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ProgramGrade Level at Time of ApplicationGPA MinimumAdditional Eligibility InformationProgram FocusProgram TypeLocationDeadline
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ACE Mentor Chicago10th, 11th, 12th2.5 unweightedDesign, construction, architecure, and college-focused sessionsSummer & After SchoolChicago, IL After school program deadline: October 17, 2025
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Adler Planetarium Far Horizons TeensAllNone listedInterested in creative problem solving and learning through hands-on science exploration; eager to collaborate with others; able to attend ALL program dates listed in application.Far Horizons Teens is a curiosity-driven cohort of high school-aged science pioneers. We use many tools and scientific observation skills to measure, monitor, and understand light pollution. We'll also be communicating with the public about our work by presenting at the Planetarium and creating a zine! Science communication is essential for engaging communities in the steps they need to take to help reduce light pollution. School YearChicago, ILMay 1, 2026
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Adler Planetarium Teen OpportunitiesAllNone listedVarious opportunities in STEM, space exploration, leadership, and moreSummer or After SchoolChicago, IL Rolling deadlines
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After School MattersAll None listedEnrichment opportunities in Arts, Leadership, Sports, and STEM run by skilled professionals. Includes a stipend.Summer or After SchoolChicago, ILFall applications close September 13th
Spring applications open in late November
Summer applications open in mid-March
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Anti-Cruelty Society Mentoring ProgramAll2.5 unweightedStudents must have an interest in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine or animal related sciences. Pre-vet program to introduce scientific concepts in a college lecture format; learn from veterinary professionals; topics include diagnosis, animal surgery, shelter medicine, and animal behaviorSchool Year; OnlineChicago, ILJune 7, 2026
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Bank of America Student Leaders Program11th, 12th3.0 unweightedLegally authorized to work in the US; cannot be a family member of a BoA employeePaid summer internship, leadership development, civic engagementSummer Chicago, IL, plus a week-long institute in Washington, D.C.Application opening January 2026
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Bottom Line College Access Program11th2.5 unweightedTargeting lower income and/or first generation college students, A U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Refugee / Asylee Mentorship through the college & financial aid processSummer & After SchoolChicago, IL Rolling admissions
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Carleton College Liberal Arts Experience11th3.0 unweightedCollege bound sophomores who identify as African American or interested in African American cultureCourses in science, tech, art and social science, college readiness workshops, test prepSummerNorthfield, MNPriority deadline: April 1, 2026
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Carnegie Mellon University AI Scholars11thStrong academic recordTargeting underrepresented minorities, lower income students, or first generation college studentsArtificial intelligence exploration; exposure to a world-renowned research universitySummerPittsburg, PA February 1, 2026
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Carnegie Mellon University Computer Science Scholars10thStrong academic recordTargeting underrepresented minorities, lower income students, or first generation college studentsComputer science exploration; exposure to a world-renowned research universitySummerPittsburg, PA February 1, 2026
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Carnegie Mellon University Math & Science Summer Academy11thStrong academic recordTargeting underrepresented minorities, lower income students, or first generation college studentsRigorous science & engineering or computer science enrichment; exposure to a world-renowned research universitySummerPittsburg, PA February 1, 2026
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Chicago Public Library School Year Teen InternshipAllNone listedMust have a work permit if under 16, but CPL will help you through the process if selected for the internshipOn the application, you can apply for the following internships:

Teen Best Reads (Jan-Dec 2026)
Chicago Teen Gamer's Guild (Jan-Jun 2026)
Digital Content (Jan-Dec 2026)
Radical Fit Fashion Incubator (Jan-Aug 2026)

You can apply for as many internships as you would like, but you will only be able to accept one position.

Each internship will have separate interviews, so please consider this when applying.
