Landing a NASA Internship as a High Schooler: 6 Opportunities to Explore

Have you ever looked up at the stars and imagined yourself working at NASA? For many students, a career in space science starts with a dream, but it's through action, preparation, and strategic program participation that those dreams become reality.

While landing a NASA internship is competitive, high school students have more opportunities than ever to get involved early. From building hardware for the International Space Station to collaborating with NASA scientists on cutting-edge research, these programs don't just expose you to space science, they open doors to future roles in aerospace, engineering, and planetary science.

Why NASA Internships Matter for High School Students

NASA internships offer something textbooks can't: real-world application of STEM concepts alongside professional scientists and engineers. These experiences provide:

• Direct mentorship from NASA professionals
• Hands-on research experience that strengthens college applications
• Network building within the aerospace community
• Clarity on career paths in space science and engineering
• Skills development in problem-solving, teamwork, and technical communication

The key is knowing which programs align with your interests, academic level, and timeline.

1. High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS)

Overview: This Texas-based program combines virtual learning with hands-on NASA experience, making it ideal for students who want deep space science exposure.

Program Structure:

• Fall Semester: Four-month online curriculum covering space exploration, Earth science, and NASA missions
• Summer: Five-day virtual experience with NASA scientists (invitation-only for top performers)
• Focus Areas: Mission design, problem-solving, and aerospace careers

Why It Stands Out:

• Year-long commitment builds substantial expertise
• Direct mentorship from Johnson Space Center professionals
• Pathway to future NASA internship opportunities

Application Details:

• Deadline: October (for following year)
• Eligibility: Texas residents preferred, but some exceptions made
• Cost: Free

2. NASA HUNCH Program

Overview: HUNCH (High School Students United with NASA to Create Hardware) lets you design and fabricate actual hardware used on the International Space Station.

What Makes It Special:

• Your work may literally fly to space
• Collaboration with astronauts and engineers
• Focus on creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application
• Skills in CAD, fabrication, and technical presentation

Program Requirements:

• Your school must be a HUNCH partner (speak with your science teacher or counselor)
• Year-long commitment during school hours
• Strong performance in math and science courses

3. NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS)

Overview:
While designed for community college students, the NCAS program is an option for dual-enrolled high school students or those planning ahead. NCAS combines online coursework with a chance to participate in on-site team-based engineering challenges at a NASA center.

Participants gain firsthand exposure to NASA careers, working in groups to solve engineering problems and build mock space missions.

Why It’s Great for Motivated Students:

• Real-world aerospace exposure
• Team collaboration and communication skills
• Introduction to NASA’s core values and mission directorates

Tip: Even if you’re not eligible yet, keep this program on your radar as you transition into higher education.

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4. NASA Internships and Fellowships

Overview:
NASA offers a centralized platform for paid internship opportunities, even for high school students. These positions are typically research- or project-based, and allow students to work under the guidance of NASA mentors on planetary science, data analysis, software engineering, and other specialties.

While most internships are for college students, motivated high school students—especially juniors and seniors—can apply to select internships during the summer or academic year.

Why It’s Great for Aspiring Researchers:

• Direct collaboration with NASA scientists and researchers
• Work on missions involving robotics, astronomy, AI, and more
• A solid launchpad for future academic or career pursuits in aerospace

Tip: Build a strong resume that includes research experience, strong STEM performance, and letters of recommendation.

5. One Stop Shopping Initiative (OSSI)

Overview:
Although now integrated into NASA’s main internship portal, the One Stop Shopping Initiative (OSSI) remains a crucial tool for exploring a wide range of NASA internships, fellowships, and scholarship opportunities.

By creating a profile on NASA’s Internship and Fellowships portal, you’ll be able to filter opportunities by age, education level, area of interest, and NASA center.

Why It’s Great for Everyone:

• Centralized access to all NASA internship listings
• Tools to track application progress and get notifications
• Opportunities across disciplines, from software to aerospace

Tip: Use OSSI to identify multiple programs and apply to more than one to maximize your chances.

6. NASA L'SPACE Virtual Academy

Overview:
Managed by Arizona State University in collaboration with NASA, the L'SPACE Program is a free, 12-week online academy for students interested in planetary science, systems engineering, and NASA’s mission planning process.

Participants work in teams to develop mission proposals and design solutions, gaining skills in communication, proposal writing, and systems thinking.

Why It’s Great for Future Planetary Scientists:

• Collaborative, project-based learning
• NASA-style proposal development experience
• Mentorship from professionals in the space industry

Tip: L'SPACE is open to high school juniors and seniors, especially those with a passion for the intersection of science and engineering.

