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THE APPLICATION PROCESS

ABOUT ADMISSIONS

The HMS science team has a strict and rigorous process to select the best competitors. Even prioritized over intelligence, dedication is the most important trait because many events cover topics that are not taught in school. Even the smartest people will not be able to perform well without sufficient studying, self-driven persistence, and commitment to the team.

THE PROCESS

  1. Fill out the interest form to be added to our mailing list

  2. An introductory email will be sent out to incoming middle schoolers on 6/1/2024. All entrance information will be attached.

  3. Fill out the application form 

  4. Study resources (including an updated study guide 6/5/24) and a question form are in the entrance test folder (linked on the right).

  5. Take the entrance test (Room 104, August 28)

  6. Wait for results :)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Entrance Test

  • Test portion: ~100 questions on biology, chemistry, physics, Earth science, and math

  • Separate experimental design and build portions also included

  • Based on guidelines in this folder (use smusd accounts)

  • Scientific calculator allowed

  • 2 double-sided sheets of A4 (standard 8.5x11) size cheat sheets are allowed during the test with information from any source. If typed, it must be printed out!

  • Taken at school - bring a computer and resources mentioned above

FAQ

Do students have to re-apply if they were on the team last year?

Yes, students will need to re-apply regardless of their performance and attendance the previous year. However, students who have been on the team and re-apply have an advantage if they have performed decently in past years.

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How many people are accepted on the team?

There will be around 25 total competing spots. Depending on testing scores, attitude, and work ethic, students can make it onto Team A. Teams will be competing and representing the school.

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How do students get on Team A?

Students will be given a set of event-specific quizzes throughout the season. Preliminary rosters will be formed based on the results we obtain from all of these event-specific tests, not right after the entrance test.

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Do students have to read all the textbooks provided?

Students do not need to study everything in all the provided textbooks. They should focus more on whether or not they are learning information about the topics listed on the study guide. Textbooks are useful resources, but they are not the only resources. Each resource has its own strengths and weaknesses. Students should find what combination works best for them and use that. Part of the test is for students to learn how to find materials that work for them - Science Olympiad event rules are often broad, and students will have to find their own resources if they want to do well at the event.

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Why do I not have access to the Team Meeting Preparation page/what is it for?

The Team Meeting Preparation page is for students who are on the team already. There is nothing useful there for students who are currently applying to the team.

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Why can I not access the study resources?

Students must use their smusd account to access the resources. Personal accounts will not be given access to the drive.

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For more questions and answers specific to 2022-23, please see the "HMS Sciteam Questions" spreadsheet in the "Entrance Test 2023" folder (this is linked above in the "Important Information" section). There is also a link to submit a question anonymously in the same folder. Feel free to email us as well at hmssciteam@smusd.us.
 

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