SEES (STEM Enhancement in Earth Science) is a NASA-funded high school summer internship run by the University of Texas at Austin Center for Space Research for 10th and 11th graders. Interns first complete online learning modules from May to July, then work with mentors on projects using NASA mission data in areas such as aerospace, astronomy, planetary science and remote sensing. The 2026 on-site internship ran July 5 to 18 with two weeks in residence in Austin; virtual projects were completed from home, and all interns presented at a virtual symposium in late July.
The official FAQ says SEES received about 2,000 applications and accepted 215 in 2024, and reviewers consider both aptitude and need. Scholarship recipients have tuition and housing covered, paid students pay $2,000, and virtual participation is free; applying for a scholarship does not affect admission. The program is open only to US citizens, who must be 16 by July 5 of the program year.
SEES is one of the NASA-funded programs that high school students can still apply to. The website notes that its continuation depends on future funding. 2027 dates have not been announced, and the last cycle closed in late February, so watch for updates starting in the fall.
