Are you a high school student who’s stoked on space?
Not the “Star Wars vs. Star Trek” kind (though you might be into those too). We’re talking about students who live for exploration, engineering, or scientific research.
The kinds of students who are bringing sci-fi visions to life, breaking boundaries, and testing limits—in all the best ways.
If that sounds like you, awesome. Keep reading. (And if you’re not positive this describes you, also keep reading.)
While colonizing Mars might seem like a goal that’s (currently) out of reach, pursuing your space-related goals shouldn’t be. Luckily, we’ve got a few out-of-this-world (and probably more bad space puns) opportunities for you to explore and refine your interests.
NASA offers several high school internships that offer students like you extraordinary opportunities to work alongside industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and potentially launch a career in aerospace, STEM, or a related field.
How do you find them? Glad you asked.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about NASA's most prestigious high school internship programs, their application requirements, and tips for standing out from other candidates.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(click to skip ahead)NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internships
Program Overview
Working at NASA is, of course, many a STEM student’s dream. And NASA's Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) helps make that dream come true by offering a wide range of internship opportunities for high school students across all NASA centers.
These internships are designed to provide authentic, hands-on experiences in various STEM fields related to NASA's missions. You’ll also work closely and develop working relationships with mentors who are research scientists, engineers, and more—building connections that will serve you long after the internship’s end.
Eligibility Requirements
U.S. citizenship
Minimum 16 years of age
Currently enrolled in high school full time (grades 9-12)
Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Program Details
Duration: Typically 8-10 weeks during summer (shorter sessions may be available during the academic year)
Frequency: 3 sessions are offered each year
Locations: Various NASA centers across the country
Stipend: Paid internships with stipends based on academic level and location
Housing: Not provided, but some centers offer housing recommendations or private Facebook pages to coordinate housing
Application Process
Create an account on the NASA Internship Portal.
Complete your profile with academic history, skills, and interests.
Upload required documents (which may include transcripts and resumes, but the office of STEM engagement doesn’t require a letter of recommendation).
Search and apply for specific internship opportunities.
Selected candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Application Deadline
Applications for summer internships typically open in October and close in February. Fall and spring session deadlines vary.
NASA and UT Austin's SEES High School Summer Intern Program
Program Overview
Not every NASA internship looks to the heavens. Some, like the STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES) internship, conduct their research a little closer to home.
The competitive SEES internship is a collaboration between NASA and the University of Texas at Austin's Center for Space Research. This program provides selected students with exposure to Earth and space research, helping them better understand climate sciences. Interns not only learn how to interpret NASA satellite data, but they also work closely with scientists and engineers in their chosen area of work.
As an added bonus, students will have the opportunity to present their research during the Virtual SEES Science Symposium.
Eligibility Requirements
U.S. citizen
Current high school sophomore or junior
At least 16 years old by the program start date
Strong academic record (particularly in math and science)
Demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in STEM
Program Details
Duration: Approximately 2 weeks during the summer for the on-site portion of the internship. Online modules will be made available in advance of the in-person portion, and there’s approximately one month of project-specific online work with project mentors before the on-site portion.
Location: University of Texas at Austin campus (although there are some virtual projects).
Cost: Program participation is free. Housing, meals, and local transportation (to/from the airport) will be provided for those selected. There are a limited number of scholarships available for transportation.
Activities: Hands-on research projects, field trips, lectures, and networking opportunities.
Application Process
Complete the online application through the SEES program website.
Submit required materials (which include a transcript, essay responses, an introduction video, and letters of recommendation).
Application Deadline
Applications typically open in November and close in February.
Goddard Institute for Space Studies' Climate Change Research Initiative
Program Overview
Another amazing opportunity that allows high school students the opportunity to immerse themselves in climate change research is the Goddard Institute for Space Studies' Climate Change Research Initiative.
Here, students partner with interdisciplinary teams of NASA scientists and engineers on climate change-related projects. And projects culminate in presentations not just at NASA headquarters, but also at professional conferences, elevating participants’ skills in scientific communication and collaboration.
