Science Talent Search (STS) vs Summer at Simons
Comparing two elite STEM opportunities. Science Talent Search (STS) is a competition while Summer at Simons is a internship.
| Science Talent Search (STS) | Summer at Simons | |
|---|---|---|
| Prestige Tier | Tier 1 — Elite | Tier 2 — Highly Competitive |
| Type | Competition | Internship |
| Organization | Society for Science | Simons Foundation |
| Acceptance Rate | Highly competitive; specific percentage not available | Not publicly disclosed, but estimated at 5-15% given high prestige and limited spots per center (~3-10 positions per center per summer) |
| Applicants | Thousands of high school students compete through affiliated science fairs nationwide | Likely 200-500+ total applications across all centers annually, though not confirmed |
| Deadline | — | Rolling |
| Cost to Apply | Free | Free |
| US Only | Yes | No / International |
| Grades | High school seniors only | Undergraduate students and graduate/post-doctoral students only - high school students are NOT eligible |
| 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... | 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 - ... |