PROMYS - Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists vs Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams

Comparing two highly competitive STEM opportunities. PROMYS - Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists is a summer program while Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams is a competition.

PROMYS - Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams
Prestige Tier Tier 2 — Highly Competitive Tier 2 — Highly Competitive
Type Summer Program Competition
Organization PROMYS Lemelson-MIT Program at MIT
Acceptance Rate Not publicly available; estimated to be highly competitive (likely 10-25% based on prestige tier and selective nature) Approximately 8-10% (based on 8 teams selected annually; suggests 80-100+ applications per year, though exact applicant count not publicly available)
Applicants Not publicly specified; estimated 150-300+ applicants annually Estimated 80-100+ schools apply annually (extrapolated from 8 selections)
Deadline Rolling Rolling
Award $7,000
Cost to Apply $0 Free
US Only No / International Yes
Grades High school students (exact grade range not publicly specified on main site, but typically grades 9-12) High school students (9-12)
College Impact PROMYS is highly respected by college admissions officers, particularly at selective universities. Participation demonstrates: exceptional mathematical talent and motivation; ability to thrive in rigo... Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams is viewed very favorably in college admissions, particularly for STEM programs. Selection as an InvenTeam demonstrates: (1) exceptional innovation and problem-solving ability; ...