paid travel opportunities for high school students

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THE PTO DASHBOARD

Travel for work, for school, for fun... for free, 📨 weekly email updates, *subscribe below to get new pto in your inbox every sunday @ 12:30 pm et 📭*, starter resources.

• Confused? Start here.
• What are PTO? Take the free Intro Course!
• Database of 150+ PTO for Africans
• Viral Opportunity Tracking Spreadsheet

Welcome, to the PTO Dashboard, by SeekPTO (part of PacksLight.com) ! Simply type the type of PTO you're looking for in the search bar below, or scroll through the list.

Some search examples:

• “All nationalities”
• “Study abroad scholarships”
• “November”
• “Summer”
• “Family”
• Competition
• Creative Contest
• Entrepreneurial Contest
• Exchange Program
• Incubator/Accelerator
• Language Study
• Leadership Program
• Relocation Package
• Remote Work
• Scholarship
• Speaking Engagement
• Study Abroad
• Travel Contest
• Travel Deal
• Undergraduate
• Work Exchange

Feeling lost? 👩🏽‍🏫

Get started with these PTO FAQ! 👇🏽

Getting started...

Paid travel opportunities (pto) make travel accessible by taking away financial, logistical, and mental barriers that restrict many people start learning more about them:.

PTO (noun) : any program or opportunity that has an element of travel and is partially or completely funded, paid, or free to do. ( Read more and see examples here )

The PTO Dashboard is Packs Light's database of PTO. Through the dashboard (and our Weekly PTO Newsletter)  we curate information, application tips, and links for all of these incredible travel opportunities.

Do you have to be a certain citizenship to apply to job? In some cases. Packs Light's audience is 90% U.S. citizens, so the opportunities we share cater to them.

But remember: everyone may not be eligible for every opportunity, but there are opportunities for everyone .

No! There are many PTO that don't even mention age or student status as a requirement. You can be a 14-year-old high school student or 40-year-old mom and find a PTO that works for you.

Very few of these opportunities are scams, actually. You're usually trading your time and your story, or the company is getting aa tax break from offering the opportunity.

Learn more in our Finding Opportunities online course!

No. These are usually short-term, one-off opportunities that have an element of travel.

If you want to travel full-time, check out our resources on becoming a paid travel influencer , or finding a remote job and living as a digital nomad! (coming soon)

Take our free PTO Crash Course —it takes 6 minutes and will be exactly what you need to get startred!

Seeking PTO

How to find pto that fit your dreams, wants, and needs., not every pto fits every person. and even our pto dashboard doesn't have every single one out there so we're teaching you how to fish for your own opportunities.

Check out our PTO Phase of Life graphic to see which PTO you should keep an out for most.

Take our Which PTO Am I? Quiz and see! (coming soon)

Rest easy: 99% of these PTO are not scams. But watch this short video with tips and things to look out for, just in case.

Learn more in our Finding PTO online course! (coming soon)

Because of the immense requests we get daily, I can only do 1-on-1 consultations via booking ($180 for 30 mins). We have so many free and paid resources to get you started right on this page! Take advantage.

Our Should I Apply? Calculator will tell you your exact chances of success. Stop wasting your time and energy, and only apply to the things you'll win !

Found in our Application Tool-Kit .

Probably. Read this caption for more reasons why you should #ApplyAnyway.

Get more information in the Finding Opportunities course (coming soon).

What gets measured, get's managed. Use an interactive spreadsheet to keep tabs on all the opportunities you're keeping aan eye on.

Grab our pre-done Opportunity Tracking Spreadsheet today!

Thank you! We love you. 💗

Submit PTO to be shown on the Dashboard, here .

Winning PTO

Finding them is the easy part. actually winning that takes strategy., learning, finding and making big lists of pto means nothing if you don't actually 1) press submit and apply, and 2) win we can help you with that..

Yes! Check out the Packs Light PTO Winners Wall to see past PTO Winners.

Lesson 4 of our Winning PTO online course dives head-first into how to submit a “YES!”-worthy video application, with a bonus module hosted by viral video creator Dear Alyne, who has 15M+ followers !

Our Application Tool-Kit has in-depth Letter of Recommendation (LOR) examples and tips on who to ask and how to get them to write you the PERFECT reference letter!

I walk you through an example application on this post , teach you 5 common question to practice answering here , and my YouTube channel has a playlist with every video application I've ever submitted.

Need more tips on making your own? You need the Winning PTO course (coming soon), or a 1-on-1 session with me!

Here are some productivity tips to help you get to “submit”!

Book a 1-on-1 appointment with me !

(Unfortunately because of the many emails I get daily, we will likely miss it if you send a message through the contact form 🙁 )

watch the "What are PTO?" EXPLAINER VIDEO!

Popular pto resources.

What does PTO mean?

How I Won $40K in Study Abroad Scholarships

Study Abroad Scholarships for High School Students

PTO for African Nationals

See Past PTO Winners!

Video Application Tips

How I Studied Abroad for Free in Korea... AFTER Graduation!

5 Common Application Questions to Practice Answering

How to Travel the U.S. for Free with the Conservation Corps

Get PAID to Teach English Abroad in Europe!

Pto courses.

Helping you apply and win, ASAP. (scroll right ➝)

Intro to PTO Course

Opportunity tracking spreadsheet, application tool-kit, how to take $10k trips (for free), delusional confidence workbook, "should i apply to this" calculator, sponsored pto dashboard listing, get pto in your inbox every sunday 📭, pto blog posts.

How these Young Women Lived Their Solo Travel Dreams at Rio Carnival

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Reading Time: 9 minutes I talked to four Angloville past participants to get their unbiased review of the “free” program and if they would recommend it.

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Reading Time: 9 minutes Meet the three (3) winners of Packs Light's second PTO: the fully-funded Solo Not Solo Grant!

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ANNOUNCEMENT: The Awardees of the First-Ever Study Abroad Redo Grant!

Reading Time: 7 minutes Meet the three (3) winners of my very first PTO: the $5,000 Study Abroad Redo Grant!

I Went to Fiji For Free: The Surprising Way YOU Could Have, Too!

Reading Time: 5 minutes Here's how I won a free trip to Fiji, and you can too! Learn how to travel for free and even get paid to travel when you apply to PTOs.

How to answer “Tell us about yourself” (and 5 more common application questions)

Reading Time: 3 minutes The most common questions on travel scholarships and contests you should be ready to answer at the drop of a hat. So: tell us about yourself!

How to Study Abroad in Spain: Tips from Someone Who's Actually Done it!

Reading Time: 3 minutes Find out 3 simple ways you can study abroad in Spain as an American student (maybe even for free, with study abroad scholarships!)

No, not paid time off... paid travel opportunities ! The term I invented to encompass all of the funded programs, scholarships, remote jobs, student grants, contests, and more that pay you to travel.

We bring awareness to paid travel opportunities that help you travel for school, for work, for fun—for free.

international affairs

5 fully funded high school abroad programs, fellowships & scholarships , study abroad , work and study abroad.

Hey Travelers! If you’re in high school and have dreams of traveling the world, you don’t have to wait until you’re an adult. You can travel and live overseas now. Many of the programs listed below are funded by the U.S. Department of State ( visit their site here ).   These programs allow you to experience and live in a different part of the world. If you’re ready to explore new cultures, gain leadership skills, and have an adventure, these programs could be for you. Here are 5 full funded high school abroad programs you should know about!

#1 Fully Funded High School Abroad Program:

Congress–bundestag youth exchange program (cbyx).

If you would like to learn more about Germany and its culture, consider this program. Moreover, participants receive a full scholarship to spend an academic year in Germany while living with a host family. Additionally, this program allows you to either attend high school in Germany or participate in an internship.

To visit their website, click here

#2 Fully Funded High School Abroad Program

National security language initiative for youth (nsli-y).

If spending a summer or academic year learning Arabic, Hindi, Indonesian, Korean, Mandarin, Persian (Tajik), Russian, or Turkish sounds amazing, consider this program. In this fully-funded program, participants learn a critical language and live with a host family, which allows them to uniquely experience the local culture.

#3 Fully Funded High School Abroad Program

Kennedy-lugar youth exchange and study (yes) abroad.

Full scholarships are given to high school students who would like to live and study in Africa, Asia, the Balkans, or the Middle East. Students study abroad for a full academic year in which they live with a host family and attend a local high school. Students learn about the host country’s values and society. Additionally, they also have an opportunity to educate others about American society.

#4 Fully Funded High School Abroad Program

Youth ambassadors.

Another program to consider is the Youth Ambassadors program. This program is a great fit if you speak Spanish and are interested in honing your leadership skills while living in Central and South America. Additionally, high school students keen on acquiring new skills in Portuguese in Brazil are encouraged to apply to this fully-funded program

#5 Fully Funded High School Abroad Program

American foreign service association scholarship.

Every year, the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) has an essay contest. Not only do winners of this contest win $2,500 in cash, but they also receive the opportunity to meet leadership at the State Department and have a full scholarship for a Semester at Sea educational voyage. This is a life-changing opportunity.

In Case You’ve Missed It, Check Out

How To Afford Study Abroad How To Get A Study Abroad Scholarship What Is The Difference Between A Scholarship and Fellowship? 12 Study Abroad Myths And Why You Should Go Anyways Hey Ms. Traveler’s FREE Travel E-Course Hey Ms. Traveler On YouTube

I hope i can attend your wonderful school because I’m not financially stable

thanks for your information and I want a fully funded scholarship for junior student and can you offer and text me on my email. Thank you Ephrata

Hope to here from you sooner

I really wanna study abroad 🥹

HII I’m hoping to get a fully funded scholarship for junior year your respond will be kindly appreciated.

HI, my name is Jimaima and I’m 17 I’m hoping if i could get a fully funded scholarship. which would be a great help for me ,your kind respond will be highly appreciated.