More info about opportunities here.
Eligibility Requirements
U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Current high school student (in grades 10, 11, or 12) who’s at least 16 years old
Strong academic background in STEM subjects
Interest in climate science and research
Must be able to commute to the GISS facility in New York City or the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.
Program Details
Duration: 6-week program
Location: NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, New York City or the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.
Research Focus: Climate change science topics including urban heat, extreme climate events, and monitoring lakes and estuaries from space
Application Process
Complete the application form (when available) on the CCRI website; otherwise, contact Matthew Pearce (contact info at that link)
Submit academic records, a personal statement, a resume, and the completed PDF specific to the CCRI program.
Selected applicants will be invited for interviews
Application Deadline
Applications are typically due in late spring for that summer.
NASA Johnson Space Center's High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) Program
Program Overview
If a summer-long opportunity leaves you wanting more, then the yearlong High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) program might be just what you’re looking for.
The program kicks off in the fall with a five-month online journey through space exploration, Earth science, technology, and aeronautics. Students who stand out will earn an invite to Moonshot—a five-day virtual summer experience where they’ll be mentored by actual NASA scientists and engineers. (Which seems pretty awesome.)
And if you’re one of the top-performing teams from Moonshot? No big deal—you’ll just earn an all-expenses-paid trip to NASA’s Johnson Space Center for an unforgettable in-person experience.
Eligibility Requirements
Texas resident
U.S. citizen
Current high school junior (11th grade)
Interest in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics
Access to the internet and email
Commitment to completing online assignments to qualify for Moonshot
Program Details
Phase 1: An interactive online learning experience (school year) covers NASA’s themes of Humans in Space, Moon to Mars, Earth, Space Technology, Flight, and Solar System and Beyond
Phase 2: On-site summer experience at Johnson Space Center (for qualifying students)
Cost: Free; all program costs are covered
High School Credit: Upon successful completion of the online portion of the course, students can earn 0.5 science elective credit. The successful completion of the summer portion can earn students a second 0.5 science elective credit.
Application Process
Complete the online application on the HAS website.
Submit required materials, including high school transcript and teacher recommendation.
Selected students will be notified and begin the online portion of the program.
Application Deadline
Applications typically open in August/September and close in October each year.
NASA DEVELOP
Program Overview
Students wanting a broader exposure to using their STEM skills to solve real-world problems might want to explore NASA DEVELOP.
This is a national program that brings together students to work on interdisciplinary research projects, applying NASA Earth observations to environmental and community concerns focused on nine thematic areas: Agriculture, Climate, Disasters, Ecological Conservation, Energy, Health & Air Quality, Urban Development, Water Resources, and Wildland Fires.
While this program is primarily aimed at undergraduate and graduate students, motivated high school students can also participate.
Eligibility Requirements
At least 18 years of age
Strong academic record
Interest in service to community, Earth science, remote sensing, or related fields
Program Details
Duration: 10 weeks. The spring term begins in late January, the summer term begins in early June, and the fall term begins in mid-September.
Locations: NASA centers, regional locations, and virtual opportunities.
Time Commitment: 20-29 hours per week for high school students.
Cost: Participants are responsible for their own housing, living expenses, and transportation to and from their DEVELOP office. Participants are paid on an hourly basis.
Application Process
Apply through the NASA DEVELOP website.
Submit your resume, transcript, and two letters of recommendation.
Complete the required application questions.
Selected candidates may be interviewed.
Application Deadlines
Summer term: Late February
Fall term: Late June
Spring term: Late October
GeneLab for High Schools
Program Overview
While there’s exciting research happening on the big things, like stars and planets and rockets, there’s some really cool research happening with microscopic things, too.
GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS) is a 12-week virtual program that gives high school students the opportunity to conduct authentic space biology research using NASA's GeneLab database, which contains biological data from spaceflight experiments.
