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Read on to learn about the best online research opportunities for high school students and how to strengthen your college profile!
Enrolling in an online research program can help set you up for college success, particularly if you're interested in undergraduate research.
This guide will teach you what you need to know about the benefits of virtual research, what to look for in research opportunities, and a list of the best online research opportunities for high school students!
These are some of the best online research opportunities for high school students:
Academic requirement: Unweighted GPA of 3.3 or higher
Cost: N/A
Duration: 12 weeks
College credit: No
This research program was founded by Harvard and Oxford scholars, allowing students to work one-on-one with Ph.D. mentors to create an "independently-developed research project."
Academic requirement: Unweighted GPA of 3.67 or higher
Cost: N/A
Duration: Three months
College credit: No
HARP is a trimester-long research opportunity. Students work with a professor as they develop a college-level research project. Most students complete a 20+ page research paper by the program's end.
Academic requirement: Demonstrated academic excellence
Cost: $6,850
Duration: Three to four months
College credit: Yes
Many top colleges hold Pioneer Academics in high regard: “it’s the only online credit-bearing research program” offering STEM, social sciences, and humanities disciplines. Students work one-on-one with U.S. university professors, and the program is open to students worldwide.
Academic requirement: Not required
Cost: Starts at $2,795
Duration: Four to six months
College credit: No
Polygence offers one-on-one mentorship with a research expert in the field and flexible scheduling. Students in the program can earn college credit from the University of California, write a research paper, and pursue “passion projects” such as starting a podcast, writing a novel, publishing a paper, and more.
Academic requirement: Demonstrated academic excellence
Cost: $3,900
Duration: 13 weeks
College credit: No
This online research opportunity is taught by professors from Oxford, Cambridge, MIT, Stanford, and select Ivies. Students can choose from 34 STEM, Business, Social Sciences, and Humanities courses. Outcomes include a research paper and recommendation letter from an Oxbridge or Ivy League faculty member.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: Free
Duration: One year
College credit: No
CrowdMath is an open project run by MIT Primes and the Art of Problem Solving. The purpose is for students to “experience research mathematics and discover ideas that did not exist before.” Students can comment on the message board to try and solve complex problems.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: Starting at $3,800
Duration: 13 to 48 weeks depending on program
College credit: No
Their High School Research Program pairs students 1:1 with professors and mentors from top universities in the US and UK to develop their own research project. Indigo is known for having some of the strictest education requirements for mentors (including professors from Ivy League universities), as well as the most flexible research program, allowing students to tailor personalized mentorship sessions according to their schedule.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $1,200 for early registration, or $1,500
Duration: One month
College credit: Yes
This program offers hands-on experience in architecture, interior design, and landscape design for students. Virtual activities include exploring buildings, taking tours, and using design tools from home. Students get access to design software, a sketchbook, and a 3D printing pen to build portfolios for college applications.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $5,313
Duration: One month
College credit: No
The Leadership Institute at Brown University empowers high school students who care about social justice to make a difference. Students join a supportive community to discuss important issues and find solutions. They learn skills like listening, problem-solving, and teamwork. By the end, they create a plan to bring positive change to their communities.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $3,000
Duration: One month
College credit: No
BETA Camp is an online program for teens with big business ideas. With expert guidance and a supportive community, they learn how to turn their startup ideas into reality. They'll develop skills like researching, marketing, and pitching to investors.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: No cost
Duration: Two weeks
College credit: No
This Stanford summer program in Behavioral and Psychological Sciences teaches students about cutting-edge research in neuroscience, psychiatry, and psychology. Students work together on a final project, which they present to Stanford professors, peers, and families at the end.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $1,985, plus $65 application fee
Duration: Six weeks
College credit: No
Syracuse University’s Summer College: Research Immersion Program (SCRIP) is a six-week program for high school students. During this time, they work closely with faculty on research projects and present their findings.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $2,200
Duration: Three weeks
College credit: Yes
The University of Iowa has a renowned creative writing program that offers a three-week intensive course for high school writers. Students learn from Iowa's respected faculty, get workshop feedback, and hear from famous authors. It's a great opportunity for young writers seeking guidance and support for their creative projects this summer.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $4,850 for one course credit
Duration: One month
College credit: Yes
High school students can join Yale summer classes with Yale undergrads, a cool chance to dive deep into a subject they love or try something new. They'll get the real feel of studying at a top-notch university, earn college credit, and meet Yale's awesome faculty.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $3,700 per four credit course, plus $75 application fee
Duration: Seven weeks
College credit: Yes
This program offers more than 200 courses. It's a great chance to explore college-level research on a topic you like, taught by famous professors.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $1,950 (one credit), $562 (non-credit)
Duration: Two to 10 weeks
College credit: Depends on the program
Johns Hopkins University offers many online programs for high schoolers. These courses let you learn at your own pace and include live teaching. They have different time options so that you can fit them around your summer plans.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $250
Duration: Two weeks
College credit: No
ISSYP has been teaching future physicists for 20 years. This two-week online program is for high schoolers who've taken physics and want to study it in college. Through interactive sessions with peers and experts, they'll learn about modern physics topics like quantum mechanics and black holes. It's perfect for juniors or seniors interested in physics research.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $1,075-$1,375 per course
Duration: Three weeks
College credit: No
AwesomeMath has an online summer program for high schoolers who are good at math and want to ace competitions like AMC, AIME, or IMO. The program has Algebra, Combinatorics, Geometry, and Number Theory courses at four skill levels, spread over three summer sessions.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $800 plus $35 application processing fee
Duration: One week
College credit: No
This summer program teaches high schoolers how to use economics in decision-making and become leaders in public policy. Taught by economics professors and leadership experts, the classes are hands-on and include group projects. It's perfect for students who want to research economics and public policy.
Academic requirement: N/A
Cost: $1,495 - $1,795
Duration: One to four weeks
College credit: No
Georgetown University has a special online program for high schoolers who want to do medical research in college. Students learn about clinical research, evidence-based medicine, and ethics. They'll create their study and turn it into a scientific paper. This mentorship program is great for anyone interested in medical school or clinical research.
These are some of our top picks, but it doesn’t stop here! Taking initiative to find research opportunities will look excellent on your college application, so you should keep looking until you find the right one for you.
Deciding between in-person and online research opportunities depends on various factors. In-person research can offer hands-on experience and direct interaction with mentors and equipment. It's ideal for those who prefer a traditional learning environment and thrive in face-to-face interactions.
On the other hand, online research provides flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to participate from anywhere with an internet connection. This option suits individuals with busy schedules or those who prefer working independently.
In general, research exposure is important for high school students. According to the American Psychological Association, research for high school students can help provide early career exposure, develop necessary life and career skills, and build and expand a professional network.
However, virtual research opportunities for high school students in particular have added benefits:
Overall, virtual research opportunities for high school students mean they can get valuable research experience with fewer barriers, such as high costs, time, and distance.
There are three main factors you should consider when looking for the best online research opportunities for high school students:
To summarize, look for programs with a reputation for excellence, offer guidance and the opportunity to hone or build new skills, and work for you when added to your schedule.
Virtual research opportunities for high school students can help you explore your interest areas, gain the necessary skills you'll need for undergraduate research, and build your professional network. Before applying, consider the program's source, value, and time commitment.
Remember, the best online research opportunity for any high school student is one that you’re passionate about participating in. Whether you're interested in STEM, business, pre-med, or humanities, there’s a research opportunity waiting for you.
