Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers one of the most inclusive and rigorous undergraduate admissions processes in the world. Whether you're a high school senior, an international student, or someone seeking to transfer, MIT provides clear pathways to apply and join its vibrant academic community.

First-Year Eligibility MIT’s first-year application is for students who have completed or are completing their secondary education and want to pursue a full-time bachelor’s degree. You can apply during your final year of high school or after graduation. However, if you’ve already enrolled in a degree-granting institution, you must apply as a transfer student. MIT does not offer second bachelor’s degrees.

Application Cycles: Early Action vs Regular Action MIT offers two application cycles:

1. Early Action (EA): Deadline is November 1. Decisions are released in mid-December.
2. Regular Action (RA): Deadline is January 5. Decisions are released in mid-March.

There is no preference between EA and RA. Early Action is non-binding and open to all applicants, including international students. However, students denied in EA cannot reapply in RA for the same entry year.

Required Application Components

1. General information, essays, activities, and academic history
2. Two letters of recommendation (one from a math/science teacher, one from a humanities/social science/language teacher)
3. Secondary School Report and transcript
4. SAT or ACT scores (no minimum score required)
5. English proficiency exam (recommended for non-native speakers)
6. February Updates & Notes Form (midyear grades)

International Applicants MIT welcomes students from around the globe. If you do not hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, you are considered an international applicant. MIT does not convert international grades to the U.S. system and evaluates each applicant within their educational context. There are no quotas or country caps. Standardized tests (SAT or ACT) are required, and English proficiency exams are strongly recommended for students who have used English for fewer than five years.

Undocumented and DACA Applicants MIT accepts applications from undocumented and DACA-mented students. These applicants follow the same process as all others. Admissions are need-blind, and MIT offers generous financial aid that covers full demonstrated need—including tuition, housing, food, books, and personal expenses. Resources and legal support are available on campus to help undocumented students thrive.

Transfer Applicants Students who have completed at least one year of college and will have finished two full-time terms by the time they enter MIT may apply as transfer students. Those with more than five full-time terms may not be eligible due to MIT’s residency requirements. Transfer applicants must also meet high academic standards and submit their application through the MIT portal.

Conclusion MIT’s entry requirements reflect its commitment to academic excellence and diversity. With flexible options for different applicant types and a holistic review process, MIT ensures that every student has a fair chance to join its world-class undergraduate programmes.

Reference:

1. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/first-year-eligibility/
2. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/deadlines-requirements/
3. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/early-vs-regular/
4. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/international/
5. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/firstyear/undocumented-applicants/
6. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/transfer/transfer-eligibility/