This program was expanded in 2025 to accommodate approximately 800 students and includes an optional team-based capstone project—great news for aspiring scientists!
Eligibility Requirements
U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Rising high school juniors and seniors
Have a computer with stable internet connection
Have taken at least one high school biology course
Minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0
Program Details
Duration and time commitment: 12 weeks. Participants should expect to spend 20 hours per week reviewing video lectures, reading materials, working through exercises, taking quizzes, and participating in open office hours.
Format: Virtual program with optional capstone project.
Research: Students analyze real space biology data and develop research projects, gaining experience in omics-based research, bioinformatics and computational biology methods, and techniques to analyze omics data.
Cost: There’s no cost to participate.
Application Process
Complete the application on the GL4HS website.
Submit your transcript.
Accepted students who wish to participate in the capstone project will be encouraged to communicate and network with other participants to start forming teams.
Application Deadline
Applications typically open in late spring and close in early fall.
NASA's Aviation Concept Design Experience
Program Overview
Have a need for speed and flying high? The Aviation Concept Design Experience offers high school students the chance to work with NASA engineers on conceptual designs for future aircraft and aviation systems.
Students learn about aeronautics principles and design methodologies and use them to propose solutions to “wicked” problems. As part of a team of 6 students and 2 NASA mentors, participants will deliver a 1-hour final presentation to the Division, and their final report will be hosted on NASA’s Technical Report Server for public access.
A pretty cool add to your high school resume, if you ask us.
Eligibility Requirements
U.S. citizen
Current high school student in grade 10 or 11 at time of application
Strong academic record, particularly in math and science
Interest in aeronautics, engineering, or design
Program Details
Duration: 8-week summer program. Students are expected to devote approximately 4 hours daily to the program.
Location: Virtual.
Activities: Design workshops, mentored projects, facility tours.
Final Project: Team design presentation to NASA engineers.
Application Process
Complete the online application through the NASA internship portal.
Submit a transcript, resume, and essay on aviation interests.
Provide a letter of recommendation from a STEM teacher.
Selected students will be contacted for interviews.
Application Deadline
Applications are typically due in early spring for summer programs.
George Mason University—NASA Data Science Analysis and Scholarly Research
Program Overview
This collaborative program between George Mason University and NASA offers high school students the opportunity to delve into astronomy and the space sciences by working with NASA data sets, learning data science techniques, and contributing to meaningful research projects.
Eligibility Requirements
U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Current high school student (grades 10-12)
Strong academic record with coursework in mathematics and science
Interest in data science, computer science, or related fields
Basic programming knowledge preferred but not required
Program Details
Duration: 6-week summer program.
Location: Primarily virtual, with in-person options at the George Mason University Fairfax Campus.
Activities: Data science workshops, writing scholarly papers, mentorship, presenting their work at George Mason.
Academic Credit: Potential to earn college credit.
Cost: Email execed@gmu.edu for program fees. Need-based scholarships are available.
Application Process
Email execed@gmu.edu for an application.
Submit a transcript, personal statement, and teacher recommendation.
Complete a brief assessment of analytical skills.
Selected applicants will be invited for interviews.
Application Deadline
Applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis.
NASA's Communications Internships — Public Affairs Intern
Program Overview
If you’re fascinated with STEM but your strengths are in storytelling and communication, we’ve got just the internship for you. NASA's communications internships provide opportunities for students interested in journalism, communications, public relations, and multimedia to contribute to NASA's public outreach efforts.
These positions focus on sharing NASA's story—including details on current programs and missions—with the public by coordinating media visits, writing press releases and writing web stories.
Eligibility Requirements
U.S. citizen
Minimum 16 years of age
Current high school student (juniors and seniors preferred)
Strong writing and communication skills
Interest in science communication, journalism, or public relations
Program Details
Duration: Typically 8-10 weeks during the summer
Locations: NASA headquarters and various NASA centers
Activities: Writing articles, creating social media content, supporting media events, and working on special projects with the External Relations office
Application Process
Apply through the NASA internship portal.
