DEADLINE: March 9^th, 2026

COST: Free

BESt Session DATES: June 23-July 17, 2026

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: BESt Healthcare Institute

DESCRIPTION: Four-week programs focused on a STEM-based interactive curriculum are held on The Danforth Campus of Washington University in St. Louis. BESt students could earn a cash stipend of up to $400 (BESt I), $400 (BESt II), or $500 (BESt III). Stipends are awarded based on merit, attitude, and overall performance.

ELIGIBILITY: Full-time, under-represented minority freshman (BESt I), sophomore (BESt II), or junior (BESt III) student currently enrolled in a St. Louis regional high school (St. Louis City, St. Louis and St. Charles, MO counties, and Madison, St. Claire, IL counties). Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher based on a 4.0 scale. High-potential students, participating in at least one extra-curricular activity or organization. (Must be able to provide required documentation to receive compensation.)

DEADLINE: TBD (Check website for updates)

COST: Full scholarships available for qualifying students; paid spots also available

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: IMSA Summer STEM Research Experience

DESCRIPTION: This two-week residential research program offers high school students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) the opportunity to live on the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) campus in Aurora, IL. Students will conduct hands-on research in areas like particle physics, molecular modeling, and biomedical science while working alongside expert mentors in a college-like environment.

Program highlights include mentorship from STEM professionals and IMSA faculty, participation in career talks and networking sessions, and an online Introduction to Research course completed before arrival.

ELIGIBILITY: Current 10th and 11th grade students (rising 11th and 12th graders). Full scholarships are available for students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Paid program spots are available for students not meeting scholarship criteria.

DEADLINE: Rolling Applications

COST: Free (Some costs may apply for uniforms and materials)

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: EMS Explorer Program

CONTACT: Call (618) 624-9405 for more details

DESCRIPTION: This program offers students a unique opportunity who are interested in pursuing a career in emergency medicine. Participants receive hands-on training, mentorship, and the opportunity to learn basic emergency medical skills while working alongside professional EMS personnel.

ELIGIBILITY:

• High school juniors and seniors (must be at least 16 years old)

• Parent/guardian consent required for minors

• Interest in emergency medical services or healthcare field

• Must comply with all ride-along program rules and regulations

DEADLINE: Rolling Applications

COST: Free

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: O’Fallon-Shiloh EMS Ride-Along Program

CONTACT: Call (618) 624-4516 for more details

DESCRIPTION: This program offers students a unique opportunity to observe emergency medical services in action. Participants will accompany certified EMS professionals on real emergency calls, gaining firsthand experience in pre-hospital emergency care. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in healthcare, emergency medicine, or public safety careers.

ELIGIBILITY:

• High school juniors and seniors (must be at least 16 years old)

• Must complete the required application and waiver forms

• Parent/guardian consent required for minors

• Interest in emergency medical services or healthcare field

• Must comply with all ride-along program rules and regulations

Application Deadline: June 8^th, 2026

COST: $175

Session DATES: June 22-July 27, 2026

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: ACE Academy Registration

DESCRIPTION: The ACE Academy exposes students ages 14-18 to various careers in aviation and aerospace. Participants will learn about aviation history, aerodynamics, the role of government in aviation, and explore diverse aerospace career paths through hands-on experiences.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to boys and girls aged 14-18 with an interest in aviation. Applicants are ranked based on age and cumulative GPA.

DEADLINE: Varies by program

Session DATES: May 31st-June 5th, 2026

COST: Those selected will receive a full tuition scholarship to attend summer camp

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: DCHS Summer Health Care Exploration Summer Camp

DESCRIPTION: Saint Louis University’s Summer Health Care Exploration Camp is designed to give high school rising sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in a future in health care an opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the academic programs offered at the SLU college.

Participants will learn about all Doisy College of Health Sciences academic programs, which prepare students to become athletic trainers, health information specialists, medical imaging specialists, medical laboratory scientists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, physician assistants, radiation therapists, registered dietitians, speech-language pathologists, and many other health care professions. In addition to educational activities, students will:

• Participate in educational activities across various health sciences disciplines
• Stay overnight for five nights in SLU's residential housing
• Receive SLU gear

ELIGIBILITY: Open to high school students with at least a 3.0 GPA

DEADLINE: Varies by program

COST: Varies by program

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: SLU Summer Camps

DESCRIPTION: Saint Louis University offers a range of summer programs in fields such as Aviation, Engineering, Health Sciences, Law and many more. These camps provide hands-on learning experiences led by professionals, allowing students to develop their skills in a college environment. Programs are available for different age groups and skill levels.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to high school students

DEADLINE: May 23, 2026. For priority admission, apply by April 1, 2026

COST: $250, covering lunch and all necessary materials and supplies.

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: School of Engineering Summer Camps

DESCRIPTION: The camp introduces high school students to various engineering disciplines, computer science, and construction management through fun, challenging, and thought-provoking activities. Participants engage in hands-on laboratory experiments and design contests to learn how engineering impacts daily life

ELIGIBILITY: High school students interested in science, technology and engineering are encouraged to apply.

DEADLINE: May 22nd

COST: Free

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: UMSL Precollegiate

DESCRIPTION: In-person four-week program offering enrichment in career and personal development, mathematics, science, and writing and dialogue strategies.

ELIGIBILITY: Students currently in grades 9-10; cumulative GPA 2.5+

DEADLINE: May 28^th

COST: N/A

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: Summer Immersion Application and Eligibility

DESCRIPTION: This six-day, five-night academic enrichment program allows participants to explore various health care careers through hands-on activities, academic programming, and leadership-building workshops. Students will stay on the university campus, engaging in both educational and social activities to build a foundation for success in college

ELIGIBILITY: Open to rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 16-18. Applicants should have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

DEADLINE: Opening February 10th. Early application is encouraged, as many academies reach capacity before registration closes

COST: Varies by academy. Scholarships are available, including the need-based/first-generation college student Trailblazer Scholarship, which can cover both the base and academy fees

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: Illini Summer Academies

DESCRIPTION: Participants engage in hands-on activities, expert-led workshops, and engaging discussions to inspire curiosity and build practical skills across various disciplines.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to Illinois high school students. Space for each academy is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

DEADLINE: April 16, 2026

COST: Free

SESSION DATE April 18, 2026 2-4 p.m

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: Veterinary Exploration Day Registration

DESCRIPTION: The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and the ISVMA are excited to co‑sponsor a free outreach event in East St. Louis designed to help high school students explore the veterinary profession. Students will have the chance to meet veterinary professionals from a variety of backgrounds and career paths, ask questions, and learn about opportunities in the field.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to high school students, must have chaperone if under 18

DEADLINE: Rolling admission until full

COST: Varies by program

WEBSITE/APPLICATION: Summer Camps at Webster

DESCRIPTION: Webster University offers a range of summer programs in fields such as chess, media arts, journalism, game design, sound recording, film production, dance, and music. These camps provide hands-on learning experiences led by professionals, allowing students to develop their skills in a college environment. Programs are available for different age groups and skill levels.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to high school students