In high school, summer brings you a much-needed break from classes, homework, and exams. If you’re interested in the fascinating world of AI and software, a software development & AI summer school in Boston can be a smart way to spend your summer building apps, writing real code, and working on projects that go beyond textbooks. Experiences like these help you grow, shape your interests, and improve your college applications.

Imagine yourself joining a summer school in Boston. You might spend your mornings learning how machine learning works, your afternoons coding a website or training a simple model, and your free time interacting and sharing cool technology-related ideas with students who are just as curious as you are. Whether it’s robotics, cybersecurity, game design, data science, or artificial intelligence, summer programs in Boston give you hands-on exposure to how technology works in the real world.

Even if you already live in or near Boston, joining a structured summer program can be valuable. You’ll meet new peers, learn from university professors, and experience what studying software development and AI at a higher level actually feels like.

What kinds of software development & AI summer schools are available in Boston?

Finding the right program isn’t always easy. Some focus mostly on theory without much hands-on work. Others promise exciting tech exposure but don’t offer strong mentorship or depth. Not every opportunity will give you the balance of learning, building, and real-world insight that you might be looking for. That’s why choosing matters carefully.

Boston is home to programs run by universities, research institutes, and tech-focused organizations. Some offer intensive research experiences, others focus on practical coding skills, and some even provide paid apprenticeships. You could deepen an interest in AI, or explore it for the first time in a structured and supportive environment.

To make things easier, we’ve curated a list of 15 Software Development & AI Summer Schools offered either in Boston or within an hour’s distance. These programs stand out for their academic quality, hands-on learning, mentorship, and strong reputation.

For more options, you can consider pre-college programs in Massachusetts. If you’re looking for remote alternatives, you can also have a look at online coding summer programs for high school students.

15 Software Development & AI Summer Schools in Boston for High School Students

1. Immerse’s Boston Software Development & AI Summer School

Location: Miller Hall, Suffolk University, Boston
Cost: Varies; summer school scholarship available through their bursary programme
Dates: 2 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: Multiple summer cohorts; rolling admissions
Eligibility: 15-18 year olds; Open to students worldwide 

Immerse’s Software Development & AI Summer School offers you an immersive learning experience. You’ll participate in hands-on exercises, master the important AI and software development concepts, and develop practical coding skills. You’ll receive personalized mentorship, participate in seminars and discussions led by industry experts, and develop strong foundational knowledge in concepts like neural networks, machine learning, and software engineering.

You’ll develop technology-specific skills, including critical and analytical thinking and problem-solving. The program will offer you an in-depth understanding of the role and impact of AI and software development on real-world situations. 

Why it stands out: It will equip you with hands-on AI and software development skills, expert mentorship, and a strong foundation in machine learning and real-world tech applications.

2. Northeastern University’s Young Scholars Program (YSP)

Location: Northeastern Boston Campus, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Dates: June 22nd – July 30th
Application Deadline: March 2nd
Eligibility: Current high school juniors; U.S. Citizens or permanent Massachusetts residents living within commuting distance of Northeastern University. 

Northeastern University’s Young Scholars Program (YSP) offers a free hands-on research experience to high school students. You’ll engage in six weeks of science and engineering research, participate in special seminars, and receive education and career counseling. You’ll gain knowledge about a range of topics in technology, including robotics, radar, lasers, biotechnology, and more.

You’ll learn through presentations shared by professors and graduate students from diverse fields, including computer engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and more. Along with academic learning, the program will also give you the chance to experience college life and go on field trips.

Why it stands out: You’ll spend six weeks conducting real university-level research while exploring interesting fields like robotics at Northeastern University. 

3. MITES Semester

Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Dates: June – December
Application Deadline: February 1st
Eligibility: High school juniors; Must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents

MITES Semester offers you a six-month inspiring learning experience. You’ll connect with motivated and like-minded peers, participate in online courses, and attend weekly webinars. You’ll have the opportunity to explore two courses and gain in-depth knowledge about science and engineering disciplines. You’ll get to choose from a range of courses, including machine learning, robotics, design thinking, embedded systems, and more.

