If you are a high school student dreaming of working with NASA scientists before even stepping into college, the NASA SEES Summer Internship 2026 is one of the most powerful STEM opportunities you can access. Hosted by the University of Texas Center for Space Research (UT/CSR), this nationally competitive internship places motivated students directly into mission-based NASA research. It is not a classroom simulation. You work with real data, real mentors, and real national aerospace priorities.

What makes SEES exceptional is that it treats high school students like emerging researchers. From Earth systems and natural hazards to aerospace engineering and planetary science, you gain hands-on experience that few students in the world receive at this age.

What This Opportunity Really Offers You

SEES functions as an academic accelerator, not just an internship. Through NASA SEES internship 2026, you gain direct exposure to NASA mission data while working alongside university scientists and industry experts. You develop skills in data analysis, engineering design, scientific modeling, and research communication—skills that matter for top universities and competitive scholarships. For on-site participants, housing, meals, and local transportation in Texas are provided, with limited travel scholarships available. More importantly, you leave with research experience that strengthens your academic profile far beyond high school.

Research Areas and Academic Focus

• Aerospace and engineering systems
  
• Astronomy and planetary science
  
• Earth observation and remote sensing
  
• Natural hazards and Earth systems science
  
• Microgravity research and space geodetic techniques

Who Can Apply For NASA SEES Summer Internship 2026?

You can apply for NASA summer internship for high school students if you are a US citizen and currently a high school sophomore or junior and will be a rising junior or senior in 2026. You must be at least 16 years old by July 5, 2026, and hold U.S. citizenship. Previous SEES participants are not eligible to apply again. You should have a strong interest in STEM and be prepared to complete required online learning before the program begins. Selection is competitive and based on academic performance, written essays, an introduction video, a recommendation form, and your demonstrated commitment to a future in science or engineering.

How to Apply For NASA SEES Internship 2026?

The application process of NASA SEES internship 2026 is entirely online and requires careful preparation. You must submit your application through the official UT Center for Space Research SEES portal. This includes written essays, a short introduction video, and a recommendation form that highlights your academic potential and motivation. These components allow reviewers to understand who you are beyond grades. After submission, applications are reviewed nationally, and selected students are assigned to either on-site or virtual research teams based on availability and project alignment.

You can find official program details and application instructions at the official website.

Key Details at a Glance

Detail	Information
Program Name	NASA SEES Summer Intern Program 2026
Host Institution	University of Texas – Center for Space Research
Partner	NASA
Program Level	High School (Rising Juniors & Seniors)
Internship Type	On-site and Virtual
On-Site Dates	July 5–18, 2026 (Austin, Texas)
Virtual Program	June–July 21, 2026
Application Deadline	February 22, 2026

If you are serious about a future in STEM, aerospace, or space science, the NASA SEES Summer Intern Program 2026 is an opportunity you should not ignore. This program allows you to contribute to real NASA research while still in high school. Prepare your application carefully and submit it well before February 22, 2026, using the official SEES program website.

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