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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

Rutgers University’s Waksman Institute Summer Experience (WISE)

See website

Hosting Institution

Rutgers University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New Brunswick (NJ)

Cost

$2,000

Application Deadline

May 26, 2026

Categories

Data Science

Summary

Rutgers University's WISE program offers a unique opportunity for high school students interested in biology research. Over the course of two weeks, students engage in an authentic research project focused on DNA sequence analyses of genes from the duckweed Landoltia punctata. Through seminars and laboratory sessions, participants explore the molecular biology and bioinformatics aspects of this research, comparing the duckweed genes to those of other species. The program emphasizes active participation, independent work, and the submission of DNA sequence analyses for publication on GenBank, a renowned international repository of DNA sequences. By participating in the WISE program, students gain valuable hands-on experience, develop research skills, and contribute to the scientific community.

Liberty Science Center’s Partners in Science

See website

Hosting Institution

Liberty Science Center

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Jersey City (NJ)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

May 16, 2026

Categories

Physics, Chemistry, Comp Sci, ...

Summary

Partners in Science is an intensive, eight-week summer program for rising high school juniors and seniors that pairs students with mentors in science, health, and technical fields. It exposes them to current questions driving scientific discovery and challenges them to participate in ongoing research and independent projects.

Doon School's Summer at Doon Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The Doon School

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Dehradun, India

Cost

INR 200,000

Application Deadline

Apr 17, 2026

Categories

Environmental Science

Summary

The Doon School's Summer at Doon Leadership Program offers a transformative two-week experience fostering leadership skills and action-oriented thinking for enterprising boys and girls. Set in Dehradun's Chandbagh Estate, the program provides a supportive environment with experienced faculty and top facilities. Through hands-on learning and collaborative projects, participants are empowered to make a positive impact, promising personal growth, lasting friendships, and opportunities for unlocking one's potential.

Plaksha University’s Young Technology Scholars (YTS)

See website

Hosting Institution

Plashka University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Punjab, India

Cost

INR 90,000

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Engineering

Summary

Young Technology Scholars (YTS) is a dynamic two-week summer program designed to cultivate the next generation of problem solvers and innovators. Through immersive hands-on learning and interdisciplinary coursework, students engage in real-world engineering challenges. YTS aims to nurture a mindset of curiosity and resilience, empowering students to become adept tinkerers and creative thinkers. Participants develop skills in leveraging technology to address complex global issues, fostering a deep-seated motivation to tackle society's most pressing problems. Led by expert instructors, YTS fosters an environment where students explore, experiment, and collaborate, ultimately instilling in them the confidence and determination to navigate the frontiers of technology and innovation.

Ashoka's Young Scholars Programme

See website

Hosting Institution

Ashoka University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Haryana, India

Cost

INR 49,500

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Social Science

Summary

Ashoka's Young Scholars Programme (YSP) offers diverse, interdisciplinary summer sessions for high school students (grades 9-12). The program aims to provide a liberal arts and sciences education experience at the university level. YSP 2024 offers five streams: Foundation, Frontiers of Science, Tech, Data & Computer Science, Economics, Policy & Society, and Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Impact. Each stream offers hands-on learning, workshops, and interactions with leading faculty and industry experts. Additionally, there's an option for an advanced 10-day program combining Foundation with another stream. YSP prepares students for college and beyond through a blend of theoretical knowledge and experiential learning across various disciplines.

The Symbiosis Summer School Experience

See website

Hosting Institution

Symbiosis Summer School

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Maharastra, India

Cost

INR 35,000

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Symbiosis Summer School (SSS) provides 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students with clarity amid academic choices post-12th grade. It offers insights into various disciplines, career prospects, and essential skill sets. With innovative teaching methods and intercultural exposure, the program fosters holistic development. Founded on the principles of inclusivity and international understanding, SSS aims to prepare students for higher education and future careers. Through participatory learning and experiential classroom environments, students explore new interests, appreciate cultural diversity, and forge lasting friendships. Join SSS for a transformative educational experience, bridging the gap between academic decisions and professional success.

Amity University Summer School Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Amity University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

UP, India

Cost

INR 31,500

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Engineering

Summary

Amity University Summer School (AUSS) is an innovative program offering high school students a unique experience from June 10th to June 21st, 2024, in Delhi NCR, Noida. Modeled after leading global universities like Harvard and Stanford, AUSS provides insight into university life and helps students make informed career choices. With over 100 schools from India and abroad participating, AUSS offers practical learning techniques for self-discovery. The program focuses on artificial intelligence and engineering research, combining hands-on activities with academic enrichment. Participants also benefit from industry exposure through a Summer Internship Program, engaging with professionals and exploring cutting-edge topics.

Dalton Academy Eminent Scholars Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The Affiliated High School of Peking University's Dalton Academy's Dalton Academy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Beijing

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

Business, Social Science, Hist...

Summary

The goal of the Eminent Scholars Program is to equip Dalton students with the spirit of inquiry by providing them with top academic resource. In addition to academic development, Eminent Scholars Program is dedicated to cultivating outstanding citizens who actively pay attention to social issues, create social values, and achieve social impacts.

Dalton Academy Independent Research Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The Affiliated High School of Peking University's Dalton Academy's Dalton Academy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Beijing

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

AI/ML, Environmental Science, ...

Summary

The Dalton Academy Independent Research Program provides core experiences of a Dalton education. During each of the Senior 2 and Senior 3 years all students are required to complete an Independent Research Project (IRP) with the support of a faculty research supervisor and in-class equipping in fundamental research and academic writing skills.

Youth Model United Nations Summer Conference

See website

Hosting Institution

International Youth Model United Nations Organizing Committee and United Nations Department of Global Communications

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Beijing, Online

Cost

CNY 5380

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

Social Science

Summary

Model United Nations, also known as MUN, is reputed as a popular academic activity. It has been promoted and developed in China more than 20 years in which abundant responsible and versatile talents have been cultivated and hatched. In the program, students act as young diplomats and attend the Model United Nations (MUN) Conference in formal attire. They work together to seek common ground among different countries and provide solutions to international affairs through caucuses, debates, resolution writing, and voting. This activity broadens students’ horizons, improves their ability to express themselves and cooperate with others, and shapes them into international talents with social responsibility.

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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