You’ll learn through one project-based course and one supplemental course in areas such as computer science, physics, calculus, science writing, and communication. If you’re interested in gaining hands-on experience in machine learning and other engineering disciplines, this program could be a good option to consider.

Why it stands out: It will immerse you in AI and software-focused courses like machine learning, robotics, and embedded systems while building real coding and problem-solving skills.

4. Boston University RISE Internship

Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost/Stipend: Tuition: $5,930 + $75 application fee. More information here
Dates: Residential: June 28th – August 7th; Commuter: June 9th – August 7th
Application Deadline: February 4th
Eligibility: High school students entering senior year in the fall; U.S. citizens/permanent residents 

Boston University’s RISE Internship offers a six-week learning experience in Research in Science and Engineering. You’ll gain hands-on experience in STEM, develop in-depth knowledge, and conduct university-level laboratory research. You’ll have the opportunity to choose from a range of research areas, including computer science, electrical and computer engineering, physics, psychology, mechanical engineering, and more.

You’ll receive mentorship from expert faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows. You’ll work on research projects for 40 hours per week and develop analytical and technical skills. The program will conclude with a poster symposium where you’ll share the research results.

Why it stands out: You’ll conduct intensive university-level research in computer science and other STEM disciplines while working closely with expert mentors and presenting your findings at a formal symposium.

5. Tech Apprentice – Boston PIC

Location: Boston, MA
Cost/Stipend: Free; $15/hour stipend is paid
Dates: 6-7 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school students studying in a Boston Public School

Boston Private Industry Council’s Tech Apprentice is an intensive paid learning experience for high school students interested in working at local tech companies. You’ll gain knowledge to pursue a career in the IT field and hands-on work experience. You’ll have the opportunity to work in a wide range of industries and companies across Boston based on individual interests, skills, and company requirements.

You’ll work on a range of projects, including web design, web programming, coding, database analysis, troubleshooting support, quality control, and more. If you’re a high school student interested in gaining practical work experience in technology,  this program could be a good option to consider.

Why it stands out: It lets you gain paid, real-world software and IT experience by working on web development, coding, and database projects inside Boston’s tech companies.

6. Wentworth Institute of Technology- Momentum

Location: Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, MA
Cost: Commuters: $699; Residential: $1,699
Dates:  August 3-7
Application Deadline: May 15th
Eligibility: Grade 9th-10th students; Open to international students 

The Wentworth Institute of Technology’s Momentum offers a hands-on summer learning experience to high school students. You’ll get to choose from different interdisciplinary courses, engage in lab work, and participate in hands-on projects. Some of the courses include connected care: technology in human health, digital impact pathways in computing, art and science of creating: engineering+ designing tomorrow’s products, and more.

You’ll gain knowledge and exposure to product development, computer engineering, electrical engineering, data science, information technology, creative processes involved in innovation, and more. The program also allows you to explore the campus and connect with a supportive staff and like-minded peers.

Why it stands out: It lets you explore computing, data science, and product engineering through hands-on lab projects while experiencing real campus life and interdisciplinary innovation.

7. Tufts University Pre-College College Coding for Gaming 

Location: Tufts University, Medford/Somerville Campus, MA
Cost: $2,750; Limited need-based scholarships available
Dates: June 22-26
Application Deadline: May 1st
Eligibility: Students entering grades 10th-12th or Spring high school graduates; Open to students worldwide 

Tufts University Pre-College College Coding for Gaming is an immersive summer program for high school students. You’ll explore the complete game development process, including concept, storytelling, prototyping, and coding, while gaining knowledge about the responsibilities of designers, storytellers, and developers.

You’ll work on hands-on projects and develop a range of skills in technical coding, innovation, teamwork, and confidence. The program will give you the chance to work on designing and coding for a playable game by applying industry-inspired tools. If you’re interested in gaining a creative, hands-on learning experience in the field of software development, this program could be a good option to consider.