School Year & SummerChicago, ILNovember 2, 2025
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Chicago Scholars11th3.0 unweightedTargeting lower income and/or first generation college studentsMentorship through the college & financial aid process; college success & career networking supportSummer & After SchoolChicago, ILFebruary 4, 2026
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Climate Leaders FellowshipAllNone listedDesigning and implementing community projects to reduce the impact and harms of climate changeSchool YearChicago, ILSeptember 28, 2025
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Congressional Hispanic Caucus NextGen Latino Leadership Program10th, 11thNone listedPreference given to Latinos with financial needCivic engagement, American government, creating positive change in communitiesSummerJanuary 16, 2026
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Denison Young Writer's Workshop10th, 11thNone listedCreative writing, mentoring, cultural activities at Denison's campusSummerDenison, OHMarch 3, 2026
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Digital Scholars Program10th, 11thNone listedDemonstrate interest in Computer Science or tech-related fieldsIntensive, free, 6-week pre-college program to building college and career readiness skills in areas such as Computer Science, Data Science, Mobile App Development, or Computer & Electrical EngineeringSummerChicago, IL Spring 2026
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Discover Computing9th, 10thDesigned to build a deeper and more diverse pool of students pursuing computer science and tech-related fields of study in Illinois.School YearChicago, IL January 9, 2026
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Discovering Healthcare Careers Internship (DHC)11th, 12th2.75 unweightedMust identify as Black/African American or Latino/Hispanic; be 17 by program start; and be legally authorized to work in the US (have a SSN or DACA)Internship through Lurie Children's Hospital to shadow medical profressionals and develop clinical and workforceSummerChicago, IL January 10, 2026
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Eco Ambassadors with Columbia Climate SchoolAll grade levelsNone listedWe invite students who are eager to collaborate with peers and experts, learn new skills, and make a positive impact on sustainability.This free, 8-weeks, virtual event will explore AI ethics, sustainability, and the role of youth in shaping a more just future and developing solutions that promote fact-based discussions around challenges in their own communities. A certificate is awarded upon completion.SummerVirtualMay 15, 2026
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Future FoundersAllNone listedLearn how to create and pitch your own business idea all while getting paid as a Be Your Own Boss Intern! Over four weeks, you’ll get a crash course in entrepreneurship and work with awesome teens from across the city to build a business of your own.School YearChicago, IL September 26, 2025
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Georgetown University Pre-College Online ProgramAllNone listedAn opportunity to explore certain subjects before college. School Year & SummerOnlineRolling admissions
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Girl Security National Fellows11thNone listedOpen to students who identify as a girl, woman, or gender minority; US citizen or permanent residentSecurity pathways across government, business, technology, and more!School yearVirtualSeptember 30, 2026
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Girls in the GameAllNone listedOpen to student who identify as femaleSports-based youth and leadership development. Other activities include field trips, interviews with business leaders, professional and personal development workshops, and scholarship opportunities.School Year & SummerChicago, IL Rolling admissions
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Girls Who Code Summer Imm​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ersion9th, 10th, 11thNone listedOpen to students who identify as female or non-binaryComputer science, real world projects, connecting to female engineers and entrepreneursSummerChicago, IL Can fill out interest form to be notified of application opening
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Harry S Truman College Summer STEM Research11th (summer after junior year)None listedCompletion of Biology course in high school recommendedThis program, hosted by Harry S Truman College, offers students the chance to gain hands-on experience in biological lab techniques, work with a faculty mentor on a research project, and participate in STEAM activities as a summer camp STEAMbassador. Pays $17 per hour, To participate, students will enroll in Biology 299: Special Topics in Biology as CPS/CCC dual enrollment students. Also, students will work with youth from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago on STEAM projects and activities. SummerChicago, ILApril 17, 2026
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Healthcare Youth Pathways DirectoryAllVariesVariesOnline directory to find mutliple healthcare-related programs and internships. Search by career path, location, grade level, paid opportunities, etc. VariesVariesVaries
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Hispanic Scholarship Fund's Youth Leadership Institute11th3.0 unweightedIdentify as being of Hispanic heritage; must be U.S. Citizen, Permanent Legal Resident, or DACACollege access & empowerment. Attendees will enhance their leadership abilities and expand their professional networks by participating in college and career workshops and interacting with college students and professionals who serve as their mentors.SummerOnline & 5-day in-person in Los Angeles, CATBD
