Today’s world is characterized by rapid technological advances, and computer science forms the backbone of it. As a high school student, you might be avidly interested in any and all computer science you study at school. However, if you’re someone who wants to dive deeper into the field, school classes are unlikely to cut it. One of the best ways to explore computer science and determine if it’s right for you is via computer science summer programs for high school students.

Picture yourself meticulously building your first-ever full-stack app. Or experimenting with AI models in university labs, surrounded by like-minded peers from across the world. Computer science summer programs for high school students balance theory and hands-on experiences. By the time you walk out, you will have a clearer idea of what studying and working in tech looks like.

How to identify the best computer science summer programs for high school students?

We know that finding the right program can be challenging. You don’t want something too basic, too expensive, or simply disconnected from modern computer science research. That’s where the right guidance becomes important: to help you sort through the weeds and identify the program that suits you best.

Various computer science summer programs offer studies in algorithms, data science, cybersecurity, software development, robotics, and artificial intelligence. You’ll be taught by university faculty and researchers and work on coding projects, labs, and simulations.

The program will require hard work, but searching for the right program can seem difficult, too. But there’s no need to whip out your device and craft a complex algorithm to identify the best programs! To make your search easier, we’ve identified the 15 Best Computer Science Summer Programs for High School Students. They’ve been shortlisted based on the parameters of academic rigor, hands-on experience, and faculty mentorship opportunities.

15 Best Computer Science Summer Programs for High School Students

1. MIT’s Research Science Institute (RSI)

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost/Stipend: Free except an application fee of $75 (fee waiver available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective (> 2.5%)
Dates: 6 weeks, specific dates to be announced
Application Deadline: December 10th
Eligibility: High school juniors worldwide who are at least 16 years of age

RSI is a free, six-week residential program at MIT that combines advanced STEM coursework with an intensive research internship. Often regarded as one of the best computer science summer programs for high school students, you begin with a week of college-level lectures in mathematics, computer science, engineering, and natural sciences. You then work individually under the guidance of experienced scientists, conducting original research in areas such as algorithms, machine learning, computational biology, or systems engineering.

You read current scientific literature, design and execute your research plan, and analyse data using professional research methods. The final week mirrors an academic conference, where you produce a formal research paper and deliver an oral presentation evaluated by experts.

Why it stands out: You complete an original research project at MIT with mentorship from leading scientists, an experience rarely available to high school students.

2. Immerse Education’s Online Computer Science Programme

Location: Online
Cost: Varies; summer school scholarship available through our bursary programme
Application Deadline: Year-round cohorts
Program Dates: Year-round
Eligibility: Students around the world aged 13-18 currently enrolled in middle or high school

The Immerse Education Computer Science Online Research Programme is a year-round virtual course designed for high school students who want to explore computer science in depth from home. You’ll work closely with a dedicated tutor in one-to-one or small group tutorials, gaining personalised guidance and support throughout. The curriculum covers core computing concepts like algorithms and data structures, and invites students to apply what they learn through an independent research project.

Standout work may be showcased at the Immerse Online Symposium. Students on the Publication Research route also have the opportunity to work towards publication in an independent high school research journal, with dedicated publication support. Throughout the programme, you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic communication skills through interactive, hands-on learning. The programme concludes with a certificate of completion and a Letter of Recommendation from your tutor, with accredited options available that allow eligible students to earn UCAS points or US college credit.

Why it stands out: It gives you the opportunity to collaborate on CS research topics with expert mentors, helping you develop practical problem-solving and publishing-ready skills early.

3. NYU Computer Science for Cyber Security (CS4CS)

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: July 13th – August 7th
Application Deadline: May 15th
Eligibility: 10-11 grade students who are NYC and specific New Jersey and Nassau County residents

CS4CS is a four-week introductory program that teaches high school students key concepts in cybersecurity and computer science. You will study topics such as ethical hacking, cryptography, steganography, digital forensics, privacy, and data protection. The curriculum is designed for students with little to no prior experience in coding or cybersecurity, making it accessible while still covering industry-relevant material.

