Details about RSI summer program?

Hey fellow students, I recently heard about the RSI (Research Science Institute) summer program but I'm sorta clueless about it. Has anyone attended the program or know a bit about it? Like what's the focus of the program? How competitive is it to get in? Or what’s the process in general?

The Research Science Institute (RSI) is a highly competitive summer research program for high school students. It's held at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and conducted in cooperation with the Center for Excellence in Education.

The main focus of the program is on advancing students' understanding and skills in the sciences, mathematics, and engineering fields. Students collaborate under the mentorship of experienced researchers in these disciplines and are also challenged through a series of topics in mathematics, the humanities, and the social sciences.

RSI's admission rate is extremely competitive, largely due to its reputation and the opportunities it offers. Annually, about 80 students are chosen out of hundreds of applicants globally, making it an exclusive program.

The application process for RSI involves multiple steps. You have to submit an online application that includes your academic transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (if you have them), recommendation letters, and a series of short answer and essay questions. These are intended to assess your interest and potential in scientific research. The most qualified applicants are then invited for an interview round.

With its rigorous research, academic components, and competitive admission, RSI is considered as a Tier 1 extracurricular activity. This means having this program on your resume can significantly boost your college applications, and it's held in high regard by selective schools due to its demanding nature and prestigious standing.

Let me know if you have any other questions!