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Internship & Pre-College Programs

AmeriCorps & ServeOhio

Federal agency for service and volunteerism. They offer a variety of work programs for adults age 18+ to receive educational scholarships and other benefits in exchange for service. Service opportunities include NCCC environment & disaster response, VISTA alleviating poverty, and much more. Initiatives in Ohio include City Year Community-based organizations can apply for AmeriCorps grant opportunities.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 728-2916
National Service: (800) 942-2677
National website: americorps.gov
ServeOhio: serveohio.org

Buckeye Boys State – American Legion of Ohio

A week-long summer program offered to young men entering their senior year of high school who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. Participants reside on the Miami University campus for the duration of the program. The program is funded by the American Legion and is free for participants. Students must apply, complete an interview, and show above average academic standing to be considered. Visit the website for application details.
American Legion Department of Ohio: 60 Big Run Rd, P.O. Box 8007, Delaware, OH 43015
(740) 362-7478
ohiobuckeyeboysstate.com

Buckeye Girls State – American Legion Auxiliary of Ohio

A week-long summer program offered to young women entering their senior year of high school who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. Participants reside on the Bowling Green State University campus for the duration of the program. The program is funded by the American Legion and is free for participants. Students must apply and show above average academic standing to be considered. Find program details online.
PO Box 2760, Zanesville, Ohio 43702
(740) 452-8245
buckeyegirlsstate.org

Bureau of Educational & Cultural Affairs Exchange Programs – Study Abroad

The U.S. Department of State sponsors multiple programs for educational, cultural, and professional exchanges across the world. Programs allow American high school students to study abroad from two weeks to an academic year. Students live with host families and are immersed in local culture. Students may also participate in short-term exchanges in the U.S. or sign up to host an international exchange student. Students can also apply for scholarships.
(800) 448-9944
exchanges.state.gov/us/parents-families

Camp Public Health

A week-long summer day camp for youth ages 13-18. Campers explore how professionals like doctors, nurses, and epidemiologists protect different populations and promote healthy communities. Participants learn from professionals at Columbus Public Health and Ohio State University College of Public Health. There is a small fee for participation, but financial assistance may be available. Interested students should register through the Columbus Recreation and Parks website.
(614) 645-2694
columbusrecparks.com/summer-camps/camp-public-health

Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD)

Offers a number of non-degree courses for the Central Ohio community, in addition to undergraduate and graduate art programs. Community classes include Saturday Art Classes for all ages each spring and fall. Creative Summer Workshops are various day camp experiences for adults or artists grades 1-12 in fine arts and STEAM. College Preview is a three-week residential program for students grades 10-12 to learn more about an art and design career, take classes, and receive mentorship from creative professionals. Both talent and need-based scholarships are available for Youth & Community Learning Programs. Learn more and register online.
60 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 224-9101
ccad.edu/take-class

Columbus Literacy Council (CLC)

Provides a variety of free, educational programs for youth and families to increase employability and encourage civic involvement. They offer classes and certificate programs for adults, including Spanish, English, GED, citizenship preparation, RISE UP Customer Service Certification, Microsoft Certifications, and more. They also offer Housing Program Solving services for help finding safe housing. Youth programs include MARVEL*US after school and summer program for TANF-eligible youth ages 5-13, AMP mentoring for ages 16-18, and Pathways to Promise for youth ages 13-15 at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. Visit the website to complete an interest form or call the organization to get started.
Columbus: 5825 Chantry Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43232
Whitehall: 1394 Courtright Road, Columbus, Ohio 43227
Reynoldsburg: 5825 Chantry Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43232
Cincinnati: 6644 Coffey Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45230
(614) 282-7661
clcworks.org

Columbus Recreation & Parks APPS Job Readiness Program (AJRP)

Workforce development initiative for youth ages 14-23. Participants gain paid work experience with Columbus city departments and local businesses. Youth development specialists provide linkage to support services and mentorship to ensure participants’ success. Applications typically open in February for summer placements. Visit the website to apply and find additional contact information.
columbusrecparks.com/youth-success/apps