You will also participate in communication and problem-solving exercises, including theater-based training that helps build confidence and teamwork. The program focuses on developing foundational technical skills and exposing students to real-world cybersecurity issues. By the end, participants gain a clearer view of the pathways available in the rapidly growing cyber industry.

Why it stands out: It offers a beginner-friendly pathway into cybersecurity while still covering advanced, industry-relevant concepts.

4. MITES Summer

Location: MIT Campus
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective / 60 – 80 students
Dates: Six weeks over the summer from late June through early August
Application Deadline: February 1st
Eligibility: High school juniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents

MITES Summer is a six-week residential program at MIT that gives high school students exposure to rigorous, college-level STEM coursework. You will take five core classes in math, science, and humanities, along with electives in specialized STEM areas such as machine learning, architecture, and genomics.

The program emphasizes problem-solving, analytical thinking, and academic skill-building through fast-paced instruction and structured support. Students also tour MIT labs, engage with STEM professionals, and participate in seminars that highlight real-world applications of STEM fields. Outside the classroom, you will experience residential college life, build community with peers, and receive personalized college admissions guidance. 

Why it stands out: You’ll experience a full-semester STEM workload at MIT while exploring
advanced subjects are rarely offered in high school. 

5. Carnegie Mellon’s AI Scholars

Location: Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 20th – July 18th
Application Deadline: February 1st
Eligibility: 11th-grade student at the time of application; U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a current U.S. green card; At least 16 years old by the program start date

Carnegie Mellon’s AI Scholars is a fully funded, four-week residential program for rising high school seniors interested in developing foundational knowledge in artificial intelligence. You will take college-level courses taught by CMU faculty, gaining exposure to core AI and computing concepts. The program includes hands-on group research projects, faculty lectures, industry field trips, and structured workshops that build both technical and academic readiness.

You will also complete a virtual pre-program Python course to prepare for on-campus coursework, even if you have limited coding experience. The curriculum incorporates mentorship, career exploration sessions, and a writing workshop that guides students through drafting a polished college application essay. The experience concludes with a capstone symposium where students present research projects to the CMU community.

Why it stands out: You’ll explore AI at one of the world’s top computer science institutions through a fully funded, research-oriented residential program.

6. UT Computer Science Summer Academy for All

Location: UT Austin Campus, Austin, TX
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 7th – 13th (Standard), June 14th – 19th (ML)
Application Deadline: December 22nd
Eligibility: U.S. students entering 11–12 grade

This week-long residential program at UT Austin introduces high school students to foundational computer science concepts through hands-on learning and collaborative projects. The Standard Edition focuses on C++, project management, and hardware-based programming with Arduino. The Machine Learning Edition centers on Python, machine learning fundamentals, and the societal implications of AI.

Both tracks include faculty-led workshops, teamwork-based assignments, and exposure to current technologies used in industry. You can also learn about career pathways in tech and receive guidance on navigating the college admissions process at UT. Campus life is a core component, with participants staying in residence halls, dining on campus, and interacting with UT students. 

Why it stands out: You can choose between two focused tracks, C++ with Arduino or Python with machine learning, based on your interests and skill level.

7. Carnegie Mellon’s CS Scholar

Location: Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 20th – July 18th
Application Deadline: February 1st
Eligibility: 10th-grade student at the time of application; U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a current U.S. green card; At least 16 years old by the program start date

CS Scholars is a fully funded, four-week program that introduces rising high school sophomores to college-level computer science through structured coursework, hands-on projects, and faculty-led sessions. You will take classes in programming and mathematics while applying your learning to team-based projects that culminate in a final presentation.

The program includes weekly college-prep seminars covering admissions, financial aid, and academic readiness to help students understand the transition to college. You will also engage with CMU faculty, researchers, and industry partners, gaining exposure to real-world applications of computing. Those who perform well may be invited to return the following year for CMU’s AI Scholars Program, offering a continued pathway in advanced computing.