Submit writing samples, a resume, and academic information.
Include a cover letter highlighting communication experience and interest in space.
References from teachers or other mentors.
Application Deadline
Applications for summer internships are typically due by March.
Application Tips and Best Practices
Finding that just-right internship isn’t easy.
Earning that just-right internship might be even harder.
So here are some tips, tricks, and strategies (including these must-follow guidelines from NASA themselves), so you can make sure you’re putting your best foot forward.
Here’s what we suggest:
Prepare Early
Begin researching programs at least 6-12 months before application deadlines.
Take relevant coursework to strengthen your application.
Participate in STEM extracurricular activities and competitions to highlight your interest in the field.
Ensure Strong Application Materials
Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, skills, and activities using an easy-to-read resume format.
Essays: Be specific about your interest in NASA and space exploration.
Recommendations: Request letters of recommendation from teachers who know your work well.
Transcripts: Maintain strong academic performance, especially in STEM subjects.
Prepare for Interviews
Research current NASA missions and projects.
Prepare to discuss your specific interests in space science or engineering.
Be ready to explain how the internship aligns with your career goals.
Practice common interview questions with a teacher or mentor.
Pro Tip: While our interview resources are geared toward students applying to college, the strategies can be useful for internships, too.
Follow Up
Send thank-you notes after interviews (emails are great, but a hand-written note is even better). It makes a great impression.
Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
If you’re not selected, request feedback to help you improve future applications.
FAQs About NASA High School Internships
Q: Are NASA high school internships paid?
A: Some NASA high school internships offer stipends, while others are unpaid volunteer positions. Each program has different compensation structures, so check the specific details of the program you're interested in.
Q: Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
A: Most NASA internships require U.S. citizenship. Some programs may accept permanent residents, but opportunities for international students at the high school level are extremely limited.
Q: What are the GPA requirements for NASA internships?
A: Most NASA internships require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, though competitive applicants typically have higher GPAs, especially in STEM subjects.
Q: Can I receive academic credit for NASA internships?
A: Some programs offer academic credit or can be coordinated with your high school for credit. Discuss this possibility with your school counselor before beginning the internship.
Q: Are housing and transportation provided?
A: Most NASA high school internships do not provide housing or transportation. Some programs may offer local transportation, housing stipends, or recommendations for accommodations, especially for residential programs.
Q: How competitive are NASA high school internships?
A: NASA internships are highly competitive, with acceptance rates often below 10%. To increase your chances, apply to multiple programs and strengthen your STEM background.
Q: What should I do if I'm not selected?
A: If you’re not selected, consider:
Requesting feedback on your application to improve future applications
Applying to local STEM programs to build experience
Taking additional relevant coursework
Reapplying in the future with a strengthened application
Final Thoughts
Getting an internship as a high school student is a big deal. And getting a NASA internship? Well, they’re some of the most competitive and meaningful opportunities out there for a high school student who has big, bold STEM dreams.
Besides giving you the experience that just might help you become a literal rocket scientist, these programs can help you build your STEM skills, refine your collaboration and leadership skills, and let you build community with mentors who are doing world-changing work.
(Oh, and they can look great on your resume or activities list for college applications, too.)
If an internship like this sounds like it’s right up your alley, then now is the perfect time to start researching and prepping. Focus on strengthening your academic record in STEM subjects, and pursue related extracurricular activities to make your application competitive. Remember that persistence pays off—many successful NASA interns applied multiple times before being accepted.
Resources and Additional Information
NASA Space Place (for students interested in learning more about space)
Julia Byrd published her first “book” on the elusive Pika in elementary school and has been writing fervently ever since. She’s thrilled to unite her quirky love of grammar and master’s in psychology to help students tell their most meaningful stories. Her favorite punctuation mark is the apostrophe because, in the words of Imagine Dragons, it’s “a symbol to remind you that there’s more to see.”
Top values: Collaboration | Family | Productivity
