As a high-school student interested in physics, the subject can be exciting yet overwhelming. You might wonder what the field involves beyond the equations in your textbook. After all, physics involves experiments, computational modeling, and problem-solving in addition to theory. One of the best ways to truly understand the subject is by joining physics summer programs for high school students.

Picture yourself conducting experiments in a university lab, analysing data with researchers, and discussing cutting-edge discoveries with like-minded peers. By spending your summer studying physics, you’ll gain hands-on experience, collaborate with global peers, and get a taste of university-level academics.

How do you choose the right physics summer programs for high school students?

It might be difficult to decide what the right physics program is. Some might be too generic, too basic, or disconnected from actual physics research. That’s why guidance is important to help you sort through the various options and identify the best program for you.

Various universities and research institutions offer physics summer programs that are rigorous, hands-on, and grounded in scientific practice. You’ll explore cosmology, mechanics, advanced experimentation techniques, quantum mechanics, and more. You’ll learn through group projects, learning coding skills, lab sessions, and simulations. Programs range from those that model advanced university coursework to those focused on hands-on work for an introductory curriculum. 

Of course, regardless of difficulty, you’ll have to work hard once the program starts. For now, though, we’ve made your search easier. To help you choose, we’ve drawn up a list of the 15 Best Physics Summer Programs for High School Students. They’ve been picked for their academic depth, research opportunities, and strong reputations.

15 Best Physics Summer Programs for High School Students

1. Research Science Institute (RSI) – Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free
Dates: June 28th – August 8th; Details here
Application Deadline: December 10th
Eligibility: Domestic and international high school juniors; highly competitive admission process

The Research Science Institute is a six-week residential program that combines scientific coursework with a full research internship under MIT faculty, postdocs, or researchers from nearby institutions. You begin with a week of STEM lectures that introduce core concepts across physics, engineering, and quantitative fields.

During the research phase, you work independently on a project, conduct experiments or computational analysis, and meet with a mentor. You also complete a full research paper and present your findings in a symposium-style format. In addition, the program includes seminars, writing workshops, and peer review designed to mirror the expectations of university-level research.

Why it stands out: It gives you an experience of the complete research process, so you’ll be better prepared for future university research.

2. Immerse Education’s Pre-University Physics Summer School

Location: Oxford and Cambridge
Cost: Varies; summer school scholarship available through their bursary programme.
Dates: Multiple cohorts with rolling admissions.
Application Deadline: 2 weeks during the summer
Eligibility: Domestic and international students aged 13-18 currently enrolled in middle or high school

Immerse Education’s physics summer school offers a rigorous introduction to university-level physics in Oxford and Cambridge, standing out among physics summer programs for high school students through small classes taught by highly qualified subject specialists. The programme is divided into two age-specific tracks to ensure appropriate academic depth.

Students aged 13–15 explore core topics including classical mechanics, waves, optics, electricity and magnetism, and thermodynamics. Meanwhile, students aged 16–18 study more advanced material such as electromagnetism, electronic engineering, atomic and nuclear physics, and introductory quantum mechanics. In addition, teaching is delivered by tutors with doctoral-level training, university teaching experience, and active research backgrounds in physics.

Beyond the classroom, students enjoy punting on the River Cam or exploring Oxford’s historic colleges and cobblestone streets, and taking a supervised trip to London to visit iconic landmarks and experience the city independently.

Why it stands out: You’ll be taught by top faculty, work on an independent project, and live on campus, giving you a complete experience of future university life.

3. MITES Summer – Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free (travel, housing, and meals covered)
Dates: Late June – Early August (6 weeks)
Application Deadline: February 1st
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled as high school juniors

MITES Summer is a six-week residential program where you study college-level STEM subjects through daily problem-solving classes, laboratory sessions, and project-based assignments taught by MIT instructors. In particular, you study physics, calculus, and life sciences, with physics taught at an advanced high school or early undergraduate level.

