How to Get Research Experience as a High School Student for Ivy League and BSMD Admissions
- Ahmad Saleh, MD, MPH
- Mar 4
- 5 min read
Research experience is one of the most valuable extracurriculars for students applying to Ivy League premed programs and BSMD programs. Admissions officers look for applicants who have demonstrated intellectual curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a passion for scientific discovery—qualities that research experience showcases.
However, research opportunities for high school students are competitive, and many students struggle to find the right programs. If you want to maximize your chances of getting into a top-tier premed or BSMD program, you need to be strategic about gaining research experience.
This guide will walk you through how to find research opportunities, how to stand out in applications, and how to make the most of your research experience to strengthen your Ivy League or BSMD application.
Why Research Experience Matters for Premed and BSMD Admissions
Medical schools and BSMD programs prioritize students who demonstrate scientific inquiry and problem-solving skills. Research shows that students with hands-on experience in lab work, data analysis, and scientific writing have stronger applications.
Why Research is Important for Ivy League and BSMD Applicants
Shows a commitment to science and medicine beyond the classroom
Demonstrates intellectual curiosity and the ability to ask critical questions
Enhances problem-solving and analytical skills
Gives students something unique to highlight in their applications and essays
Provides an opportunity for strong recommendation letters from professors or mentors
Research experience sets students apart from applicants who only have clinical experience or hospital volunteering.
Types of Research Opportunities for High School Students
There are several ways to gain hands-on research experience before applying to an Ivy League premed or BSMD program. Here are the most effective options:
1. University-Based Research Programs for High School Students
Many top universities offer structured summer research programs for high school students. These programs allow students to work in real research labs alongside professors and graduate students.
Top Research Programs for High School Students
Research Science Institute (RSI) – MIT
One of the most prestigious STEM research programs in the world
Fully funded for selected students
Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
Provides lab experience in medical research
Focuses on clinical research, neuroscience, cancer biology, and more
High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) – NIH
Conducts research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Focuses on biomedical and public health research
Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) – Rockefeller University
Offers paid research internships in life sciences and medicine
Garcia Research Scholars Program – Stony Brook University
Specializes in nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, and chemistry research
These programs are extremely competitive, so applying early and showcasing strong academic performance in STEM subjects is crucial.
2. Local University or College Research Internships
Many students assume that they need to get into a highly selective research program to gain experience. However, cold-emailing professors at local universities can often be just as effective.
How to Get a Research Internship by Cold-Emailing Professors
Find Professors in Your Area of Interest
Look at university websites and read faculty research descriptions.
Focus on biomedical, chemistry, neuroscience, or genetics research labs.
Send a Professional, Well-Written Email
Keep it concise (no more than 200 words).
Express your passion for research and your willingness to volunteer or assist in small tasks.
Attach a resume and mention any science courses or projects you have completed.
Follow Up After One Week
If you do not receive a response, send a polite follow-up email.
Professors receive dozens of emails daily, so persistence is key.
Many Ivy League and BSMD applicants find their research internships through cold-emailing.
3. Research Opportunities at Hospitals and Medical Centers
Some hospitals allow high school students to participate in medical or clinical research. This is a great option for students who want direct experience in patient-based research.
Examples of Hospital Research Programs
Boston Children's Hospital Summer Research Program
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Research Institute
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center High School Research Program
4. Independent Research Projects
If structured research programs are unavailable, students can design their own independent research project.
How to Conduct Independent Research as a High School Student
Identify a research question related to medicine, biology, or public health.
Conduct a literature review to understand what has already been studied.
Design an experiment and analyze publicly available data (such as NIH or CDC datasets).
Write a research paper and submit it to science fairs, competitions, or online journals.
Students who publish research papers or present at science fairs gain a significant advantage in Ivy League and BSMD admissions.
How to Use Research Experience in Your Ivy League and BSMD Application
Simply listing research experience on your application is not enough—you need to explain how it shaped your understanding of medicine and scientific inquiry.
1. Highlight Research in Your Activities Section
In the Common App activities section, describe your research experience using strong action verbs and specific outcomes.
Weak Example:"Assisted in a university lab on cancer research."
Strong Example:"Analyzed the impact of genetic mutations on breast cancer development using CRISPR technology, leading to a presentation at a local science symposium."
2. Incorporate Research into Your Personal Statement
Admissions officers want to see how your research experience shaped your academic interests.
Describe a challenge you faced in the lab and how you overcame it.
Explain what your research taught you about the scientific process.
Connect your research experience to your passion for medicine.
3. Ask for a Recommendation Letter from a Research Mentor
A letter from a professor or research mentor can add significant weight to your application.
Choose a mentor who can speak about your intellectual curiosity and contributions.
Provide them with specific examples of your work to include in the letter.
Strong recommendation letters set Ivy League and BSMD applicants apart from other premed students.
Final Thoughts: The Best Ways to Gain Research Experience for Ivy League and BSMD Programs
If you want to be a competitive Ivy League or BSMD applicant, research experience can give you a major advantage. The key is to start early, be proactive, and seek opportunities beyond traditional high school activities.
Best Ways to Gain Research Experience as a High School Student
✔ Apply to top university-based summer research programs.
✔ Cold-email professors at universities for research internships.
✔ Participate in hospital-based clinical research programs.
✔ Conduct an independent research project and submit it to competitions.
✔ Use your research experience to strengthen your essays and recommendation letters.
If you need help identifying research opportunities, crafting strong applications to research programs, or incorporating research into your Ivy League or BSMD application, personalized coaching can help.
Get 1-on-1 Ivy League and BSMD admissions coaching today.
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