Columbus Recreation & Parks City Leaders Academy

A nine-month leadership program for youth entering grades 6-10, who are residents of the City of Columbus. Participants receive mentorship from city leaders and improve teamwork, public speaking, community awareness, and leadership skills. Participants must complete the application with recommendation letters and be available for monthly meetups during the school year. Applications typically open in May.
Blackburn Community Center: 263 Carpenter Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 949-3647 or (614) 616-0081
columbusrecparks.com/youth-success/city-leaders-academy

Community for New Direction (CND)

Provides services for adults and youth in prevention, intervention, and treatment:

Mental Health & Substance Use Treatment: Individual and group counseling, Mediation Assisted Treatment (MAT), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), medication management, anger management classes, parenting classes, and more. They accept Medicaid, Medicare, and self-pay.
3901 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43227
(614) 252-4941
Youth Services: Provides after school and summer day camp programs for ages 5-14. Programs for high schoolers includes FOCUS paid leadership development program, intergenerational mentorship, and annual college tours. Youth services are offered at three locations:
993 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
2096 West Mound Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
1008 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 272-1464

cndcolumbus.org

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Chapter Youth Initiatives

Offers programming for youth ages 11-18 focused on leadership training, mentorship, and empowerment. The sessions are comprised of fun, interactive, educational and community service activities. The activities are a 9-month commitment. They also offer college scholarships for graduating high school seniors. Participants must be interested in college or other career options, and demonstrate a need for mentorship and support.
P.O. Box 163304, Columbus, Ohio 43216
(614) 470-1913
columbusohdeltas.org/copy-of-economic-development

Empower Our Youth Foundation

Provides inclusive community programs to combat bullying and empower youth. Youth from under-resourced communities, students with disabilities, and neurodivergent learners are encouraged to participate. Programs include IGNITE, an immersive incubator for young people to experience product development, retail, branding, entrepreneurship, workforce readiness, and mentorship. The Be A Champion Fashion Show allows youth to design their own creations and walk the runway each June, during National Anti-Bullying Month. Visit the website to contact the organization and register for programs.
6600 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 512-6511
empowerupthevoice.org

EPIC Youth

Youth mentoring and empowerment organization. They offer Eryn PiNK and Boys of ICE programs for boys and girls at participating schools. Mentorship programs are available through referral from Franklin County Job and Family Services. The EPIC High School program is a year-long immersive experience for boys and girls in leadership, academics, and social growth for a small fee. Applications for EPIC High School open in August. The organization also offers summits, events, and conferences for youth and adults in the community.
460 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 706-4215
epicyouth.org

Ethiopian Tewahedo Social Services (ETSS)

Services immigrants, refugees, and low-income individuals and families through education, supportive services, and self-development programs. Services for adults include job training and placement, resettlement support, ESL/ESOL classes (English for Speakers of Other Languages), small business training and entrepreneurship mentoring, and case management for victims of domestic violence. Youth programs include after school tutoring, Pathways 2 Success paid work training program for ages 16-18, wraparound coaching and support services for ages 14-18, scholarship opportunities, and summer camp.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org

Highland Youth Garden

This teaching garden is located in the Hilltop neighborhood of Columbus. They offer garden tours, field trip experiences and donation-based produce bags for pick-up. Hilltop families can sign up for a garden bed kit with everything needed to grow an edible garden in their backyard, including access to a Garden Mentor to help get the most from their garden. They also offer Garden Club (a free weekly after-school program for Grades K-6), Green Teens (a paid summer work program for youth ages 14-19) and a low-cost Summer Camp for ages 6-13.
67 South Highland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 653-8263
Español: (614) 407-4540
highlandyouthgarden.org

Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America (LEDA)

Helps high-achieving students from under-resourced backgrounds (especially first generation college students) gain admission to the nation’s most selective colleges. The Aspects of Leadership Summer Institute invites high school juniors to an intensive 5-week summer program at Princeton University for leadership training, standardized test prep, career guidance, and more. Year-round support includes academic success planning college guidance meetings, feedback on essays and applications and coverage of fees for applications and standardized tests. All services are free. Visit the website and complete and application to get started. Applications typically open in September.
121 West 36th Street, New York, New York 10018
(646) 582-3608
ledascholars.org

