How difficult is getting into MIT?

Hey guys, I've been hearing that MIT is extremely competitive. How hard is it really to get accepted there? Does anyone have any success stories or tips for improving my chances?

Hello! You're right, MIT is indeed highly competitive with an acceptance rate of around 6.7%. It's regarded as one of the top technology and engineering schools in the world, so applicants need to have an exceptionally strong academic and extracurricular background to be competitive.

To maximize your chances, focus on building your academic "spike," or personal area of expertise, in a particular STEM field. Top colleges like MIT are interested in students with a skillset that's already highly developed, rather than those who have just casually dipped their toe into a few things.

To show off your prowess in the area you identify as one you're especially strong in, make sure to excel in rigorous coursework—AP or other advanced courses are a must. Having good grades in challenging courses demonstrates your readiness to thrive even in the highly demanding environment you'll find at MIT.

Additionally, seek meaningful extracurriculars that demonstrate your interests and strengths in your desired field. Aim for 8-10 total extracurriculars, with quality being more important than quantity—if you only have 5 that have been truly meaningful to you, that's better than throwing in an extra 2-3 just for filler. As you can probably guess, participating and excelling in STEM-related competitions (science olympiads, hackathons, etc.) can prove that you're prepared for MIT. Also look for opportunities to take on leadership roles, to showcase your intangibles like commitment and teamwork.

Applying Early Action to MIT can improve your chances, since it shows your excitement about the institution, but make sure to still submit a polished application, as competition is still stiff—you don't want to submit if you aren't fully ready to.

Your application essays especially should be well-crafted, engaging, and thought-provoking. You can read more about MIT's required essays on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-mit-application-essays. Also remember that CollegeVine offers both free peer essay reviews and paid essay reviews by expert college admissions advisors, if you want to get a second pair of eyes on your response.

In conclusion, getting accepted into MIT is challenging, but not impossible. By focusing on your academic "spike," excelling in relevant extracurriculars, and crafting a standout application, you can maximize your chances. Best of luck!