Houston: Twelve students of Indian origin have made their mark in the prestigious 2004 'USA Today' Academic Teams.

Three students have been named to All-USA High School Academic First Team, six to All-Star academic second team, and three to All-Star academic third team.

Shantanu K Gaur of Bethel Park, Pa; Divya Nettimi of Alexandria, Va; and Arjun A Suri of Fresno, Calif, each of whom will receive a trophy and $ 2,500 cash award, were named by the 'USA Today' magazine to its 18th annual All-USA High School Academic First Team among 20 students.

The magazine termed them "representatives of all outstanding" high school students.

"These students are truly an example of outstanding scholarship, intellectual achievement and leadership. We are proud to recognise these exceptional students who inspire us all," said 'USA Today' editor Ken Paulson in a recent report.

The winners were chosen from among 1,600 students from schools nationwide.