Lori Meadows
Getting into MIT is challenging, with an overall undergraduate acceptance rate of just under 4%. International students make up about 11% of the student body, and gaining admission is highly competitive. International students face unique challenges when applying to US colleges, but MIT has a long history of educating international students and is familiar with international school systems. Applicants must meet the same test requirements as domestic students, and English proficiency is essential. International students must also navigate visa requirements and demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition, health insurance, and living expenses.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | Beginning of the final year of high school |
| Age of applicants | 17-19 years |
| Application process | Online |
| Application fee | Fee waivers available for those facing financial barriers |
| Application requirements | Transcripts, English proficiency test scores, essays |
| English proficiency tests | TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, Cambridge English Qualification |
| Minimum TOEFL iBT score | 100 |
| Minimum IELTS Academic score | Varies by department |
| Citizenship status | Non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents |
| Interview | Considered |
| Acceptance rate | 4% |
| International students | 11% of total student body |
| Financial requirements | Evidence of funds for tuition, health insurance, and living expenses |
| Visa requirements | Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019), student visa |
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What You'll Learn
Application process and requirements
MIT welcomes international students and has a long history of educating them. The application process for international students at MIT can be daunting, but the university is very comfortable evaluating applications from around the world. The process for international students is similar to that for domestic students, with a few additional requirements.
International students at MIT are defined as those who do not hold US citizenship or permanent residency, regardless of where they live or study. The university recommends that international applicants apply at the beginning of their final year of high school, and only accepted students are required to send their final grades. Most applicants are 17–19 years old, but there may be exceptions.
International students must submit their application materials in English. While SAT or ACT scores are not the only factor in the application process, they are considered very important. MIT recommends a score of 35 or above on the ACT, or 1550 or above on the SAT. Additionally, non-native English speakers are strongly recommended to submit the results of an English proficiency exam, such as the TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or Cambridge English Qualification. The minimum TOEFL iBT score required is 100, but some departments may require higher scores.
Financial requirements include demonstrating the ability to meet MIT's minimum budget projection for a new graduate student. Students must also obtain a certificate of eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019) by documenting sufficient funds for tuition, health insurance, and living expenses. This is necessary for obtaining a student visa to enter the US.
MIT does not consider demonstrated interest, but they do take interviews into consideration. The university wants to see who the applicant is beyond their grades and scores. The application will be reviewed within the context of the resources available to the student, including their family, school, culture, region, and country.
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English language proficiency tests
As English is the language of instruction at MIT, all students must demonstrate their proficiency in English to be admitted. While MIT does not require applicants to officially send their English proficiency test scores as part of their application, they must self-report their scores, which will be verified upon enrollment. The minimum scores required vary for each test.
There are several English language proficiency tests that international students can take to gain admission to MIT. These include the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic), and the Cambridge English Qualifications (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency).
The TOEFL iBT is a widely recognised English proficiency test that evaluates an individual's ability to understand and use English at the university level. A minimum score of 100 is required by most departments at MIT, although some may require a higher score.
The IELTS Academic test is another option and is designed to assess the English language proficiency of individuals who want to study or work in an English-speaking environment. The minimum IELTS Academic score required is determined by the specific department at MIT.
The Cambridge English Qualifications are also accepted, with the C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency exams recognised as proof of English proficiency.
It is important to note that even if international students meet the requirements for waiving the standardised English proficiency tests for admission to MIT, they may still be required to take the English Evaluation Test (EET) upon arrival. This is a diagnostic test to help international students identify weaknesses in written and oral English that may hinder their academic, research, and work communication abilities.
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Funding and financial aid
International students must demonstrate that they can meet MIT's minimum budget projection for a new graduate student before the International Students Office may issue a certificate of eligibility for an F-1 or J-1 visa. While financial aid is available for international students, it may be limited, and funding awards accompanying MIT's research and teaching assistantships may not cover all living expenses.
MIT is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for international students, just as it does for domestic students. The financial aid team works closely with students and their families to develop a plan tailored to their financial circumstances. Before deciding on the financial aid package, MIT needs to know the student's financial situation. To do this, they require two documents: the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. Copies of parental federal tax returns are also required in support of aid applications. International students should complete the International Student CSS Profile and provide verification of parent income.
