- Almost every Indian, Korean and Chinese takes Calc 1 & 2 as a 6th~7th grader. (It's called "Not to be left behind" precaution) in these countries. Someone I know who was a 4th grader took AMC 10 last year. A 6th grader I know took the SAT last year and cried when his math was merely 720. I know this is crazy.
- Many such Indians, Koreans and Chinese apply to PA and PEA, banking on their 9 9 9 9 and 800.
- Of course, 99% of them don't get in. Maybe because they are ORM international? I dont know. My sense is, they know what they are looking for. Perhaps there is no harm trying. But nobody seems easily impressed in those schools.
- I would suggest you contact the faculty head only if you have proven a theorem or two or published a paper and want to show that to him/her. He/she will not be impressed by numbers or courses. His/her own team wins Math Olympiad every year (esp. PEA). They have seen too many Zuckerbergs; they will be more impressed by your modesty and moderation. Those are New Englanders. If you think you can show genuine passion without appearing pushing, while not possessing a paper or a theorem, then go ahead. It' s tough.
- One more thing: of course call him/her if you have questions, genuine curriculum questions whose answers you do not find on their website after research.