So I’m trying to go into aerospace (specifically astronautical) at a T20 school, aiming for Caltech/MIT/BU/etc. I know some schools have a spot for the AMC scores, I’m just wondering how important AIME qual really is, especially for aerospace majors/profiles? Because right now I’m getting around 80-85 on the AMC, which isn’t nearly enough for AIME, but I have other aero related research stuff too.
I think for Caltech/MIT it might not be worth listing 80-85 on the AMC. Your competition made it to AIME, often more than once in high school. And some (not an insignificant number) went to USAMO.
If you’re interested in aerospace at a “top” school you should be looking at some of the big publics also. Not sure how a school like BU beat out UIUC or Michigan etc. on your list unless you’re looking at location (do you want Boston specifically?)
Focus on the aero-related research stuff.
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Thanks for the reply. So, if I pretend like I just didn’t even think about the AMC on the apps, it doesn’t really matter and I should be focusing more on reseearch, other ECs, etc.?
Also, I did take a look at some of the publics like UIUC, I was just stating examples of the caliber of schools (but I also really like Boston).
Yes, well - MIT asks for the scores specifically (maybe Caltech does too, but I don’t know). So don’t lie/omit, but also don’t rely on it being a thing for you. For sure if you have aero research, or any research, put that in the MIT research portfolio and see if you can get a rec letter from your research mentor for that slot.
What are your other ECs? There are people at MIT who didn’t really do contest math, of course. It’s not everyone’s jam, even at MIT.
I am not aware of a noteworthy aero program at BU compared to the publics or the 2nd-tier engineering places like WPI.
ETA - I see I implied above to leave it out. Don’t do that if you’re asked directly.
On Caltech and MIT they both have spots for AMC scores, but I don’t think it’s required, right? If so, would it be better to omit my score?
As for my ECs: I’ve been doing independent research related to rocketry and control dynamics, although I haven’t yet submitted it to ISEF, JSHS, etc. I’ve done a research challenge (competition?) with NASA and won twice in that (NASA Techrise), I was also on a Science Olympiad team last year that placed top 3 in state, I’ve been on my school Debate team for 3 years now, and I’ve built some random side engineering projects, and a few random clubs and competitions sprinkled on top.
I think maybe reach out to MIT / Caltech and ask if it’s required the way they want all other scores?
Also your research sounds great!