Hii my name is precious and I’m 16 how I wish and pray to get a fully funded scholarships which will be of great help to me. I am looking forward for your response. Thank you.

Hi my name is Daisy and I wish to get a scholarship I am raised by a single mother and my father died

I want to study and build a new life at Naingam College I want to serve my mother

Hello I am master Marvis I. Ezeugo I am a Nigerian By birth but I am currently Studying in Liberia I want to study in Germany. I am Grade 9 student , I will be grateful if you could recommend me a German school suitable for me under your scholarship program.

Hi my name is daniella from Cameron. 16 years old I am hoping I could get a fully funded scholarship in Germany

Hi my name is Nonofo. I am from South Africa I wish to study abroad to make my family proud of me and I want to be the first person in our family to go overseas I hope that I can fulfill my dream and learn more where I am going. I hope that my wish comes true because the schools here aren’t the best. I hope I can go overseas With wishes to fulfill Nonofo

At least I can say to my grandchildren I tried to do my best

I am Alicia I want to go to a Korean international high school

My name is yusuph Joseph am from Tanzania East Africa I wish to study and take my 1st degree in US.my education level right now is high school degree

I am interested in fully funded college scholarships and fellowship abroad. Thanks

I’m named Anguissa Berthe Maeva and I’m 17 and I’m from Cameroon in central Africa and I wish and hope I could continue my studies in canada and that I could get a scholarship and I fellowship. I wish to be a medical doctor in the future. I pray for me dream to come through and that my family economic problems won’t be a barrier.

I am Sherry from Kenya,I would love to continue my study abroad. I am in form 2.I would lile to have a full scholarships for my academics

I am very interested.

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Designed by gillian sarah, join the adventure @heymstraveler.

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Best Summer Travel Programs for High School Students – 2024

April 18, 2024

Studying abroad isn’t only for college students–high school students can also benefit from the opportunity to push their boundaries, develop cultural sensitivity, and explore other countries. In the process, they’ll develop their independence and resilience–skills they’ll need for college and beyond–as well as engage in academic and career-focused exploration. Additionally, there are programs available for just about every interest, from wildlife conservation to service-learning to sailing. Since critical aspects of attending an international or travel-based program for teens are safety and staff quality, our list only includes well-regarded providers with long-term track records who employ highly vetted and trained faculty, counselors, and trip leaders. If you’re set on leaving the US behind this summer, use the below summer travel programs for high school students as your research start point.

1)  Smithsonian Student Travel High School Summer Programs

• Location : Australia & New Zealand; Belize; Costa Rice; France & Switzerland; Greece & Italy; Kenya & Tanzania; Iceland; Japan; Morocco; New York & Denmark; Portugal & Spain; Silicon Valley; Washington, D.C. & Houston; Vietnam & Thailand
• Residential?:  Yes
• Program Length:  8-20 days, depending on program
• Cost:  $6,790-$9,990, depending on program (not including airfare)
• Eligibility:  Rising freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and college freshmen (must be at least 13 years old)
• Application Deadline:  Rolling, but students are encouraged to apply early

With fourteen different programs to choose from, Smithsonian Student Travel offers high school students the opportunity to deeply explore and engage with specific themes. Depending on the program location, themes include aerospace, social justice, climate change, indigenous cultures, art, and wildlife conservation, among others. For example, students who travel to Costa Rica will focus on marine & wildlife conservation while those who venture to France & Switzerland will delve into art, culinary traditions, & scientific research.

During each program, students engage with the past, present, and future. Not only will they visit museums and learn more about relevant artifacts but also will engage in hands-on activities, adventures, and independent learning projects. As a result, students become deeply immersed in both location and culture. Finally, a Smithsonian Student Travel Expert will join every group for about five days of each itinerary. Travel Experts are professionals in the program’s theme. For example, one of the Costa Rica travel experts is Dr. Brett Scheffers, a Professor of Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida.

Smithsonian Student Travel is searching for students who are serious about the program and plan to actively participate. As such, they require a personal statement as well as two teacher recommendations.

2)  CIEE Global Navigator High School Summer Abroad

• Location : Argentina; Australia; Botswana; China; Costa Rica; Czech Republic; Denmark; Dominican Republic; England; Estonia; France; Germany; Ghana; Ireland; Italy; Japan; Mexico; Morocco; Netherlands; Portugal; Scotland; Singapore; South Africa; South Korea; Spain; Taiwan
• Residential?: Yes
• Program Length: 3-4 weeks
• Cost: Typically between $5-7,000 per program
• Eligibility: Current freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 14+
• Application Deadline: January-May; rolling enrollment

CIEE–the Council of International Educational Exchange–offers a number of summer travel programs for high school students in nearly thirty different locations around the world. Focuses offered include arts & culture , business , language , leadership and service , social change , and STEM , although they are location-specific.

For example, programs in Mexico include Spanish Language and Mexican Culture as well as Leadership & Service in Youth Development . Students traveling to Portugal dive into Aquatic Ecosystems and Sustainability . Interested in music or gaming? You’ll want to check out the two programs offered in South Korea: K-Pop Immersion and Diplomacy and Peace Studies . Finally, some programs, like Global Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Europe , are offered in multiple locations (Dublin, Copenhagen, and Berlin).

Similar among all programs is the cultural immersion, relationship building, and singular focus on a particular language or topic. However, each program has its own unique objectives. For example, K-Pop Immersion students learn from music producers, songwriters, and choreographers while attending performances and visiting famous music video sites. Alternatively, Spanish Language and Mexican Culture students, who are based in the city of Mérida, spend the morning in immersive language classes and the afternoons exploring the city, visiting museums, taking cooking classes, and exploring Mayan ruins–all while participating in a homestay experience.

To apply, students need to fill out a general online application. They’ll need to be ready to do so well before summer begins–some deadlines for these teen summer travel programs are in January (others are later in the spring). All are first-come, first-served, and some programs have prerequisites.

Summer Travel Programs for High School Students – Continued

3)  putney student travel.

• Location : 25+ countries; all continents (except Antarctica) represented
• Program Length: 8-34 days
• Cost: $4,690-11,490, depending on the program
• Eligibility: Current freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
• Application Deadline: Rolling, but it’s best to apply early as some programs fill quickly

What sets Putney apart from other teen summer travel programs is their exclusive focus on middle and high school students. Students can choose from career , exploration , service , pre-college , or language-focused programs in a number of different countries. Moreover, all students participate in cultural immersion and complete a creative independent student project of their choice. Past projects have included apprenticing with a gelato maker, designing sports marketing campaigns, and learning to play a traditional instrument.

Wondering what you can expect from each focus? Career-focused programs include wildlife conservation, writing, and public health, among others.  For example, Writers’ Workshop and Craft , held in Dublin, Ireland, gives students the opportunity to experience Ireland’s storytelling tradition, write in famous historical sites, and travel to a three-day writer’s retreat on a remote island. Alternatively, Exploration programs are all about discovering a new country and immersing oneself in its culture. As such, students journeying to the Faroe Islands & Iceland participate in activities like lighthouse hikes, boat and helicopter excursions, and glacier and volcano treks. Service program participants participate in structured projects that give back to the local community they’re staying in, while those undertaking a Language program engage in authentic interactions with their homestay family as well as the local community on a daily basis. Finally, Pre-College students undertake academic coursework alongside experiential learning activities.

To apply to these summer travel programs for high school students, you’ll need to complete an Applicant Statement and two teacher references. Looking for more options? Putney collaborates with a number of other providers, including National Geographic Student Travel .

4)  Broadreach Summer Programs

• Location : Caribbean; Bali; Fiji; Curaçao; Costa Rica; Amazon & Galapagos; Red Sea; Bahamas; Bonaire; Mexico; Portugal
• Program Length: 12-24 days, depending on program
• Cost: $4,880-9,480, depending on program

Broadreach programs center on one of five specializations: scuba diving , sailing , marine biology , veterinary medicine , or wildlife biology . In addition, certain programs are land-based and others are liveaboard.

Broadreach’s philosophy is that students should learn and build skills in a hands-on environment. As such, students can expect to develop knowledge in a particular field while having the freedom to explore their curiosities. At the Bahamas Veterinary & Wildlife Care program, for example, students not only assist with animal care procedures and learn more about animal handling, restraint techniques, and conservation but also explore the islands via kayak and snorkel. Alternatively, students enrolled in Red Sea Advanced Scuba participate in more than 30 dives, earn multiple PADI dive certifications, and take part in community-based projects as well as Egyptian coastal and desert hikes.

Groups are kept intentionally small (approximately twelve students). Moreover, all students who attend these summer travel programs for high school students participate in some level of academic coursework, including journals, discussions, research projects, and exams, and can receive college credit for some programs.

Summer Travel Programs for High School Students — Continued

5)  issos summer school.

• Location : St Andrews (Scotland); Cambridge (UK); Yale (Connecticut)
• Program Length: 3 weeks
• Cost: approximately $8,500-11,000, depending on program
• Eligibility: 13-18 years old
• Application Deadline: Rolling

Looking for an intensive academic experience abroad? ISSOS runs three summer travel programs for high school students: St Andrews , Cambridge , and Yale . Over the course of three weeks, students choose one Academic and one Elective. They’ll also participate in plenty of social programming and trips.

Classes meet for three hours each morning; all three campuses have different Academic options available. These include Debate, Study Skills, English Language, Creative Writing, Youth Leadership, IB Extended Essay, Business & Entrepreneurship, and Journalism. Similarly, electives vary according to campus and include theatre, tennis, film, outdoor leadership, photography, golf, or art. All courses are hands-on and seek to teach essential skills. For example, Journalism students practice interviewing, research, writing, and debate.

Socially, students are divided into four Clans, which serve as their core group during their time in the program. Clans also compete against each other in friendly competitions. Moreover, excursions are held weekly. St Andrews students visit Glasgow, Edinburgh, and historic castles while Cambridge students explore Windsor, Oxford, museums, and cathedrals. Yale students travel to New York City and Boston.

