NIH High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

A great fit for graduating high school seniors (and college students) who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents interested in spending a summer doing mentored biomedical research at the NIH.

• High school applicants must be enrolled at least half-time as a senior at time of application and have graduated before the internship starts
• Must be 18 by September 30 of the internship year; a graduating senior who is 17 as of June 1 but turns 18 by September 30 must live within 40 miles of an NIH campus
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status

• Mentored summer research internship in the NIH Intramural Research Program (minimum eight-week commitment)
• A monthly stipend set by NIH based on education level and experience (see the NIH stipend tables)

• Online application via the OITE system (complete the eligibility screener, then apply to open programs)
• Personal statement on research experience, interests, career goals, and how the program helps you achieve them
• Names and contact info for two references, who submit letters after you apply

• Apply early and to multiple NIH Institutes/investigators — interns are typically selected directly by mentors.
• In your personal statement, name specific research areas or labs that interest you rather than staying generic.
• Choose references who can speak to your academic ability and curiosity, and give them a heads-up.
• Confirm you meet the age and (if 17) the 40-mile rule before applying.
• Have proof of citizenship/permanent residency ready to avoid delays.

The high-school HS-SIP sits within the broader NIH Summer Internship Program (SIP). Applications typically open mid-November and close mid-February.