Quick Facts
World's leading university in science, technology, engineering, and innovation
Location
Cambridge, MA (across the Charles River from Boston)
Degrees
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
Popular Majors
Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Economics
Total Students	Undergrad Students
11,920	4,657
Tuition (2025-2026)	Room and Board
$64,310	$20,940
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Extremely Selective (4.5% acceptance rate)	$21,519
Distance from Boston	School Website
Across the river (1 mile)
* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is widely regarded as the world's foremost university in science, technology, engineering, and innovation. Founded in 1861, MIT enrolls approximately 11,920 students, including about 4,657 undergraduates. The institute offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees through its five schools and one college. MIT's programs in engineering, computer science, and physical sciences are globally renowned, with alumni and faculty leading advancements across industries and academia. MIT boasts over 100 Nobel laureates among its community and consistently ranks at the top of global university lists, including #1 in QS World University Rankings and #2 in U.S. News National Universities (2026).

MIT's guiding mission integrates education with cutting-edge research, emphasizing hands-on problem-solving and real-world impact. Undergraduates participate in research from early on through initiatives like the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), fostering innovation and practical skills.

Students learn from distinguished faculty who are pioneers in their fields, with access to state-of-the-art labs, maker spaces, and collaborative environments. The curriculum balances rigorous technical training with requirements in humanities, arts, and social sciences for well-rounded development.

MIT's elite graduate schools include the School of Engineering, Sloan School of Management, School of Science, School of Architecture and Planning, and the Schwarzman College of Computing, among others.

MIT competes in NCAA Division III athletics across 33 varsity sports, with notable success in fencing, sailing, and rifle. The institute also promotes extensive club and intramural activities for broad participation.

The 168-acre MIT campus is situated along the Charles River in Cambridge, directly across from Boston. Iconic architecture like the Great Dome integrates with modern facilities, creating a vibrant, interconnected environment with seamless access to Boston's cultural and professional opportunities.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting MIT>

Academics

MIT delivers a transformative academic experience centered on innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and addressing global challenges. With over 50 majors and minors, the institute serves its students through a curriculum that combines deep technical mastery with broad intellectual exploration. Core requirements in humanities, arts, and social sciences complement intensive STEM training. Leading majors include Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, and Mathematics. The signature hands-on approach—via labs, UROP research participation, and project-based learning—equips students to lead in technology and science. MIT's location in Cambridge enhances ties to industry, startups, and Boston's thriving innovation ecosystem.

Admission

MIT's admissions process is extraordinarily competitive, with an acceptance rate of about 4.5% for the Class of 2029 (1,324 admitted from 29,282 applicants). Applications are accepted through Common or Coalition platforms, with Early Action (non-binding) and Regular Action deadlines. MIT is test-optional through Fall 2028. Review is holistic, prioritizing academic excellence, creative problem-solving, initiative, and collaborative spirit. Admitted students typically have exceptional records and meaningful impact in their pursuits. MIT is need-blind for all applicants (domestic and international) and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.

Career Outcomes

MIT graduates achieve outstanding professional success, with around 94% employed or in graduate programs within six months. Average starting salaries surpass $126,000, particularly in tech, consulting, finance, and research. Leading employers include Google, McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, and innovative startups. Comprehensive career services, a powerful alumni network, and proximity to Boston's hubs fuel these results. Many graduates launch companies or advance to elite doctoral programs.

Campus

MIT's distinctive campus covers 168 acres along the Charles River in Cambridge, merging historic icons like the Great Dome with cutting-edge facilities. Interconnected buildings encourage cross-disciplinary interaction, while riverfront paths and green spaces offer recreation. Easy transit connections link to Boston proper. World-class amenities include advanced research labs, maker spaces, athletic complexes, and diverse residence halls fostering unique communities.

Student Life

MIT cultivates a vibrant, intellectually charged student community with over 500 organizations—from hackathons and robotics teams to cultural societies and performing arts. Residence halls build tight-knit traditions and lifelong friendships. Athletics, intramurals, and wellness programs support balance. A diverse population (including ~12% international undergraduates) enriches perspectives. Cambridge and Boston deliver boundless cultural, dining, and entertainment experiences.

Graduate Schools