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Research Opportunities Database for High School Students

A comprehensive guide to research opportunities and science competitions available for high school students across the US. We've compiled a detailed list of research opportunities by region, subject and institution below!

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Institution
Location
Tuition
Event type

Polygence Core is an online research program that connects motivated high school students with expert mentors from top universities. Founded by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, Polygence helps you explore any topic you're passionate about through one-on-one mentoring over 3–6 months, ending with a project of your choice—like an academic research paper ready for publication, a prototype, or podcast.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Contact us to learn more

Application Deadline

Mar 16, 2026

Recommended for you

Categories

Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology

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Polygence Pods Research Program

Summary

Learn Academic Research skills and build a foundational understanding of cutting edge subjects in Polygence Pods. Join a group of 6 students and meet weekly with a PhD-level mentor who is an expert in their respective field. Perfect for beginners, your program will culminate in a short-form research paper.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Starting at $495

Application Deadline

Varies by program

Short courses

Categories

Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other

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Other programs

RISD Advanced Program Online

See website

Hosting Institution

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Providence, RI

Cost

$2760

Application Deadline

Jun 11, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

RISD's Advanced Program Online offers intensive, collegiate-level courses for creative high school students aged 15-18. Founded in 1877, Rhode Island School of Design is renowned for its art and design education. The program emphasizes innovation, encouraging students to challenge traditional approaches and explore new territories in art and design. Participants engage in live and recorded sessions over four-week sessions in spring and summer, gaining insights into portfolio development, critical thinking, and artistic expression. Designed for aspiring artists and designers, the program fosters a flexible mindset and provides valuable experiences that can shape future pursuits in higher education and beyond.

Residential Summer Immersive

See website

Hosting Institution

Rhode Island School of Design

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Providence, RI

Cost

$8,715-$11,350

Application Deadline

Apr 15, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

RISD Pre-College offers a transformative five-week experience for rising high school juniors and seniors, immersing them in a college-level curriculum focused on art and design. Participants engage in day-long studio classes, critiques, and projects, fostering collaboration and creativity alongside peers from diverse backgrounds. Led by experienced instructors, students access RISD's renowned resources, strengthening their portfolios and refining their artistic skills. With a focus on personal growth and exploration, the program empowers students to challenge themselves and approach art and design with confidence. Through a blend of rigorous academics and immersive student life, RISD Pre-College prepares students for the next step in their creative journey while shaping their perspectives on art and design.

Think Summer

See website

Hosting Institution

Albuquerque Academy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 14, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

Think Summer at Albuquerque Academy offers an extensive summer program from June 10 to July 19, 2024, catering to students from pre-K to 12th grade. With a focus on safety, quality, and value, the program provides diverse academic and recreational options, ensuring engagement and growth for all participants. From full-day programs to individual classes and extended care services, families have flexible scheduling choices. The curriculum emphasizes active-learning strategies, project-based activities, and interdisciplinary courses, fostering curiosity and enthusiasm in students. Opportunities for employment exist for local students as camp counselors and teacher assistants, with hiring beginning in winter. Faculty are encouraged to bring creative teaching techniques to the relaxed summer environment. Overall, Think Summer aims to provide a dynamic, fun-filled educational experience that reinforces academic concepts and promotes personal development in a nurturing environment.

2024 Summer Physics Camp for Young Women

See website

Hosting Institution

New Mexico School for the Arts

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Santa Fe, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

May 30, 2024

Categories

Physics

Summary

The 2024 Summer Physics Camp for Young Women offers a two-week immersive experience in STEM and Energy Security, running from June 10-21 in New Mexico and Hawaii. Hosted at the New Mexico School for the Arts, the camp is supported by leading organizations including Los Alamos and Sandia National Laboratories. Participants engage in hands-on activities, tours, and lectures covering physics, engineering, chemistry, and more. They delve into energy sources like solar and nuclear power, while gaining professional skills and exploring career opportunities. Eligible students, primarily from New Mexico and Hawaiian tribal communities, can apply for free admission, with some receiving residential accommodations. Graduates may join SAGE, fostering ongoing STEM engagement. Volunteers, including LANL employees, are crucial to the camp's success, offering expertise and support across various roles. Flexible scheduling accommodates diverse participation. Apply online to volunteer or attend this transformative program shaping the next generation of female STEM leaders.

Youth Entrepreneurship Summer (YES) Camp

See website

Hosting Institution

New Mexico State University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Las Cruces, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 30, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The Youth Entrepreneurship Summer (YES) Camp offers high school students a comprehensive exploration of entrepreneurship. Over 40 hours of classroom instruction and a 35-hour practicum, students delve into the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, including characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, market research, financial management, and business ethics. They develop business plans and present them to a panel of community business leaders for recognition. Successful completion awards three college credits through New Mexico State University's Dual Credit Program, facilitating early college exploration and elective credits towards high school graduation. Participants gain valuable insights into the role of entrepreneurship in economic growth and individual success, preparing them for future endeavors in business and innovation.

