A private K-8 school using Montessori and Socratic methods, play, mixed age groups, STEAM, and hands-on projects. Programs open to non-Acton students ages 5-13 include half-day and full-day STEAM Summer Camp, Spring Nature Groups, and an annual Children’s Business Fair for young entrepreneurs to present their products and services to real customers. Find program details and fees online.
5762 Wilcox Road, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 603-7227
actonacademycolumbus.com
The College of Wooster offers two residential summer camp options for young women interested in STEM. Students take a full daily curriculum with classes in advanced science topics including physics, robotics, chemistry, and biology. Students use campus science labs, stay in college dorms, and learn from professional women in science. B-WISER is for girls in 7th and 8th grade. B-WISEST is for girls in 9th and 10th grade, and incorporates college readiness, leadership, and advanced laboratory experiences. Financial aid scholarships are available for income-eligible families. Visit the website for applications details.
308 East University Street, Wooster, Ohio 44691
(330) 263-2105
bwiser.spaces.wooster.edu
A camp designed to develop excitement, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence in middle school girls through real-life, hands-on experiences in STEM/STEAM. They host a day camp at Philo Junior High School in Philo, Ohio for girls grades 5-6, and a residential camp at Muskingum University for girls grades 7-8. Scholarships are available, scholarship applications include proof of guardian income and two teacher evaluations. Visit the website for details.
bewisecamp.org
Provides programs for citizens interested in leadership and international issues. The Global Scholars Diploma is a 3-year program for teens, offered through students’ local high school. Participants explore global issues, cultures, and careers; and are eligible for special college scholarship opportunities. Visit the website for a list of participating schools.
51 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 229-4599
columbusworldaffairs.org
A free, week-long summer camp that introduces young women entering grades 7-9 to the field of data science and analytics. Students gain hands-on experience and work with mentors to learn how to analyze data from a wide variety of fields, discuss biases in data, explore career opportunities, learn problem-solving skills, and more. Visit the website to apply.
The Ohio State University, Pomerene Hall: 1760 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
tdai.osu.edu/education/data-science-women-summer-camp
A 8-day residential writing program for rising high school juniors and seniors who love to write. Students stay on-campus and participate in small-group workshops, individual writing, and one-on-one conferences with faculty to explore different writing styles. Financial assistance is available on an as-needed basis and does not cover transportation costs. Interested students must complete an application with a creative writing sample and letter of recommendation.
100 West College Street, Granville, Ohio 43023
(740) 587-6207
reynolds.denison.edu
A one-week camp for rising high school juniors and seniors who are interested in learning about Neuroscience, brain health and disease. Students learn through a variety of approaches including lecture, discussion, debate, games, laboratory visits, and hands-on experiments. Interested students must apply for admission. Applications are typically due in March. Financial need scholarships are available upon request.
Department of Neuroscience: 460 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 688-5501
medicine.osu.edu/departments/neuroscience/outreach-and-events/summer-camp
Offers free, online coding clubs from beginner to advanced for girls, women, and non-binary people. Their website also has free, downloadable activities from beginner to advanced for anyone to learn coding at home. Their summer programs for high school students include a 2-week intensive immersion experience with financial assistance available, or a free 6-week self-paced option. Free and in-person clubs are available throughout the country at various schools and community locations, visit the website to find a club near you.
girlswhocode.com
INFOhio is Ohio’s PreK-12 digital library. Use the website to find free reading materials, websites, videos, and games organized by age and grade level. Topics range from early learning and learning to read, world languages, STEM, crafts, and more. Parents and Educators can also find parenting resources and professional literature databases. All resources align with the Ohio Department of Education Standards.
infohio.org
Offers a supportive literary community for young writers at Kenyon College. They offer summer residential workshops, and online workshops in summer and winter. Workshops are for high-school students ages 16-18 who are eager to become better writers and insightful thinkers. Interested students must apply with a personal statement, transcript, and letter of recommendation. Financial aid is available.
102 West Wiggin Street, Gambier, Ohio 43022
(740) 427-5208
kenyonreview.org/high-school-workshops
Find free, high-quality, educational videos on K-12+ topics by subject or by grade. Topics include math, science, computing, arts and humanities, economics and finance, music, philosophy, and more. The Life Skills section includes internet safety, social media literacy, personal finance, college admissions, and social-emotional learning. They also provide free test prep tools for AP tests, SAT, MCAT, and LSAT. Khan Academy Kids is a free educational app for kids ages 2-8 with fun games, videos, printables, and more. The Khan Academy website can be translated into many different languages. Teachers can sign up for additional resources.
