High-achieving students often look for a summer that pushes them academically and stands out on college applications. The most competitive programs offer real research, advanced coursework, or leadership, alongside some of the strongest students in the country. Here are ten of the most prestigious and selective, with the details.
1. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program
Description: A seven-week research program at Texas Tech University, working one-on-one with university faculty across many fields.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are 17 or older by the start of the program.
Acceptance Rate: Around 1% (only 12 students a year).
One of the most selective programs anywhere, with a tiny cohort and heavy mentorship.
2. Research Science Institute (RSI)
Description: A free six-week program hosted at MIT, combining advanced coursework with hands-on research. Widely considered one of the most prestigious STEM programs in the world.
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (juniors when they apply) with a strong STEM record.
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 3%.
RSI projects often lead to publications or national recognition.
3. Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)
Description: A free six-week humanities seminar (formerly the Telluride Association Summer Program, or TASP), now run as TASS in two tracks: Critical Black Studies and Anti-Oppressive Studies. It centers on discussion and critical thinking, and covers tuition, room, and board.
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors, depending on the track; selection is by essay and interview.
Acceptance Rate: Very competitive (historically under 5%).
TASS alumni frequently go on to top universities.
4. Summer Science Program (SSP)
Description: A five-week residential program where students do real experimental research in astrophysics, biochemistry, or genomics.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with strong science and math backgrounds.
Acceptance Rate: Around 10-15%.
Known for a collaborative, intense research environment.
5. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
Description: A program for students with exceptional math ability, with advanced coursework and research in mathematics.
Eligibility: High school students with strong talent and interest in math.
Acceptance Rate: Below 10%.
Highly regarded among serious math students.
6. MIT Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science (MITES)
Description: A free six-week program at MIT for students from backgrounds underrepresented in STEM, with rigorous coursework and hands-on projects.
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM.
Acceptance Rate: Around 3-4%.
Pairs a tough academic load with a strong, supportive community.
7. Ross Mathematics Program
Description: A six-week program built around deep exploration of number theory and abstract mathematical thinking.
Eligibility: High school students who are ready to tackle hard, open-ended problems.
Acceptance Rate: Around 25%.
A great fit for students drawn to theoretical math.
50+ free STEM opportunities
Ultimate Guide to Engineering Research Ideas
8. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)
Description: A six-week program at Boston University focused on deep, creative exploration of mathematics.
Eligibility: High school students with a strong interest in math and problem-solving.
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 15%.
Known for a collaborative, challenging community.
9. Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) Program
Description: A six-week program at Boston University with research internships in biology, physics, engineering, and more, working closely with faculty. Note: unlike most on this list, RISE charges tuition (with limited financial aid).
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors with strong STEM records.
Acceptance Rate: Around 17%.
Strong hands-on research experience for future scientists and engineers.
10. Girls State / Boys State
Description: A week-long program on American government, where students run simulations of elections, legislation, and other parts of government.
Eligibility: High school juniors interested in civics, leadership, and public service.
Acceptance Rate: Varies by state, generally around 3-6%.
Many alumni go on to careers in politics, law, and public service.
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