MD Camp at Ohio State University

An intensive, three-week summer day camp for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in pursuing careers in medicine, including biomedical research. Students participate in lectures, hear from guest speakers, get clinical exposure, and participate in a community project at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Applicants are awarded full or partial scholarships based on financial need and quality of application. Visit the website for application requirements.
1645 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
medicine.osu.edu/diversity/initiatives/md-camp

Medical Academy Camp at Ohio University Dublin

A free, 4-day summer camp for high school juniors and seniors in Central Ohio to explore careers in healthcare at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Dublin, Ohio. Selected students engage in experiential learning activities, learn about careers in health care, and work directly with health professionals. Students who will be the first in their family to attend college are highly encouraged to apply. Visit the website for application details.
6785 Bobcat Way, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 793-5556
ohio.edu/medicine/about/campuses/dublin/reach

Mezzacello Urban Farm

Operates sustainable gardens and an urban farm at several sites in downtown Columbus. Families can take a stroll through their gardens or sign up for educational workshops. They provide educational experiences for youth to explore livestock care, gardening, ecology, mechanical sciences, and sustainability. Programs include hands-on workshops, summer camps, and Menterns program for young leaders. They also offer school and community visits with mobile labs. Visit the website to register for a program or to contact the organization.
33 North 20th Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
mezzacello.org

Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES) Summer at MIT

A free, six-week residential academic enrichment program for high school juniors with a strong academic record and desire for rigorous STEM/science education. Selected participants complete a semester of college-level academics and receive college admissions counseling and a written evaluation to use for college applications. Students also experience social events and exploration of the Greater Boston area. Underrepresented students are encouraged to apply. Housing, meals and activity costs covered by the program, but families must cover transportation costs. Students can apply online during the fall semester of their junior year in high school. Find additional application details online.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology: 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
(617) 253-8052
mites.mit.edu/discover-mites/mites-summer

Mosaic – Experiential Learning in Humanities Program

Experiential learning program through the Educational Service Center (ESC) of Central Ohio. Participants must be high school juniors and seniors from a participating school district in Franklin County. Interested students from non-participating school districts should contact the organization directly to explore independent funding options. Accepted students attend the program for a half-day for one or two years, and explore the humanities through hands-on projects, field trips, cultural events, and working directly with local organizations. Students must complete an online application and submit two recommendation the year before they plan to attend the program. Visit the website for details.
escco.org/services/student-programs/experiential-learning-in-the-humanities-mosaic

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Athletic Training Workshop

Summer workshop for high school students interested in athletic training, emergency medicine, nursing, physical therapy or other medical professions. Participants also have the option of becoming certified in CPR. The 3-day workshop is held in Westerville, Ohio at the Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center, and at Otterbein University. There is a fee. Go online to register.
nationwidechildrens.org/athletic-training-workshop

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Job Shadowing & Internships

Provides shadowing and work experiences for youth and young adults in a pediatric healthcare setting. Job shadowing opportunities are available for high school and college students. Shadowing allows students to spend time with a healthcare professional, see the work duties performed, and observe interactions between staff and patient families. High school students cannot participate in hands-on care. The Youth and Young Adult Employment program provides paid work experience for students ages 16-21 in a variety of career settings during the summer.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0678
Paid Summer Work Experience: nationwidechildrens.org/about-us/population-health-and-wellness/healthy-neighborhoods-healthy-families/workforce-development/youth-employment-program
Shadowing Information: nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/courses-for-parents-and-kids/student-education-opportunities/job-shadowing-and-internships

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Mechanisms of Human Health & Disease

This summer program offers college-level experiences in medicine and biomedical research for motivated and high-achieving high school students. Students explore career options, attend lectures, and complete projects investigating diseases. The top student from the program is given the opportunity to participate in an internship at the Abigail Wexner Research Institute (AWRI), and the top five students present their project at AWRI. Students must apply for the program and there is a program fee.
575 South Eighteenth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0662
nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/courses-for-parents-and-kids/student-education-opportunities/mechanisms-of-human-health-and-disease

