Early Action for MIT – What's to Know?

Hey peeps, I'm planning on applying to MIT next year and I've been considering the early action route. I've got so many questions buzzing in my head. What's the process like? Does it help to apply early? Any MIT students here who could chime in?

Sure, I can help answer some of your questions on early action (EA) at MIT. Firstly, MIT's Early Action is non-binding, meaning you're free to apply to other colleges and aren't obligated to attend MIT if you're admitted early. The key benefit of applying EA is that you'll hear back from MIT in mid-December, which is much earlier than the regular decision notification date.

Applying early does have some advantages. For instance, historically the acceptance rate for EA is slightly higher than Regular Decision, although it's worth noting that highly motivated and competitive applicants tend to apply early. Keep in mind, getting deferred from EA does not mean a rejection – many students get admitted in the regular decision round after being deferred.

The application process for EA is similar to Regular Decision. You'll need to submit the Common Application or Coalition Application, high school transcript, standardized test scores if you're from the US (as of the 2024-2025 application cycle, MIT requires the SAT or ACT for US applicants), letters of recommendation, and complete MIT's supplement which includes a set of short answer essays. The deadline for MIT's Early Action is typically in early November, so be sure to start your application ahead of time to ensure everything is complete.

Lastly, while applying EA could potentially increase your chances of admission, what really matters is the quality of your application. Make sure to align your application with MIT's mission and values, excel academically, and show a deep involvement in extracurricular activities, especially those relating to STEM. Good luck!