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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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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

Alfaisal University Artificial Intelligence (AI) Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Alfaisal University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Riyadh

Cost

﷼5000

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

AI/ML, Comp Sci

Summary

There are many aspects of our daily life that are technology-driven, some of which may be enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI). However, these technologies often need to be customized for the contexts of use, making it difficult to simply use off-the-shelf products. The AI Academy summer program will help students develop skills in product design, rapid prototyping, and product testing in a user co-design manner to understand how to produce these kinds of AI-enabled solutions.

Alfaisal University Aspiring Physician

See website

Hosting Institution

Alfaisal University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Riyadh

Cost

5100﷼

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

Biology, Medicine

Summary

The Aspiring Physicians Program introduces high school students to the medical field to help them discover their passion and determine their future career. The program adopts problem-based learning, which introduces the students to various common diseases in our community and helps them develop critical thinking. It approaches several biomedical sciences, taught in pre-clerkship years at the School of Medicine as well as advanced medical knowledge applied in clinical aspects.

Alfaisal University Brainers

See website

Hosting Institution

Alfaisal University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Riyadh

Cost

﷼5000

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

Neuroscience, Biology, Psychol...

Summary

Brainers is an exhilarating three-week program that will transport you from the wonders of the human brain to the heights of emerging technology. By the end of the program, you will have a strong knowledge foundation to further explore brain health and mental health as future advocates, researchers, specialists, and policymakers.

Alfaisal University Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking Bootcamp

See website

Hosting Institution

Alfaisal University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Riyadh

Cost

5000﷼

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

This comprehensive and practical 3-week bootcamp introduces participants to common and important issues in today's digital and computing world in terms of security. The bootcamp is divided into two parts. Part 1 is essential for developing a security mindset and understanding how to think like an attacker. Part 2 is when participants will gain hands-on experience in evaluating the security of web applications on the Internet and performing penetration testing.

Alfaisal University Art and Architecture Academy

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Hosting Institution

Alfaisal University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Riyadh

Cost

﷼4900

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

Architecture, Arts

Summary

In the realm of architectural design, two primary elements define the essence of a structure: its creation ('Making') and its significance ('Meaning'). The M+M Alphabet is a program that provides students with an opportunity to learn about architecture and design, make physical models, and display their work. This course is aimed at integrating digital representation, architectural design, and fabrication methods into a wide variety of tools and techniques.

Alfaisal University Metaverse and Innovation Camp

See website

Hosting Institution

Alfaisal University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Riyadh

Cost

4300﷼

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

AI/ML, Comp Sci

Summary

Discover a transformative summer experience at Alfaisal University's AUEP program, where your child can lead the next wave of digital innovation. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the metaverse, fostering not just learning, but the creation of groundbreaking digital products.

Alfaisal University RoboGames Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Alfaisal University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Riyadh

Cost

4800﷼

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

AI/ML, Comp Sci

Summary

During the program, the students will be trained on using many development IDEs and will be learning many languages to build games and robotic programs as well as XR applications. It’s also designed to give a realistic overview of a Software Engineer student’s life. The playful robotics aspect of the RoboGames Academy offers an immersive and interactive experience with LEGO robotics, where participants delve into the creative and playful side of robotics. Through hands-on activities and engaging challenges, students explore the fundamentals of robotics in a dynamic and enjoyable environment while also igniting their imaginative and problem-solving skills.

Tuwaiq Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Riyadh, Online

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

AI/ML, Comp Sci

Summary

Tuwaiq Academy is the first in educational programs for advanced technology fields in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, offering a number of diverse programs in various technical tracks and for different age groups.

Misk Virtual Summer Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Misk Mohammed Bin Salman Foundation

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Online

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

TBA

Categories

Engineering, Business, Comp Sc...

Summary

The Misk Virtual Summer Program is a 3 – 7-week online program created to prepare high performing Saudi students for university-level academic studies through its challenging coursework and leadership-building activities. Our diverse programs offer high-performing students a variety of subject choices including business, entrepreneurship, medicine and engineering.

Young STEAM Talent Award

See website

Hosting Institution

The Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Hong Kong

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 15, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci, Mathematics, Biology...

Summary

The aim of this Award, jointly organised by "G3 Alliance" comprising of Centum Charitas Foundation, The Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education, and the Council of the Hong Kong Laureate Forum, is to create a dynamic platform that enables young individuals to unleash their imaginative ideas, cultivate critical thinking abilities, and make a constructive difference in their communities. By addressing the demand for talent development, we aspire to empower gifted youth to utilize their skills for the betterment of society and emerge as leaders in the realms of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.

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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