MLH Fellowship - Production Engineering Track vs Summer at Simons

Comparing two highly competitive STEM opportunities. Both are internships for high school students.

MLH Fellowship - Production Engineering Track Summer at Simons
Prestige Tier Tier 2 — Highly Competitive Tier 2 — Highly Competitive
Type Internship Internship
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) Not publicly disclosed, but estimated at 5-15% given high prestige and limited spots per center (~3-10 positions per center per summer)
Applicants Not officially published, but described as receiving 'overwhelming demand' Likely 200-500+ total applications across all centers annually, though not confirmed
Deadline Rolling Rolling
Cost to Apply Free Free
US Only No / International No / International
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. Undergraduate students and graduate/post-doctoral students only - high school students are NOT eligible
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... Summer at Simons is viewed VERY POSITIVELY by graduate admissions committees and prestigious employers. Impact includes: 1) STRONG indicator of research capability and commitment to academic career - ...