77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA


Massachusetts Institute of Technology holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which is a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation confirms that the institution meets rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness in its educational programs, administration, and financial stability.
Admission to Massachusetts Institute of Technology is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of only 5%, placing it in the bottom 5% nationally. Prospective students must submit admission test scores, as these are required for evaluation. While a high school diploma or equivalent is not mandatory, applicants must provide their secondary school records, and letters of recommendation are required to support their application. Additionally, while not compulsory, submission of other test scores and demonstration of relevant competencies are recommended to strengthen candidacy.
The institution does not operate an open admission policy and does not offer credit for dual enrollment or college programs prior to admission. However, Advanced Placement credits are accepted once enrolled. Interestingly, students are not required to own a computer to apply, although computer leasing options are available.
In terms of standardized testing performance among enrolled students, approximately 83% submitted SAT scores, and 29% submitted ACT scores. Notably, the ACT score distribution indicates that 99.69% of enrolled students scored below 36, with 31% scoring below 29.
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology charges an application fee for prospective students submitting their undergraduate applications. This fee is set at a specific amount designed to cover the administrative costs of processing each application.
However, the institution recognizes that this fee may pose a barrier for some applicants. Therefore, it offers fee waivers to eligible students who demonstrate financial need or meet certain criteria. These waivers ensure that qualified students can apply without the burden of the application cost.
Applicants seeking a fee waiver must typically provide documentation or evidence of their financial situation as part of the request process. The waivers are intended to promote accessibility and encourage a diverse range of candidates to apply.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs on its campus, providing students with opportunities to pursue military leadership training alongside their academic studies. These ROTC units allow prospective officers to develop skills essential for commissioned service in the armed forces while completing their degree requirements.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology allows transfer applications for the fall and spring semesters, providing opportunities for students to join during these main academic periods. The institution accepts transfer credits, facilitating the recognition of prior coursework completed elsewhere. However, prospective transfer students should be aware that admission to Massachusetts Institute of Technology is highly competitive, with the entrance difficulty categorized as most difficult, reflecting the university's rigorous selection standards.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich the academic and cultural experiences of its students. The programs range from semester-long exchanges to short-term faculty-led trips and summer research projects, each providing a different level of immersion and academic focus. These programs are typically integrated with students' degree requirements to ensure that credits earned abroad contribute directly to their academic progress.
Students can participate in exchange programs with partner institutions worldwide, allowing for in-depth study in diverse academic environments while maintaining their connection to MIT's rigorous standards. Additionally, there are global research internships where students work on collaborative projects, often in cutting-edge fields aligned with MIT's strengths. These internships provide hands-on experience and an opportunity to engage with international research communities.
Short-term study abroad options include multidisciplinary programs that combine coursework, site visits, and cultural engagements, often led by MIT faculty. These trips allow students to explore global challenges and innovations firsthand while interacting with peers and experts in various countries. Such programs are designed not only to broaden students' perspectives but also to complement their technical and scientific education.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
29%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
83%High school completions
High school diploma or equivalent is not requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
Data not availableSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RequiredTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
Data not availableOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
YesApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Very hardGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring