The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), founded in 1861, is a world leader in science, engineering, and technology education. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT is renowned for its innovative research, hands-on learning approach, and entrepreneurial culture. The institute's cutting-edge facilities include advanced labs, maker spaces, and the renowned Media Lab. MIT's faculty and alumni include numerous Nobel laureates, Turing Award winners, and pioneers in their fields. Consistently ranked among the top universities globally, MIT excels in disciplines like computer science, robotics, and artificial intelligence.
MIT's collaborative environment encourages students to work across disciplines, solving complex real-world problems. The institute's emphasis on 'mens et manus' (mind and hand) ensures that theoretical knowledge is applied practically. MIT's strong ties to industry and startups provide students with abundant opportunities for internships and collaborations. The campus features iconic architecture, including the Great Dome, and state-of-the-art research facilities. MIT's commitment to diversity and inclusion fosters a vibrant community of scholars from around the world. Alumni have founded companies like Intel, Dropbox, and Bose, highlighting MIT's impact on technology and innovation.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Acceptance Rate
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is one of the most selective universities in the USA. With an acceptance rate of 3.96%, the institution utilizes a Holistic Review process to identify students with exceptional intellectual depth.
Admissions Guidelines
- Elite Standards: Admitted students typically rank in the top 2-5% of their high school class.
- Curriculum Rigor: AP, IB, or Honors courses are essential to validate academic readiness.
- Character & Impact: Beyond grades, leadership, research, and unique 'spikes' in extracurriculars drive decisions.
At this level of selectivity, meeting average GPA and test scores is considered the 'baseline.' Because MIT values intellectual curiosity, your supplemental essays and personal recommendations are critical in distinguishing your application from thousands of other high-achieving candidates.
Data verified via IPEDS and the 2025-2026 Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Admission Requirements
MIT GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at MIT is 3.96. This indicates extreme selectivity in admissions.
To have strong chances, you must aim for straight A’s in all courses.
If your GPA is between 3.66 and 3.96, then you need a high SAT or ACT score to compensate.
MIT GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Extreme selectivity; requires elite academic standing.
Recommended Strategy: High Course Rigor (AP/IB/Honors) to validate the grade.
Admissions at MIT utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.96, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.96 – 4.00 | Academic Target | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.76 – 3.95 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.56 – 3.75 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.55 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At MIT, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. For the 2026 academic cycle, the landscape of standardized testing has shifted back toward Test-Required policies at the majority of highly selective and Ivy+ institutions. Following a multi-year "Test-Optional" pilot, data-driven results have led universities like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and the University of Texas at Austin to reinstate the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application.
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Average SAT Score: 1560
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Massachusetts Institute of Technology is 1560 on the 1600 SAT scale.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it Extremely Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do extremely well to score 1560 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1580 SAT or 36 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Massachusetts Institute of Technology allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1530, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to MIT. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 795 | 790 | 800 |
| SAT Reading | 760 | 740 | 780 |
| SAT Composite | 1560 | 1530 | 1580 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1530 then you are below most of the admitted students at MIT and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1580 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1550
Can I get into Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a 1600 SAT?
With a 1600 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are good but the admission staff at MIT tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at MIT is 36.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Massachusetts Institute of Technology Extremely Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do extremely well to score 36 on the ACT.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 36 | 35 | 36 |
| ACT English | 36 | 35 | 36 |
| ACT Composite | 36 | 35 | 36 |
Can I get into Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a 36 ACT?
With a 36 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Massachusetts Institute of Technology are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 36.MIT Profile
Name: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
City: Cambridge
URL: web.mit.edu/
State: Massachusetts
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 02139-4307
Campus: Main
Accredited by: New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
Elite Strategy: The 'Spike' Approach
To be successful at a world-class institution like MIT, you must move beyond being 'well-rounded' and demonstrate that you are institutionally necessary.
Elite schools favor 'pointy' students; those who are world-class in one niche. Achieve national-level recognition or produce original research rather than joining ten generic clubs.
Demonstrate 'self-driven learning.' This includes graduate-level coursework, mastering a complex skill independently, or attending top-tier summer programs (RSI/TASP).
Avoid safe, cliché topics. Use the supplemental essays to showcase creative risk-taking, quirky intellectualism, and authentic personality.
Admissions officers prioritize 'Founders' and 'Change-makers' over 'Office-holders.' Document quantifiable impact—what did you build that didn't exist before?
Does a degree from MIT Worth It?
Getting into MIT can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. MIT offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision. Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at MIT is USD: 77426.3 and unemployment rate is 3.22%.
How much does a degree from MIT Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Massachusetts Institute of Technology is USD: 77020. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Massachusetts Institute of Technology is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
18.43% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 4.44 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to MIT and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Massachusetts Institute of Technology, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist MIT as your choice in the form.
How much a MIT Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the MIT graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 143372. An average MIT graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Massachusetts Institute of Technology. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claremont McKenna College | Claremont McKenna College, CA | 1514 | 34 |
| Harvey Mudd College | Harvey Mudd College, CA | 1539 | 35 |
| Pomona College | Pomona College, CA | 1520 | 34 |
| University of Southern California | University of Southern California, CA | 1520 | 34 |
| Yale University | Yale University, CT | 1547 | 34 |
| University of Chicago | University of Chicago, IL | 1532 | 35 |
| Northwestern University | Northwestern University, IL | 1526 | 34 |
| University of Notre Dame | University of Notre Dame, IN | 1515 | 34 |
| Bowdoin College | Bowdoin College, ME | 1520 | 34 |
| Amherst College | Amherst College, MA | 1513 | 34 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Massachusetts Institute of Technology. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for Massachusetts Institute of Technology, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Johns Hopkins University | Johns Hopkins University, MD | 1553 | 35 |
| Harvard University | Harvard University, MA | 1553 | 35 |
| Duke University | Duke University, NC | 1554 | 35 |
| Stanford University | Stanford University, CA | 1553 | 34 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Massachusetts Institute of Technology. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Anthropology
- Applied Mathematics
- Architecture
- Biology, General
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Business/Commerce, General
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts Institute of Technology Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, $143372 annually, depending on the industry.
Question: What is the tuition fee for Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $77020 or more per year for out-of-state students, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are lower, 50% or less. It's important to apply early and showcase a strong academic profile.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Massachusetts Institute of Technology is 3.96 which is extremely low. Admission is highly competitive, and only the top candidates are accepted.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.96. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 3.66, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a 3.66 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.66 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to Massachusetts Institute of Technology if my GPA is below 3.56
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.96, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement for Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: Admission to Massachusetts Institute of Technology is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1560 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1530-1580
Question: Is it possible to transfer to Massachusetts Institute of Technology from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to Massachusetts Institute of Technology each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: The campus culture at Massachusetts Institute of Technology is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into Massachusetts Institute of Technology?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.