<p>The international olympiads can be a great platform for you to showcase a very strong grasp of scientific and mathematical concepts by applying them to the problems they ask you to solve. If you are inclined towards a more practical approach to science through original research, try qualifying for the Intel International Science & Engineering Fair(ISEF), which is the most prestigious high school science fair in the world. A medal there or even mere participation can catapult you into the best universities in the US, including MIT. Unlike the olympiads, ISEF requires you to submit an original scientific research project in any of a broad variety of scientific disciplines. The Indian qualifying fair is the Intel Initiative for Research and Innovation in Science(IRIS). Around 100 or so projects are selected out of roughly 1500 projects submitted online. Out of these 100, 6 projects are declared national winners. These projects undergo mentoring and finally, the 4 best projects represent the country at ISEF. It is a long process that will require a lot of commitment and dedication but it will seem worth it simply because it will inspire you to embark on a research career. Trust me, I’ve been there(Almost. I was declared a national winner but narrowly missed out going to ISEF) and now I’m a homeschooler doing independent behavioral research. </p>
<p>Did I mention it looks great on college applications?</p>