MIT_Application_Guide_Shafi
MIT_Application_Guide_Shafi
Comprehensive Guide
1. Overview of MIT Admissions
MIT offers world-class education with a focus on STEM fields. To secure admission as an
undergraduate, preparation and strategic planning are essential.
Breakdown of Costs:
| **Expense** | **Cost (per year)** |
| ------------------- | ------------------- |
| Tuition | $59,750 |
| Housing (on-campus) | $12,000 |
| Meals | $7,000 |
| Books/Supplies | $850 |
| Personal Expenses | $2,200 |
Application Components
- Essays: Write authentic responses to showcase your personality and passion for STEM.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two required (one from a STEM teacher, one from a
humanities teacher).
- Extracurriculars: Evidence of leadership, innovation, and impact.
- Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT (if required), TOEFL/IELTS (for non-native English
speakers).
Academic Excellence
- Subjects: Focus on advanced courses in Physics, Math, Chemistry, and Computer Science in
the IGCSE curriculum.
- Online Learning: Enroll in courses on platforms like MIT OpenCourseWare or Coursera.
- Projects: Start research or independent projects under your teachers’ guidance.
Extracurricular Activities
- Participate in STEM-related competitions like Olympiads, Science Fairs, or Math Kangaroo.
- Lead or initiate clubs (e.g., Robotics, Science, Debate).
- Organize community projects (e.g., teaching coding to underprivileged children).
Summer Opportunities
- Apply for programs like MITES (Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science) or local
internships.
- Attend STEM-focused camps or conferences.
Personal Development
- Work on resilience and time management. Use your boarding school experience to show
adaptability.
- Reflect on unique aspects of your journey, such as living far from home and excelling in a
structured environment.
5. How to Get Scholarships at MIT
Outside Scholarships
- Research external scholarships available in your home country or globally (e.g., J.N. Tata
Endowment, Fulbright Program).
- Explore work-study opportunities at MIT.
Learning Resources
- MIT OpenCourseWare: Free MIT course content to explore topics like engineering, AI, or
data science.
- Online Platforms: Use platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX for advanced STEM
courses.
- Books: Read foundational books in physics, math, and computer science (e.g., 'Introduction
to Algorithms' by Cormen, 'A Brief History of Time' by Stephen Hawking).