MLH Fellowship - Production Engineering Track vs Simons Summer Research Program

Comparing two highly competitive STEM opportunities. MLH Fellowship - Production Engineering Track is a internship while Simons Summer Research Program is a summer program.

MLH Fellowship - Production Engineering Track Simons Summer Research Program
Prestige Tier Tier 2 — Highly Competitive Tier 2 — Highly Competitive
Type Internship Summer Program
Organization MLH (Major League Hacking) Simons Foundation
Acceptance Rate NOT PUBLICLY DISCLOSED. FAQ states 'we receive an overwhelming demand from students' suggesting highly competitive (likely 5-15% based on typical tech fellowship rates, but unconfirmed) Approximately 11-12% (40 fellows selected from ~350 applicants annually as of 2015)
Applicants Not officially published, but described as receiving 'overwhelming demand' Approximately 350 per year
Deadline Rolling Rolling
Cost to Apply Free Free
US Only No / International Yes
Grades The program does NOT explicitly limit to college students. The FAQ states 'the MLH Fellowship is open to all developers, regardless of where you live, the stage of your career, or what type of institution you attend(ed).' This suggests high school students are technically eligible if they meet technical requirements. High school students (primarily juniors and seniors)
College Impact STRONG POSITIVE IMPACT on college admissions for selective universities. What admissions officers see: (1) Selective fellowship showing you survived rigorous vetting process; (2) Real-world engineerin... Highly positive impact on college admissions. Summer research programs, especially prestigious ones like the Simons program, are viewed very favorably by college admissions officers because: (1) They ...