Simons Summer Research Program vs Davidson Institute Gifted Programs
Comparing two highly competitive STEM opportunities. Simons Summer Research Program is a summer program while Davidson Institute Gifted Programs is a enrichment.
| Simons Summer Research Program | Davidson Institute Gifted Programs | |
|---|---|---|
| Prestige Tier | Tier 2 — Highly Competitive | Tier 2 — Highly Competitive |
| Type | Summer Program | Enrichment |
| Organization | Simons Foundation | Davidson Institute |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 11-12% (40 fellows selected from ~350 applicants annually as of 2015) | Not publicly disclosed; extremely selective given focus on 'profoundly gifted' students |
| Applicants | Approximately 350 per year | Not publicly available |
| Deadline | Rolling | Rolling |
| Cost to Apply | Free | $0 |
| US Only | Yes | No / International |
| Grades | High school students (primarily juniors and seniors) | Middle school (6-8) through high school (9-12); some programs for ages 8-13 |
| College Impact | 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 ... | Davidson Institute participation is viewed very favorably by college admissions officers. Being recognized as a profoundly gifted student and receiving prestigious scholarships like the Fellows Schola... |