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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!

Research opportunities in circles

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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

Yale Summer Session – Sociology courses

See website

Hosting Institution

Yale University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New Haven (CT)

Cost

$5055

Application Deadline

May 10, 2024

Categories

Social Science

Summary

If you have a passion for sociology and want to get a head start on your university studies, Yale Summer Session offers college credit courses that can provide a valuable introduction to the field. These courses cover a wide range of sociological topics, including race, gender, and class inequities in the U.S., the history of education in relation to the development of the U.S. empire, cultural anthropology, feminist and queer ethnographies, and more. By enrolling in these courses, you can engage in in-depth study, critical analysis, and meaningful discussions, all while earning college credits that can be applied towards your future degree. Yale Summer Session provides a unique opportunity to explore sociology at a higher academic level and gain valuable insights into the complexities of social structures, power dynamics, and cultural phenomena. To learn more about the specific summer offerings at Yale, be sure to check out our comprehensive post on the subject.

Wonderworks Houston

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Hosting Institution

Wonderworks

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Houston (TX)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 1, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

Wonderworks is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing pre-college summer learning experiences in arts and humanities for high school students in the Houston area and throughout Texas. Through partnerships with various organizations, Wonderworks offers programs that focus on developing key academic and interpersonal skills to prepare students for their college journey. These programs aim to foster creativity, critical thinking, and cultural understanding by engaging students in diverse art forms, humanities subjects, and interactive learning experiences. By participating in Wonderworks programs, students have the opportunity to enhance their academic abilities, cultivate their passions, and build a strong foundation for their future educational endeavors.

Wake Forest: Finance and Investing Institute

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Winstom Salem (NC)

Cost

$2,800

Application Deadline

May 30, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

Get ahead of the game. Learn and experience how investing works. Dive into the world of investments – stocks, bonds, and mutual funds/exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Explore popular investing approaches, techniques, and strategies to confidently learn how fundamental analysis plays a role in valuation. Meet and collaborate with Wake Forest School of Business faculty and industry experts to get a glimpse of finance and investing from the collegiate level to the professional world. Confidently pitch prospective investments, refine public speaking skills, and build your investment portfolio.

Voltage Scholars Program

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Hosting Institution

The University of Chicago

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Chicago (IL)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 5, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Voltage Scholars program offers a focused and intensive three-day, two-night experience for high school students who have a keen interest in economics. The program provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of both macroeconomics and microeconomics. Additionally, students have the valuable opportunity to gain insights into the selective college admissions process through interactions with UChicago admissions counselors. An added advantage of this program is that it runs parallel to an undergraduate program, enabling Voltage Scholars to network with current college students. This networking opportunity allows participants to engage with and learn from experienced individuals who are pursuing their studies in economics or related fields. Overall, the Voltage Scholars program offers a comprehensive experience that combines academic learning, college admissions guidance, and valuable networking opportunities to foster students' interest in economics and enhance their understanding of the college experience.

UT Dallas’ NanoExplorers

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Hosting Institution

The University of Texas at Dallas

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Richardson (TX)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 29, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The 7-week program provides high school students with a unique opportunity to engage in original research work and gain valuable experience as aspiring scientists and engineers. Students are matched with a faculty member's research lab based on their interests, where they receive guidance and support to test their ideas and develop essential skills such as teamwork, innovation, and critical thinking. The research projects are associated with funded programs at the university, ensuring that students contribute to real-world outcomes and make meaningful contributions to their respective fields. This program serves as a stepping stone for students to explore their passion for scientific inquiry and lay the foundation for a future in research and innovation.

UT Austin’s ST.ART Programs

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Hosting Institution

The University of Texas at Austin

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Austin (TX)

Cost

$1625

Application Deadline

May 31, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

The 4-week pre-college program in Art + Design offers emerging student artists a transformative experience to explore and refine their artistic process, style, and voice. Through engaging programs and concentration studio sessions, students have the opportunity to further develop their skills and create new artworks in their chosen area of focus. The program emphasizes building a strong portfolio and provides expert guidance and peer reviews to help students grow as artists. This immersive experience allows students to delve into their passion for art, discover their creative potential, and gain valuable insights and feedback to enhance their artistic journey.

USA Biolympiad (USABO)

See website

Hosting Institution

Center for Excellence in Education

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

McLean (VA)

Cost

95

Application Deadline

Mar 13, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The USA Biolympiad is an esteemed competition that provides an exceptional opportunity for high school students interested in biology. With a rigorous selection process and a large number of participants, the Biolympiad challenges students through activities and quizzes covering a wide range of biological topics. To qualify for the final round, participants must excel in the initial online exams. The top 20 finalists are then invited to a residential training program held at Marymount University. During this program, participants delve into advanced biological concepts and enhance their laboratory skills. The USA Biolympiad offers an immersive and competitive experience that can significantly enrich a student's understanding of biology and open doors to further academic and research opportunities in the field.

University of Southern California's Annenberg Youth Academy (AYA) for Media and Civic Engagement

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Hosting Institution

University of Southern California

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Los Angeles (CA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 22, 2024

Categories

Social Science

Summary

The Sociology and Media Intensive Academy is a highly selective program designed for gifted high school students passionate about sociology and media. Over the course of four weeks, participants delve into the intricate connection between media communications and civics. Through college-level courses, students explore sociological issues related to racial, gender, and ethnic diversity in journalism and communication. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses ethnography, writing, critical thinking, public speaking, debate, multimedia creation, and interviewing skills. Additionally, students have the opportunity to connect with accomplished academics who are dedicated to advancing these important sociological issues. By participating in this academy, students can deepen their understanding of the sociocultural dynamics within the media landscape and develop the necessary skills to make an impact in the field.

University of South Carolina: Adventures in Computer Gaming

See website

Hosting Institution

University of South Carolina

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Columbia (SC)

Cost

$665-$1150

Application Deadline

Apr 30, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

Using a game engine, you’ll learn the skills behind graphics, modeling, animation, multi-level game design, artificial intelligence and basic programming techniques, such as if/switch, for/while loop and more. Through instruction by USC’s Computer Science department and hands-on programming, you will work in a group to create a finished product: your own video game.

University of Georgia’s Discovering Engineering at UGA Internship Program

See website

Hosting Institution

UGA

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Athens (GA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 27, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

This 3-week summer internship is intended for people who want to learn more about STEM and engineering. The participants will have the chance to do practical research, get professional mentoring, go to workshops, and tour labs. A team project and presentation, as well as a three-page report summarizing the internship experience, will serve as the program's capstone. Participants in the residential program are allowed to live on campus during the week but are free to go home on weekends. The application process for the class of 2023 is now ended, however those who are interested should expect the same dates for the 2024 program.

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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