You​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ go to recitations (more in-depth sessions of the lectures) and office hours (to get help from the tutor with difficult material). The academic calendar closely follows MIT’s schedule with frequent problem sets, quizzes, and collaborative work. Life on MIT’s campus exposes you to college expectations and the speed of a research-intensive ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌environment. Ultimately, the programme helps you assess readiness for physics or engineering majors and understand what preparation competitive STEM pathways require.

Why it stands out: You’ll be joining a strong alumni community (90% in selective universities), which can help you make more informed academic choices and shape your academic future. 

4. Boston University Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) – Internship Track

Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost: Commuter: $6,185 | Residential: ~$10,289
Dates:  June 28th – August 7th
Application Deadline: February 4th
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents)

The RISE Internship Track places you in a Boston University research laboratory, working full-time on a structured project. You are mentored by faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students in diverse fields, including physics, astronomy, and mechanical engineering.

In addition to lab work, you participate in weekly workshops that focus on scientific communication and college admissions preparation. Finally, the program culminates in a formal Poster Symposium, allowing you to present original research to the BU academic community.

Why it stands out: You’ll study the larger research process, giving you an idea of how research works at universities and in actual life.

5. Summer Science Program (SSP) – Astrophysics

Location: Hosted at universities including New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology, Purdue University, and the University of Colorado Boulder
Cost: Free for participants with a family income of $75,000 or less; for more details, check here
Dates: Dates vary depending on the campus
Application Deadline: February 21st (tentative)
Eligibility: Students in their junior year (or international equivalent) who will be 15 to 18 for the full programme

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ SSP Astrophysics program is a six-week residential research curriculum that deeply engages you in the study of celestial mechanics through the collection of astronomical data by professional telescopes. The work is done in small groups to figure out the orbit of a near-Earth asteroid. Alongside this, nightly observations are integrated using coding, mathematical modeling, and error analysis. Daily activities include university-level lectures, problem sets, and research meetings led by academic instructors and scientists.

Also, you complete a full technical research paper that explains your methods, findings, and computational approach. At the same time, living on campus gives insight into the structure and expectations of a STEM research environment. This program shows how professional physics research works and prepares you for future physics or astrophysics study.

Why it stands out: It involves gradual progression to advanced courses, mirroring undergraduate studies.

6. University of Chicago – Neubauer Phoenix STEM Scholars

Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost: $2,500
Dates: July 26th – July 31st
Application Deadline:  March 5th
Eligibility: Current 11th-grade students who are at least 15 years old and enrolled in a U.S. high school

The Neubauer Phoenix STEM Scholars programme offers high-achieving students college-level STEM coursework and research at the University of Chicago. You’ll take part in structured seminars, problem-solving sessions, and laboratory-focused workshops. At the same time, you’ll be introduced to core concepts used across physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering.

You also work with faculty and academic mentors to explore research thinking, scientific modelling, and experimental and computational methods. As part of the program, students receive academic advising, college preparation support, and exposure to a rigorous STEM curriculum.

Why it stands out: It allows you to learn about different STEM fields, including physics, so you’ll be better able to decide your future college major.

7. JHU CTY Advanced Topics in Physics: Special Relativity

Location: Residential sites across the U.S. (e.g., Carlisle, PA; Collegeville, PA)
Cost: Approximately $3,149 – $6,000 (depending on residential status)
Dates: Session 1: June 22nd – July 11th; Session 2nd: July 13th – August 1st (tentatively)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 from around the world; must meet CTY-level qualification scores in math

This intensive course is one of the more theory-focused physics summer programs for high school students, challenging you to master the counterintuitive concepts of Einstein’s special relativity far beyond the standard curriculum. You explore implications of the speed of light, time dilation, and length contraction through rigorous mathematical problem-solving and thought experiments.

In particular, the curriculum emphasizes the derivation of the Lorentz transformations and the relativistic mechanics of energy and momentum. By grappling with these advanced theoretical frameworks, you develop the high-level analytical skills required for university physics.

Why it stands out: You’ll be introduced to advanced topics in physics that are rarely accessible to high school students and could serve as a foundation for future physics, engineering, or related studies.