Why it stands out: It provides a fully funded, early introduction to college-level CS with direct access to CMU faculty, researchers, and industry partners.

8. Johns Hopkins’ ASPIRE Program

Location: Johns Hopkins University Campus, Baltimore, MD
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: >10%
Dates: June 23,24,25 – August 21st
Application Deadline: February 15th
Eligibility: High school junior or senior who is at least 15 years of age with a minimum 2.8 GPA. Check more details here

The ASPIRE Program places high school juniors and seniors in a professional STEM environment where they work on projects under the guidance of APL staff mentors. You will develop technical and problem-solving skills by completing hands-on assignments in areas such as Python programming, robotics, virtual modeling, and software development.

You are expected to work on-site 30–40 hours per week and manage project responsibilities with minimal supervision. ASPIRE does not prioritize GPA or prior STEM experience; instead, it looks for motivated students who are eager to explore STEM careers. For students interested in computing, projects may include building accessibility tools in Python, developing Java applications, or supporting robotics research.

Why it stands out: You’ll work directly with APL researchers on real technical projects, gaining exposure to computing applications used in industry and government.

9. Anson L. Clark Scholar Program

Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Cost/Stipend: None except a $25 application fee / $750 stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 12 students
Dates: June 21st – August 6th
Application Deadline: February 16th
Eligibility: U.S. high school students who are at least 17 years old by the start of the program

The Anson L. Clark Scholar Program is a highly competitive seven-week research experience where high school students work directly with Texas Tech University faculty. You conduct independent research in fields such as biology, cancer biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, physics, humanities, and social sciences. The program includes weekly seminars, discussions, and field trips that broaden students’ understanding of academic research and professional pathways.

You will spend most of your time in a research lab or academic setting, gaining practical experience with methodologies, data collection, and analytical techniques. The cohort structure allows students to develop critical thinking and engage with peers who share similar academic interests. Admission is highly selective, typically drawing students with exceptional academic records.

Why it stands out: You’ll complete graduate-level research under faculty mentorship in one of the most selective high school STEM and humanities research programs.

10. University of Chicago Data & Computing Summer Lab

Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost; stipend paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 15th – August 7th
Application Deadline: January 12th
Eligibility: High school students located in the Chicago area

This 8-week paid research program introduces Chicago-area high school students to real data-driven research in computer science, public policy, climate science, and biomedical research. You will be paired with UChicago research mentors and work on ongoing projects that build skills in data analysis, research design, and computational methods. You’ll gain experience using tools commonly applied in academic and industry research while learning how data supports real-world decision-making.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning, giving you the chance to contribute to meaningful research tasks rather than observe from the sidelines. No prior research experience is required, making it accessible for students exploring data science for the first time.

Why it stands out: You’ll get paid to conduct research with UChicago mentors while developing practical data and computing skills.

11. Changemakers in Computing

Location: University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Cost/Stipend: No cost / $1,200
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: July 6th – 30th
Application Deadline: April 1st
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors at Washington State high schools

Changemakers in Computing is a free summer program at the University of Washington designed for rising juniors and seniors from Washington State. The program introduces students to computer science and engineering through project-based learning, introductory coding, and explorations of different computing fields.

You will work in small mentee groups led by current UW undergraduates who provide guidance, support, and daily check-ins. Each week focuses on a different intersection of technology and society, giving students a clearer understanding of how computing can be used for social impact. The program also includes college-readiness support. You will gain a campus experience, receive a $1200 stipend, and build a supportive peer community.

Why it stands out: It blends technical learning with social-impact projects while offering mentorship and financial support for Washington State students.

12. NIST Summer High School Intern Program

Location: NIST campuses in Gaithersburg, MD, and Boulder, CO
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 22nd – August 7th
Application Deadline: January 26th
Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are current high school juniors or seniors at the time of application, with a minimum GPA of 3.0

The NIST Summer High School Intern Program allows high school juniors and seniors to participate in hands-on scientific research alongside NIST scientists and engineers. You can work in labs focused on areas such as materials science, physics, chemistry, information technology, and applied mathematics.

