Caltech Programs for High School Students

Caltech's high school footprint is small and quantitative: the Caltech-Harvey Mudd Math Competition and the Young Engineering and Science Scholars research program.

Selection is tiny and technical — a Caltech line is pure STEM signal with zero prestige inflation.

4 verified Caltech programs, 2 free — every listing includes cost, eligibility, deadline, and the official application link.

Featured programs

Browse 4+ curated programs for high school students:

  • Caltech Signature Award for Innovation — California Institute of Technology: Earn recognition for your groundbreaking ideas in science with this free high school research award. Boost your college applications and showcase your
  • Caltech YESS Summer Program — Caltech: Explore a 1-week summer program with STEM workshops and lab tours at Caltech. Perfect for high school students to gain hands-on experience and boost c
  • Caltech InnoWorks Academy — Caltech: Free hands-on STEM program at Caltech. Engineering projects and science exploration.
  • Caltech Harvey Mudd Math Competition — Caltech & Harvey Mudd: Compete in a top-tier high school math competition with individual and team events. Boost problem-solving skills, enhance college applications, and co

Frequently asked questions

Does Caltech offer programs for high school students?

Yes — ExtracurricularHub lists 4 verified Caltech programs open to high school students, each with cost, eligibility, deadline, and an official application link. Caltech's high school footprint is small and quantitative: the Caltech-Harvey Mudd Math Competition and the Young Engineering and Science Scholars research program.

Are any Caltech high school programs free?

Yes — 2 of the Caltech programs featured on this page charge no participation fee. Funded programs are often the most selective, so apply early and to more than one.

Which Caltech deadlines are coming up soonest?

The next deadlines: Caltech Harvey Mudd Math Competition (January 24, 2027); Caltech Signature Award for Innovation (February 1, 2027); Caltech YESS Summer Program (March 1, 2027). Deadlines change every cycle — always confirm on the official Caltech page.

How competitive are Caltech programs?

It varies widely within one organization — flagship selective programs sit alongside broad-access options. Read each listing's eligibility, and treat the selective ones as reach applications: apply to several programs across organizations rather than betting a summer on one.