Graduate education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a significant investment, and MIT is committed to helping students manage the financial aspects of their academic journey. Whether you’re pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree, understanding the costs and funding options is essential.

Types of Funding Models

MIT’s graduate programmes fall into three broad categories:

1. Fully-Funded Programmes: These cover tuition and provide stipends or salaries for students in good standing. Funding may come from research assistantships (RA), teaching assistantships (TA), fellowships, scholarships, or other roles like Graduate Resident Advisors.
2. Partially-Funded Programmes: These offer limited financial support, which may include partial tuition coverage or stipends. Funding is often competitive and may be based on academic merit or financial need.
3. Self-Funded Programmes: Students are responsible for covering tuition and living expenses. These are typically professional programmes for mid-career individuals. Funding may come from employer reimbursement, personal savings, or external grants.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance includes both direct costs (tuition and fees) and indirect costs (living expenses). For the 2024–2025 academic year, MIT estimates:

1. Tuition and fees: Varies by programme; Sloan School of Management and special programmes have different rates.
2. Books and supplies
3. Housing and food
4. Transportation
5. Personal expenses

Living in Cambridge, MA, is expensive, and costs vary based on housing type, family status, and lifestyle. For example:

1. Single student in shared on-campus housing: ~$31,159/year (excluding taxes)
2. Student with partner and child in off-campus housing: ~$70,894/year plus childcare costs

Taxes may absorb 14–30% of income, depending on individual circumstances.

Stipend Rates

MIT offers competitive stipends to support graduate students. For 2025–2026:

1. Doctoral RA: $4,269/month or $51,226/year
2. Master’s RA: $3,899/month or $46,793/year
3. TA (both levels): $4,369/month or $52,429/year

Departments may offer higher rates depending on funding sources. Stipends are paid via MITPay and typically begin in the second week of the term.

Additional Considerations

1. On-Campus Housing: Includes utilities and furnishings. First-year graduate students receive priority in the housing lottery.
2. Off-Campus Housing: Requires upfront payments and separate utility costs. MIT offers tools to help students find housing.
3. International Students: Should arrive with funds to cover initial expenses like travel, temporary housing, and deposits. Tax liabilities may be higher due to limited deductions.
4. Students with Families: Must budget for larger housing, childcare, and health insurance. MIT offers grants and accommodations for graduate students with children.

Conclusion

MIT’s graduate fees and funding options are designed to support a diverse student body. With clear cost estimates, generous stipends, and multiple funding pathways, MIT ensures that financial planning is transparent and manageable for all admitted students.

Reference:

1. https://oge.mit.edu/graduate-admissions/costs-funding/
2. https://oge.mit.edu/graduate-admissions/costs-funding/cost-of-attendance/
3. https://oge.mit.edu/graduate-admissions/costs-funding/stipend-rates/
4. https://oge.mit.edu/graduate-admissions/costs-funding/estimated-living-expenses-for-12-months/
5. https://oge.mit.edu/graduate-admissions/costs-funding/additional-considerations-and-information/