A black and green photo of a black and green object.

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

What research opportunity are you looking for?

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

Starting at $2695

Application Deadline

Dec 15, 2024

Recommended for you

Categories

Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology

Explore the program

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

IMG Academy - Track and Field

See website

Hosting Institution

IMG Academy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Bradenton (FL)

Cost

$3,249

Application Deadline

Dec 10, 2023

Categories

Data Science

Summary

IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, offers a premier summer program for high school athletes who are looking to enhance their athletic skills and achievements. As a leading sports education organization, IMG Academy provides training in a wide range of sports including basketball, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, and tennis. The academy boasts world-class facilities and has produced notable alumni such as Dwayne Bacon and Earl Clark. By participating in the IMG Academy summer program, athletes have the opportunity to refine their skills, receive top-notch coaching, and gain valuable experience to strengthen their athletic profiles. Whether you aspire to compete at the collegiate level or pursue a sports-based scholarship, this intensive 2-week camp will provide the competitive edge you need to excel.

Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Pathways To Science

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Damariscotta (ME)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 14, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program, sponsored by the American Fisheries Society (AFS), offers an exceptional educational opportunity for high school students interested in natural resource and environmental management. This paid summer program is open to students in their junior and senior year, providing them with hands-on experience and research opportunities in the field of fisheries science. Participants engage in meaningful research projects focused on topics such as fisheries management, habitat protection, and habitat restoration. Through their involvement in the program, students gain valuable knowledge and skills in the field of fisheries biology, while also exploring potential career paths in this important scientific discipline. The Hutton Program offers a unique platform for students to contribute to ongoing research efforts and deepen their understanding of the complexities of managing and preserving our aquatic ecosystems.

Hoya Summer High School Sessions

See website

Hosting Institution

Georgetown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

$2,053

Application Deadline

May 15, 2024

Categories

History, Social Science

Summary

From 1-week Academies like International Relations Academy, U.S. Campaigns & Elections Academy, Washington & the World Academy, to the 3-week Foreign Policy Academy, students are invited to think bigger and discuss more thoughtfully, as they dive deeper into the respective field of study.

Houston Methodist’s Summer Internship program for High Schoolers

See website

Hosting Institution

Houston Methodist

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Houston (TX)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 2, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

The 9-week program offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in translational research in a laboratory setting. With a focus on preparing students for their future academic and professional endeavors, the program includes a comprehensive professional development curriculum that covers essential skills such as college selection, scholarship applications, and scientific writing. Students are assigned to renowned faculty mentors at Houston Methodist who provide guidance on laboratory techniques and support their involvement in active research projects. Through this immersive experience, students gain valuable hands-on training, develop their scientific knowledge and skills, and contribute to ongoing research in their chosen study area.

Hofstra University's Summer Science Research Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Hofstra University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Hempstead (NY)

Cost

$2,000

Application Deadline

Mar 29, 2024

Categories

Biology, Physics, Chemistry, C...

Summary

Hofstra University's Summer Science Research Program offers high school students opportunities in science research under the guidance of professionals in science and mathematics. For more than 15 years, HUSSRP has provided selected research-oriented high school students the opportunity to work with our science faculty during the summer in an on-campus research program. The program runs from early July through mid-August culminating in a science ""poster session"" in early fall where students display the work they performed during the summer. Students must be enrolled in 10th or 11th grade at the time the application is submitted.

High School Summer Art Intensive

See website

Hosting Institution

New York University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

$7,683

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Arts, Literature and Languages...

Summary

Students will work directly with practicing art professionals who bring a level of expertise in the field that only NYU can offer. We expect students to engage their courses rigorously to create ambitious works beyond a scope they may have previously explored at the high school level while learning about the New York world of contemporary art.

High School Fed Challenge

See website

Hosting Institution

FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF NEW YORK

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 14, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The High School Fed Challenge, organized by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, is a highly esteemed economics competition that offers students the opportunity to conduct research and potentially get published in the Journal of Future Economists. The competition emphasizes teamwork, research skills, data literacy, and analytical writing. Each year, participants are given a theme and are required to conduct in-depth research and analysis on a related topic. Submissions of academic papers are evaluated by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and the winning team has the privilege of having their papers published in the prestigious Journal of Future Economists, along with receiving recognition for their achievement.

Harvard's Pre-College program

See website

Hosting Institution

Harvard University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Cambridge (MA)

Cost

$5,575

Application Deadline

Apr 10, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

While Harvard Summer Camp and Harvard's pre-college program are separate entities, it's important to note that attending Harvard Summer Camp does not grant preferential treatment in the admission process for Harvard University. The pre-college program offered by Harvard provides students with a valuable opportunity to experience college life and is highly competitive and prestigious. With over 90+ courses to choose from, participants engage in rigorous academic study while also participating in a variety of extracurricular activities both inside and outside the classroom. The program requires students to invest the same level of effort as college students, thereby preparing them for their academic careers at top institutions. The courses span a wide range of subjects, including Business, Leadership, Speech, Writing, Literature, Public Health, Law, Politics, Philosophy, Psychology, Medicine, STEM, Ethics, and History, among others. Exploring the available summer opportunities at Harvard can offer a comprehensive understanding of the diverse educational experiences offered by the university.

Harvard University

See website

Hosting Institution

Harvard University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Cambridge (MA)

Cost

$3,900–$14,250

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Data Science

Summary

Harvard University provides opportunities to study gender studies through its Pre-college Program and Secondary School Program. These programs offer specialized courses that explore gender in specific contexts, allowing students to focus their studies. Course options include "Introduction to Gender and Sexuality Studies," "The Intellectual Economy of Pants: Fashion, Gender, and Power," and "Race, Gender, and Youth Activism in the Struggle for Justice." The Secondary School Program allows students to select multiple courses for up to eight credits, while the Pre-college Program focuses on one course. By participating in these programs, students can deepen their understanding of gender and its intersections with various aspects of society.

Hosting Institution

New York University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

$5,000-$8,372

Application Deadline

Apr 15, 2024

Categories

Biology, Chemistry, Comp Sci, ...

Summary

GSTEM is a six-week summer program for high school students with an interest in pursuing academic and career paths in STEM. Students are paired with a STEM professor or researcher and work on individual projects in a field of their choosing. In addition to earning first-hand research experience in real STEM labs, students take weekly field trips to meet women working in a variety of STEM fields. This program is open to high school students currently enrolled in the 11th or 10th grade.

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.

OR CONTINUE WITH
Already have an account? Log In
By registering you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy, and consent that we or our partner provider may reach out to you using a system that can auto-dial.