Landing a Launchpad: A Guide to NASA High School Internships
Are you a high school student who’s stoked on space, exploration, engineering, or scientific research? Do you dream of bringing sci-fi visions to life, breaking boundaries, and testing limits? If so, NASA internships may be the perfect launchpad for your STEM career.
While colonizing Mars might seem like a goal that’s currently out of reach, pursuing your space-related goals shouldn’t be. Luckily, there are opportunities to explore and refine your interests.
NASA offers several high school internships that offer students extraordinary opportunities to work alongside industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and potentially launch a career in aerospace, STEM, or a related field.
NASA's Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM)
Working at NASA is, of course, many a STEM student’s dream. 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.
Highlighted NASA Internship Programs for High School Students
NASA offers a variety of internships tailored to different interests and skill sets. Here are a few notable programs:
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STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES) Internship
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.
Eligibility Requirements:
- 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.
Goddard Institute for Space Studies' Climate Change Research Initiative
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.
High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS) Program
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. And if you’re one of the top-performing teams from Moonshot?
NASA DEVELOP Program
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:
- 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
- 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. 12 weeks.
- 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.
Aviation Concept Design Experience
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.
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Eligibility Requirements:
- 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.
Internships for Storytellers
If you’re fascinated with STEM but your strengths are in storytelling and communication, we’ve got just the internship for you.
The Competitive Landscape: Acceptance Rates and What It Takes to Stand Out
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. NASA internships are highly competitive, with acceptance rates often below 10%.
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.)
To increase your chances of acceptance, focus on the following:
- Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong academic record, particularly in math and science courses. 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.
- Extracurricular Involvement: Participate in STEM-related extracurricular activities such as science clubs, robotics teams, or math competitions.
- Demonstrated Interest: Showcase your passion for space exploration, engineering, or scientific research through personal projects, volunteer work, or relevant hobbies.
- Strong Application: Craft a compelling application that highlights your skills, experiences, and motivations for pursuing a NASA internship.
Frequently Asked Questions 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.
- 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: Are NASA high school internships available to international students?
- 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.
Launching Your Application: A Strategic Approach
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.
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- Research: Explore the various NASA internship programs and identify those that align with your interests and skills.
- Eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each program to ensure that you meet the criteria.
- Application: Prepare a comprehensive application that showcases your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and passion for STEM.
- Deadlines: Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit your materials well in advance.
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