No matter which of these teen summer travel programs you choose, you’re in for an international experience. Enrollment is limited to only 10% of any given nationality. Teacher recommendations are required as part of the application, and students should find out within 24 hours of submission whether or not they have been accepted.

Final Thoughts – Summer Travel Programs for High School Students

In our ever-changing world, being a global citizen–respectful of other cultures and perspectives, aware of one’s place within the larger community, and civically and environmentally active–is more important than ever. In addition to helping students develop critical academic and professional skills, teen summer travel programs also give students the opportunity to build the empathy, respect, understanding, awareness, and independence that will impact and shape them for years to come.

Looking for summer programs closer to your area? Consider checking out the following:

• Best Summer Programs for High School Students
• Best Summer Programs in Atlanta
• Best Summer Programs in the Bay Area
• Best Summer Programs in Boston
• Best Summer Programs in Chicago
• Best Summer Programs in Dallas
• Best Summer Programs in Denver
• Best Summer Programs in Houston
• Best Summer Programs in Los Angeles
• Best NYC Summer Programs
• Best Summer Programs in Philadelphia
• Best Summer Programs in Phoenix
• Best Summer Programs in Seattle
• Summer Programs

Kelsea Conlin

Kelsea holds a BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Tufts University, a graduate certificate in College Counseling from UCLA, and an MA in Teaching Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Her short fiction is forthcoming in Chautauqua .

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"On these programs, I repeatedly witness students maturing and gaining skills in self-reliance, collaboration, science, and critical thinking. In short, I watch students become leaders." Dr. M. Jackson, National Geographic Explorer

Student Programs to Inspire Your Inner Explorer

Explore with Nat Geo This Summer

Anthropology, Culture, & Tradition

Understand the links between the ancient and present worlds, communities, and traditions, encountering traces of past civilizations and experiencing vibrant traditions that exist today.

Understand the links between the ancient and present worlds, communities, and traditions, encountering traces of…

Climate & Geology

Examine Earth processes, witness dramatic geological forces at work, and discuss the science of global climate change with local researchers.

Examine Earth processes, witness dramatic geological forces at work, and discuss the science of global…

Innovation, Technology & Robotics

Get a firsthand look at new technologies that are being created to address challenges facing the world today.

Get a firsthand look at new technologies that are being created to address challenges facing…

Photography

Set out on shoots to improve your photography or film skills, leveraging storytelling to illuminate the places you encounter.

Set out on shoots to improve your photography or film skills, leveraging storytelling to illuminate…

Wildlife Conservation

Delve into underwater ecosystems and better understand how the health of our oceans, seas, and shorelines impacts all life on Earth.

Delve into underwater ecosystems and better understand how the health of our oceans, seas, and…

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On these programs, I repeatedly witness students maturing and gaining skills in self-reliance, collaboration, science, and critical thinking. In short, I watch students become leaders. Dr. M. Jackson, National Geographic Explorer

High School & Middle School Programs

National Geographic Student Travel programs enable high school and middle school students to engage with the world in the spirit of National Geographic Explorers—fueled by curiosity, collaboration, and a desire to understand our planet and its people.

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Summer Abroad Programs for High School Students

CIEE Global Navigator High School Summer Abroad

Study Abroad Scholarships

With $7 million available each year, a prestigious Global Navigator High School Summer Abroad Scholarship can make you stand out on college applications and help fund your adventure.

35+ Amazing Destinations

Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Tokyo, Rabat, and more... Find the perfect place to improve your language fluency, adapt to a new culture, and get real-world experience in a topic of your choice.

New Friends and Skills

Meet high school students from across the U.S. and make friends with local teens as you gain confidence, independence, responsibility, and a more global perspective.

Up for a Summer Adventure?

Our Global Navigator high school summer abroad programs take you outside your comfort zone for 3 to 8 weeks. Have fun exploring a different culture in more than 35 amazing destinations across the world. Bring back new friends, new skills, a broader worldview, and maybe even college credits in high school !

35+ Summer Abroad Destinations

There’s no shortage of cultural riches to discover in Argentina.

Explore Australia’s beautiful beaches, diverse heritage, and way of life.

Observe amazing wildlife while studying in one of Africa’s most picturesque destinations.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Chinese culture.

Welcome to Costa Rica, to its rugged mountains, dramatic volcanoes, and lush forests.

Czech Republic

Make your mark in the Czech Republic, a burgeoning hub of art, design and innovation.

Study abroad in Denmark, Europe’s green haven.

Dominican Republic

Live with a local family and meet local teens in this beautiful country of Caribbean traditions.

Take in all the variety that multicultural England has to offer.

Master the art of negotiation and learn to advocate for peace in Tallinn.

Discover the elegance and charm of French life.

Get ready for one of Europe’s favorite study abroad destinations.

One of Africa’s most stable countries, Ghana offers a rich cultural heritage.

Explore the scenic country of Ireland and embrace its status as an entrepreneurial hotspot.

Head out on the town and speak Italian in shops and markets throughout Italy.

Dive into Japanese language and pop culture.

Live, learn and explore in Mérida, one of the safest and most beautiful cities in Mexico.

Practice your Arabic skills as you prepare traditional meals and enjoy authentic everyday life.

Netherlands

Ride a bicycle, stroll along a canal, and soak in the Dutch way of life.

Immerse yourself in Portugal, home to stunning beaches and a vibrant culture.

Craft your own narratives amid ancient castles and spectacular landscapes.

Welcome to Singapore, a small island of many contrasts and diversity.

South Africa

Experience South Africa, a land of breathtaking natural beauty.

South Korea

There's no better place to study K-pop or diplomacy than South Korea.

Ramp up your Spanish language skills while visiting castles and relaxing on island beaches.

Accelerate your Mandarin with full language immersion in the heart of Taiwan.

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Is Studying Abroad in the Summer Worth It?

When compared side-by-side with other summer activities, such as high school summer camps, travel tours, and enrichment activities for teens, CIEE high school summer abroad programs participants gain a more global perspective, improve language skills (with test scores to prove it), build independence, apply learning in an international environment, and form lifelong connections. 

On program, our high school participants:  

• Have fun, experiencing new settings, sounds, food, traditions, and more.  
• Immerse themselves in local communities, along with new friends from around the U.S.  
• Develop hard and soft skills in the real world, setting themselves up for success in language proficiency or a topic they’re passionate about. 

Only about 2% of U.S. high school students participate in study abroad programs each year. This makes it an especially unique opportunity for teens to stand out when applying to college, internships, and jobs!  

To learn more about the value of CIEE Global Navigator programs, check out our program outcomes .

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Questions About High School Summer Abroad

We design our programs with safety as our #1 priority. We have long-standing relationships with community leaders all over the world and our CIEE study centers abroad are staffed year-round. This allows us to provide students with 24/7 emergency on-site support. We also send 1 U.S. Program Leader for every 12 students to accompany them on program and ensure they have support for their logistic, learning, and emotional needs  at all times. 

The program tuition cost includes comprehensive medical and travel protection through   iNext,  which covers student accidents or illnesses during their program.   

To learn more about our safety standards, check out the   high school study abroad safety   page.  

All Language & Culture programs include a homestay as part of the curriculum to help students be fully immersed in the language. For non-language programs, the housing could vary between a homestay, CIEE campus, dorms, hotel or hostel. 

All housing options are carefully screened by local CIEE staff to provide a safe and comfortable accommodation for students. 

Be sure to look at the Daily Life section of any program page to check the housing option for students on that program.

CIEE has 4-week-long programs in the following languages:

• Mandarin Chinese

Our Language & Culture programs are immersive. Students stay with a carefully-screened local homestay and get to live the language inside and outside class.

Students in language programs take the Avant STAMP 4S test before and after the program. This is to help students understand what they learned and to prove their language gains.

Explore Language & Culture Programs

CIEE offers high school study abroad programs that allow students to join in on community projects around the world and reflect on social issues. Some programs even provide a certificate of up to 50 service-learning hours, which looks great on college applications and résumés and may sometimes fulfill service requirements for graduation. 

Explore Social Change Programs

CIEE high school summer abroad programs are built around U.S.-based learning standards, such as the U.S. High School National Core Arts Standards,  Next Generation Science Standards , National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies, and more. Language & Culture programs are aligned with   American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages   (ACTFL) standards.  

More Information

Still Have Questions?

Check out our FAQ page for more information on the application, pre-departure process, costs, and more.

Further Assistance

For more help, call our team at 1-866-583-0332 or send us an email at [email protected] today.

Schedule a Call

If you want to schedule a call with a CIEE Enrollment Coordinator in your area, find a time on our bookings page.

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At Global Leadership Adventures, we believe meaningful teen travel can be life-changing.

In addition to travel programs for high school students ages 14-18, we also offer programs for middle school students ages 13-14. Family and custom group travel are also available.

Enroll in a GLA program and travel to destinations in Africa, Asia, Latin America, Europe or the United States.

Summer and spring break sessions are open for enrollment for prospective travelers.

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We believe that leaders are made and not born. Our programs are designed to teach leadership as a critical life skill that can be developed. Learn to rally others around a vision or a goal.

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We provide superior service to every family before, during and after the program. This includes our 24-hour helpline providing staff support throughout the program.

5-POINT SAFETY SYSTEM™

Safety is our first priority. Our 5-Point Safety System is a set of rigorous standards that support the safety, health and well-being of students on every program.

Home Base is your home away from home. We aim to provide lodging that’s out of the ordinary. On GLA programs, our student groups stay in well-vetted locations with staff on-site.

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GLA’s international staff are more than chaperones. Students are led by program Directors and Mentors who have in-depth professional experience working with youth.

