9 Research Programs For High School Students in Florida

The top research programs in Florida for high school students, selected based on prestige, location, and affordability. See Research opportunities in other states here.

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 23, 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

Explore the program

Other programs

University of Florida Student Science Training Program (UF SSTP)

See website

Hosting Institution

University of Florida

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Gainesville (FL)

Cost

$5,550

Application Deadline

Feb 27, 2026

Categories

Data Science, Neuroscience, Bi...

Summary

The University of Florida Student Science Training Program (UF SSTP) is a seven week residential research program for selected students entering senior year and at least 16 years old by the program start date who are considering science, medicine, math, computer science, or engineering careers. The program emphasis is research participation with a UF faculty research scientist and his or her research team. Students interested in attending the UF SSTP must possess a high level of maturity, an ability to live and learn independently, a desire to work collaboratively, and a sincere interest in research.

National YoungArts Competition

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Hosting Institution

National YoungArts Competition

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Miami (FL)

Cost

$35

Application Deadline

Oct 12, 2026

Categories

Arts

Summary

YoungArts is a renowned organization that provides support to artists across a wide range of disciplines, including Design Arts, Dance, Music, Visual Arts, and Film. Through the National YoungArts competition, aspiring artists have the opportunity to showcase their talents and gain recognition on a national level. Participants can submit their entries in multiple disciplines, and a distinguished panel of artists serves as judges for the competition. The selected finalists not only receive financial assistance to further their artistic pursuits at higher education institutes but also gain access to a network of fellow artists and industry professionals. Additionally, YoungArts offers various programs and activities throughout the year, providing artists with ongoing opportunities for growth and development.

YoungArts

See website

Hosting Institution

YoungArts

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Miami (FL)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Arts

Summary

Established in 1981, the National YoungArts Foundation aims to discover and support the emerging artists of the future in various artistic, literary, and performing arts disciplines. Every year, thousands of students submit applications, and a select group of winners are chosen to participate in weeklong programs held in Los Angeles, New York, and Miami. These programs involve workshops with master artists. To apply, there is a $35 application fee, although fee waivers are available for eligible individuals. Regional Honorable Mentions are invited to attend regional workshops, while finalists are invited to the prestigious National YoungArts Week. During this event, finalists have the opportunity to meet the judges and compete for cash prizes of up to $10,000. Additionally, finalists are eligible for nomination as a US Presidential Scholar in the Arts. Students in grades 10th to 12th are eligible to apply.

Upward Bound Math-Science

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Hosting Institution

Florida International University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Miami (FL)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

Upward Bound Math-Science is a federally funded program designed to assist high school students in their pursuit of STEM fields by offering academic instruction, tutoring, and mentoring. The program provides a range of services including hands-on research opportunities, college preparation, and career exploration. Students benefit from summer programs, year-round counseling, exposure to university faculty, computer training, and financial literacy education. Notably, the program offers targeted support for students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, those with limited English proficiency, students with disabilities, those experiencing homelessness or in foster care, and others who may be disconnected from educational opportunities.

Theatre - St. Petersburg College

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Hosting Institution

St. Petersburg College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Saint Petersburg (FL)

Cost

$10

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Business

Summary

St. Petersburg College presents a captivating summer theatre program designed for high school students who have a passion for acting, directing, stage management, and other facets of theatre production. Under the guidance of seasoned professionals, students will have the opportunity to enhance their skills and culminate their experience with an exhilarating production at the program's conclusion. The application process involves auditions, with a deadline of May 22-23, and the program dates are scheduled for performances on June 23-24 at 7 p.m. and June 24-25 at 2 p.m.

Florida State University Summer Programs

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Hosting Institution

Florida State University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Tallahassee (FL)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

FSU offers a wide array of engaging and educational summer programs catering to a diverse range of interests. Whether students are inclined towards STEM, humanities, language courses, or other fields, there are programs available to suit their preferences. Options include iCamp, which focuses on computing and technology careers, American Legion Boys and Girls State for an immersive experience in local and state government, Saturday-at-the-Sea Summer Day Camp for nature exploration, and the College Reach Out Program, which provides leadership training and life management skills, as well as music appreciation and other activities. With such a variety of programs to choose from, students can find the perfect opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills while enjoying their summer break.

