Engineering

Engineering is about solving real-world problems and exploring your passions. Many research programs have early-year deadlines, so plan ahead! If you don’t get accepted, try emailing professors directly. For more tips, check out Cold Email section.

Programs

1. Girls Who Code - Girls Who Code is a free, intensive summer program that equips high school students who identify as a female (or nonbinary) with real-world experience and professional network to pursue careers in engineering, computer science, or other STEM fields. 

   • Application deadline: Mid-April 

   • They have multiple programs that you can choose from. You can do it in-person and online. 

   • No prior experience required 

   • https://girlswhocode.com/programs/summer-immersion-program 

     
     

2. MITES (MIT introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science) - MITES is a free, 6 week summer program at MIT for rising high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds who are passionate about STEM. The program includes college prep workshops, mentorship from MIT students and faculty, and a supportive community of peers. 

   • Application Deadline: Early February 

   • All costs, including tuition, housing, and meals, are covered.

   • https://mites.mit.edu/  

     
     

3. Engineering the Next Generation (E.N.G.) at Columbia Engineering - Engineering the Next Generation (E.N.G.) is a free, 6-week summer research-focused engineering program at Columbia Engineering for high school juniors and seniors from select local partner schools. Students work alongside faculty and graduate mentors on real research projects and receive a stipend. The program focuses on building academic skills and professional development. 

   • Application Deadline: Around Mid-December (no clear deadline)

   • https://outreach.engineering.columbia.edu/eng 

     
     

4. Columbia Engineering’s Summer High School Academic Program for Engineers (SHAPE) - SHAPE is a selective summer program at Columbia University for high school students interested in engineering and applied sciences. Over 2–3 weeks, students take college-level courses in fields like robotics, biomedical engineering, computer science, and sustainable energy, taught by Columbia faculty and researchers. 

   • Application deadline: Early March 

   • Tuition-based: Around $5500

   • Financial aid. Need-based scholarships. 

   • https://precollege.engineering.columbia.edu/shape 

     
     

5. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes - Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes is a two-week, online academic enrichment program for high school students interested in subjects like engineering, computer science, math, and more. Taught by Stanford instructors, the program offers small, live classes, interactive projects, and optional community events. 

   • Application Deadline: Late March 

   • Tuition is $3,080

   • Need-based financial aid is available for both U.S. and international students.

   • https://summerinstitutes.spcs.stanford.edu/ 

     
     

6. Boston University RISE program - BU RISE is a competitive 6-week summer program for rising high school seniors to engage in hands-on research in science and engineering. Students choose between an internship with independent lab research or group projects and lectures. The program includes professional development workshops and a final research symposium. 

   • Application deadline: Mid-February 

   • Tuition is about $5,700, with additional fees and housing costs. 

   • Need-based financial aid is available.

   • https://www.bu.edu/summer/high-school-programs/rise-internship-practicum/