About

Girls Who Code’s Pathways program is a free, virtual computer science initiative for high school students who identify as girls or non-binary. Founded in 2012 by Reshma Saujani after she observed a stark lack of female representation in computer science classrooms during her congressional campaign, Girls Who Code has grown into an international movement dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology. Pathways serves as a flexible entry point into this mission, helping participants build technical skills and professional networks.

For the Summer 2026 session (June 29 – August 14), participants explore five curriculum tracks: Data Science + AI, Game Design, Web Development, Cybersecurity, and AI + Society. Each track consists of project-based modules that students progress through independently, typically requiring 3–6 hours of work per course. Completion of a track yields a certificate of skill attainment. The program also offers live Student Hours, advisor-led workshops, and virtual Partner Events with leading tech organizations to support professional networking.

As a nonprofit-led initiative, Pathways is 100% free for all accepted students. The program is open to high school students in grades 9–12 (including rising 9th graders and graduating seniors) of all experience levels. Participants also gain access to a private Discord community for peer collaboration and support.

Admissions are rolling through an online application, with an Early Decision deadline of February 25, 2026, and a final closing date of April 10, 2026. Because Pathways is designed for broad access, there are no selective academic prerequisites. It remains an ideal exploratory step for students curious about computing who require a flexible, self-paced schedule without the barriers of cost or residential attendance.