEM, business, journalism, and public service—making them some of the most valuable internships for high schoolers preparing for college and future careers.

2. Are there paid internships available for high school students?

Yes! Many paid internships for high schoolers—including those offered by NASA, NIH, and Amazon—provide stipends or scholarships. Programs like Amazon Future Engineer and Bank of America Student Leaders combine financial aid with career mentorship, making them among the most rewarding internships for high schoolers nationwide.

3. How can I find internships that match my interests?

To find internships for high schoolers that fit your goals, start with your academic and career interests—whether in STEM, medicine, business, or journalism. Use databases like StandOutSearch or university websites. Programs such as MITES, CSSI and PSJP are great examples of the best internships for high schoolers designed around specific interests.

4. What do colleges think about high school internships?

Colleges view internships for high schoolers as proof of initiative, curiosity, and readiness for rigorous study. Completing one of the best internships for high schoolers, like Google CSSI, Stanford SIMR or MIT RSI, shows that you can apply knowledge beyond the classroom and are prepared for the demands of college life.

5. How early should I start applying for internships?

Most internships for high schoolers open applications between November and February. Applying early gives you time to prepare essays, transcripts, and recommendations. Selective paid internships for high schoolers, such as MIT RSI and PSJP, begin accepting applications as early as December for the upcoming summer.

Takeaways

• Internships for high schoolers give you early access to real-world experience, helping you explore careers and build confidence before college.
• The best internships for high schoolers—like NASA OSTEM, MITES, Google CSSI, and Stanford SIMR—combine mentorship, research, and leadership training.
• Many paid internships for high schoolers offer stipends or scholarships, making valuable opportunities more accessible to all students.
• Joining internships for high schoolers not only boosts your college applications but also helps you gain lifelong skills and connections in your chosen field.
• After completing your internship, learn how to highlight it in your personal statement. Explore College Application Essay Editing Program to turn your experiences into a standout essay.