Ohio Children’s Alliance Fostering Futures Program Culinary & Hospitality Training

A unique program for highly motivated Ohio youth to pursue a career in the culinary or hospitality industry. Students receive professional training at Columbus State Community College and paid internships at restaurants around Columbus. Students receive financial assistance, personalized coaching and the opportunity to receive college credits while in the program. Interested students must apply, and spots are limited. Applicants must be ages 16-21, able to attend classes in Columbus, and have experienced barriers to employment, homelessness or foster care.
5665 Hoover Road, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 729-9680
ohiochildrensalliance.org/fostering-futures

Ohio State University Arts & Sciences Summer Exploration Program (ASSEP)

A week-long summer day program for Columbus middle and high school students (rising 7-12th graders, ages 11-18) to experience academic enrichment in STEAM topics. Participants engage in intensive academic courses and hands-on learning with Ohio State faculty, staff, and graduate students. Interested students must apply online. Program fees include course materials, lunch, and snacks. Limited need-based financial aid is available.
230 North Oval Mall, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-8208
artsandsciences.osu.edu/future-students/arts-and-sciences-summer-exploration-program

Ohio University (OU) High School Journalism Workshop

A summer residential program that offers high school students opportunities to learn the latest journalism techniques and a chance to earn college credit. They offer various session tracks, including broadcast, photojournalism, sports, advertising, podcasting and more. Scholarships are available. Visit the website for contact information.
Schoonover Center 200: 1 Ohio University, Athens, Ohio 45701
(740) 593-2587
ohio.edu/scripps-college/journalism/special-programs/hsjws

Ohio Wildlife Center (OWC)

Helps protect and foster appreciation of Ohio’s native wildlife through rehabilitation, education, and wildlife health studies. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center provides treatment for injured, orphaned, and ill native wildlife. If you have found a wild animal that needs help, use the information on their website or call the Wildlife Information Line for next steps.
Rehabilitation Center: 6245 Cook Road, Powell, Ohio 43065
Wildlife Information Line: (614) 793-9453
What to do if you find an animal: ohiowildlifecenter.org/found-an-animal

The Education Center offers educational and community programming. Programs include summer day camps for ages 3-16 to explore natural sciences, animal care, outdoor activities, crafts, and more. Need-based aid is available to cover one week of camp per camper. They accept volunteers and offer a summer internship for ages 18+ in animal sciences and non-profit administration. Anyone can visit the center in-person to learn about wildlife, enjoy free events, or rent the facility for birthday parties.
Education Center: 9000 Dublin Road, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 734-9453
ohiowildlifecenter.org

Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) – ACE Academy

Serves underrepresented students and professionals in the aerospace professions. They offer several programs for youth to help remove barriers to aerospace careers, including career exploration, mentorship, and scholarships for flight training programs. Aerospace Career Education (ACE) Academy is a week-long summer program for students ages 12-18 to experience hands-on flight experiences. Interested students must complete the online application. Program fees are meant to be affordable, and financial aid may be available for income-eligible families. Meetings are held at National Veterans Memorial in Columbus. Visit the website for additional program details and to contact the organization.
Meeting Location: 300 W Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
obap.org/ace/columbus

OSU Manufacturing & Materials Joining Innovation Center (Ma2JIC) Summer Internship Program

A paid summer internship program for rising high school juniors and seniors interested in exploring welding engineering. High-school students are matched with graduate students and assist with an ongoing research project in an engineering laboratory and give a capstone presentation at the end of the program. Interns are expected to work up to 24 hours per week with a flexible schedule. Applications are generally available in winter and due in February.
1248 Arthur E. Adams Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43221
(614) 688-4528
ma2jic.osu.edu/resources/osu-summer-internship-program

Princeton University Summer Journalism Program

A year-long college preparation program for high school juniors from limited-income backgrounds with an interest in journalism. Students participate in online workshops and lectures with journalists, then stay on the Princeton campus in-person for several weeks during the residential intensive portion of the program in the summer. Students are also matched to a personal college advisor to help with the college application process. The cost is free and includes housing, meals, and travel to and from Princeton. Applications typically open in December and close in February.
36 University Place, Princeton, New Jersey, 08544
609-258-0219
psjp.princeton.edu

