How to Get Into MIT: Tips for High School Students Applying to MIT
If you're interested in pursuing a world-class education in science, engineering, or technology, MIT is undoubtedly one of the top institutions that come to mind. However, getting into MIT is no easy feat, as the university is known for its highly competitive admissions process. As an aspiring applicant, you may be wondering how you can increase your chances of getting accepted into this prestigious institution.
In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to get into MIT, from understanding the admissions requirements and application process to highlighting some tips and tricks for crafting a standout application. Whether you're a high school student, transfer applicant, or international student, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into what it takes to become a part of the MIT community.
So how do you get into MIT? The truth is… there isn’t any guarantee when it comes to gaining admission to MIT. In fact, MIT has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the world. That being said, there are tips and strategies that may help students stand out in college admissions.
In this blog post, we are sharing some strategies that may help increase your chances of getting into MIT.
What is MIT known for?
MIT, or the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is a private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. It is known worldwide for its excellence in science, engineering, and technology education and research. MIT is particularly renowned for its computer science and artificial intelligence programs, as well as its contributions to the fields of physics, mathematics, and economics.
The university has produced numerous successful entrepreneurs and innovators, including the co-founders of Dropbox, 3Com, and Bose Corporation. MIT is also known for its cutting-edge research in fields such as robotics, nanotechnology, and biotechnology, and its commitment to using science and technology to solve some of the world's most pressing problems.
How difficult is it to get into MIT?
MIT’s acceptance rate is one of the lowest in the world. Getting into MIT is no small feat with an acceptance rate of under 5%.
Over 30,000 students applied to join the MIT Class of 2026–and just over 1,000 received a highly coveted spot. The acceptance rate for the Class of 2026 was 3.96%%, and these admissions statistics are fairly typical for MIT each year.
What do you need to get into MIT?
In order to get into MIT, high school students need to have the following:
High GPA
MIT students typically have very strong high school GPAs, meaning that the average student gaining admission had a 4.0 high school GPA. A 4.0 indicates that a student received primarily – if not exclusively – A’s in high school (or 7s if you’re an IB student with a minimum score of a 42).
Rigorous Course Load
It’s not enough to just have a high GPA – you will also need to have taken a challenging course load in order to get into MIT. This means that you will want to have taken honors or AP courses across subjects. In particular, you will need to have taken the most advanced math and sciences available at your school.
Extracurriculars and Leadership Outside of School
Extracurricular activities are actually a very important part of getting into MIT. Admissions officers are looking for students who thrive both in and out of the classroom. In other words, they are looking for students who have interesting passions and are leaders in their community. They want well-rounded students to join their freshman class!
Extracurricular activities can consist of community service, athletics, music, theater, or any other passions and commitments that students pursue outside of school. High school students who get into MIT tend to have leadership positions when applicable.
Many high school students who apply to MIT are interested in studying STEM and computer science. You will need to find ways to stand out with your STEM extracurriculars. For example, consider developing a CS or AI project to help you stand out in college admissions. Our team at Inspirit AI has helped guide numerous high school students to complete AI projects that they have showcased as extracurriculars on their college applications to MIT. We have even had many students gain admission! You can learn more about our programs here.
Essays
Writing a high quality college essay is essential to standing out in the admissions process. MIT admissions officers receive thousands of applications, so how can you write an essay that really captures their attention?
MIT does not use the Common Application, an undergraduate admissions application that the majority of colleges use. Instead, MIT uses their own system called MyMIT. You will need to make sure that you write a strong MyMIT essay, along with strong additional supplemental essays. All essays on the MyMIT application hold equal importance, so make sure you spend time thoughtfully completing the additional writing sections as well.
Successful applicants write essays that are authentic, well-written, and engaging. Make sure your essay reflects who YOU are.
Recommendation Letters
Recommendation letters are letters or testimonials, written by your teachers, that give the university more insight into your strengths, personality, and achievements. It is important to make sure that you ask teachers with whom you have built a strong relationship to write your recommendation letters.
Standardized Test Scores
Colleges are seemingly putting less emphasis on standardized test scores. In fact, some universities have gone test-optional. That being said, MIT requires the SAT or ACT for first year or transfer applicants. You can read more about their testing requirements here. High school students who gain admission to MIT have among the highest test scores in the U.S.
Since MIT is a math and science university, you will also need to submit SAT subject tests in Math and Science. We recommend taking Math Level 1 or Level 2, and choose between Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
How can you increase your chances of getting into MIT?
As we mentioned earlier, there is no secret formula for getting into MIT, but there are ways you can increase your chances.
Apply Early
If you are positive that you want to get into MIT, take advantage of applying Early Action. The university explains that there is not necessarily a benefit to applying early vs. regular. That being said, applying early certainly demonstrates to admissions officers that MIT is your first choice! Admissions officers are looking to accept students who show interest, commitment, and enthusiasm to attend.
Take Rigorous Courses and Receive High Grades
A combination of rigorous courses and high grades will help increase your chances of getting into MIT. Take honors classes when you can (especially in math and science courses), and attempt to receive all A’s (or equivalent). Doing so won’t guarantee your acceptance, but it is necessary to be considered for admission.
Build a Strong Application
Put your best foot forward on your application by writing high-quality essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and submitting high SAT or ACT test scores. Even though standardized test scores are optional, submitting high scores can demonstrate your commitment to learning and academic excellence.
Final thoughts on how to get into MIT
Getting into MIT is a challenging and competitive process, but it's not impossible. If you have a strong academic record, impressive extracurricular activities, and a compelling personal story, you may have what it takes to get into MIT. Remember to take challenging courses, get involved in extracurricular activities, build strong relationships with your teachers, show demonstrated interest, and craft a compelling application.
It's also important to keep in mind that there are many other great universities out there. While MIT is undoubtedly a great school, it's not the only path to success. Don't let the pressure to get into a particular school overshadow your true interests and passions.
If you're not accepted into MIT, don't be discouraged. There are many other excellent universities that can provide you with a top-notch education and a path to success. Keep working hard, pursuing your passions, and making a positive impact in your community, and you'll be sure to achieve great things, no matter where you end up going to school.
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