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• Participate in a range of experiences: From community service and immersive learning, to leadership development and adventure
• Discover new places and meet new people: Travel overseas and make friends with like-minded peers
• Earn community service hours: You will earn between 20-80 community service hours while on-program
• Consider your college admissions: Write about your GLA experience in college applications or essays
• Choose your ideal dates: Summer and spring break dates are available; sessions run 8-21 days
• Make a meaningful impact: GLA is a recognized leader in international volunteering and community service programs for teens and young adults
• Travel solo or with a friend: Most students on GLA programs are solo travelers who join the rest of the student group upon arrival; we also welcome friends or siblings who wish to travel together
• Enjoy small group sizes: Most of our program sessions enroll between 10-30 students, and participants are woven into even more intimate teams for service and mentor groups
• Tuition is all-inclusive: Scholarships and payment plans are available

Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Exchange Programs

High school study abroad.

Expand your horizons – study abroad!

The U.S. Department of State offers scholarships for American high school students to study abroad from two weeks to an academic year. Students live with host families, engage with local schools, and gain skills to be competitive in the global workforce. Previous language study is not required for most programs. Fact sheet

Congress–Bundestag Youth Exchange Program (CBYX)

Full scholarships for high school students to spend an academic year in Germany. Live with a host family while you attend high school and immerse into your host community and German culture!

Future Leaders Exchange Abroad (FLEX Abroad)

Full scholarships for American high school students to live and study for an academic year in Georgia, Kazakhstan, or Poland. As a FLEX Abroad participant, you can help strengthen ties between the peoples of the United States and Central Asia and Central and Eastern Europe.

Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Abroad

Full scholarships for American high school students to live and study in Middle East, Africa, Asia, or Southeast Europe. Get to know another culture first-hand and form lasting friendships with your host family and community!

National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y)

Apply for a full scholarship to immerse yourself in Arabic, Hindi, Indonesian, Korean, Mandarin, Persian (Tajik), Russian, or Turkish for a summer or an academic year while living with a host family and experiencing the local culture. Previous language study is not required!

Youth Ambassadors

Full scholarships for high school students and adult educators to take part in approximately 3-week youth exchange programs in Central and South America during the summer months.  Gain new skills or improve your Spanish or Portuguese in a fully immersive language and cultural experience focused on leadership, civic engagement, and community service.

Gain International Perspectives Without Leaving the USA

Not ready to travel outside the USA? You can still make connections around the world with these short-term domestic exchanges and hosting opportunities.

Study Abroad Opportunities for U.S. High School Students

Experience a new world and expand your horizons - study abroad in high school! The U.S. Department of State offers full scholarships to high school students to study abroad for one academic year. Create long-lasting friendships with people around the globe, promote mutual understanding, learn a new language, and develop leadership skills.

Full scholarships for high school students to spend an academic year in Germany. Live with a host family while you attend high school or participate in an internship. Live and learn German culture!

Full scholarship to study Arabic, Bahasa Indonesia, Mandarin, Hindi, Korean, Persian (Tajik), Russian, or Turkish for a summer or an academic year. Live abroad with a host family while pursuing your intensive language study. Previous language study is not required. Language learners of all levels are encouraged to apply!

Full scholarships for American high school students to live and study in Middle East, Africa, Asia, or the Balkans. Get to know Muslim culture first-hand and form lasting friendships with your host family and community!

Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Exchange Programs U.S. Department of State

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14 Summer Engineering Internships for High School Students

Extracurriculars

Want to be an engineering major in college ? A great way to set yourself up for success before you even begin your freshman year is to do an engineering internship or camp as a high school student. However, summer engineering internships for high school students can be tough to find. That's where we come in! We've compiled a list of the 14 best engineering opportunities for high schoolers, including some that pay you to participate!

How Can High School Students Learn About Engineering Careers?

If you're interested in a career in engineering, there are multiple ways you can get more knowledge and experience in the field before even graduating high school. Below are the three best ways high school students can get engineering experience.

Job Shadowing

Job shadowing is where you spend a day or a few days observing a professional on the job. Job shadowing is popular with high school students because it introduces them to different careers and helps them decide which jobs would be the best fit for them. It can also be a great fallback option if you can't find an internship willing to take on a high schooler.

In general, job shadowing involves following one worker, often called a mentor, as they go about their work day. A job shadow mostly involves listening and observing, but they often give you the chance to perform some simple job duties. For an engineering-related job shadow, you might look at designs for projects, sit in on meetings, and visit a lab/project site.

Internships

Internships are the best way to get an idea of what working in a particular industry will be like. An internship is a short-term job that allows the worker, or intern, to gain introductory experience in a certain profession. As an engineering intern, you'll likely work in a lab or at a field site and gain hands-on and practical experience you can use for a future career in engineering.

However, it can be difficult to get one of these internships, especially if you're still in high school. This is particularly true for high schoolers interested in engineering internships since there are so many undergrad engineering students looking for the same thing. Fortunately, we've listed several options for summer engineering internships (both paid and unpaid) for high school students in the next section.

14 Engineering Opportunities for High School Students

Below are 14 engineering programs and internships for high schoolers. For each, we give info on location, length of time, which grades are eligible, and cost/salary, as well as an overview of what you can expect from the experience and what skills you can get from it.

Summer Engineering Internships for High School Students

Engineering summer internships for high school students are a great way to get work experience, and many pay you as well! Check out seven of the best below.

Stanford Summer Research Internships

• Virtual (for 2022), then expected to be in-person in Palo Alto, CA
• Length: 8 weeks
• Grades Eligible: Rising juniors and seniors

Stanford University has one of the country's top-rated engineering programs, and, fortunately for high school students, they offer summer internships to current juniors and seniors. The process is competitive, but if you're accepted, you'll be placed into a group with other interns and receive "early exposure to cutting-edge research in an academic environment." Internships are available in many STEM fields, and you can choose one tailored to your own interests. All interns will be mentored by students, faculty, and staff of the Stanford Compression Forum.

NASA Internship Program at Langley Research Center

• Hampton, VA
• Length: 8-10 weeks
• Grades Eligible: Must be at least 16 years old and a sophomore when internship begins

If you're particularly interested in aerospace engineering, NASA offers high school students internships at the Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. Internships are available year-round and last ten weeks over the summer and eight weeks in the fall or spring. Interns will conduct actual research in STEM fields , as well as learn about other areas that support NASA's mission, such as business, communications, and marketing. Recent internship focus areas have included:

• High Temperature Materials and Structures
• Space Hardware Design Testing
• Public Affairs Multimedia
• Mars Surface Habitat
• Statistical Engineering
• Aerial Robotics Dynamics and Control

Princeton University's Laboratory Learning Program

• Princeton, NJ
• Length: 5-6 weeks
• Grades Eligible: Must be at least 16 years old
• Paid: No; participants must provide housing and meals

Princeton University offers summer research experiences for high school students aged 16 and older. Students apply to a specific research opportunity (they offer internships in both natural sciences and engineering). If accepted, they'll work in a Princeton lab and be mentored by university faculty and researchers. At the end of their internship, students will write a two-page research summary report (which would be a great addition to college applications). Princeton's program is an excellent opportunity to get actual engineering lab experience at one of the best colleges in the county; however, a downside is that the internship isn't paid, and students need to come up with their own housing and meals.

Air Force Research Laboratory Scholars Program

• Various location
• Length: Varies

AFRL Scholars Program is a great way for high school upperclassmen to get hands-on experience in labs working with some of the most cutting-edge technology available. There are multiple labs around the country, and you'll apply to a specific internship that most closely matches your interests. Once accepted, you'll work with AFRL scientists and engineers in the lab and gain technical training and mentorship from seasoned engineers.

Boston University's Research in Science & Engineering Program

• Length: 6 weeks
• Grades Eligible: Rising seniors
• Paid: No, costs $5,370 + $3,156 for room and board

BU's RISE program has two tracks: an internship and a practicum path. Only the internship path focuses on engineering. Internship participants are paired with a mentor and work 40 hours a week on research projects in a BU laboratory. Students will end the program with a poster presentation, and some students go on to submit their research projects to prestigious STEM competitions such as the Regeneron  ISEF . Throughout the six weeks, interns will also attend weekly workshops that cover topics such as how to write a research paper and networking in the STEM community.

Idaho National Laboratory Student Internships

• Idaho Falls, ID
• Grades Eligible: Students must be at least 16 years old

If you're specifically interested in nuclear energy, renewable energy, and/or national security, the INL, which is one of the country's major nuclear energy labs, is a great place to intern. Interns "help solve real-world problems under the guidance of INL experts and learn to apply science, mathematics, engineering and technology (STEM) concepts on specific projects." Housing is not provided, but students earn $3,500 for working six weeks. (And if they choose to intern at INL again, they make $4,000 their second time around.)

Office of Naval Research's Science and Engineering Apprentice Program (SEAP)

• Various locations
• Grades Eligible: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors

SEAP, run by the Office of Naval Research, places roughly 300 high school students at internships in about 30 Navy labs around the country each summer. Interns will learn about Naval research while working under top scientists and engineers. Housing is not provided, but students earn $4,000 for the internship (or $4,500 if they're returning for a second internship.)

Engineering Summer Programs for High School Students

If you're looking for an engineering camp for high school students, this is the section for you! We have seven opportunities of varying lengths, locations, and prices.

MIT Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC) Program

• Hybrid (partially in Cambridge, MA and partially virtual)
• Length: 6 months
• Cost: Free, including room and board

MIT's MOSTEC program is an excellent way to get hands-on and in-depth mentorship in the STEM field. The program is for rising high school seniors and begins the summer before senior year. Participants complete two online courses and projects and are paired with undergraduate mentors. In early August, participants travel to MIT's campus for a five-day conference to present their projects and attend workshops. Then, from August until December, participants interact with MIT faculty and researchers via webinars and Q&A sessions and write online blogs. Courses and projects can focus on any STEM area, including computer science. Another bonus to the program is that it's completely free: you'd only need to pay for your transportation to and from MIT.