Why it stands out: You’ll design and code your own playable game while learning the full software development process from storytelling to final prototype using industry-style tools.

8. ImpactLab – Wentworth Institute of Technology

Location: Boston, MA
Cost: One session $3,995; Two sessions: $6,990
Dates: Session 1: July 5-17; Session 2: July 19-31
Application Deadline: Priority: March 1st; Final: May 15th
Eligibility: Rising 11th-12th grade students ages 15-18. Open to students worldwide 

ImpactLab by Wentworth Institute of Technology offers a hands-on laboratory learning experience. You’ll choose courses in science, technology, and design based on your interests and engage in a two-week on-campus learning experience led by the Wentworth faculty.

The program includes a range of courses offered through two sessions, including computer science and programming fundamentals, introduction to applied AI, robotics engineering, advanced applied AI, game designing and programming, and many more. You’ll understand the role of AI in real-world problem solving, including medical diagnostics and self-driving cars. You’ll explore a range of computer science concepts, including conditionals, loops, data types, and more.

Why it stands out: It lets you explore applied AI, robotics, and programming fundamentals through hands-on labs while learning how AI powers real-world innovations.

9. Boston University (BU) AI4ALL

Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost: Free; $100 registration fee
Dates: July 15th – August 2nd (tentative, based on previous years)
Application Deadline: Typically, May
Eligibility: Current sophomore or junior year female students attending a high school in Massachusetts

Boston University AI4ALL offers a three-week inclusive learning experience in the field of artificial intelligence. You’ll work on team projects, attend presentations from guest speakers, and go on industry field trips. The program aims to educate the next generation of AI thinkers and create a diverse AI workforce.

At the conclusion of the program, you’ll get to present your group research project with friends and family. If you’re a female student interested in gaining research-based knowledge in AI and attending high school in the Boston area, this program could be a good option to consider.

Why it stands out: It lets you explore artificial intelligence through collaborative research, industry exposure, and mentorship while building confidence in a supportive, inclusive community.

10. Electronics & Robotics Camp

Location: The Newman School, Boston, MA, Olin College of Engineering, Needham, MA, or Gann Academy/Bentley University, Waltham, MA
Cost: Tuition: $2500; Residential: $2097
Dates: June 22nd – July 10th
Application Deadline: NA
Eligibility: Current and rising juniors and seniors ( Most rising 8th through 10th grade students are also eligible); Open to students worldwide 

The Electronics and Robotics Camp offers a three-week engaging experience in engineering and computer science. You’ll gain foundational knowledge in coding and electronics and apply your learnings in a series of creative challenges. You’ll engage in hands-on activities, including designing and assembling machines and robotics vehicles.

In the next challenge, you’ll write computer code to operate your machines, use Arduino programming to power robots, and assemble vehicles by practicing soldering techniques. Along with hands-on learning experiences, the program also includes educational field trips to different places, including MIT Edgerton Center and WPI Robotics Lab.

Why it stands out: It will train you to design, solder, assemble, and program Arduino-powered robots from scratch, combining hands-on electronics with real coding to bring your machines to life.

11. Cryptography & Cybersecurity Camp

Location: Olin College of Engineering, Needham, MA, or Gann
Cost: Tuition: $699; Residential: $699
Dates: July 13th – July 17th
Application Deadline: NA
Eligibility: Students entering 8th grade to college; Open to students worldwide 

The Cryptography & Cybersecurity Camp offered by the Boston Leadership Institute offers you a one-week intensive learning experience. You’ll engage in hands-on activities, attend classes, and understand cryptography in detail.

You’ll learn to protect personal data, national security secrets, and viral codes. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to outsmart hackers from stealing confidential information present online. If you’re a high school student interested in the field of tech and computer science, this program could be a good option to consider.

Why it stands out: It lets you master real cryptography techniques and cybersecurity tools to understand encryption, protect sensitive data, and think like a security analyst.

