Research Ignited

High School Research & Internship Opportunities in California (CA)

Why Research & Internship Experience is Important for High School Students

Gaining hands-on research and internship experience in high school can give students a competitive edge in college applications and future careers. California, home to some of the top universities, tech companies, and research institutions, offers a variety of opportunities for students interested in STEM, AI, medicine, business, and social sciences.

This guide highlights the best high school research and internship programs in California, along with online options like Research Ignited’s High School Research Program and AI Scholars Program that allow students to gain valuable experience from anywhere.

Top High School Research & Internship Opportunities in California

1. Stanford University Pre-Collegiate Institutes

  • Description: Offers summer research programs in STEM, humanities, and social sciences for high-achieving students.

  • Eligibility: High school students (grades 9-12).

  • Website: Stanford Pre-Collegiate

2. UCLA High School Summer Research Program (HSSEAS)

  • Description: A research internship program at the UCLA School of Engineering where students work on real-world engineering projects.

  • Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors.

  • Website: UCLA HSSEAS

3. USC Summer Programs for High School Students

  • Description: Offers research-focused summer courses in science, business, and engineering.

  • Eligibility: High school students (ages 15 and older).

  • Website: USC Summer Programs

4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech) Summer Research Connection

  • Description: A rigorous research experience at Caltech, where students work on STEM projects under faculty guidance.

  • Eligibility: High school students from California.

  • Website: Caltech Research

5. UC Berkeley Simons Summer Research Program

  • Description: A competitive research program for high school students in math, science, and engineering.

  • Eligibility: Rising seniors with a strong academic record.

  • Website: Berkeley Simons Program

6. Scripps Research High School Internship Program

  • Description: Offers hands-on biomedical research experience at one of the world’s leading research institutions.

  • Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors.

  • Website: Scripps Research

7. NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) High School Internship

  • Description: A prestigious internship for students interested in aerospace, robotics, and engineering.

  • Eligibility: U.S. high school students.

  • Website: NASA JPL Internships

8. Buck Institute for Research on Aging High School Internship

  • Description: A research internship focused on biomedical science and aging research.

  • Eligibility: High school students (16 and older).

  • Website: Buck Institute

9. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBL) High School Internship

  • Description: Provides opportunities in STEM research with leading scientists in the field.

  • Eligibility: High school students in California.

  • Website: LBL Internships

10. Rady Children’s Hospital Summer Medical Academy

  • Description: A healthcare-focused summer program where students learn from medical professionals.

  • Eligibility: High school students (ages 15-19).

  • Website: Rady Children’s Hospital

Nationwide & Virtual Research Opportunities for CA Students

Many students may not have access to in-person research programs. Fortunately, high-quality virtual options allow students to conduct independent research with expert mentorship.

Research Ignited – High School Research Program 🚀

  • Description: A premier online research mentorship program where students work on real-world research projects in AI, STEM, medicine, business, and more. The program connects students with PhD mentors and offers research publication opportunities.

  • Eligibility: Open to high school students nationwide. No prior research experience required.

  • Website: Research Ignited

Research Ignited – AI Scholars Program 💡

  • Description: A 10-week (or 2-week summer intensive) AI & machine learning program designed for high school students of all backgrounds. No coding experience required, and students explore real-world AI applications in various industries.

  • Eligibility: Open to all high school students, regardless of prior programming experience.

  • Website: AI Scholars Program

How to Apply & Improve Your Chances

Research and internship opportunities in California are highly competitive. Here’s how to boost your application:

  • Build a strong academic record: Focus on coursework related to your field of interest.

  • Write a compelling personal statement: Show your passion for research.

  • Secure recommendation letters: Ask teachers or mentors who can vouch for your abilities.

  • Participate in online research programs: Programs like Research Ignited can enhance your profile.

Conclusion

California is home to some of the best research and internship opportunities for high school students. Whether you’re looking for a summer program at Stanford, UCLA, or NASA JPL, or prefer a flexible, online research experience, there’s a perfect opportunity for you.

If you’re serious about research, Research Ignited’s High School Research Program and AI Scholars Program offer expert mentorship, real-world projects, and certification to strengthen your college applications.

👉 Apply today at Research Ignited and take the first step toward your research journey!