Why Go Abroad in High School to Explore STEM Careers?

Here's something you might not know: STEM students are the least likely to get to study abroad during college. 

With tightly packed schedules and tons of required courses, STEM majors have little room to fit in a semester abroad. Plus, finding science or engineering courses overseas that match your school's requirements can be a real challenge.  

But here's the kicker—international experience is super important for future scientists and engineers. 

You'll be creating technologies that impact the entire world, so understanding how other countries approach scientific challenges, learning to collaborate on multicultural teams, and tackling global issues together are key skills you'll need in your career. That's why high school is the perfect time to jump into a study abroad adventure and get a head start—before those college requirements get in the way! 

Summer abroad STEM programs for teens give you a chance to explore your STEM interests in an international setting before those college requirements get in the way. These programs offer a unique opportunity to build your skills and gain a global perspective that will set you apart in your future academic and professional journey. 

Ready to learn more? Here are some general highlights of CIEE's High School Summer Abroad STEM Programs—what you'll learn and all the logistics you need to know. 

Three Reasons Why Studying STEM Abroad in High School Is a Game-Changer 

STEM is an international field—whether you're developing new tech, engineering solutions, or tackling environmental issues, you'll be working with people from all over the world. To be successful, you need to understand different cultures, communicate effectively, and collaborate on global challenges. For these reasons, international summer programs are the perfect opportunity for STEM career exploration for high school students. 

Let's look at three reasons why studying abroad in high school is totally worth it. 

1. Do Science Somewhere New 

Whether it's designing innovative solutions in Engineering & Innovation in Berlin, researching ocean conservation in Marine Ecosystems & Sustainability in Spain, or learning to build futuristic tech in Robotics Engineering in Tokyo, these immersive experiences help you see firsthand how science and technology can impact local communities and solve real-world problems. 

2. See the Bigger Picture 

STEM isn't just about solving local problems—it's about tackling global challenges like climate change, clean energy, and sustainable development. Studying abroad means understanding how different countries approach these issues and how you can contribute to global solutions.  

3. Build a Killer College Application 

Colleges love to see applicants who are passionate about their field, have a global mindset, and have real-world experiences outside the classroom. Summer programs for high school students centered around STEMP will give you the opportunity to do hands-on research, connect you with a global network of scientists, and you’ll walk away with an impressive portfolio featuring the science project you completed during your trip. 

What You'll Learn in an International STEM Program

CIEE offers programs in everything from climate change to smart city building, robotics, and nature conservation. While each program focuses on a unique area of STEM, they all share the same commitment to hands-on, engaging learning and cultural immersion.  

Here’s what you might expect from a CIEE High School Summer Abroad STEM Program: 

• Classroom Learning from Field Experts: Learn from instructors who are experts in STEM fields, providing real-world insights and knowledge. 
• Hands-On Science Activities: Participate in hands-on learning either through field research, lab work, or visits to professional STEM settings. 
• Cultural Experiences: Engage in local culture through activities like practicing practical language skills or exploring the community with your peers. 
• Service-Learning Opportunities: Contribute to local communities by participating in service projects. 
• Building Friendships and Networking: Make lasting friendships with your cohort and connect with professionals in STEM fields. 
• Science Project: Work on a science project individually or as a team, which may culminate in a final presentation with a research poster or prototype. 

By the end of your program, you’ll have gained practical skills, an impressive project for your portfolio, and a deeper understanding of how STEM fields impact the world around us. 

A Day in the Life of a Summer STEM Program 

Curious about what a day looks like in a CIEE high school summer abroad STEM program? Let’s take a look. 

Wake Up in Your Accommodation: Depending on your program, you could start your day in a dorm room, hotel, homestay, or CIEE campus. Each type of accommodation adds a unique flavor to your experience, making every morning a little different! 

Morning Classroom Time: Your day may begin with an interactive classroom session led by instructors who are real scientists working in the field. You'll learn how global challenges are tackled in STEM fields through science storytelling, research examples, and direct observation. 

Lunch Break: Depending on your program, lunch could be a packed meal from your host family enjoyed in the field or a quick bite with your peers at a local café or restaurant. 

Afternoon Hands-On Learning and Cultural Activity: Dive into hands-on STEM experiences that bring your classroom lessons to life. You could be exploring ecosystems, conducting experiments, or learning about innovative technology at a working lab. The afternoon may also include opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture, such as practicing your language skills at a local market or participating in a service-learning project. Each day's hands-on learning and cultural immersion will deepen your understanding of STEM concepts in a global context and increase your cross-cultural communication skills and confidence. 

Shared Dinner: End the day with a shared dinner. Depending on your program, this might be with your cohort at a local restaurant or a home-cooked meal with your host family.  

Evening Free Time: Relax, journal your thoughts, or explore the neighborhood. Enjoy some free time before winding down and preparing for the next day's adventures! 

On weekends, you'll have the chance to step out of the classroom and experience your host country’s unique culture, history, and natural wonders. You could spend your weekends on adventure activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or hiking. You might explore bustling urban markets, take guided tours of architectural marvels, or visit museums to see how science and creativity intersect in the local culture throughout history. These excursions are designed to complement your STEM studies and inspire ideas for your science project or even your future career! 

Accommodations, Transportation, and Safety on STEM Programs 

CIEE's High School Summer Abroad STEM Programs are designed to provide a safe, immersive, and enriching experience. Here’s a quick look at the program logistics. 

Accommodations 

Depending on your program, you may stay in a dorm, hostel, hotel, homestay, or CIEE campus. No matter where you are, you’ll always be with your cohort, making it easy to build friendships and share your experiences both in and out of the classroom. 

Transportation 

You’ll navigate your host country like a local, using public transportation such as buses, trams, or metros. For excursions or special events, private transportation is sometimes arranged to ensure smooth and comfortable travel. All flights, including those from the U.S. to your international location, have a program chaperone to provide guidance and support throughout your journey. 

Safety and Support 

Your safety is CIEE’s top priority. The program includes 24/7 on-site support with staff who have long-standing local relationships. Each group is accompanied by one CIEE Program Leader for approximately every 12 students to provide guidance and support and help connect what you’re learning in the classroom with your new surroundings. 

You’re never on your own—during “free time,” you’ll always stay with at least one other peer, keep your phone charged, and check in at your accommodations with your Program Leader by a set curfew time each night. 

Additionally, the program provides comprehensive medical and travel insurance that covers any accidents or illnesses that may occur. Learn more about CIEE safety protocols to see how we ensure you have a safe and enjoyable summer abroad. 

Jumpstart Your Future STEM Career

Why wait until college to study abroad when you could spend a high school summer exploring a new place, gaining hands-on STEM skills, and making lifelong connections? 

CIEE’s High School Summer Abroad STEM Programs let you dive into your passions through real-world projects and fieldwork—all while having a blast. Collaborate with like-minded peers, sharpen your skills, and come home with new friends, greater confidence, and a STEM portfolio that sets you apart. 

Ready to study STEM abroad in high school? Check out our programs and start planning your adventure today!