Strengthening Your NASA Application

Academic Foundation

Your grades matter, most programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA, but competitive applicants typically exceed this significantly. Focus on:

• Core STEM courses: Physics, chemistry, calculus, and computer science
• Advanced options: AP courses, dual enrollment, or honors programs
• Consistent performance: Upward grade trends demonstrate growth and commitment

Research Experience

NASA values students who've demonstrated research capability beyond the classroom. Consider:

• Research mentorship programs that provide structured guidance
• Independent projects in areas like astronomy, engineering, or environmental science
• Science fair participation at regional or national levels
• Engineering project work that demonstrates hands-on problem-solving

Letters of Recommendation

Strong recommendations come from teachers who know your work deeply. Build these relationships by:

• Participating actively in STEM classes
• Seeking help during office hours to demonstrate commitment
• Asking thoughtful questions that show genuine curiosity
• Contributing to class discussions and group projects

Choose recommenders who can speak specifically to your technical abilities, work ethic, and potential for growth.

Application Essays

Your personal statement should demonstrate authentic passion for space science. Avoid generic statements about "always loving space." Instead:

• Reference specific NASA missions that inspire you
• Connect your interests to current research challenges
• Describe concrete experiences that sparked your curiosity
• Explain your goals for how the internship fits your broader academic journey

Building Your STEM Portfolio Before Applying

Competitions and Contests

Participating in STEM competitions demonstrates your ability to apply knowledge under pressure. Consider:

• Space settlement design competitions that combine engineering with space science
• Robotics competitions (FIRST, VEX)
• Science Olympiad events in astronomy, engineering, or physics
• Local and regional science fairs

Online Learning and Certifications

Supplement your classroom learning with:

• NASA's own online courses and resources
• Coursera or edX courses in relevant subjects
• Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or other research-relevant languages
• AI and technology skills increasingly valuable in space science

Alternative Mentorship and Research Opportunities

While NASA internships represent incredible opportunities, building a strong STEM profile benefits from diverse experiences:

Nova Scholar Research Program

Nova Scholar offers high school students mentorship on advanced research projects, including space science topics like:

• Satellite engineering and data analysis
• Planetary exploration and astrobiology
• Space policy and mission design
• Climate science and Earth observation

Students work with professional mentors to develop formal research papers, building exactly the kind of experience NASA values in applicants.

Other Valuable Programs

• Local university research programs that may be less competitive than NASA but offer similar mentorship
• Science museums and planetariums often have teen volunteer or internship programs
• Private aerospace companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, or Boeing sometimes offer high school programs
• Summer STEM programs at universities with strong aerospace programs

Application Timeline and Deadlines

Junior Year (Grade 11)

• Fall: Research programs and application requirements
• Winter: Begin gathering recommendation letters and drafting essays
• Spring: Submit applications (most due February-March)
• Summer: Participate in internships or alternative research experiences

Senior Year (Grade 12)

• Fall: Apply to additional programs and college scholarships
• Spring: Leverage internship experience in college applications
• Summer: Consider gap year research or additional internships before college

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need prior research experience to get a NASA internship?
A: While research experience helps, it's not required for entry-level programs. Focus on demonstrating curiosity, strong academic performance, and genuine interest in space science.

Q: Are NASA internships paid?
A: It varies by program. OSTEM and HAS are unpaid but offer academic credit. Goddard Institute programs offer $2,400 stipends. NASA DEVELOP pays hourly wages. Consider the total value, including networking and experience.

Q: What if I don't live near a NASA center?
A: Many programs now offer virtual options, especially post-COVID. Additionally, the prestige and learning value often justify travel and housing costs for exceptional opportunities.

Q: How competitive are these programs?
A: Very competitive, with acceptance rates often below 10% for prestigious programs. However, NASA offers multiple pathways, if one doesn't work out, others might.

Q: Can I apply to multiple NASA programs?
A: Yes, but tailor each application specifically. Generic applications rarely succeed. Research each program's unique focus and explain why you're specifically interested.

Q: What majors benefit most from NASA internships?
A: While aerospace engineering is obvious, NASA values diverse backgrounds including physics, computer science, environmental science, mathematics, and even psychology for space mission planning.

Taking Your Next Steps

Landing a NASA internship requires preparation, persistence, and genuine passion for space science. Start by:

1. Researching specific programs that align with your interests and timeline
2. Building your academic foundation in STEM subjects
3. Seeking research experience through school, competitions, or mentorship programs
4. Connecting with teachers who can provide strong recommendations
5. Crafting authentic applications that demonstrate real enthusiasm

Remember, even if you don't land a NASA internship immediately, the skills and experiences you build while preparing: whether through research mentorship, science competitions, or advanced coursework: will serve you well in college and beyond.

Your journey to NASA might not follow the exact path you envision today, but with dedication and strategic preparation, you can absolutely turn your space science dreams into reality. The universe is vast, and there's room for passionate, well-prepared students who are ready to explore it.