Students may also appeal for financial aid for additional terms by submitting the Extended Aid Form. Student Financial Services will replace federal aid with equivalent MIT funds if federal eligibility ends before a student has completed eight terms.
MIT encourages applicants to secure additional funds outside of the university, as many countries place limitations on the purchase of US dollars. Prospective students should consult the relevant authorities in their countries about foreign exchange regulations.
If you have specific questions about financial aid as an international student, you can contact MIT's financial aid counsellors via email at [email protected] or by phone at 617.258.8600.
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Student visas
International students must show that they can meet MIT’s minimum budget projection for a new graduate student before the International Students Office may issue a certificate of eligibility for an F-1 or J-1 visa. Students must also visit US embassies or consulates in their home countries to be issued student visas, which will enable them to enter the United States. Students must present a certificate of eligibility (Form I-20 or Form DS-2019) with the supporting financial documentation when they apply for their visas. The International Students Office at MIT will send the required document to all admitted students who provide evidence of sufficient funds to meet the estimated costs and of adequate English language proficiency.
Students applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa for the first time must also pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Once the fee is paid, students should keep the receipt with their form and bring it to their Consulate appointment. Students can schedule a visa interview appointment with the US Embassy/Consulate closest to where they live. Links to all US Embassies/Consulates abroad are available online (http://usembassy.gov). Instructions on how to schedule a visa interview, the visa application form (Form DS-160), and clarification of documents required for a visa interview are included on each consulate's website.
Upon arrival in the US, an Immigration Officer will review the student's documents and return the I-20 or DS-2019 form. If the Immigration Officer finds an issue with the form, the student should contact the International Students Office, which will advise on how to proceed. It is important to note that the validity of the visa does not indicate how long a student may remain in the United States; this determination will be made by the Immigration Service at the port of entry.
If a student receives a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019) to pursue a degree program at a school other than MIT and receives a visa to attend that school, they are required by immigration regulations to report to that school before transferring to MIT. They may be required to enroll at the other school for at least one semester.
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Interviews
The interview process at MIT is relatively informal, and there is no formal dress code. However, it is still important to wear something polished and comfortable that reflects your personality. During the interview, the EC will ask you questions about your interests, passions, and reasons for wanting to attend MIT. They are looking for applicants who can passionately convey their interests and ambitions and articulate how attending MIT aligns with their goals.
To prepare for the interview, it is essential to research the university thoroughly, including the unique opportunities available and the professors you want to work with. Think through stories or examples that showcase your passions and aspirations. Take a strategic approach when answering questions, pausing to collect your thoughts and answer by theme, focusing on one central point. Remember, MIT wants to see the whole person, not just your academic achievements, so be yourself and try not to let your nerves get the best of you.
If you are not offered an interview, it does not necessarily mean rejection, as MIT is unable to provide interviews to all applicants. However, if you are invited for an interview, it is a positive sign, and your performance will significantly impact the admissions decision.
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Frequently asked questions
International students should apply at the beginning of their final year of high school, and only accepted students are required to send final grades. MIT does not have any required high school classes for domestic or international students. All applicants must meet the same test requirements, and applications will be reviewed within the context of the resources available to the applicant.
There are no cut-off scores for the ACT or SAT, but these are important given how hard it is to get into MIT. A score of 35 or above on the ACT, or 1550 or above on the SAT is recommended. MIT also strongly recommends submitting the results of an English Proficiency Exam, such as TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or Cambridge English Qualification.
All application materials must be in English, and you must include transcripts sent by your school. Interviews are also taken into consideration.
International students must show they can meet MIT's minimum budget projection for a new graduate student before the International Students Office may issue a certificate of eligibility for an F-1 or J-1 visa. Students must also document that they have adequate funds for tuition, health insurance, and living expenses.
Students must obtain a certificate of eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019) and present it with supporting financial documentation when applying for their visa. Students must also visit a US embassy or consulate in their home country to be issued with a student visa.
