Update from Caltech: 35% of admitted students in a recent class submitted research they conducted in high school – presented at a science fair, published in a respectable journal or as part of classwork.

If a student submits research as part of admissions, Caltech will now have a Viva exam (oral interview) to determine the originality of research and the student’s contribution.

Read more here: https://www.admissions.caltech.edu/apply/first-year-applicants/supplemental-materials/research-papers-and-publications