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Illinois Tech Summer Programs9th, 10th, 11thNone listedDaytime and residential programs on Illinois Tech's campus in areas such as architecture, biology, business, chemistry, computer science, law, robotics, psychology, and more. SummerChicago, IL May 2026 or until programs are full
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Marwen Art ClassesAllNone listedCannot afford to pay for art classes. Can commit to a full session once registered. Marwen’s no-cost programs exist for young artists in Chicago who want to explore visual arts, can commit to a multi-week art class, are in 6th-12th grades, and do not have access to arts programming due to financial and systemic barriersSchool Year & SummerChicago, ILFall classes: August deadline
Spring classes: January deadline
Summer classes: June deadline
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Marwen Art@Work Summer InternshipAges 16 - 18None listedValid SSN or employment tax ID number; vaccinated against Covid-19; able to commit to the full schedule (see website)5-week paid summer internship in arts-related organizations or businesses for young people to explore their next steps, learn about different creative career pathways, and envision their futures.SummerChicago, ILApril or May 2026
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Medicina Academy Apprentice Program (MAAP) at UIC9th, 10th, 11th3.0 unweightedHispanic/Latino origin or interested in medical careers that serve the Latino community; know at minimum conversational SpanishPreparation for aspiring physicians; students take part in medical labs, higher education courses, and career development sessionsSchool YearChicago, ILApril 10, 2026 or until spots are filled
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Minds Matter Chicago9th3.0 unweightedQualify for Federal Free/Reduced Lunch Program; willing to commit to a three-year programCollege prep, mentoring, and summer program experiencesMulti-year with School Year & Summer CommitmentsChicago, IL & out-of-state summer programsMarch 2026
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National Museum of the American Latino Young Ambassador Program12th3.25 unweightedAuthorized to work in the United States; be enrolled in college for the fall; record of service and enagagement with the Latino community.Internship designed to foster Latino leaders in the arts, sciences, and humanities via the Smithsonian Institution Includes a one-week training seminar in Washington D.C. (all expenses covered). The internship itself does not cover housing or meals, so applicants should apply to a site where they can live with family and friends. Summer internshipVarious, plus one-week in Washington D.C. April 2026
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NorthShore Hospital Volunteer OpportunitiesMust be 16 years oldNone listedVolunteer a minimum of four hours per shift (Must complete a minimum of 200 hours to fulfill obligation)
Summer Requirements: Volunteer a minimum of 100 hours. See website for more requirements.
Help make a difference for someone in need. At NorthShore there are a variety of ways that you can get involved, from participating in community events to volunteering at one of our hospitals or medical offices.School Year & SummerChicago and surrounding areaNo deadline
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Northwestern Academy9th, 10th3.0 unweightedWilling to commit to a three-year program, and meet ONE of these criteria: Qualify as low-income, first generation college student, OR from an ethnic group underrepresented in higher educationCollege prep, mentoring, and summer program experiencesMulti-year with School Year & Summer CommitmentsEvanston and Chicago, IL March 20, 2026
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Northwestern College Bridge11th3.5 unweightedCollege courses with undergradate students on Northwestern's campus; earn college creditSummerEvanston, IL April 2026
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Northwestern Hospital Volunteer OpportunitiesMust be 16 years oldNone listed18 years old+ to volunteer at Northwestern Memorial downtown. See website for more requirements. Volunteering at a hospital gives you an opportunity to use your talents to make a real impact on your community. While your generous gift of time helps others feel relaxed and welcome, it also benefits you in many ways as you learn new skills and gain experiences. School Year & SummerChicago and surrounding areaNo deadline
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Northwestern HS Institute Debate Program9th, 10th, 11thTypical candidate is in the top 30% of their classDebate camp with opportunities for lecture, breakout sessions and lab groups, argument research, and tournament preparatoin SummerEvanston, IL Application opens in January 2026; rolling admissions until program is full
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Northwestern HS Institute Film & Video Program10th, 11thTypical candidate is in the top 30% of their classExperience a top collegiate film program with concentrations in acting on camera, screenwriting, or film productionSummerEvanston, IL Early deadline: January 9, 2026
Regular deadline: March 13, 2026
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Northwestern HS Institute Theatre Arts Program11thTypical candidate is in the top 30% of their classStage performance and design with professional theatre practionersSummerEvanston, IL Early deadline: January 2, 2026
Regular deadline: February 27, 2026
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Northwestern Medicine Discovery Program10th, 11th3.0 unweightedWilling to commit to a two-year programExposure to healthcare careers, guest speakers, tours, and hands-on projectsSchool YearChicago, IL September 29, 2025
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Northwestern Medicine Health Professions Recruitment & Exposure Program (HPREP)AllNone listedExposure to medical school curriculum, health careers, and healthcare professionalsSchool YearChicago, IL December 20, 2025