Columbia University's Summer High School Academic Program for Engineers (SHAPE)

• New York City, NY
• Length: 3 weeks
• Cost: $4,270 (room and board are not offered)

Columbia University has a highly-ranked undergraduate engineering program , and they offer high school students the opportunity to take college-level engineering courses taught by Columbia Engineering faculty. Students choose one engineering course (recent course topics included robotics, electrical engineering, and environmental engineering) and one elective course to take over the three-week program. Students will also have access to Columbia's Makerspace and MechTech labs where they can build prototypes and learn how to use different equipment. Additionally, the Columbia undergraduate admissions office will host college preparation workshops several times throughout the program to help participants prepare for college life.

Engineering Summer Academy at Penn State

• University Park, PA
• Grades Eligible: All high school students
• Cost: $7785

ESAP at Penn State is designed to give high-achieving high school students an introduction to college-level math and science courses as well as hands-on practical experience. Students live on campus and can enroll in one of six courses: biotechnology, complex networks, computer graphics, computer science, nanotechnology, or robotics. Courses are taught by Penn State faculty and grad students, and students earn college credit for completing the summer program.

Research Science Institute at MIT

• Cambridge, MA

RSI is probably the most prestigious science research program in the country for high school students. The program combines courses that focus on scientific theory with hands-on STEM research. Participants will experience the entire research cycle from start to finish. Some activities RSI students will do include:

• Reading current literature in their field of research
• Drafting and executing a detailed research plan
• Delivering written and oral reports of their findings

The research projects completed by participants are easily college-level in depth and difficulty. In addition to being highly prestigious, RSI is also highly competitive, but if you get in, it's an exceptional extracurricular to have on your resume and will undoubtedly give your college applications a boost. We have an entire guide dedicated to RSI and tips for getting in (coming soon); check it out if you're interested in applying.

BlueStamp Engineering

• Palo Alto, CA or Remote
• Length: 6 weeks (in Palo Alto) or 3 weeks (remote)
• Cost: $4600 (in-person; does not include room and board) $2000 (remote)

If you have a specific engineering project you want to work on, BlueStamp Engineering might be the summer program for you. In this program, high school students get the opportunity to work on a project they're passionate about with help and mentorship from current engineers and tech leaders. In contrast to many other programs, BlueStamp Engineering's program doesn't include any homework or classes. Instead, it's highly independent and self-driven. You get to decide how you want your project to go, and whenever you need help, experts will be there to assist you. You can check out past student projects here .

MIT THINK Scholars Program

• Virtual + visit to Cambridge, MA
• Length: 4 months
• Cost: Free; participants awarded $1,000 stipend

You've probably noticed that MIT offers a lot of engineering summer programs for high school students. The THINK Scholars Program is for high school students who have a STEM project in mind and have already done a significant amount of research on it. Students apply in the fall/early winter, then learn if they're accepted in early February. They are then part of the program until June. During the program, students receive $1,000 for project costs and are paired with at least one MIT researcher as a mentor for their project. Over the summer, participants also make an all-expenses paid, four-day visit to MIT's campus to meet MIT professors, and other THINK participants and tour MIT labs.

My Introduction to Engineering (MITE) Program at UT Austin

• Length: 5 days
• Grades Eligible: Rising juniors

If you're considering a career in engineering but don't know much about the field yet, the MITE program could be just what you're looking for. MITE is a five-day camp for high school juniors to "discover engineering through participation in an engineering team project, hands-on activities and interactions with engineering students, faculty, staff and alumni." Students will live in dorms on campus and attend lectures, tour engineering labs on campus, and participate in their own engineering project. 

How to Impress Colleges With Your Engineering Experience

Once you've completed an engineering internship or program, how can you make sure it gives your college application the biggest boost possible? A high school engineering program has the potential to look very impressive to colleges, so use the three tips below to make yours stand out.

#1: Explain Your Accomplishments

#2: link your portfolio.

Many times after you complete an engineering internship or course, you'll have created a few projects, either on your own or as part of a group. Set up a website (another great way to show off your skills!) and include links and/or images of your project, along with a description of your thought process and the work you did. Having an online portfolio so early in your career will put you ahead of the game, not only when you apply to colleges, but also when you apply to other engineering internships and jobs down the line. It gives reviewers concrete examples of your talents and expertise.

There's often a spot on college applications where you can include additional information you think might be useful. Link your portfolio here! Include a sentence or two explaining what it is, as well. Then college admissions teams will be free to review all your engineering work without you trying to figure out how to fit it into the application itself.

#3: Get a Letter of Recommendation

Summary: engineering summer programs for high school students.

If you've looked into summer engineering internships for high school students, then you know it can be tough to get a meaningful experience that'll give you a strong foundation for gaining more engineering skills. However, completing an engineering camp for high school students can be a great way to get real-world skills and knowledge as well as a great boost to college applications. When mentioning your engineering experience in your college applications, be sure to:

• Clearly explain your accomplishments
• Link to your portfolio
• Get a letter of recommendation from your instructor/supervisor

What's Next?

What are the best schools for engineers? Check out our guide on the top 25 engineering schools to find out!

Where can you get the most money to study engineering? Find out with our compilation of the best engineering scholarships .

Your high school math and science classes will be key to helping you get accepted into an engineering program.  Learn the best math and science classes to take in high school.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Traveling Teacher Girl

Travel Tips for Teachers, Students, and professionals

Budget Tips , Uncategorized · May 31, 2020

37 Teacher Travel Grants: Free Travel Opportunities for Teachers

Did you know that there are numerous fellowship and grant programs that allow teachers to travel for FREE? Keep reading to learn more!

One of my favorite parts of being a teacher is the schedule. With two months off in the summer, and several weeks off during the school year, the possibilities for travel are endless. Over the past few years I have done a variety of trips that have not only been fun and relaxing, but have also provided me with a wealth of knowledge that has improved my teaching practice. I have studied flamenco guitar in Spain, practiced baroque flute in Nova Scotia, and have attended music education conferences across the United States. However, traveling can be expensive, especially when you are working with a limited teacher budget.

Luckily, there are a variety of government organizations, private companies and non-profit international organizations who sponsor travel grants specifically for teachers. These grants are perfect for teachers who want to broaden their horizons and improve their teaching practice abroad. These programs all differ in requirements and details, but in general, they are highly competitive and involve some type of research or teaching while abroad.

Below is a list of 37 different grant and fellowship programs that allow free (or almost free) travel opportunities for teachers.

Updated 1/5/24

• Who can apply?: K-12 teachers in the United States
• Application deadline: February 19th, 2024
• Program length: Yearlong professional development, 2-3 weeks of travel
• Destination options: Brazil, Canada, Columbia, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Finland, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Uruguay
• Application deadline: TBD
• Program length: 2-6 weeks
• Destination options: Argentina, Cambodia, Colombia, Honduras, India, Israel, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Palestinian Territories, Peru, The Philippines, Spain, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Zambia
• Who can apply? K-12 teachers in the United States
• Program length: 3 to 6 months
• Destination options: Brazil, Colombia, Finland, Greece, India, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Singapore, Taiwan, United Kingdom, Vietnam
• Program requirements: Bachelor’s degree
• Application deadline: Likely October 2024
• Program length: 6-12 months
• Destination options: Varies, see a full list here
• Program requirements: Non-U.S. college graduate or young teachers
• Application deadline: Varies by country
• Destination options: Varies, see map here
• Who can apply?: K-12 and postsecondary educators
• Application deadline: January 4th, 2024
• Program length: 4 weeks
• Destination options: TBD- varies each year
• Who can apply?: Teachers, students, and faculty engaged in a common endeavor relating to humanities, social sciences and languages
• Application deadline: March 27th, 2023
• Program length: Varies
• Destination options: Africa, East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific, the Western Hemisphere (Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean), East Central Europe and Eurasia, and the Near East
• strengthen teaching and learning in schools and colleges
• facilitate research and original scholarship
• provide opportunities for lifelong learning
• preserve and provide access to cultural and educational resources
• Who can apply?: varies
• Application deadline: varies depending on the program. Check here for upcoming program deadlines.
• Program length: varies
• Destination options: varies
• Who can apply?: K-12 classroom teachers
• Application deadline: January 12th, 2024
• Program length: 7-12 days
• Destination options: Varies
• Who can apply?: Varies by program
• Application deadline: Varies by program
• Program length: Varies by program
• Destination options: Varies by program
• Who can apply?: PreK-12 teachers
• Application deadline: January 18th, 2024
• Program length: Varies- programs are self-designed
• Destination options: Flexible
• Who can apply?: PreK-12 educators
• Application deadline: January 7th, 2024
• Program length: 1-2 weeks
• Who can apply?: Pre-K-12 and college level educators
• Application deadline: Likely November 2024
• Program length: 2-4 weeks
• Destination options: At sea- varies
• Who can apply?: Full time social studies and/or STEM educators from the U.S. and Canada
• Application deadline: February 11th, 2024
• Program length: 2 weeks
• Destination options: Germany
• Who can apply?: K-12 educators in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
• Application deadline: November 16th, 2023
• Program length: 11 months
• Destination options: Washington, DC
• Who can apply?: Current NEA members who are U.S. teachers, counselors, or education support professionals
• Application deadline: February 1st, 2024
• Who can apply?: Middle and high school social studies teachers
• Application deadline: March 1st, 2024
• Program length: 10 days
• Destination options: Japan
• Who can apply?: Classroom teachers
• Application deadline: Varies based on your home state- check website above
• Program length: 1-6 weeks
• Destination options: UK
• Who can apply?: Primary and secondary school teachers
• Application deadline: Rolling
• Who can apply?: U.S. educators
• Application deadline: TBD- currently virtual due to Covid
• Program length: One week
• Destination options: Kingdom of Bahrain
• Who can apply?: K-12 educators
• Application deadline: Varies by program, rolling admissions
• Destination options: Gettysburg College, George Washington University, Princeton University
• Who can apply?: Students, teachers, administrators, artists
• Who can apply?: Public school teachers
• Program length: Varies- you create your own program
• Who can apply?: Licensed k-12 teachers employed in public or private schools
• Application deadline: January 15th-April 15th, 2024
• Who can apply?: Educators
• Application deadline: Summer 2024 information coming soon
• Program length: 4-8 weeks
• Destination options: Various locations across the United States
• Destination options: Online, U.S., and East Asia
• Who can apply?: Educators grades 3-12
• Application deadline: Late winter/early Spring- check website above for more information
• Program length: 3-5 days
• Destination options: Colonial Williamsburg
• Who can apply?: K-12 educators and college faculty
• Application deadline: January 16th, 2024
• Program length: One week in June
• Destination options: Brussels
• Who can apply?: “Anyone who is  currently  educating American students in a formal school environment.”
• Application deadline: January 15th, 2024
• Program length: 4-5 days
• Destination options: Mount Vernon (North of Washington, DC)
• Who can apply?: Social studies and science teachers
• Application deadline: TBD, likely May 2024
• Destination options: TBD
• Who can apply?: K-12 STEM teachers in the U.S.
• Application deadline: TBD, awaiting program information for 2024
• Program length: Yearlong engagement and planning with a stipend for PD/education conferences (registration fees, lodging, and travel)
• Who can apply?: Classroom teachers, informal science educators, artists, videographers, writers, social media experts and anyone who can make a good case for themselves.
• Application deadline: January 13th, 2023
• Program length: Two months, 12/10/23-2/2/24 or 2/9/24-4/8/24
• Who can apply?: Any high school teacher or counselor currently employed at a public or private high school in the United States or internationally.
• Application deadline: March 14th, 2024
• Program length: Varies- you can use this grant towards an educational conference of your choice.
• Destination options: Varies- you can use this grant towards an educational conference of your choice.
• Who can apply?: Any pre-service or current K-12 teachers from the United States
• Program length: Five days
• Destination options: Washington, D.C.
• Who can apply?: Middle and high school educators
• Application deadline: No deadline posted, applications opened in January
• Program length: One Week
• Destination options: Annapolis, MD
• Destination options: varies- check their website
• Who can apply?: Middle school STEM teachers
• Application deadline: Head to their website (linked above) to be notified when applications open
• Program length: One weekend

