Summer Programs
+Fly-In
Here you can find a variety of summer programs, from fly-in experiences at top universities to hands-on research and career exploration. Some are local, some are virtual, and many are completely free. Whether you are looking to get a head start on college prep, explore a field you are passionate about, or simply make the most of your summer, there is something here for you. Our biggest advice: do not count yourself out before you apply. These programs are built for students just like you.
UT Austin McCombs Summer High School Programs (3)
Location: University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
Cost: Free
Dates:
• McCombs Future Executive Academy (MFEA): June 1 - June 6
• Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders: June 8 - June 12
• DYNAMC: June 22 - June 27
Application Deadline: Subiendo: January 31 | MFEA & DYNAMC: March 1
Eligibility: Open to current high school sophomores and juniors. Only Texas juniors are eligible for Subiendo. A strong academic record and demonstrated interest in business or leadership are recommended.
UT Austin Academy for All (Standard & Machine Learning Editions)
UT Austin Academy for All (Standard & Machine Learning Editions)
Location: University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
Cost: Free; includes tuition, housing, and meals
Dates:
• Standard Edition: July 6 - July 12
• Machine Learning Edition: July 27 - August 2
Application Deadline: January 12
Eligibility: Open to students entering 11th and 12th grade. All skill levels welcome. Travel scholarships are available for those with financial need.
UT Austin STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES)
Location: University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
Cost: Free; includes housing, meals, and local transportation (limited travel scholarships available)
Dates: On-site: July 5 – July 18, 2026 | Virtual: June – July 3, 2026 Application Deadline: February 22
Eligibility: Open to current high school students with an interest in STEM careers. Selection is based on academic records, essays, an introduction video, and a recommendation form.
​The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program
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Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Cost: Free; includes housing, meals, and weekend activities. Scholars receive a $750 stipend upon completion. Travel to/from program not covered.
Dates: June 21 - August 6, 2026
Application Deadline: February 16, 2026
Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are at least 17 years old by the program start date and graduating in 2026 or 2027 (rising seniors or recent graduates).
Rice Architecture Summer Immersion Program
Location: Rice University, Houston, TX
Cost: Free; tuition-free residential program including housing and meals
Dates: June 7 - June 18, 2026
Application Deadline: April 5, 2026
Eligibility: Open to current 10th and 11th grade students (age 16+) residing in the Greater Houston area.
Preference given to students attending Title I schools.
​The Welch Summer Scholar Program (WSSP)
Location: Six university sites across Texas - UT Austin, UT Arlington, UT Dallas, University of Houston, Texas A&M University, and Texas Tech University
Cost: Free; all housing, meals, lab expenses, books, transportation, and materials covered by the Welch Foundation wssptx.org
Dates: May 31 - July 3, 2026 (five‑week residential program)
Application Deadline: April 3, 2026 (10:59 PM CDT); recommendation letters accepted until April 10, 2026
Eligibility: Open to current high‑school sophomores and juniors attending school in Texas; homeschooled students eligible; PSAT/SAT/ACT scores required; full five‑week attendance mandatory
Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program in Biomedical Sciences
Location: MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
Cost: Free; includes a $6,800 stipend
Dates: June 2 - August 8
Application Deadline: January 15 - 20 (varies slightly by listing)
Eligibility: Current Texas high‑school seniors; must be 18+ by program start; U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or work‑eligible visa holders