Students placed in the Information Technology Laboratory (ITL) explore topics like computer security, networking, software engineering, data mining, biometrics, and machine learning. You’ll build technical skills in areas such as Python, electronics, and data analysis while working in a structured research environment. This experience can help you understand research expectations and the types of academic pathways connected to computing, math, and engineering fields.

Why it stands out: You’ll gain direct exposure to federal research labs and work on technical projects guided by professional scientists and engineers.

13. Princeton University’s AI4ALL Program

Location: Princeton University, Princeton, NJ
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: July 9th – July 30th (tentative)
Application Deadline: April 9th (tentative)
Eligibility: Rising 11th-grade students who live in the United States and Puerto Rico and who qualify as low-income

This program introduces you to core AI concepts, current research areas, and the broader social implications of artificial intelligence. You’ll attend daily lectures from Princeton faculty, participate in hands-on labs, and explore how AI algorithms are developed and applied. The curriculum emphasizes both the technical foundations of AI and the ethical considerations that shape responsible technology development.

You’ll work on collaborative projects that apply AI to real-world problems, giving you a practical understanding of model behavior and evaluation. Mentorship sessions, community-building activities, and exposure to Princeton’s research environment help you understand potential college and career paths in AI. The program is designed to support students from underrepresented backgrounds and broaden participation in the field.

Why it stands out: You’ll learn AI directly from Princeton faculty while contributing to projects that highlight both technical depth and social impact.

14. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) at the Department of the Navy (DoN)

Location: Multiple lab locations are available across the country
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend of $4,000 for new participants, $4,500 for returning participants
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Eight weeks during the summer, with the option to extend for up to two more weeks
Application Deadline: November 1st
Eligibility: High school students who have completed at least 9th grade, are at least 16 years old, and are U.S. citizens. Students should check the specific lab’s additional requirements or exceptions

SEAP is an 8-week STEM research internship where you work directly in the Department of Navy laboratories under the supervision of professional scientists and engineers. As a participant, you contribute to ongoing research in fields such as computer science, applied mathematics, robotics, AI, and engineering. The program places students in over 38 Navy labs across the U.S., giving you access to research environments that focus on national defense and advanced technology development.

Computer science–related projects vary by lab but may include software prototyping, machine learning experimentation, cybersecurity studies, data modeling, or robotics programming. Your work involves structured mentorship, technical skill-building, and exposure to research methods used in federal laboratories. SEAP also introduces you to potential STEM career pathways within government and defense research.

Why it stands out: You gain hands-on experience with real Navy research teams and access to one of the largest networks of federal STEM laboratories.

15. Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) Digital Scholars Program

Location: Discovery Partners Institute, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 23rd – August 1st
Application Deadline: May 2nd
Eligibility: Students entering 11th or 12th grade or their first year of college at a 2- or 4-year Illinois institution in the fall

The DPI Digital Scholars Program is a summer initiative designed to help high school and first-year college students strengthen their computing and professional skills. You can choose from courses in computer science, data science, electrical and computer engineering, or mobile app development, each taught at a college level. Throughout the program, you will work on real-world projects with university researchers and industry professionals.

Weekly workshops introduce you to key topics like machine learning, entrepreneurship, and data science. The program also provides daily exposure to Chicago’s tech ecosystem through talks with technologists, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. In addition to technical learning, you will develop foundational skills in communication, teamwork, personal branding, and career readiness.

Why it stands out: You gain structured technical training while building direct connections to Chicago’s tech industry.

From Summer Coding to University

Summer coding programmes help you move from curiosity to clarity. Working on real projects shows what studying computer science actually involves.

The best experiences challenge you beyond school lessons, exposing you to research, collaboration, and modern tools used in industry and universities.

Choosing from these 15 best computer science summer programs for high school students helps you build skills, confidence, and evidence for future applications.

To strengthen your next steps, our University Preparation blogs explain how to translate these experiences into strong personal statements and interviews.