8. Yale Young Global Scholars – Innovations in Science & Technology

Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT
Cost: $7,000 (need-based financial aid available)
Dates: June 21st – July 3rd; July 5th – 17th; July 19th – 31st
Application Deadline: Early Action: October 15, 2025; Regular: January 7, 2026
Eligibility: High school students from all countries aged 16–18; check here

The Innovations in Science & Technology (IST) session at YYGS invites you to explore a wide range of STEM disciplines, including physics, astronomy, and engineering, within a global learning community. In addition, you attend lectures by Yale faculty and join seminars that apply scientific principles to real-world problems.

The program emphasizes collaborative learning and critical thinking rather than solitary research. Also, you will gain exposure to cutting-edge scientific topics and develop a global network of peers passionate about STEM innovation.

Why it stands out: You’ll interact with peers from 150+ countries and participate in seminar-style lectures mirroring Yale’s undergraduate teaching. 

9. NYU ARISE Program (Applied Research Innovations in Science & Engineering)

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Free (Full Scholarship)
Dates: June 2nd – August 8th (tentatively)
Application Deadline: February 21st (tentatively)
Eligibility: Current 10th and 11th-grade students residing in New York City

The ARISE programme at NYU is a 10-week summer opportunity combining lab-skills training with hands-on research in NYU labs. For the first four weeks, you receive training in research methods, safety procedures, and academic writing. Meanwhile, the remaining six weeks involve working on actual research projects under the guidance of faculty and graduate researchers.

You might contribute to work in diverse fields depending on lab placement. Through this experience, you gain a realistic view of university-level research, learn lab protocols, collaboration, and project execution. As a result, the programme builds skills, clarifies workflows, and helps decide whether a STEM or physics major suits.

Why it stands out: You’ll get access to NYU’s alumni network with jobs, internships, and research opportunities.

10. Imperial Global Summer School – Physics Summer School

Location: Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
Cost: £7,695
Dates: June 29th – July 10th or August 3rd – August 14th
Application Deadline: Applications open in January
Eligibility: High school students ages 16–17; international applicants welcome

In the Physics stream of Imperial’s Global Summer School, one of the leading international physics summer programs for high school students, you study core concepts in mechanics, electromagnetism, and modern physics through daily lectures and workshop-style sessions taught by Imperial instructors. Alongside this, you work with laboratory equipment, complete structured experiments, and gain experience in Python programming for scientific applications.

Additionally, the curriculum includes problem-solving classes that mirror the style and pace of introductory university physics. At the same time, you collaborate with peers on project work and receive guidance from staff and graduate mentors. Living in Imperial’s residential housing gives you access to university academic spaces and a realistic view of campus life.

Why it stands out: You’ll have access to renowned faculty and resources and learn about cutting-edge scientific research.

11. University of Pennsylvania – Experimental Physics Research Academy (Penn SAS High School Summer Programs)

Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: $10,050
Dates: July 11th – August 1st
Application Deadline: Opens in December; rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school students from around the world currently in 9th -11th grade

At the Experimental Physics Research Academy, advanced topics such as mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum dynamics, and astrophysics are explored through lectures, discussions, and lab-style activities. Research talks led by Penn faculty introduce students to active physics research, methodology, and real-world outcomes. Meanwhile, the live-in programme allows students to stay on campus, attend structured academic sessions, and collaborate with diverse peers.

You are required to complete assignments and projects that will change your learning from simply memorizing equations to grasping the cause-and-effect relationships and ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌concepts. As a result, this program gives you a realistic experience of physics study at a university level and helps you evaluate whether a physics or astrophysics major is a good fit for your future academic trajectory.

Why it stands out: It introduces you to advanced physics concepts, preparing you well for competitive STEM applications.

12. Los Alamos National Laboratory Summer Physics Camp

Location: New Mexico School for the Arts, Santa Fe, NM
Cost: Free (Stipend provided upon completion)
Dates: June 2nd – 13th (tentatively)
Application Deadline: Typically early April
Eligibility: High school students living in New Mexico, NM tribal communities, or East Hawaii Island who have completed Algebra I

The Summer Physics Camp offers high-school students a two-week immersive exposure to physics and STEM careers, guided by scientists and researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory. You engage in hands-on experiments, seminars, and group discussions aimed at understanding real-world applications of physics, under the supervision of experienced scientists.