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31 Research Opportunities + Internships for High Schoolers in 2024

What’s covered:.

• Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students
• How to Find Research Opportunities in High School
• How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances?

Research drives innovation across every field of study, from natural sciences to health to history. Pursuing curiosity can impact industries, drive policy, and help us to better understand the world around us. Without curiosity and research, our society would surely stagnate. 

Contrary to popular belief, however, you don’t have to be a seasoned professional to conduct meaningful research. There are plenty of opportunities for high school students to get a head start on their future careers and contribute to substantial change. Keep reading to learn about 30 great opportunities for students looking for early chances to conduct research! 

Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students 

1. memorial sloan kettering human oncology and pathogenesis program.

Application Deadline: February 9

Location: New York, NY

Duration: Eight weeks (June 27 – August 22)

Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) is one of the most well-known cancer centers in the world. The Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) at MSK hosts a Summer Student Program for students to conduct independent research projects while participating in extracurricular activities, training, and other opportunities.  

During the eight-week program, participants work with a mentor who will act as a supervisor to help them develop their research skills. Additionally, students have the opportunity to complete an independent research project that aligns with their mentor’s work. All participants will present their projects at a poster session at the end of the summer.

To participate, you must have completed at least 9th grade by June 2024, be at least 14 years old by June 27, have a 3.5 GPA in science subjects, and submit two letters of recommendation. This is a paid opportunity—participants will receive a stipend. 

2. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program  

Application Deadline: January 5 

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 8) 

The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program allows high school students to conduct real, innovative research over seven weeks through the renowned Rockefeller University, under the guidance of leading scientists. 

SSRP scholars will be able to design and conduct their own research project as part of a themed research track, which is modeled after a Rockefeller research topic and/or technique, with the help of scientist mentors from the Rockefeller community. Most of the research will be conducted in the RockEDU Laboratory—a 3,000-square-foot research space specifically dedicated to developing biomedical research skills.

Students must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program to participate.  

3. Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Application Deadline : Varies by cohort. Main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15

Location:  Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!

Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year

Founded by Harvard & Oxford researchers, the Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program pairs high-school students with PhD mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have written an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as medicine, computer science, psychology, physics, economics, data science, business, engineering, biology, and international relations.

This program is designed to accommodate your schedule—you can participate in the summer, fall, winter, or spring, and the program is also conducted fully remotely. While you must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate high academic achievement (most students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3), no previous knowledge of your field of interest is required. The cost of the program ranges from $2,800 to $8,900, but financial aid is available.

Note that this is a selective program. Last year, over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the program. You can find more details about the application here .

4. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Application Deadline: December 13 

Location: Cambridge, MA

Duration: Five weeks (June 23 – August 3) 

The prestigious RSI, which takes place at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) annually, brings together 100 of the world’s top high school students. The free program blends on-campus coursework with off-campus science and technology research. 

Participants complete individual research projects while receiving mentorship from experienced scientists and researchers, and present their findings through oral and written reports in a conference-style setting at the end of the program. 

5. NYU Tandon – Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)

Application Deadline: March 6

Duration: 10  weeks (June 3 – August 9)

Open to New York City high school students who will complete 10th or 11th grade in June 2024, the ARISE program provides access to college-level workshops and lab research across fields like bio, molecular, and chemical engineering, robotics, computer science, and AI.

Over the course of 10 weeks—four virtual and six in person—participants will receive guidance from graduate or postdoctoral students at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering. 

6. Simons Summer Research Program

Application Deadline: February 7

Location: Stony Brook, NY

Duration: Five weeks (July 1 – August 9) 

During Stony Brook ’s Simons Summer Research Program, high school students conduct hands-on research in areas like science, math, and engineering while working with faculty mentors. Simons Fellows have the opportunity to join real research teams and learn about laboratory equipment and techniques. They also attend weekly faculty research talks and participate in special workshops, tours, and events. 

At the closing poster symposium, students will receive a stipend for their participation. To apply, you must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and currently be in your junior year. 

7. SPARK Summer Mentorship Program

Application Deadline: N/A

Location: Greater Seattle area

Duration: 8-10 weeks 

SPARK is a summer mentorship program that pairs high-achieving and highly motivated high schoolers with industry experts, university professors, and mentors to conduct research on customers and financial markets. The program is only open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.  

8. MDI Biological Laboratory – Biomedical Bootcamp 2024

Application Deadline: March 18 

Location: Bar Harbor, ME

Duration: One week (July 15 – 19) 

In this bootcamp, students will receive a hands-on introduction to biomedical research at MDI Biological Laboratory. Participants will learn essential scientific skills such as experimental design and hypothesis testing, cutting-edge laboratory techniques, data analysis, bioinformatics, and scientific communication. 

During the program, scientists and bioentrepreneurs at the lab will help participants explore scientific ethics at large, as well as career paths in biomedicine, research, and entrepreneurship in Maine and beyond.

Participants must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and must be entering their junior or senior year in September 2024, or graduating in June 2024. 

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

Application Deadline: February 14  

Location: Boston, MA

Duration: Six weeks (June 30 – August 9)  

RISE is a six-week program for rising seniors with an interest in pursuing a major and/or career in STEM. There are a multitude of tracks available, in areas such as astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, and neuroscience. In each track, students conduct research under the mentorship of Boston University faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students. They will also attend weekly workshops with their peers. 

10. The Wistar Institute – High School Program in Biomedical Research

Application Deadline: March 31 

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Duration: Four weeks (July 15 – August 8) 

A leading biomedical research organization, The Wistar Institute is an ideal setting for students to learn research skills. Participants will complete their own research project while being trained in a principal investigator’s laboratory. They’ll also attend seminars, receive mentorship, and deliver a final presentation about their work.

Students are expected to participate Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Absences of more than two consecutive days cannot be accommodated. Students will receive a stipend of $1,000 upon completion of the program, to compensate for commuting costs or other personal expenses accrued during the program. 

11. California Academy of Sciences – Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program

Application Deadline: April 1, 2024

Location: San Francisco, CA

Duration: Multi-year, year-round participation (after school and on weekends)

This long term program gives San Francisco students from communities that are underrepresented in STEM the opportunity to learn about the world of science and sustainability. Students receive mentorship, develop career skills, and more—all while getting paid for their work. Students also attend workshops and conferences throughout the course of the program. 

12. NASA OSTEM Internship

Application Deadline: February 2

Location: Varies

Duration: Varies

NASA offers a variety of internships for high school students across its numerous campuses. Interns gain real-world work experience by working side by side with research scientists and engineers, which will strengthen their resume and help prepare them for their eventual careers. All participants must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in high school full time.

13. New-York Historical Society Student Historian Internship Program

Application Deadline: April 7

Duration: July 9 – August 15

Not all research is conducted in STEM subjects! Developed for students interested in history, the New-York Historical Society’s Student Historian Program gives participants the opportunity to conduct research on a history topic—2024’s theme is Our Composite Nation: Frederick Douglass’ America . During the program, participants will work with historian mentors, visit history archives around New York City, lead gallery tours, and develop their historical thinking, communication, and digital media skills.

Applicants must be entering grades 10, 11, or 12, and live in the New York City metro area. This opportunity is unpaid for most participants, but some interns with demonstrated financial need can potentially receive a stipend.

14. Adler Planetarium Summer High School Internship  

Application Deadline: March 1

Location: Chicago, IL

Duration: Six weeks (July 8 – August 14)

During this summer internship program, students will learn about the Adler Planetarium and the career opportunities within it and planetariums and museums in general, in areas ranging from Visitor Experience and Learning to Research. Students will also get the chance to see how research gets translated into a museum experience. 

