Intel Science Talent Search
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The Intel Science Talent Search (Intel STS) is a prestigious research-based science competition in the United States primarily for high school students. The Intel STS is administered by the Science Service, which began the competition in 1942 with Westinghouse; for many years, the competition was known as the "Westinghouse Science Talent Search." In 1998, Intel became the sponsor of the "Westinghouse Competition." Over the years, over $3.8 million in scholarships have been awarded through the program.
Nearly all of the entrants work with mentors, as high school students typically do not have the capabilities of doing research projects entirely on their own. However, the research papers must be all in the entrants' own writing. The selection process is highly competitive, and besides the research paper, letters of recommendation, essays, test scores, and high school transcripts may be factored in the selection of finalists and winners.
Each year, approximately 1,600 papers are submitted. The top 300 applicants are announced in mid-January with each semifinalist and their school receiving $1,000. In late January, the 40 finalists are informed. In March, the finalists are flown to Washington, D.C. where they are interviewed and are eligible for the top ten spots, which have scholarships ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 for the first prize winner. In addition, all finalists receive $5,000 scholarships and an Intel-based computer.
Some Intel STS finalists and winners have gone on to receive higher honors in math, science, and technology: among them, six have received Nobel Prizes; two have earned the Fields Medal; three have been awarded the National Medal of Science; ten have won the MacArthur Fellowship; 56 have been named Sloan Research Fellows; 30 have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences; and five have been elected to the National Academy of Engineering.
