Applying to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a journey that invites students to showcase their academic strengths, personal values, and potential to contribute to a diverse and innovative community. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how you can apply to MIT’s undergraduate programmes.

1. Getting Started MIT uses its own application system—not the Common App or Coalition App. You’ll begin by creating an account on the MIT Admissions portal. The application fee is $75, but fee waivers are available for students who need them. MIT’s admissions are need-blind, so requesting a waiver won’t affect your chances.

You’ll be asked to indicate your preferred field of study, but this is just to understand your interests—it doesn’t influence your admission decision. You won’t officially declare a major until the end of your first year.

2. Biographical and Personal Information This section includes:

1. Email address (must remain active through the admission cycle)
2. Legal name and preferred name
3. Home and mailing addresses
4. Citizenship and gender identity
5. Pronouns and sexual orientation (optional and confidential)
6. Religious affiliation (optional)
7. Family background (parents, guardians, siblings)

MIT values authenticity and privacy. Information like gender identity or sexual orientation is used only to provide relevant campus resources and is never shared externally.

3. Essays, Activities, and Academics Instead of one long essay, MIT asks for several short-answer responses. These questions are designed to understand your motivations, interests, and how you think. Topics include:

1. Why a particular field of study interests you
2. Activities you enjoy for fun
3. Times you’ve taken an unexpected path
4. Collaboration experiences
5. How you handled an unexpected challenge

Each response should be around 100–200 words. There’s also an optional open-ended section to share anything else you think MIT should know.

You’ll also list up to four activities that matter most to you—no resumes allowed. U.S.-based students must complete a self-reported coursework form, while international students rely on their transcripts.

4. Transcripts MIT requires an official high school transcript submitted by your school counselor or registrar. This can be uploaded via:

1. The MIT application portal
2. Third-party services like Naviance or SCOIR
3. Email (as a PDF to admissions@mit.edu)

If you submit a copy yourself, it will be used as a placeholder until the official version arrives.

5. Letters of Recommendation MIT requires:

1. Two teacher recommendations: one from a math/science teacher and one from a humanities/social science/language teacher
2. One counselor recommendation (Secondary School Report)

You may also submit one optional supplemental recommendation if it adds new insight. Recommenders can submit letters through the MIT portal or third-party services. Choose teachers who know you well—not just academically, but personally.

Conclusion MIT’s application process is designed to be holistic and student-centered. It’s not about perfection—it’s about potential. Be honest, be thoughtful, and take the time to reflect on what makes you unique.

Reference:

1. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/getting-started/
2. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/biographical-information/
3. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/essays-activities-academics/
4. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/transcripts/
5. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/letters-of-recommendation/