15. Zuckerman Institute Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia University (BRAINYAC)

Application Deadline: TBA for 2025 program

Duration: Eight weeks  

BRAINYAC participants receive the rare opportunity to work on research in a lab at Columbia University , one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, as high school students, which results in a stronger, more comprehensive understanding of how scientific discovery happens. They connect with real scientists, acquire essential research and laboratory skills, and learn about advances in neuroscience research. 

In order to apply, you must be in 10th or 11th grade and must be nominated by one of the program’s partners—S-PREP, Lang Youth Medical, Double Discovery Center, Columbia Secondary School, or BioBus.  

16. Brookfield Zoo King Conservation Science Scholars Program

Application Deadline: Rolling admission 

Location: Brookfield, IL

Duration: N/A

Interactive workshops, fun activities, research, and community-based projects are at the core of this exciting internship. It’s an excellent opportunity for students who love animals and also want to gain research skills in the domains of zoology, environmental science, and conservation. 

As a King Scholar, you’ll learn about different topics through Foundation Courses, such as Diversity Awareness and Introduction to Conservation, all while networking with others and preparing for college and an eventual career in a related field. After one year of participation, you’ll be invited to apply for scholarships and paid positions at the zoo. 

17. The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) at the American Museum of Natural History  

Application Deadline: March 8

Duration: One year (August to June) 

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most iconic and fascinating places in New York City. Its Science Research Mentoring Program is an amazing opportunity for NYC high school students to conduct a yearlong research project with Museum scientists. 

Students in SRMP get paid to learn how scientific research is conducted. Depending on their topic of study, students can learn a variety of different research skills, like working with DNA in the lab, analyzing data from space-based telescopes, reading scientific articles, and learning to code and analyze data in Python, R, and other programming languages. 

18. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Application Deadline:   February 15

Location: Lubbock, TX

Duration: Seven weeks (June 16 – August 1) 

Through the Anson L. Clark Scholar Program, an intensive seven-week summer research program for twelve highly qualified high school juniors and seniors, students will gain hands-on experience with practical research alongside experienced and knowledgeable faculty at Texas Tech University .

Students can choose to participate in research in one field from a broad variety of options, including cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, economics, engineering, history, and more! 

To apply, students must complete an online application that includes short essays, high school transcripts, test scores (at least a PSAT if no others are available), three recommendations (at least two from teachers), and a list of the student’s top five activities.

19. UChicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program  

Application Deadline: January 16 

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 2)

The Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program is an immersive eight-week paid summer research program at the University of Chicago . During the program, high school and undergraduate students are paired with a data science mentor, whose expertise could be in computer science, data science, social science, climate and energy policy, public policy, materials science, biomedical research, or another related field.

Participants will hone their research methodology, research practice, and teamwork skills. No prior research experience is required to apply. All participants will receive access to applied data science research, which they will use to craft a research project. The project findings will be presented in a video that will be shown at an end-of-summer symposium.

20. UT Austin College of Natural Sciences High School Research Academy

Application Deadline: March 24

Location: Austin, TX

Duration: Five weeks (June 10 – July 17) 

Through UT Austin ’s HSRA, high school students participate in interdisciplinary research projects being conducted by active College of Natural Sciences laboratories in fields such as biochemistry, biology, environmental science, genetics, neuroscience, genome engineering, data analytics, ecology, and more. 

There is a scholarship fund for underserved groups, so some stipends and free tuition scholarships may be available to students with demonstrated financial need. 

21. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience – Summer Research Internship

Location: Jupiter, FL

Duration: Six weeks (June 17 – July 26) 

The MPFI Summer Research Internship offers rising juniors and seniors an immersive laboratory experience where they can learn from seasoned researchers. The program is designed specifically for students with an interest in brain structure, function and development, and the advanced imaging techniques and technologies used in neuroscience. 

Program participants will participate in research projects alongside MPFI scientists, prepare a written scientific abstract based on their research project, and deliver a short presentation at the end of the summer. Research tracks include neuroscience, scientific computer programming, and mechanical engineering as it relates to neuroscience.

Applicants must be entering their junior or senior years in a Palm Beach or Martin County high school, be residents of one of those two counties, and be at least 16 by the beginning of the internship. Interns will be paid at a rate of $12.50 per hour.

22. Lincoln Park Zoo Malott Family Zoo Intern Program

Application Deadline: March 11 

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 9) 

During this paid seven-week program, high school students learn how to educate others about animal and conservation sciences while crafting digital messages to engage audiences. The program culminates in a final project. Throughout the internship, students meet with researchers and the Animal Care staff to explore careers in the animal science and conservation fields. 

Applicants must be Chicago residents between the ages of 15-18, and must be entering grades 10-12 or their freshman year of college by the start of the internship.

23. The Scripps Research High School Internship Program  

Application Deadline: April 19

Location: La Jolla, CA

Duration: Seven weeks  

The Scripps Research Institute’s La Jolla, California headquarters is proud to offer a seven-week hands-on research experience for San Diego County high schoolers. The program is specially designed to expose students to careers in the biological and chemical sciences, to provide hands-on laboratory experience, and to motivate and prepare students for continuing education in STEM. 

Because Scripps is committed to increasing the number of students from underrepresented communities in STEM college programs, a special emphasis is placed on identifying and recruiting students who are from groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences. All students will receive a $4,760 stipend.

24. QuarkNet Summer Research Program  

Application Deadline: January 31

Location: DuPage County, IL

Duration: Seven weeks (June 17 – August 2) 

High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a strong interest in STEM have a unique opportunity to work with scientists on research projects during this paid seven-week program at the prestigious Fermilab, located just outside of Chicago near Batavia, IL.

Interns are encouraged to indicate areas in which they have a particular interest, although research projects vary yearly based on the work ongoing at the lab. Broadly speaking, Fermilab’s focus is on particle physics.

Required application materials include a questionnaire, a letter of recommendation, and an essay. To apply, students must have U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status and must provide evidence of identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Participants will be paid at a rate of $17.20 per hour.

25. RISE Environmentor Internship

Location: Far Rockaway, NY

Duration: Six weeks (July 1 – August 15)

The Environmentor Internship offers a great opportunity for 9th through 11th graders who live or attend school near the Rockaway Peninsula to gain firsthand research experience. Participants are mentored by scientists from local universities and research institutions as they work on projects focused on the Rockaway shoreline. Past research topics have included sea turtle strandings, octopus behavior, mussel denitrification, and dolphin fin morphology.

Students will also take part in water safety courses, receive CPR training, and explore on-water activities like kayaking and surfing. Students receive up to a $1,200 stipend, as well as community service hours for their participation in the program.

26. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Application Deadline: February 24

Location: Stanford, CA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 1)

Students in this summer program are given the chance to perform research on a medically oriented project and work side by side with Stanford University students, researchers, and faculty. Students can choose from eight areas of research, including topics like immunology, cancer biology, and bioinformatics, which are all designed to increase their interest in the biological sciences and provide a deeper understanding of how scientific research is conducted.

The program is open to current high school juniors and seniors. Students will receive a minimum $500 stipend for their participation in the program.

27. Secondary Student Training Program

Application Deadline: February 16

Location: Iowa City, IA

Duration: June 19 – July 26

High schoolers in grades 10 and 11 can take part in an immersive research experience, which will allow them to explore their interests, enhance their academic skills, and build relationships with their peers during this research-focused summer program.

Participants can choose from a multitude of research areas, ranging from biology to industrial and systems engineering to religious studies. The program culminates with students creating and presenting a poster of their findings. All participants will live on the University of Iowa ‘s campus for the duration of the program, and have access to all of the university’s libraries, study areas, and computer facilities.

Although this program is quite expensive, with a fee of $7,500, financial aid is available to cover up to 95% of the cost.

28. Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program

Location: Urbana, IL

Duration: Six weeks (June 20 – August 2)

This program, offered by the prestigious Grainger College of Engineering at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) , allows students to gain hands-on research experience in fields such as cancer immunology, AI, physics, quantum mechanics, and electrical engineering. They will also build valuable general life skills by participating in seminars on topics ranging from the college admission process to how to communicate scientifically.

The program is open to rising 10th through 12th graders from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

29. Summer Science Program (SSP)

Duration: Varies depending on location and field of focus

Students in the SSP get the chance to work in small teams on a real research project and gain firsthand experience taking and analyzing data. Research opportunities are offered in three fields—astrophysics, biochemistry, and genomics—and are held at a variety of institutions, including University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Georgetown University , Purdue University , and New Mexico State University .

The program is open to high school juniors, although a small number of exceptional sophomores have attended the program. You must be between 15-19 to participate, and have completed prerequisite coursework, which varies by field. Financial aid is available for this program.

30. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

Application Deadline: January 29

Location: Bar Harbor, ME, and Farmington, CT

Duration: 10 weeks (June 1 – August 10)

Students immerse themselves in genetics and genomics research while learning about laboratory discovery and scientific communication, as well as building professional skills. Over the course of the 10-week program, students work with a mentor to develop a research project, implement their plan, analyze their data, and report their results.

This prestigious program is competitive. Just 40 students are selected to participate annually. Participants receive a $6,500 stipend and have their room, board, and travel expenses covered.

31. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program

Application Deadline: March 31

Location: Seattle, WA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 24 – August 16) 

This full-time, paid internship opportunity offers students a chance to immerse themselves in activities at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, one of the top cancer research centers in the world. The program begins with two weeks of laboratory training and is followed by six weeks of mentored activities, research seminars, workshops focused on college and careers, and social activities.

The program is open to high schoolers entering their senior year with a strong interest in science and high academic achievement, and is specifically aimed at students from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science. Interns receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.

How to Find Research Opportunities in High School 

Define your area of interest .