In addition to this, the camp also includes outreach and career-orientation sessions to help you explore possible futures in physics or STEM research. Because of its short duration and intensive focus, this programme can help you test your interest in physics without committing to a long-term course. It offers early exposure to physics research environments, helping you assess whether a STEM-heavy college path aligns with your interests.

Why it stands out: You’ll experience how physics research translates into real-world projects, which can be valuable for future studies. 

13. Michigan Math and Science Scholars (MMSS) – University of Michigan

Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost: $100 application fee (non-refundable), $1,400 tuition, and an optional $1,100 residential fee covering lodging, linens, supervision, and meals
Dates: Multiple 2-week sessions during the summer
Application Deadline: applications open in January
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors from around the world; competitive for selective STEM courses

In the MMSS program, you enroll in courses that span physics, mathematics, and science disciplines taught by University of Michigan faculty and instructors. Throughout the programme, you attend lectures, participate in laboratory or field-based activities, and complete assignments focused on hands-on investigation. Specifically, courses in the “Physical Sciences / Physics” track include topics such as thermodynamics, biophysics concepts, and measurement techniques.

You’ll also learn through laboratory demonstrations and group projects. Also, you live on campus (or participate as a commuter) and access university facilities, contributing to your familiarity with the college STEM environment. As a result, this programme offers university-level physics exposure and helps evaluate whether a STEM major fits your strengths.

Why it stands out: You’ll be taught directly by Michigan faculty and reside on the college campus, giving you a glimpse into what university life would be like.

14. UC Santa Cruz – Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE)

Location: University of California, Santa Cruz, CA
Cost: $5,518
Dates: July 5th – Aug 1st
Application Deadline: February 6th
Eligibility: High school students with strong math and science preparation; selective admission process

This COSMOS cluster introduces high-school students to Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE), an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of physics, chemistry, engineering, and materials science. Through lectures, invited talks from researchers, and guided discussions, you learn how quantum systems encode and process information in ways that differ fundamentally from classical computing.

The curriculum covers key concepts such as quantum states, quantum logic, and the underlying physics behind emerging technologies like quantum computers. In addition, students also explore real-world applications through field trips and in-class demonstrations that highlight how quantum principles inform modern device design. Also, you work with peers on problem-solving activities that reflect the analytical demands of college-level STEM courses.

Why it stands out: It focuses on working with quantum science, giving you insight into research or career paths not typically accessible to high school students.

15. PROMYS – Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (Boston University)

Location: Boston University, MA
Cost: Approximately $7,000; free for students with family income less than $80,000
Dates:  June 28th – August 8th
Application Deadline: Early March
Eligibility: Students aged 14–18 from around the world who have completed 9th grade; selective admissions with a required problem set

PROMYS is a six-week residential programme focused on rigorous university-level mathematics through problems, lectures, and seminars. Throughout the programme, you work through a carefully structured curriculum focused on proofs, abstract reasoning, and research-style exploration rather than computational exercises. Alongside this, faculty and graduate mentors guide you through advanced topics and offer feedback in small discussion groups.

You also choose from additional mini-courses on subjects such as combinatorics, analysis, or algebraic structures. Although the program is not a physics camp, the emphasis on proof-based reasoning and mathematical foundations supports long-term interests in theoretical physics, quantum theory, and related research fields. 

Why it stands out: It’s a highly selective program that’ll boost your profile and offer exposure to the pace and expectations of university STEM education.

Your Next Step into the World of Physics

Physics challenges how you think and encourages you to question how the world works, rewarding curiosity, logic, and persistence. For students drawn to this way of thinking, the next step is finding opportunities to explore it in depth.

Choosing from the physics summer programs for high school students featured in this article is a strong first step towards turning interest into academic direction. Each programme offers a different way to experience physics beyond school.

Through research, structured teaching, and hands-on problem-solving, students gain confidence and clarity about future study.

To continue building that momentum, our Physics Top Books Guide offers a curated reading list to deepen understanding and inspire further exploration.