YWiC Summer Program

See website

Hosting Institution

New Mexico State University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Las Cruces, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 30, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

NMSU's Young Women in Computing summer camps aim to foster community, interest, knowledge, and confidence among young women in computer science. Through interactive activities, including programming in Python, building webpages, and exploring AI, participants learn computational thinking and discover the creativity and rewards of the field. The program emphasizes fun, teamwork, and leadership, catering to both YWiC alumni and newcomers with no prior experience required. Assessment methods ensure ongoing improvement and excellence in teaching and learning.

Summer Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

St. John’s College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Santa Fe, NM

Cost

$1400

Application Deadline

May 1, 2024

Categories

History

Summary

The Summer Academy by St. John's College in Santa Fe, NM, offers a week-long residential program for high school students aged 15-18. Participants explore the origins of human society, language, and knowledge through classical works in history, philosophy, religion, mathematics, and poetry. Texts include Prometheus Bound, Genesis, and Euclid's Elements, among others. Through reading and discussion, students analyze various "beginnings," from political and religious founding to philosophical first principles and poetic creativity. The program aims to deepen understanding of how these texts shape human experience and enhance critical thinking skills. International students are welcome, but must arrange their own transportation and accommodations. Limited financial aid is available.

Summer Law Camp

See website

Hosting Institution

The University of New Mexico

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

May 13, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

The Summer Law Camp at the University of New Mexico offers a unique opportunity for current 6th and 7th grade students from New Mexico to explore the field of law. Participants engage in a week-long program where they experience college life, receive one-on-one instruction from local lawyers, and learn about various aspects of the legal profession through visits to courthouses, law offices, and the UNM School of Law. The program focuses on developing skills in research, critical thinking, team building, leadership, and techniques of persuasion and debate, culminating in a mock trial. It is free of cost and provides a chance for students to meet legal professionals, judges, and community partners to gain insights into pursuing a career in law. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to reside in UNM Residence Halls and connect with peers from across New Mexico.

College Readiness Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The University of New Mexico

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 7, 2024

Categories

Environmental Science

Summary

The College Readiness Program at the University of New Mexico offers year-round support for low-income, first-generation, and underserved high school sophomores and juniors in New Mexico. The program includes a summer residential camp focusing on leadership, team building, and college life experiences. Throughout the academic year, participants receive ACT preparation, college and career readiness curriculum, and one-on-one support. The program covers up to three ACT tests and emphasizes navigating the college application process, choosing majors, and developing career readiness skills.

Hispanic Youth Research & Leadership Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The University of New Mexico

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 7, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Hispanic Youth Research and Leadership Program at the University of New Mexico offers a free summer initiative for Hispanic high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors, particularly those from low-income, first-generation, or underrepresented backgrounds. It focuses on exposing participants to STEM fields, providing college-like experiences, developing research and leadership skills, and offering career and college readiness preparation. Participants work on research projects in groups over a five-day camp, culminating in presentations to professional staff and families. The program also facilitates interactions with STEM professionals from the community and UNM. Successful completion may lead to a stipend.

What is a Research Project?

A research project is a structured and systematic investigation into specific topic or question. It involves a series of planned activities. Research projects often require students to formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, surveys, or literature reviews, and present their findings in a clear and organized manner. These projects foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper appreciation for the research process. They provide students with valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to their field of interest while enhancing their academic and personal growth.

Why do a research project as a high school student?

Research projects can play a pivotal role in shaping the academic journey and future prospects of high school students. Engaging in research while still in school not only helps students discover their passions but also significantly enhances their chances of successful college admissions.

Exploring research projects allows high school students to delve into various fields of study, providing them with a firsthand experience of what truly interests them. This hands-on exposure aids in identifying their passions and helps them make informed decisions when selecting a college major or career path. It's a crucial step in personal and academic development.

Moreover, active participation in research demonstrates dedication, curiosity, and a willingness to go beyond the standard curriculum, qualities highly valued by college admissions committees. Admissions officers are often impressed by applicants who have shown initiative and a genuine interest in learning through research experiences. These opportunities can set students apart from their peers and greatly improve their chances of gaining admission to their dream colleges.

Ready to start your own research project?
Apply today!

We're so excited that you're interested in pursuing a path in research. Polygence is an online research academy dedicated to democratizing access to research opportunities for high school students. Whether you are interested in quantitative biology, fashion history, or privacy law, expert Polygence mentors will help you explore your area of interest.

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