Science Talent Search (STS) vs PROMYS
Comparing two elite STEM opportunities. Science Talent Search (STS) is a competition while PROMYS is a summer program.
| Science Talent Search (STS) | PROMYS | |
|---|---|---|
| Prestige Tier | Tier 1 — Elite | Tier 2 — Highly Competitive |
| Type | Competition | Summer Program |
| Organization | Society for Science | Boston University |
| Acceptance Rate | Highly competitive; specific percentage not available | Approximately 15-20% (estimated based on ~80 admitted from several hundred applicants; exact figures not publicly disclosed) |
| Applicants | Thousands of high school students compete through affiliated science fairs nationwide | Several hundred annually (exact number not publicly available) |
| Deadline | — | — |
| Cost to Apply | Free | $0 |
| US Only | Yes | No / International |
| Grades | High school seniors only | High school students entering grades 9-12 |
| College Impact | The Regeneron Science Talent Search is among the most prestigious science competitions and significantly impacts college admissions. Finalists are nationally recognized and receive considerable presti... | PROMYS attendance is viewed very favorably by college admissions officers, particularly at selective institutions. It demonstrates: genuine passion for mathematics, intellectual rigor, ability to succ... |