The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)

The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is a paid summer research internship that places high school students in Department of the Navy laboratories. It is designed for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are interested in STEM. Interns spend eight weeks working on real Naval research, and some placements can be extended by up to two more weeks. Each intern is mentored by laboratory scientists and engineers. The program is competitive, with roughly 300 spots spread across 38 Navy labs around the country. New interns earn a $4,000 stipend and returning interns earn $4,500, paid every two weeks by direct deposit.

Students must have finished at least 9th grade, be currently enrolled in high school (college-credit classes are fine), be at least 16 by the start date, and be U.S. citizens. Graduating seniors may apply. Some labs make exceptions to the grade, age, or citizenship rules, so applicants should check individual lab pages. Applicants are chosen based on academic record, personal statements, recommendations, and research and career interests. Applications for the 2027 program opened on September 15, 2026, and are due November 30, 2026. Award and non-award letters go out between January and March.