Rotary Youth Exchange

This program is sponsored by Rotary Clubs for youth ages 15-19 to experience living as an international exchange student. Students attend local schools and live with host families while learning a new language, culture, and leadership skills. Rotary Club covers room and board costs and school fees. Application details vary depending on your local Rotary Club guidelines. Visit the website to Find a Club and contact them for more information.
rotary.org/en/our-programs/youth-exchanges

Simply Living – Sustainability & Healthy Lifestyle Resources

Provides learning opportunities and resources to promote community wellness, environmental sustainability, and conscious consumer culture. Use their directory to find locally-owned and sustainable restaurants, retailers, refilleries, wellness services, and more. They host regular free and low-cost community events including yoga, bird-watching, and mindfulness. They also offer opportunities for internship or volunteering.
‪659 High Street, Worthington, OH 43085
(614) 447-0296‬‬
Business Directory: directory.simplyliving.org
Main Website: simplyliving.org

Stratford Ecological Center

An educational farm and nature preserve offering workshops and classes for children, farm tours, and family programs. Visitors may explore the trails, gardens, greenhouses, and livestock for free. Programs include Farm School, which offers hands-on farm experiences and qualifies as an Alternative Learning Experience credit in Ohio. Farm Camp offers week-long summer camp experiences for grades PreK-8, and Counselors in Training leadership experience for grades 8-12. Internships are available for ages 18+ with opportunities ranging from Environmental Education to Communication & Marketing to Farming & Sustainable Agriculture. Visit the website to find upcoming community events.
3083 Liberty Road, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 363-2548
stratfordecologicalcenter.org

Summer Academy for Mathematics & Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon University

A 6-week residential program for students from communities underrepresented in STEM to receive STEM education and mentorship at Carnegie Mellon University. Selected students participate in the program for free, including housing and dining. Students must be 16 years old and a junior in high school to apply. Application includes essays, two letters of recommendation, and demonstration of financial need. Applications are typically due by February.
5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213
(412) 268-5914
cmu.edu/pre-college/academic-programs/sams.html

Summer Institute for Future Nurses at Ohio State University

A free, three-day program for high school students to explore nursing careers through hands-on activities, tours, and engagement with faculty, staff and students. High school students grades 9-12 who meet GPA requirements are eligible to apply. Visit the website for application details. The program is paused for 2026 but expected to return in 2027.
The Ohio State University College of Nursing: 1577 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-8900
nursing.osu.edu/offices-and-initiatives/office-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/summer-institute-future-nurses

Summer Law & Trial Institute at Ohio University

A two-week program for rising high school juniors to develop core critical legal skills, gain experience interacting with legal professionals, and learn about transitioning to college. Selected students have daily interactions with lawyers, judges, and Ohio University faculty, and develop knowledge and skills that will prepare them for collegiate study. The program is free of charge. Preference is given to students from Appalachian Ohio but students outside this area will be considered if space permits. Go online for full program details and application instructions.
1 Ohio University, Athens, Ohio 45701
(740) 593-0835
ohio.edu/cas/law-center/about/summer-institute

Summer Linguistics Institute for Youth Scholars (SLIYS) at Ohio State University

SLIYS (pronounced “SLICE”) is a one- or two-week online summer program for students grades 9-12 at the Department of Linguistics at The Ohio State University. Participants explore linguistic sciences and learn from native-language speakers. There are tuition fees for the program, but need-based financial aid is available. Interested students must complete and application with a teacher recommendation. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis March through May. Visit the website to apply.
Oxley Hall: 1712 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-4052
linguistics.osu.edu/undergrad/sliys

