What are the requirements for transferring to MIT?

I'm currently a high school junior, but I'm already starting to think down the line about transferring colleges if I don't get into my top choice right out of high school. I've heard that transferring to MIT is super competitive, but I'm not sure what specific requirements they have. Does anyone know what kind of GPA, extracurriculars, or other factors MIT considers for transfer students? Would love to hear from anyone who has been through this process or knows someone who has!

Yes, transferring to MIT is indeed highly competitive. As they only accept a small number of transfer students each year. Here's some information about the process and requirements:

- Academic Performance: MIT expects superior academic performance. While they don't list a specific GPA requirement, being a competitive applicant generally means having a strong GPA, particularly in mathematics and the sciences which are emphasized at MIT. Course selection is also important. Demonstrate your ability to handle rigorous coursework, particularly in science, engineering, and math.

- College Credit: You must have been enrolled as a full-time student at a post-secondary institution before, and while you don't need to have earned a certain number of credit hours, note that transfer students typically apply after one or two years of studies at another college.

- Course Match: MIT looks at how your college coursework matches with the MIT curriculum for your anticipated major. For instance, if you want to transfer into MIT's computer science program, having foundational computer science and math course under your belt will make you a stronger candidate.

- Extracurricular activities: Consistent with MIT's philosophy, they value applicants who have made significant contributions outside the classroom, either in extracurricular activities or through work experience. They look for students who have demonstrated their passion in a field, accomplished significant things, and will bring that same drive and spirit to MIT.

- Recommendations: MIT requires two letters of recommendation (academic in nature), one from a math or science professor and one from a humanities, arts, or social sciences professor.

Additionally, you'll need to submit your college transcript(s), SAT or ACT scores (MIT requires test scores for transfers), high school transcript, and complete MIT's transfer application including answering their essays.

Make sure to review the applications deadlines too. The deadline for the fall semester transfer application is usually around mid-March, while the deadline for the spring semester is typically in early November. Decisions are typically released approximately one and a half months after the application deadline.

Remember, MIT is looking for students who are a good fit for their programs and school. Research the campus culture, academic programs, and opportunities at MIT to ensure it's the right fit for you, as this should also be reflected in your application essays.

Keep in mind this information is accurate as of the current application year and it's always a good idea to double-check the most current information on MIT's website for any changes in the transfer process. Good luck!