Click the links to access free letter templates and tools to help you advocate for your child’s special education needs at schools and agencies. Click Here for more resources on Legal Rights for Education
Provides STEM/STEAM experiences to underserved and under-represented K-12 youth in Columbus. They serve students across the region through pop-up makerspaces and hands-on workshops to teach students foundational STEAM principles. Their workshops are free for students and can be found at various libraries, community centers, and community organizations. Visit their website or social media to find an upcoming workshop.
(408) 713-0568
makerspacecentral.org
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 hands-on, experiential learning activities, build confidence, and work directly with health professionals. Go online for application details.
6775 Bobcat Way, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 793-5556
ohio.edu/medicine/about/campuses/dublin/reach
Metro Schools include Metro Middle School and Metro Early College High School. Their programs are public and offer small class sizes, holistic and mastery-based curriculum, and special emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to prepare students for college. Go online for program and enrollment details.
1929 Kenny Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 259-6639
themetroschool.org
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 receive college admissions counseling, high-level coursework, social events and exploration of the Boston area, and a written evaluation to use for college applications. 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
oeop.mit.edu/programs/mites
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/MosaicHumanities-BasedEducationExperience.aspx
Supports gifted and talented children through education, advocacy, community building and research. They provide resources and information for parents and families, K-12 education professionals, and members of the research and higher education community.
1300 I Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20005
(202) 785-4268
nagc.org
This summer program offers college-level experiences in medicine and research to 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 Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Students must apply for the program and there is a program fee, find details online.
575 South Eighteenth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0662
2025 Brochure: nationwidechildrens.cloud-cme.com/assets/nationwidechildrens/data/W1345168%20Comm%20Ed_MHHD%20Brochure_2025_Final.pdf
Registration Website: nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/courses-for-parents-and-kids
Promotes and supports the development of gifted students in Ohio schools. They offer resources and advocacy opportunities for educators and parents. They also offer scholarships for K-12, college, and summer education opportunities.
Physical Address: 104 Mill Street, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
Mailing Address: PO Box 30801, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
(614) 337-0386
oagc.com
Use the website to find important information about gifted education in the state of Ohio; including gifted screening and identification, academic regulations and policies, scholarships, and additional resources for families.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/Gifted-Education
Outlines the school options available for students in Ohio including community/charter schools, private schools, career-technical education, STEM schools, College Credit Plus (formerly known as PSEO and Dual Enrollment), home schooling, scholarships, high school equivalence/GED, and adult diploma programs.
25 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(877) 644-6338
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options
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
A summer day program for students Grades 6-9 at The Ohio State University Department of Mathematics. Students experience recreational mathematics, movies, puzzles, and problem-solving with OSU students and faculty. The program is free of charge. Interested students must complete the online application.
The Ohio State University, Department of Mathematics: 231 West Eighteenth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
u.osu.edu/mathoutreach/btc/btc-2025
Offers several summer programs for Ohio students and educators to gain hands-on experience in computer science and STEM. The STEM Institute is a two-week residential program for academically-gifted students grades 9-11. The Youth STEM Institute is a week-long residential program for grades 6-7. Participants experience project-based learning, explore topics and problems in science, and enjoy recreation at The Ohio State University campus. Interested students must apply for admission in the spring. No scholarships are available for these programs. They also offer educational opportunities for educators.
1224 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 292-9248
osc.edu/education/summer_programs
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
Offers summer programs for academically-gifted students: a day camp for grades 4-6 and a residential camp program for grades 6-8. Campers select four courses from an academic program that includes mathematics, logic, computing, science, humanities and creative development. Students stay on the Ohio Wesleyan University campus and enjoy cultural and recreational activities. Applications are typically due in January. Scholarships are available.
(740) 368-3939
61 South Sandusky Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015
owu.edu/about/offices-services/owjl-camp
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 expect 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) 292-1182
ma2jic.osu.edu/resources/osu-summer-internship-program
Services: Provides comprehensive psychological evaluations, specializing in Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, and Giftedness assessments. Provides actionable recommendations for home, school, and other relevant settings. Education consultation services are also available.
Eligibility: Ages 3-21.
Cost: Private pay, does not accept insurance but can provide a Super Bill for reimbursement. Initial fee of $250, followed by $150 per hour. Evaluations typically take 10-15 hours.
