I was thinking of applying, but you have to apply by creating an app to show off your skills. Well that's so open ended, do I put in 1 hour or 10 hours? I really can't afford to put in much time with exams and coursework, so is it worth putting any effort in at all?

Apple do this for at least some of their internships as well. I think it's a shame because I suspect it puts many students off from applying.

My first year (2008) I made a Mac alarm clock app with the unique twist that you had to enter random characters before it can be disabled.

The following year I made a Mac app that lets you compare audio files side by side.

These were apps I wanted to make anyway and I just timed their release with the application period. Those were the first years the conference was selling out, so I'd estimate that competition was far less fierce.

Worth a shot, if you can afford the time, as the experience is exceptional!

http://swingingsultan.com/Mac.html

I noticed this just recently. It's a shame really, they could have held the "competition" earlier in the year and given people more of a chance. People won't want to put the time in given how close it is to exam season.

Agreed, it was an amazing experience for me in 2011, and I'd love to go back but really cannot afford both the ticket and travel/lodging now.

Apply and worry more about funding your travel once you get accepted.

Good point. I may apply and consider funding the trip if I do get the chance to go. Student overdraft might have to take a hit.