I’m going to apply for a STEM Major, but I never did any research in my high school career so far. To “attempt” to make up for it, I currently develop my school’s app, work on websites for different clubs, and work on apps for different companies. Can I make this stand out or did I have to do research?
There is no one single mandatory activity. Don’t worry. In the activities section of your application, do a good job of describing what you did do.
Very few high school kids do valuable research.
My kid did no research. Currently in grad school for a PhD in a STEM subject. Don’t worry about it. Honestly… students contribute little in the lab until they get well into their college coursework.
You have a STEM-related talent/skill and you’re developing it. I think that puts you in the game.
What college targets? What sort of STEM? How high do you expect to aim? Because for top colleges, you need more than apps and websites. Those are usually solo. Other than that, what math-sci activities, which are collaborative?
The “research” you need is about what colleges look for, what it takes, what aid they offer, and more. Then you’ll understand more and have a better chance to self assess your chances and apply to the right balance.