Florida A&M University

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Hosting Institution

Florida A&M University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Tallahassee (FL)

Cost

$700 Residential (staying on-campus) $500 Non-Residential (staying off-campus)

Application Deadline

Apr 24, 2026

Categories

Engineering

Summary

Florida A&M University (FAMU) provides a diverse array of summer programs tailored to high school students, offering them the chance to delve into different fields of study, bolster their academic abilities, and partake in college-level coursework. Notable programs include the AGRI-STEM Summer Program and Forestry and Conservation Education, ideal for those fascinated by agriculture and food sciences. The Engineering program caters to aspiring innovators and technology enthusiasts. Moreover, FAMU offers the Emerging Pharmacists program and Creative Crafts program, enabling students to explore healthcare and the arts, respectively, while acquiring valuable skills and firsthand experiences. These programs not only expose students to various academic disciplines but also prepare them for future educational pursuits and professional endeavors.

Theatre for Social Change - Eckerd College

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Hosting Institution

Eckerd College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Saint Petersburg (FL)

Cost

$0-$2000

Application Deadline

Apr 26, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

The collaboration between Asolo Repertory Theatre and Eckerd College presents a distinctive platform for aspiring young artists to collaborate with seasoned industry professionals, fostering an environment where they can cultivate their artistic abilities while driving social change. This program offers participants the chance to harness their creativity and produce compelling works of art that carry a meaningful impact. By engaging in this program, students have the opportunity to develop their artistic skills, gain valuable insights from professionals, and contribute to the creation of art that inspires positive societal transformation.

Georgetown University's Pre-College course in Medical Research

See website

Hosting Institution

Precollege Programs

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Fort Lauderdale (FL)

Cost

$1,895

Application Deadline

Jan 13, 2026

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Georgetown University offers a pre-college program tailored for students passionate about medicine and medical research. The program is available in various formats, including 1-week intensives, 2-week, and 4-week sessions, allowing flexibility based on the student's learning pace and availability. Throughout the program, participants are exposed to clinical research and ethical considerations, with a particular focus on medical research in the context of cancer. Students also have the opportunity to develop their scientific writing skills by creating a scientific article based on their own research project. The program features guided projects, mentorship from top researchers, and valuable career guidance. If you have a keen interest in medicine and medical research, the Georgetown University summer course is an excellent opportunity to explore this field and gain valuable knowledge and skills.

Are there many Research Opportunities for High School Students in Florida?

Florida offers abundant research opportunities for high school students with prestigious universities like the University of Florida and Florida State University. The state is well known for its renowned research centers - the Kennedy Space Center and Scripps Research Institute. Need more reasons? Its diverse ecosystems, including beaches, wetlands, and forests, provide rich environments for scientific exploration. Florida's combination of academic institutions, research centers, diverse ecosystems, and favorable climate make it an ideal state for high school students seeking research opportunities.

What other research opportunities are available?

For a full set of research opportunity listings, see our guide to research opportunities for high school students.

How can I find research mentors in Florida?


Finding research mentors is a pivotal step in accessing research opportunities for high school students near me. Platforms like Polygence connect students with mentors in fields like STEM, biology, and medicine. Additionally, attending pre-college programs in Florida hosted by universities like UF or FIU provides direct access to faculty and research scientists eager to guide high school students in their academic journeys.

How can high school students participate in research?


Participation in research begins with identifying programs such as STEM research programs for high school students. Applications to programs like the Max Planck Florida Institute Summer Internship or the UF SSTP often require a strong academic background and an interest in exploring research opportunities for high school students near me. Many programs offer hands-on lab experiences, fostering essential skills for future researchers.

Why should I do research as a high school student?


Engaging in research as a high school student allows you to gain a competitive edge for college applications, especially for STEM majors. It builds critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and practical experience. Research programs at Polygence offer personalized projects to enrich your resume while exploring research experience that aligns with your passions.

Are there summer research programs for high school students in Florida?


Absolutely! Florida is home to renowned summer research programs for high school students in Florida, such as the UF SSTP and the Max Planck Florida Institute Internship. These programs provide immersive learning in fields like neuroscience, biology, and engineering, making them ideal for juniors and other students eager to explore internship programs during the summer break.

What are the benefits of conducting research in Florida?


Florida offers unmatched benefits for high school students pursuing research. Home to top-tier medical hubs such as the Scripps Research Institute and the Max Planck Florida Institute, the state provides students access to cutting-edge technologies and pioneering research in neuroscience, medicine, and biology. Beyond the lab, Florida's diverse ecosystems—spanning beaches, wetlands, and forests—enable immersive studies in environmental science and biology, making it an ideal setting for STEM research programs for high school students.

At Polygence, we take these opportunities a step further. Through our Research Mentorship Program and Polygence Pods, students can launch their own passion projects inspired by Florida’s rich research landscape. Whether it's designing a project on wetland conservation, leveraging data from state research centers, or exploring medical breakthroughs, our tailored mentorship ensures students gain hands-on research experience while connecting their personal interests with professional expertise. Polygence turns Florida's natural and academic advantages into transformative learning experiences.

Want to start a project of your own?

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