
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has a long history of educating international students, and in 2020, it was home to approximately 3,274 international students, with 448 of those being undergraduates. MIT students come from 138 foreign countries, and the university is ranked 12th out of 1,232 colleges for providing a quality educational experience to international students. The most popular degrees at MIT with international students are General Business/Commerce, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Total number of international students | 3,274 |
| Number of international undergraduate students | 448 |
| Number of international students from China | 805 |
| Number of countries represented by international students | 138 |
| MIT's rank among colleges for providing a quality educational experience to international students | 12th out of 1,232 colleges |
| MIT's rank among colleges for popularity with international students | 55th out of 1,279 colleges |
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What You'll Learn

Popularity with international students
MIT has a long history of educating international students, and it continues to welcome them with open arms. In 2020, MIT hosted approximately 3,274 international students out of a total of 11,254 students, with 448 of those international students being undergraduates. MIT is ranked 55th out of 1,279 colleges and universities for popularity with international students. The university attracts students from a diverse range of countries, with notable numbers from China (approximately 805 students in 2020), France, Canada, and Germany. MIT is particularly popular among international students pursuing degrees in General Business/Commerce, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
MIT's popularity among international students can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the university has a strong reputation for academic excellence and is known for its world-class faculty and research facilities. International students are attracted to the high-quality education and the opportunity to learn from renowned experts in their fields. Additionally, MIT actively recruits and enrols a diverse class of undergraduates, recognising the value of a global perspective in its student body. The university provides support and resources for international applicants, understanding their unique application process and requirements.
Another factor contributing to MIT's popularity with international students is its location in the United States, a country that has long been a top destination for students seeking higher education abroad. The U.S. is known for its robust education system, offering a wide range of academic programmes and resources. MIT, in particular, provides access to cutting-edge technology and a vibrant research community, making it an attractive option for students worldwide. The university also offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities, although these may be more limited for international students, as noted by some applicants.
MIT's reputation extends beyond the classroom, as it is known for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. International students are drawn to the university's strong track record of producing successful startups and its proximity to innovation hubs like Silicon Valley. The career prospects and networking opportunities that come with an MIT degree are highly valuable for students aiming to pursue global careers. Additionally, MIT's diverse and inclusive community is appealing to international students who want to immerse themselves in a multicultural environment and broaden their perspectives.
To cater to its international student body, MIT offers various support services and resources. The university provides guidance on visa processes and helps international students navigate the unique challenges they may face during their time at the university. Additionally, MIT encourages international students to get involved in campus life, join clubs and organisations, and participate in cultural events, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Overall, MIT's commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and diversity makes it a desirable choice for international students seeking a world-class education and a transformative university experience.
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Application process for international students
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has a long history of educating international students and continues to welcome them today. According to figures, MIT was home to approximately 3,274 international students in 2020, out of a total of 11,254 students.
MIT considers any student who does not hold US citizenship or permanent residency to be an international applicant, regardless of where they live or attend school. The application process for international students at MIT is outlined below:
Testing Requirements:
- All applicants are required to take the SAT or ACT, with no requirement to complete the ACT writing section or the SAT optional essay. Both paper and digital SAT scores are accepted.
- Non-native English speakers are strongly recommended to provide results from an English proficiency exam, such as TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or Cambridge English Qualification. This is required if English has been used for fewer than five years or is not spoken at home or school.
- After admission, all students whose primary language of instruction was not English from age six through high school are required to take the English Evaluation Test (EET) before the fall semester.
Application Timeline:
International students are advised to apply at the beginning of their final year of high school, typically around 17-19 years of age. The application deadline for fall entry is March 15, with a $75 application fee (waivers available upon request).
Additional Requirements:
- Students already enrolled at another university must apply as transfer students and meet the minimum academic standing requirements.
- International students must demonstrate financial capability to meet MIT's budget projection for a new graduate student to be eligible for an F-1 or J-1 visa.
- Upon arrival in the US, students must visit embassies or consulates to obtain their student visas, presenting certificates of eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019) and financial documentation.
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International student trends by country
International students are a significant part of the student body at MIT, with a long history of welcoming students from outside the United States. In the 2024-2025 academic year, MIT students hail from 138 foreign countries, with a total international student population of around 3,274. This accounts for approximately 29% of the total student population of 11,254. Of these international students, 448 are undergraduates.
Country-specific data reveals that in 2020, MIT was home to approximately 805 Chinese students, making it a popular destination for students from China. MIT is also a top choice for students from France, Canada, and Germany, ranking 12th out of 1,232 colleges for providing a quality educational experience to international students.
MIT actively recruits and enrols a diverse undergraduate class, with international applicants encouraged to apply in the final year of high school, just like US students. The most popular degrees among international students are General Business/Commerce, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
International students at MIT come from a variety of academic backgrounds. While some may have attended high school in the US, others may have studied in their home countries, where grades and subjects may differ significantly from those of American students. English proficiency exams are recommended for non-native speakers who do not meet certain criteria.
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Degrees chosen by international students
MIT has a long history of educating international students, with approximately 3,274 international students enrolled in 2020. This includes students from 138 foreign countries, with the most popular countries being China, France, Canada, and Germany. The university is ranked 55th out of 1,279 colleges and universities for popularity with international students.
International students at MIT pursue a variety of degrees, with the most popular being General Business/Commerce, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. These degrees offer a blend of business acumen and technical expertise, reflecting the diverse interests and backgrounds of the international student population.
General Business/Commerce is an excellent choice for international students seeking a broad understanding of business principles, management strategies, and entrepreneurial skills. This degree can lead to a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as finance, marketing, consulting, and international business.
Electrical Engineering is a highly sought-after degree among international students due to its focus on cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and practical applications. Electrical engineers are in high demand globally, and graduates from MIT have gone on to work in industries such as robotics, renewable energy, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence.
Mechanical Engineering is another popular choice, providing a strong foundation in physics, materials science, and engineering design. Mechanical engineers are crucial in various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and biomedical engineering. The degree equips students with analytical skills and hands-on experience in creating and improving mechanical systems.
Other degrees that may appeal to international students at MIT include Computer Science, which offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical programming skills, and fields such as Materials Science and Engineering, which focus on the development and application of advanced materials, catering to those interested in nanotechnology, biomaterials, and sustainable energy solutions.
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International student statistics
The most popular degrees at MIT among international students are General Business/Commerce, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. MIT recruits and enrolls a diverse class of undergraduates, with international applicants making up a significant portion of the applicant pool. The application process for international students includes submitting the SAT or ACT scores, and for non-native English speakers, English proficiency exam results are strongly recommended.
MIT is ranked highly for providing a quality educational experience to international students, especially those from France, Canada, and Germany. The institute is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, with students from a variety of cultural and academic backgrounds. The presence of international students at MIT adds to the richness of the community and enhances the exchange of ideas and perspectives.
While MIT does not publish specific acceptance rates for international students, the institute considers a range of factors in its admissions process, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and the alignment of the applicant's goals and experiences with MIT's mission and specific programs. The competitiveness of admissions means that a SAT score below 1400 significantly reduces one's chances of admission. Additionally, international students seeking financial aid are advised to avoid public or community colleges, as these institutions typically do not provide financial aid for international students.
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Frequently asked questions
In 2020, MIT was home to approximately 3,274 international students.
The most popular degrees at MIT with international students are General Business/Commerce, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
College Factual ranks MIT as 55th out of 1,279 colleges and universities for popularity with international students. MIT ranks 12th out of 1,232 colleges for providing a quality educational experience to international students.










































