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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

Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Scholars Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Universities Space Research Association

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 10, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The ARFL (Air Force Research Laboratory) program offers an exceptional pre-college summer opportunity for upper-level high school students interested in aerospace engineering. This highly enriching program provides selected participants with valuable guidance from full-time AFRL scientists and engineers. Throughout the program, students have the unique opportunity to tour AFRL laboratories, engage in cutting-edge research, and work with advanced technologies. The research areas covered in the program are diverse and include aerospace/mechanical design for morphing aircraft technology, complex electromagnetic structures, metalens design and modeling, and more. While the program is also open to undergraduate and graduate-level students, there are specific research areas available for high school participants, such as the Clean-up of PFAS contamination, Data Structures for Advanced Satellite Navigation Signals, Experimental Navigation Satellite Signals Simulation and Testing, among others. By participating in the ARFL program, high school students can gain hands-on experience, deepen their understanding of aerospace engineering, and contribute to impactful research projects under the guidance of experienced professionals.

AI Scholars

See website

Hosting Institution

Veritas AI

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$1,490

Application Deadline

Dec 2, 2023

Categories

Engineering, Comp Sci, Quantit...

Summary

Learn the fundamentals of Python and key concepts in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Build a strong foundation to code and create AI models independently.

AFSA's National High School Essay Contest

See website

Hosting Institution

By American Foreign Service Association

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (Dc)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 1, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

The annual contest, organized by the collaboration between the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) and the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), aims to actively engage high school students in learning and writing about topics related to peace and conflict. The contest encourages students to develop an appreciation for the role of diplomacy in fostering partnerships that promote peacebuilding and safeguard national security. The winner of the contest is awarded a cash prize of $2,500, an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., and a full scholarship to the Semester at Sea Program for one semester upon their university admission. Additionally, a runner-up receives a cash reward of $1,250 and a full scholarship to the National Student Leadership Conference's International Diplomacy Program. Eligibility for participation is open to students in grades nine through twelve in the United States, regardless of whether their parents are affiliated with the Foreign Service.

Advanced Teen Astronomy Camp in Arizona

See website

Hosting Institution

Astronomy Camp

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Tucson (AZ)

Cost

$1,900

Application Deadline

Jun 29, 2024

Categories

Physics

Summary

The Mount Lemmon Observatory Summer Astronomy Camp offers an immersive and hands-on experience for students interested in astronomy. Over the course of seven days, students will have the unique opportunity to stay at Mount Lemmon Station Observatory and gain access to its telescopes. This allows them to undertake individual research projects in various areas of astronomy, such as astronomical photography, spectroscopy, electronic photometry, and CCD imaging. The program is highly competitive, with only 20 students being accepted each year, resulting in a selective acceptance rate of 30% in 2022. The camp provides an exceptional opportunity for students to engage in research and gain practical experience in the field of astronomy.

Adelphi Business and Society

See website

Hosting Institution

Adelphi University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Garden City (NY)

Cost

$3000-$5200

Application Deadline

Jul 26, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

Although a bit expensive, this program provides an in-person experience with access to New York City. This course helps students develop the skills needed to succeed in business and innovation development, whether starting a new venture or working within an existing organization. Students learn about various business components, including marketing, accounting, and finance, and create a comprehensive business plan. There is also an in-class "Shark Tank" pitch session where students can present their business ideas.

ACLU's Summer Advocacy Program, National Advocacy Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

ACLU

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jul 5, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The American Civil Liberties Union's Summer Advocacy Program provides a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the world of social justice law and activism. Through classrooms, seminars, and policy discussions, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of legal strategies and the basics of law, as well as insights into issue advocacy. Distinguished speakers, including renowned actress and activist Kerry Washington and Olympic Gold Medalist Tommie Smith, contribute to the program's engaging learning environment. A highlight of the program is the Day of Action, where students actively participate in collective advocacy on Capitol Hill, addressing pressing civil liberties issues such as facial recognition technology regulation, immigration, and equitable distribution of Covid-19 response resources. This program not only educates and empowers students but also inspires them to become effective advocates for social justice and civil liberties.

ACADEMY FOR ROBOTICS

See website

Hosting Institution

UT Computer Science Summer Academies

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Austin (TX)

Cost

$2,100

Application Deadline

Jun 27, 2024

Categories

Data Science, Comp Sci, Engine...

Summary

The AI ​​robotics market is expected to grow from 6.9 billion in 2021 to 35.3 billion by 2026, and the average salary for an AI software engineer is $110,000 in 2021. Discover the world of intelligent robotics, work and practice magic and experimentation. with a robot with legs.

Academic Immersion: Introduction to Experimental Psychology at Boston University

See website

Hosting Institution

Trustees of Boston University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boston (MA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Aug 2, 2024

Categories

Psychology

Summary

The 3-week program for rising juniors and seniors offers a valuable opportunity to delve into the field of psychology and gain hands-on research experience. Students will engage in seminars to enhance their understanding of psychology coursework while learning the principles of designing and executing research projects. Working in teams, participants will have the chance to create and conduct their own experiments under the guidance of Boston University instructors. The program emphasizes data collection and analysis in real-world settings. At the conclusion of the program, students will present their findings to peers and faculty members, showcasing their research achievements. This immersive experience provides a solid foundation in psychological research methodology and fosters collaboration and critical thinking skills.

Academic Connections Research Scholars

See website

Hosting Institution

UC San Diego

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$2300

Application Deadline

Mar 8, 2024

Categories

Biology, Chemistry

Summary

A total of 25 students were selected to interact with UCSD faculty researchers in private. They do their studies in real biology or biochemistry labs on campus. Winter and summer sessions of the six-week program are available

Institute International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP)

See website

Hosting Institution

Perimeter Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Waterloo (Canada)

Cost

$195

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Biology, Medicine, Data Scienc...

Summary

ISSYP is a mid year program for current youngsters and seniors who are keen on hypothetical physical science and need to seek after it in school. Understudies go to Border Organization specialists' discussions on the freshest hypothetical physical science issues, as well as short courses, feature discourses, and mentorship meetings. ISSYP is an extremely serious program that just acknowledges 30-40 understudies every year. While ISSYP used to be facilitated at the Edge Establishment in Waterloo, Ontario, it is currently a completely online 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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