12. Teen Jobs by Artists for Humanity

Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Cost/Stipend: Free; A stipend is paid after completion of the unpaid training.
Dates: July 17th
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students attending a Boston public school or living in Boston; Minimum age: 14

Teen Jobs by Artists for Humanity offers a creative learning experience to high school students. You’ll work in collaboration with professional artists and designers, develop new skills, and engage in paid studio work. Through the creative technology studio, you’ll learn to utilise a range of applications, including Figma, Blender, and Unreal Engine.

You’ll work on several specialized projects focusing on web development, projection mapping, UX/UI design, and game design. You’ll gain knowledge about client-facing work from mentors and participate in real-world problem-solving through addressing the unique client needs by developing dynamic applications and websites.

Why it stands out: It will give you paid, studio-based experience building real client projects using tools like Figma, Blender, and Unreal Engine for web, UX/UI, and game design.

13. Boston University Summer Challenge: Seminars

Location: Boston University, MA
Cost: $3,730; More information available here
Dates: Vary by sessions. More information here
Application Deadline: May 1st
Eligibility: High school students; Open to students worldwide 

Boston University Summer Challenge:  Seminars offer an engaging learning experience to high school students. The seminars are grouped into different topics to choose from based on your individual interests. You’ll attend lectures, participate in discussions, engage in individual and group activities, and work on project-based assignments.

You’ll learn about a range of computer science-related concepts, including artificial intelligence, software development, computer networks and security, variables, functions, simple data structures, and more. You’ll gain knowledge about the tools and techniques applied in developing novel LED lighting and also develop an understanding of engineering methods.

Why it stands out: You’ll explore AI, software development, and computer networks while applying coding concepts like variables and data structures through hands-on engineering projects.

14. Boston University Computer Science: Combinatoric Structures

Location: Virtual
Cost: Four Credits:  $3380; Eight Credits: $6,760. More information here
Dates:  Summer 1: May 12th – June 26th; Summer 2: June 29th – August 14th
Application Deadline: May 1st
Eligibility: High school students; Open to students worldwide 

The Boston University Computer Science: Combinatoric Structures offers an online learning experience to high school students. You’ll participate in challenging coursework, attend lectures, engage in discussions, and work on individual assignments.

You’ll explore a range of topics, including the fundamentals of logic, relations and functions, set theory, principles for manipulating basic combinatoric structures, and fundamental principles of counting. The course is offered through two summer sessions and gives an in-depth learning experience.

Why it stands out: It will help you understand the basics of logic, sets, functions, and counting, and build a strong foundation for computer science through structured online learning.

15. Tufts University Pre-College- Engineering with Artificial Intelligence 

Location: Tufts University, Medford / Somerville Campus, MA
Cost: Commuter: $4,425; Residential: $5,950
Dates: Session 1: Jul 5-17; Session 2: Jul 19-31
Application Deadline: May 1st
Eligibility: Rising 10th-12th graders or a recent high school graduate; Experience with programming; Open to students worldwide 

Tufts University Pre-College- Engineering with Artificial Intelligence offers an In-person summer learning experience to high school students. You’ll attend classes, participate in lab sessions, and learn about the ethical and social justice considerations related to the application of AI. You’ll gain knowledge about artificial intelligence and machine learning, understand low-level data analysis techniques, and learn about high-end comprehensive systems.

You’ll learn from experienced professionals and industry experts working on the latest AI and ML systems. If you’re a high school student interested in engaging in a hands-on, problem-solving opportunity in AI, this program could be a good option to consider.

Why it stands out: You’ll explore artificial intelligence and machine learning through hands-on labs while learning how real-world AI systems are built and their ethical aspects.

Turn Summer Coding Into A Strong Application

Think of your application as a build, not a bio. Admissions want proof you can learn, ship, and explain what you made.

A software development & AI summer school in Boston gives you that proof through mentors, structured sprints, and projects you can demo.

Instead of vague interest in AI, you’ll have specifics: the model you trained, the bugs you fixed, the system you improved.

Now package it well. Head to our University Preparation blogs for sharp personal statements, confident interviews, and supercurricular choices that match your tech interests.