Before you start looking for opportunities, narrow your area of interest a bit, whether it’s cancer, engineering, computer science, neuroscience, or something else entirely. Also bear in mind that while there may be more STEM opportunities available for high school students, research isn’t limited to these fields—research is also a key component of the social sciences, humanities, and other non-STEM fields. 

While you should be somewhat specific about what you’re hoping to research, don’t narrow your scope so much that it’s impossible to find a valuable opportunity, especially since opportunities for high schoolers in general are more limited than they are for students who have completed at least some college.

Talk to People in Your Immediate Circle 

Teachers, neighbors, your family, parents of friends, friends of your parents—any of these people could know about a research opportunity for you, or at least know someone else who does. Throughout your life, you will find that networking is often the key to finding career opportunities. 

Leveraging your network can help you uncover unique opportunities crowdsourced by the people who know you best—the best opportunities aren’t always hosted by large universities or programs. 

Reach Out to Local Institutions and Laboratories 

In addition to networking with your immediate circle, reach out to local facilities, such as labs, hospitals, clinics, and universities that conduct research. Even if opportunities aren’t publicized, these institutions and laboratories may be willing to make room for you. Remember: when pitching your idea, don’t make it too niche—this will make it more difficult to find a fit and market your skills to labs. 

Cast a Wide Net 

Research opportunities are hard to secure, especially when you’re a young student, so you need to be persistent. You may need to write a hundred emails, but if you put in the effort and cast a wide net, you’ll vastly improve your chances of landing a great opportunity. 

Try not to be too picky, either. Of course, you shouldn’t just accept any offer , especially if it doesn’t appeal to you. But even if the opportunity doesn’t align perfectly with your skills and interests, it can still be a great chance to gain experience and make you a better candidate for future experiences.

How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances? 

How much participating in research enhances your college admissions profile depends on many factors, including the scope of the project, the prestige of the program or institution, your individual role and performance, the institution’s connections to or sponsorships by certain colleges, and even how much weight a college places on extracurricular activities in general. 

Generally speaking, there are four tiers of extracurricular activities that colleges think about when reviewing applicants’ activities. Selective, competitive, and prestigious activities are often found in the top tiers, Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 includes things such as being a highly recruited basketball player or an award-winning national science fair competitor. 

Tier 2 is similar, but is usually reserved for activities that are less exceptional than those in Tier 1. Tiers 3 and 4 are reserved for more common extracurricular achievements, such as holding school leadership positions or being a member of a debate team.

Research usually falls into Tier 2, and some particularly prestigious opportunities could even be Tier 1. That’s because it’s somewhat unusual for high school students to conduct research in professional and collegiate settings, so it’s more likely to impress colleges than other kinds of extracurricular activities.

Do you want to find out the impact research and other extracurricular activities might have on your chances of admission to top colleges and universities? Try using CollegeVine’s free chancing calculator ! 

Our tool evaluates your admissions profile, by accounting for factors like your grades,standardized test scores, and extracurriculars (including research!) to show you how you stack up against other applicants and how likely you are to get into hundreds of different colleges and universities. You’ll also receive tips on how to improve your profile and your odds—all for free.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

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$1bn gift pays tuition for most at Johns Hopkins med school

Many current and future medical students at Johns Hopkins University found out on Monday that their tuition will soon be free.

Billionaire Michael Bloomberg gifted the school $1bn (£780m), which will cover free tuition for students who come from households that earn less than $300,000, the school said.

Students whose families bring in less than $175,000 will also have their fees and living expenses paid for.

The move affects roughly two-thirds of current and prospective medical school students at Johns Hopkins.

“As the US struggles to recover from a disturbing decline in life expectancy, our country faces a serious shortage of doctors, nurses, and public health professionals," Mr Bloomberg, business tycoon and former NYC mayor, said in a statement.

"And yet, the high cost of medical, nursing, and graduate school too often bars students from enrolling."

In the 2023-2024 school year, medical school graduates from Johns Hopkins had an average student loan debt exceeding $100,000, the school said.

The gift from Mr Bloomberg through his philanthropic organisation will also increase financial aid available for students in other programs, including graduate students in the schools of public health and nursing, education, engineering and others.

Johns Hopkins University President Ron Daniels said in a statement on Monday that “removing financial barriers to individual opportunity fuels excellence, innovation and discoveries that redound to the benefit of society".

This is not Mr Bloomberg's first large contribution to the university, which is also his alma mater.

In 2018, Bloomberg Philanthropies made a $1.8bn donation to Johns Hopkins to remove financial barriers for undergraduate students.

Other medical school programs and their billionaire benefactors have made recent efforts to curb high costs for students.

Kenneth Langone and his wife, Elaine, made a $200m donation to the NYU Long Island School of Medicine in 2023, making tuition free for all of the school's medical students.

More From Forbes

New guidance on student loan forgiveness, repayment, and consolidation issued in wake of court rulings.

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WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 1: U.S. President Joe Biden speaks following a Supreme Court's ruling at the ... [+] White House on July 1, 2024 in Washington, DC. One of Biden's central student loan forgiveness and repayment programs is facing significant legal challenges. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

The Education Department released new guidance this week providing borrowers with key updates on student loan forgiveness, income-driven repayment plans, and Direct loan consolidation. The new information follows multiple court rulings that threatened to throw the entire federal student loan system into disarray.

Two federal courts blocked aspects of President Joe Biden’s SAVE program last week, a new income-driven repayment plan that lowers payments and provides loan forgiveness in 10 to 25 years, depending on the borrower’s specific circumstances. The injunctions halted plans to implement a more favorable repayment formula under SAVE, which would have reduced monthly payments for an estimated three million borrowers, and blocked student loan forgiveness.

Only a few days later, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals halted one of those injunctions, allowing lower payments under SAVE to proceed, for now. The Education Department is in the process of appealing the second injunction blocking student loan forgiveness.

In the midst of these rapid developments, the administration released updates for borrowers. Here’s a breakdown.

Reduced Student Loan Payments Under SAVE Are A Go — For Now

“The courts have allowed Federal Student Aid to continue implementing the majority of the provisions of SAVE,” says the new Education Department guidance following the 10th Circuit’s ruling on Sunday staying the Kansas injunction. “Many of the cost-savings provisions of the SAVE Plan remain in effect.”

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Borrowers who are already enrolled in SAVE and were set to have their monthly payments recalculated should be able to start paying either later this month or in August. Any associated administrative forbearance should end by next month, as well.

“If you are already on the SAVE Plan, no action is needed,” says the guidance.

Limited Information On Student Loan Forgiveness Updates

While lower monthly payments under SAVE can proceed following the 10th Circuit’s stay, the situation remains murkier on the status of student loan forgiveness under the program. The Missouri injunction blocks the Education Department from implementing loan forgiveness under SAVE, but the scope of that order remains unclear.

“If you can’t afford your loans, take a look at the information on loan forgiveness and other options on our Repaying Student Loans 101 page,” says the department’s guidance, the only reference to student loan forgiveness on the new website.

This is likely because the status of student loan forgiveness under SAVE remains very much in flux. Education Department officials believe that the Missouri injunction only pertains to early student loan forgiveness (sooner than 20 or 25 years), a unique feature of SAVE designed to benefit borrowers who took out relatively small amounts of debt. But the wording in the Missouri court order could be interpreted to block any student loan forgiveness under the plan.

The department is seeking clarification on the Missouri court order, and ultimately plans on appealing the injunction to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals.

“We will update this page with new information as it becomes available,” says the department website.

Student Loan Consolidation And IDR Applications Should Go Back Up For Online Submissions

Following last week’s court orders, the Education Department took down online applications for IDR plans and Direct loan consolidation. Officials anticipated needing to revamp these online applications in order to comply with court orders, which could take weeks. However, following the 10th Circuit ruling, the department is working to restore online access to these applications.

“You can still enroll in the SAVE Plan or another IDR plan and/or request a Direct Consolidation Loan by submitting a PDF application to your servicer” while the online applications are unavailable, says the department in its guidance. That PDF application can then be sent to the borrower’s loan servicer by mail, fax, email, or online upload.

As of this writing, the online applications for IDR and Direct loan consolidation remain down. “The courts have allowed Federal Student Aid to continue implementing the majority of the provisions of SAVE,” says a notice on both application websites. “Borrowers can continue to enroll in SAVE, other IDR plans, and/or consolidate loans. We will keep you notified of any other updates.”

For PDF submissions, “Processing times may be longer than normal,” warns the department. “Please allow at least 30 days for your servicer to process your electronically uploaded application (longer for mail or fax) before contacting them for any updates. We appreciate your patience.”

Student Loan Forgiveness And Repayment Situation Remains Uncertain

While the Education Department’s issuance of the new guidance is indicative of attempts to keep borrowers informed, the situation remains very much in flux. The SAVE legal challenges are ongoing, and the existing injunctions could change as appeals continue. The status of student loan forgiveness under SAVE has not yet been confirmed. And the ultimate fate of SAVE remains uncertain, as parallel lawsuits continue in two separate courts, putting the program in potential jeopardy.

Borrowers can sign up for Education Department updates to stay informed of any new developments.

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Education Access and Quality

Goal: increase educational opportunities and help children and adolescents do well in school..

People with higher levels of education are more likely to be healthier and live longer. Healthy People 2030 focuses on providing high-quality educational opportunities for children and adolescents — and on helping them do well in school.

Children from low-income families, children with disabilities, and children who routinely experience forms of social discrimination — like bullying —  are more likely to struggle with math and reading. They’re also less likely to graduate from high school or go to college. This means they’re less likely to get safe, high-paying jobs and more likely to have health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and depression.

In addition, some children live in places with poorly performing schools, and many families can’t afford to send their children to college. The stress of living in poverty can also affect children’s brain development, making it harder for them to do well in school. Interventions to help children and adolescents do well in school and help families pay for college can have long-term health benefits.

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