National Precollege & Summer Program Fairs 

Event Date: January 27, 2026

Description: The National Precollege & Summer Program Fair is coming to North NJ in a little over a week!  Over 125 ways to spend a high school summer with MANY brand-new exhibitors. From precollege programs at top universities like Yale, Brown, Columbia and Penn to study abroad, test prep and local community service options—your students will discover their summer.  While the event is free, all guests must register in advance to secure a spot and receive event communications.  

Tuesday, January 27, 2026 (4:30-7:00pm) 

Bogota Bank (Rothman) Center Fairleigh Dickinson University Hackensack

 Iacocca Global Future Leaders Lab in Silicon Valley   

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2026 

Description: The Iacocca Global Future Leaders Lab is a three-day, immersive leadership program designed for high school students (ages 15–17) who have an interest in innovation, problem-solving, and collaborative learning. The experience introduces students to the Bay Area’s innovation ecosystem through sessions facilitated by faculty, founders, and industry professionals, offering a practical look at how ideas move from concept to impact. Application available at: Iacocca Global Future Leaders Lab 

2026 ECPO Summer Youth Internship Program  

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: March 11, 2026 

Description: The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office (ECPO) is offering a five-week summer internship for high school students that will complete their junior year in June 2026. The program offers high school students the opportunity to learn about the criminal justice system, develop professional skills, and explore future careers in public service. Application available at: ECPO

The Rutgers Health Service Corps (RHSC) 

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: March 11, 2026 

Description: High school students have the opportunity to participate in the Rutgers Health Service Corps (RHSC) through the Population Health Outreach and Education for Next Generation Impact and eXCELLENCE (PHOENIX) Program. This one-week summer program, which will be held in-person from 9 AM - 3 PM on August 10-14, 2026 at the Rutgers Institute for Health (112 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ), aims to introduce high school students to the health professions, population health, community service, and RHSC. The Program concludes with participants receiving a certificate of completion and a formal invitation to join the Rutgers Health Service Corps. Application available at: RHSC

Celebrating Women's Achievements as Trailblazers  

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 13, 2026 

Description: Rutgers University in partnership with The New Jersey Office of Commissions and AAPI New Jersey are inviting High School and College students who are committed school/community leaders and catalysts for change, especially in the areas of

gender justice and learning and who show interest and leadership in social justice, equity, gender studies and related

disciplines to an empowerment conference. The conference will feature learning activities and networking opportunities. Application available at: Celebrating Women's Achievements as Trailblazers

Saturday, March 14, 2026 (9:00 am - 1:00 pm)

Scholastic Art & Writing Awards 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Varies 

Description: The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering creative teens and celebrating their voices. Creative teens in grades 7–12, ages 13 and up, are eligible to enter! Application available at: Scholastic Art & Writing Award

The American Legion Boys and Girls State Program  

Description: The American Legion Boys and Girls States programs are the most highly respected and renowned educational opportunities for government instruction in the United States. Through this week-long experience, participants will engage in several "hands-on" activities designed to simulate the functions of state government. The American Legion Boys and Girls State programs are highly selective. To be eligible, a student must: be a high school junior, nominated by a member of the Social Studies department and interviewed by a selection committee that will include the Department Chairman and representatives from the American Legion. The selected students must be available and commit to attending the weeklong program traditionally held at Rider University (Boys) and Georgian Court University (Girls). If you are interested in more information about these programs, visit Girls State, Boys State.

Lumiere Scholars Essay Award

APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 26, 2026 

Description: The Lumiere Scholars Essay Award invites high school students to examine issues that matter to them, cross disciplinary lines, test assumptions, and defend their arguments with rigorous evidence. Essay entries are reviewed by our Academic Advisory Committee, an international panel of distinguished professors and researchers. ​6 winners (1 Gold, 2 Silvers, 3 Bronzes) will share more than $11,000 in cash prizes and scholarships.​ Application available at: Lumiere Award

Dartmouth Precollege Online Program

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Multi-length courses available throughout the year 

The Dartmouth Precollege Online Program invites you to explore college-level courses designed by top instructors—all from the comfort of home. Created for motivated students aged 13 and older, this program allows you to develop a holistic view that reflects Dartmouth’s liberal arts philosophy. With flexible, dynamic lessons and mentor support, you can explore multiple fields of study and find your passion. You’ll learn to think critically and creatively, positioning yourself for an impactful future. Application available at: Dartmouth Precollege program 

2026 Hispanic Student College Institute at Montclair State University 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling 

Description: The Hispanic Student College Institute offers a unique and highly interactive experience for rising high school juniors and seniors. We aim to strengthen students' knowledge of college transition, achieve future academic success, and navigate the college application process. We also aim to increase students' confidence in navigating the college admissions process and ultimately enrolling at their chosen institution. Application available at: HSCI 

TurnUp Youth Activism Remote Internship  

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling 

Description: Join our team of mission-driven young people from all around the United States to help amplify youth civic engagement and participate in activism on many issues that you care about like climate change, criminal justice, reproductive rights, ending gun violence, and combating voter suppression in the United States.  Application available at: Turnup 

STEM Research Program

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling 

Description:  Applications for the Fall Cohort of the STEM Research Program are open! Led by researchers at MIT, Caltech, and Stanford, the STEM Research Program introduces ambitious students like you to the cutting edge of your scientific field of interest. You'll work 1-on-1 with a PhD mentor and create an independent research project. Explore cool topics like astrophysics, quantum mechanics, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, robotic control, game theory, genetic engineering, and many more! Application available at: STEM  

West Point Summer Leaders Experience (SLE)  

APPLICATION DEADLINE: APR. 15, 2026

Description: SLE takes place the summer between your junior and senior year. High school juniors should apply between 15 February and 15 April of their junior year. To apply, complete the initial portion of the West Point application (Step 3 in our Steps to Admission) and then the SLE checklist. Application available at: West Point SLE 

Women Transportation Seminar, New Jersey Chapter 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: SEPT. 18, 2026

Description: WTS New Jersey (WTS NJ) focuses on engaging emerging students in the transportation field. We are committed to provide exclusive opportunities connecting aspiring transportation professionals with real-world opportunities via internships and full-time employment in the non-profit, public, and private sectors. One way to achieve this is by awarding scholarships to high school, community college, trade school, undergraduate, and graduate school students pursuing studies in transportation, engineering, science, or a related field who demonstrate leadership skills, ability, and interest. The purpose of the WTS NJ Scholarship is to motivate and reward students who demonstrate innovation and leadership within the transportation industry. Application available at: WTS