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Northwestern University Healthcare Mentorship & Exposure Program (NUHMEP)AllNone listedWilling to commit to 5 SaturdaysNUHMEP is designed to give students first-hand exposure to the medical school curriculum, career options in healthcare, and the tools for academic success. This 5-week program will run on Saturdays from 8:30 am - 12 pm from 2/14/26 - 3/14/26 in person on our campus located in downtown Chicago (Streeterville). This program is completely free to students.School YearChicago, ILJanuary 5, 2026
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Princeton LEDA Scholars11th3.5 unweightedTargeting lower income or first generation college students; Dreamers must have DACA statusCollege admissions, test prep, college-level writing, and leadership developmentSummer, plus senior year advising sessions and support during collegePrinceton, NJDecember 10, 2025
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Princeton Summer Journalism11th 3.5 unweightedQualify for Federal Free/Reduced Lunch ProgramInvestigative reporting, writing & editing, career exploration, college readiness workshops, and college advisingSummer, plus senior year advising sessionsPrinceton, NJJanuary 26, 2026
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Rotary Club of Chicago Job1 Summer Internship11th and 12thNone listed8-week paid summer internship working with a Chicago company or non-profit organization; get valuable leadership, service, and workforce experience. SummerChicago, ILMarch 1, 2026
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School of the Art Institute of Chicago College Arts Access Program9thWilling to commit to a three-year programEarly college program for students dedicated to studying art and designMulti-year during School YearChicago, ILApril 10, 2026
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TurnUp: Civic and Activism Remote InternshipAllNone listedJoin our remote team of mission-driven young people from all around the country to help amplify youth civic engagement and civic participation on the issues you care about.Year-roundRemoteRolling
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UI Health Volunteer Opportunities16 years old minimumNone listedMust pass drug screening and background checkMultiple volunteer opportunities such as greeting, playing music, or assisting in various areas such the Cancer Center or NICU. Requires a commitment of 8 hours per month for at least 12 months.Year-roundChicago, ILNo deadline
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University of Chicago Collegiate Scholars9thTypical candidate is in the top 10% of their classCollege prep, mentoring, and summer program experiencesMulti-year with School Year & Summer CommitmentsChicago, IL February 22, 2026
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University of Chicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab ProgramAllNone listedMust be authorized to work in the U.S. to be considered for this programPaid 10-week summer research program focused on data science in various domains, including computer science, social science, climate & energy policy, public policy, materials science, and biomedical researchSummerChicago, IL January 12, 2026
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University of Chicago Data4All High School Bridge WorkshopAllNone listed8-week workshop at the University of Chicago to build your data science toolkit; use real-world, professional grade data science tools and datasets; learn Python programming language; work on case studies; hear from guest speakers; and learn about career pathways.School YearChicago, ILOpens in Spring 2026. Fill out this form to be notified.
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University of Chicago Medicine Chicago EYES on Cancer10th, 11th, 12th (at least 16 years old at start of the program)None listedUnited States citizen or permanent resident
Ability to commit to the full two-year program, including 8-week research experiences (40 hours/week) for two consecutive summers and monthly enrichment activities during the academic year (2-4 hours/month)
For two consecutive summers, EYES participants work full time in the laboratories of established cancer researchers at the university. Rigorous research training is complemented with a cancer-based summer lecture series, year-round career development and skill-building workshops, and a network of faculty and peer mentors dedicated to participants’ success. The program culminates in a research symposium to showcase participants’ work across basic, translational, clinical, and population-based areas of cancer research.SummerChicago, ILDecember 1, 2025
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University of Chicago Space Explorers Program9th, 10th, 11th3.0 unweightedMotivated students with a demonstrated interest in and commitment to STEM-related coursework and activitiesFree science enrichment program which focuses on astronomy and physics; industry and lab tours; field trips and college trips. Includes Saturday sessions and a summer institute.School Year & SummerChicago, ILFebruary 22, 2026
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University of Chicago Summer Enrichment Programs9th, 10th, 11thNone listedVariesFree, one-week programs in a variety of subject areas, including quantum science, entrepreneurship, economics, climate & energy policy, and more!SummerChicago, ILPriority deadline: February 11, 2026
Regular deadline: March 12, 2026
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University of Illinois - Chicago (UIC) STEM ScholarsAllNone listedScience knowledge through challenging hands-on activities and excite them about potential STEM majors and careers.School Year & SummerChicago, ILApplication open for Spring 2026; rolling admissions until program is full