Referral: Self-referral.
2700 East Main Street, Bexley, Ohio 43209
(440) 796-0932
passpsychology.com
A summer learning program for high school students through The Ohio State University Department of Philosophy. Campers explore philosophical concepts through guest lectures, interactive discussions, debates, media, and games. Inability to pay should not prohibit students from attending the camp, and need-based financial aid is available.
(614) 292-7914
philosophy.osu.edu/pact
A week-long summer program for high school students at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy. Students who have completed a high-school level Biology or Chemistry course are eligible to apply. A Teacher Recommendation is also required. Students learn through experiments, field trips, projects, and explore careers in pharmaceuticals. The program cost includes supplies, meals, field trip expenses, and a T-shirt. Applications are typically due in April with decisions announced in May. Financial assistance is available, contact the program for details.
College of Pharmacy: 500 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-2266
pharmacy.osu.edu/practice-teaching-engagement/public-professional-education/pills-potions-and-poisons
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. Students are also matched to a personal college adviser 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
A national platform connecting high-achieving, low-income students to higher education opportunities. They offer multiple academic scholarships for students pursuing Humanities, STEM, Jewish students, and others. Scholarships cover education-related costs such as a new laptop, test prep materials, or test fees. The National College Match program is a full, 4-year scholarship to one of the nation’s top colleges for students who have excelled academically but are limited by financial hardship. The College Prep Scholars program is for high school juniors ready to commit to higher education. Go online for program details and application instructions.
(650) 331-3280 or (888) 275-2054
questbridge.org
An intensive six-week residential summer program for high school students to explore higher-level mathematics. Programs are held at Otterbein University in Columbus, Ohio and Rose-Hulman Institute in Indiana. Students must apply to participate. Applications typically open in January and are due in March. Program fees are significant but financial aid is available. Go online for program details and contact information.
rossprogram.org
Program 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 your local Rotary Club and contact them for more information.
rotary.org/en/our-programs/youth-exchanges
This project through the National Science Foundation provides a database of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) opportunities near you. Search by name, location, or activity type to find after school programs, community events, citizen science projects, and more.
sciencenearme.org
Teaches and inspires kids to engage in service, social action, and community-building. They partner with local non-profits to provide free or low-cost monthly service projects, learning opportunities, and family events. They host in-person events as well as Anywhere Projects for families to complete at home. Kindness Corps is an in-school program for grades 2-4, interested educators can sign up for an educator training session. Visit their website to register for an upcoming project, event, or training.
355 East Campus View Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 219-9467
seedsofcaring.org/columbus
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
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 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
A two-week program for rising high school juniors from Southeast Ohio 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. 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
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 is tuition 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
A two-week early college experience for high-achieving, rising high school juniors and seniors at Miami University. Students participate in challenging academics and attend workshops on the college admission process. Need-based financial scholarships are available. Fees and scholarships do not include transportation to the Miami University campus. Summer Scholars alumnus 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
The Graham Family of Schools offers three public charter schools for students in Central Ohio to receive a free education. They are EL Schools, which use curriculum that incorporates Common Core State Standards with character building, hands-on experiences, and social-emotional learning. Admission to one school does not guarantee admission to another school, students must apply to each program individually. Admissions information and online applications can be found online.
Interdisciplinary research institute at The Ohio State University committed to educating the public, building the capacity of allied social justice organizations, and investing in efforts that support equity and inclusion. Go online to learn about their research, opportunities for community engagement, and free speaker series events.
33 West Eleventh Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 247-1633
kirwaninstitute.osu.edu
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.
Program: Provides mental health counseling to help kids build skills and work through experienced difficulties. Provides comprehensive evaluations to assess diagnostic concerns related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, Giftedness, ADHD, Dyslexia, general learning concerns, Anxiety, Depression, and other Mood disorders.
Eligibility: Youth ages 2-21 in Franklin County and surrounding areas.
Cost: In-network with United Health, Optum, Aetna. Self-pay sliding scale options are available.
Referral: Contact the organization to get started.
132 Northwoods Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 664-3003
warburtonfamilypractice.com
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
odi.osu.edu/young-scholars-program
Provides free programs for youth, including STEM Escape Room events, museum visits, and educational lectures. They are student-led non-profit based in Columbus, Ohio promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity in the field of STEM. They also post helpful STEM-related content and scholarship opportunities on their Instagram. Go online to learn more and find their next event.
yforse.org