Summer Scholars Program at Miami University

A selective, week-long experience for academically talented high school juniors and seniors at Miami University. Students participate in challenging academics and attend workshops on the college admission process. Topics include STEM fields, law and politics, fashion, design, business, and more. Need-based financial scholarships are available for students who receive free or reduced school lunch. Fees and scholarships do not include transportation to the Miami University campus. Summer Scholars alum receive priority consideration for admission to Miami University’s undergraduate programs. Students must apply with a letter of recommendation and college aptitude test scores to be considered.
301 South Campus Avenue, Oxford, Ohio 45056
(513) 529-2531
miamioh.edu/admission/high-school/summer-scholars

Teen Corps at Franklin Park Conservatory

A paid summer work experience for 15-18 year-olds to gain hands-on experience in urban farming. Participants receive a stipend for working in the Franklin Park Conservatory Community Garden for 8 weeks and sell the produce they grow at the Conservatory’s Farmer’s Market. Students learn about gardening, cooking, customer service, and more. Participants must have a Columbus address or attend at Columbus City School to qualify and complete an application and interview process.
Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: 1777 East Broad Street Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
fpconservatory.org/education-programs/outreach-programs/teen-corps

Trades of Faith

Offers skilled trades programs to empower youth in Columbus. Common Cent$ is a 5-week financial literacy and entrepreneurship workshop for high schoolers, held after school. The Working Class Program is for 11th and 12th graders to learn concrete labor and earn weekly stipends. Project Genesis is a paid summer employment program for youth ages 14-18. Youth are matched with a worksite based on their area of interest and location and gain hands-on experience working alongside industry professionals. The Gen II Gen is a 12-week program for ages 18-24 to receive job training, worksite experience, and a certification of completion to use for job placement. All programs are free for participants, and include a shirt, water bottle, and all tools needed for the worksite. Visit the website to register.
(614) 623-0561
tradesoffaith.org

United States Senate Youth Program

A week-long experience for two high school juniors or seniors from each state to see national government in action each spring. Students meet with senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense, directors of other federal agencies and more in Washington, D.C. All transportation, hotel and meal expenses are provided for. In addition, each delegate will also be awarded a $10,000 college scholarship. Students must apply with a letter of recommendation and demonstrated leadership experience.
Ohio Website: education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/Scholarships/US-Senate-Youth-Program
National Website: ussenateyouth.org

Upward Bound Central Ohio

TRiO Upward Bound is a free program for income-eligible high school students to prepare for college applications and academics. Students can access year-round homework help and tutoring, cultural field trips, college tours, test prep and career guidance. The Summer program is a free, 6-week experience offering college prep, internship opportunities and more. Students receive money for full participation. Those typically underrepresented in postsecondary education (first generation, homeless, disabled, foster youth, or other barriers) are strongly encouraged to apply. Many colleges and universities across the state host Summer Upward Bound. Below are the organizations based in Columbus, Ohio. Requirements may vary between programs.

Columbus State Community College: For 9-12th graders at East, Linden-McKinley, Mifflin, Northland, or Independence High School. Participants will receive support navigating high school and preparing for a postsecondary education.
550 East Spring Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 287-5875
cscc.edu/services/upwardbound
Nationwide Children’s Hospital: For high school students who attend or whose home district is Linden-McKinley STEM Academy, Marion-Franklin, or South High School. Participants may receive transportation assistance and internship opportunities with Nationwide Children’s Hospital departments.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 722-2000
nationwidechildrens.org/upwardbound
The Ohio State University: For 9th-11th graders who attend or live in the service areas of Briggs, East, South, or Walnut Ridge High Schools. Eligible graduating seniors can take free courses at OSU for 6 hours of college credit.
(614) 296-0795
154 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
cap4kids.org/columbus/files/2025/10/Welcome-Letter-2025-2026_.pdf

Young Scholars Program (YSP) at Ohio State University

A student success program for academically talented, first-generation students in Ohio grades 8-12 with high financial need. Student scholars receive college advising, academic coaching, mentoring, and college planning tools. Students have the opportunity to engage on campus for day visits and overnight summer stays. Participants who successfully complete all program requirements receive a financial package at Ohio State University. Applications are generally available in winter and due in spring.
154 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus Ohio 43210
(614) 292-4884
ugeducation.osu.edu/student-enrichment/scholars-programs/young-scholars-program

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