By Ruben Stephen (and perplexity.ai lol)

• Sources:

In short, you’re graded on 3 axes:

1. Academic Rating
   • What it Measures:
     • Recalculated STEM GPA (focus on math and science grades)
     • Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, especially Math and Science)
     • Academic achievements outside the classroom (research, competitions, advanced coursework)
   • How it’s Determined:
     • MIT recalculates your GPA using only math and science courses.
     • They pay special attention to the rigor of your coursework and your performance in advanced classes and competitions.
     • High scores in math and science are weighted most heavily.
2. Activity Rating
   • What it Measures:
     • Depth and impact of extracurricular and co-curricular involvement (clubs, competitions, leadership, research, community service, etc.)
     • MIT values “angular” students who show significant achievement or commitment in a few areas, rather than being simply well-rounded.
3. Interpersonal Rating
   • What it Measures:
     • Collaboration, character, and how you interact with others
     • Evidence from recommendations, essays, and interviews about your teamwork, empathy, and contribution to community.

How the Ratings Are Used

• Ideal Profile:
  • A “555” (all 5s) is the theoretical maximum, but most competitive admits have a mix such as “544.”
  • Rarely, applicants with lower ratings (e.g., “444”) may still be admitted if other aspects are exceptional.
• No Single Cutoff:
  • MIT does not use a strict academic index cutoff. Instead, the ratings are used as part of a holistic review, and context matters (school resources, background, etc.).
• Committee Review:
  • After initial ratings, applications are summarized and discussed by a selection committee of admissions officers and faculty. At least a dozen people may review and debate each file to ensure fairness and context.

Key Differences from Ivy System

• STEM Emphasis:
  • MIT’s academic rating is heavily weighted toward math and science performance.
• Holistic Context:
  • MIT explicitly avoids quotas, legacy preferences, or region-based comparisons, focusing on each applicant’s context and potential fit with MIT’s mission.

What MIT Looks For

MIT’s admissions process seeks students who demonstrate:

• Alignment with MIT’s mission and values
• Initiative, risk-taking, and hands-on creativity
• Intensity, curiosity, and excitement for learning
• Collaborative and cooperative spirit
• The ability to contribute to and thrive in MIT’s unique community