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University of Illinois - Chicago (UIC) Women in Engineering Summer Program11th, 12th3.2 unweightedFemale-identifying; As and Bs in math & science classes; STEM club involvementFREE, non-residential program, that offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about engineering through hands-on projects and corporate partner visits. Prior experience is NOT required and participants will receive a financial stipend upon successful completion of the program! SummerChicago, ILMarch or April 2026
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University of Illinois Young Scholar STEMM Summer Program9th, 10th, 11th None listed but academically competitivePriority given to groups historically excluded from STEMM fields based on gender, racial, ethnic, and ability identities, as well as socioeconomic status.Engage in an authentic STEMM research experience at a world-class research university for 6 weeks during the summer. Participating students gain hands-on experience in areas at the forefront of various STEMM fields, such as cancer immunology, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, physics, quantum mechanics, bioengineering, electrical engineering, and more!SummerChampaign, ILApplication opens February 2026
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University of Illinois-Chicago Cancer Center: CHESS Program10th, 11th, 12thNone listedMust reside in Cook county. Must be 16 at the start of the program.The Cancer Health Engagement Summer Scholars (CHESS) program is an eight-week summer program that trains and mentors underrepresented high school students interested in careers focusing on cancer research and other health professions. CHESS is a collaboration between the University of Illinois Cancer Center and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Urban Health Program. Students gain hands-on research experience working in a UIC faculty lab on an independent project. At the end of the summer, students present their work during the Cancer Center’s student research symposium. Students will also attend workshops, lectures, and other activities focused on building research, professional and academic skills. Students are matched to labs based on interest, and can work on any field of cancer research – from molecular biology to computation and biostatistics.

Students will receive a $3,000 stipend for completing the program.
Summer Chicago, ILJanuary 19, 2026
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University of Illinois-Chicago RESEARCHSTART Program11th, 12thNone listedMust live in Illinois or Indiana. Must be 16 by the start of the program.ResearcHStart is a multi-institutional program welcoming students to explore exciting careers in cancer research. Participants work full time in the laboratories of established cancer researchers, gaining hands-on experience in areas at the forefront of the field: cancer immunology, bioengineering, experimental cancer therapeutics, cancer disparities and more. Rigorous research training is complemented by career development and skill-building workshops, a cancer-based faculty lecture series, and a network of faculty and peer mentors dedicated to students’ success. The program culminates in a research symposium for family, friends and members of the scientific community.

Students will earn a $3000 stipend.
SummerVariesJanuary 19, 2026
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University of Southern California Bovard Scholars11th4.0 weightedDemonstrate financial need and have taken AP coursesIntensive summer workshop focused on selective college admissions, test prep, and career goals; virtual support sessions on college and financial aid during senior yearSummer, plus senior year advising sessionsLos Angeles, CAJanuary 16, 2026
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University of Wisconsin-Madison Badger Summer Scholars9th, 10th, 11thNone listedResidential learning opportunity across a wide variety of academic interests. Example classes include government & politics, philosophy, sports & media, and veterinary science. Full and partial scholarships are available based on financial need. SummerMadison, WIFinancial aid/scholarship deadline: April 1, 2026
https://precollege.wisc.edu/financial-information/
Application deadline: May 1, 2026
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University of Wisconsin-Madison Engineering Summer Program10th, 11th3.0 unweightedStrong interest in math, science, and engineering; must be a US citizen or permanent residentInteractive engineering curriculum with hands-on workshops, visits to industry sites, and mentoring from faculty while living on the UW campusSummerMadison, WIMarch 2, 2026
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Where There Be Dragons Summer & Gap Programs9th (must be 15 yrs old), 10th, 11th, 12thSummer and gap year programs that are rooted in responsible travel and immersive, hands-on experiences. Tuition & fees apply.Summer, Gap YearLocations varyDeadlines vary based on location
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World Chicago Youth Diplomats9th, 10th, 11thApplication requires two letters of recommendation
Interviews will begin the week of November 17th
Is recruiting students and hoping to get some applicants from Von. They are seeking 9th-11th grade students who wish to become more active global citizens and may be interested in careers in diplomacy and international affairs. Youth Diplomats sessions typically fall on the 4th Saturday of each monthLocations vary, virtually or in personOctober 31, 2026
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Young Leaders Summit11th3.0 unweightedQualify as low-income; must be a US citizen, permanent resident, or DACACollege empowerment program to provide tools to successfully apply to competitive colleges and access scholarships and financial aidSummerLocations may varyOpens February 2026
Deadline March 2026
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