<p>Some of them are extremely competitive, particularly the nation-wide ones (RSI, NIH, Cornell nanobiotech, Clark Scholars). The local ones like the program my D went to are less so, but still require applications and interviews. You should apply to several that you like in the hopes of getting into one. My D applied to 4 programs Jr. year and was admitted to one and she got into top schools last year. There is no way that anyone can tell you if you can get into one of these programs (but you knew that :)).</p>
<p>You might want to inquire at MIT Mites to see if your hearing disability would qualify you to apply, here is what their website says, note the last sentence about overcoming significant odds:</p>
<p>All individuals who are selected must be US citizens or permanent residents, and must demonstrate bright promise of ability and interest in science, engineering and technology. Additionally, they must demonstrate that they would benefit from and contribute to the program. These factors are assessed based on all or some combination of grades, PSAT or SAT test scores, extracurricular activities, essays and letters of recommendation.</p>
<p>Additional factors that are considered for selection as plus factors (not entry requirements) include whether: </p>
<p>the individual would be the first in the family to attend college; </p>
<p>there is an absence in the individual’s family of science and engineering backgrounds; </p>
<p>the individual’s high school has historically sent less than 50% of its graduates to 4-year colleges; </p>
<p>the applicant attends a school that presents challenges for success at an urban elite university (e.g., rural or predominantly minority); and/or </p>
<p>the individual is a member of a group that is under-represented in the study and fields of science and engineering (African American, Latino or Native American).</p>
<p>Members of all races and ethnicities are considered. We look particularly for students who come from challenging backgrounds and those who must overcome significant odds to pursue their dreams of becoming an engineer or scientist.</p>