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Massachusetts Institute of Technology Admissions: Acceptance Rate, GPA, SAT

World's leading engineering and computer science institution.

Acceptance Rate
3.9%
SAT Range
1530–1580
Avg GPA
3.96
Undergrad
4,640
Tests RequiredNeed-BlindMeets Full NeedEarly Action
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What it takes to get into MIT

MIT accepts roughly 3.9% of applicants — one of the most selective rates in the country.The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1530 and 1580 on the SAT, and the average unweighted GPA is around 3.96.

Numbers alone don't get you in. MIT reads holistically — they want to see academic rigor in your high school transcript (AP/IB/Honors course load), genuine intellectual curiosity, leadership in extracurriculars, a clear “spike” or area of demonstrated excellence, strong essays, and recommendation letters that vouch for your character.

Test-optional policies vary year to year. Even where tests are optional, applicants who submit scores in the 75th-percentile range typically have an edge. Check MIT's admissions page for the current cycle's policy.

What MIT Weighs in Admissions

Visual breakdown from Common Data Set Section C7

Very Important
Course rigor & GPA
Awards & honors
Activity depth
Spike / distinctive talent
Application essays
Recommendations
Important
Leadership

MIT Acceptance Rate

3.9% acceptance rate with SAT, GPA benchmarks and selectivity analysis.

How to Get Into MIT

Data-driven admissions strategy based on CDS weights and what actually matters.

How to Write the “Why MIT?” Essay

Research tips, common mistakes, and what admissions is actually looking for.

See Where You Stand

GPA vs SAT scattergram — compare your stats to admitted and rejected students.

Practice MIT Interview Questions

AI-scored mock interview with real alumni questions. 5-dimension feedback.

MIT Supplemental Essays

Every prompt for the 2026-27 cycle with word limits, intent, and pitfalls to avoid.

MIT Admissions FAQ

What is MIT's acceptance rate?

MIT admits approximately 3.9% of applicants based on the most recent reported Common Data Set figures. This rate has trended downward over the past decade as application volumes have grown.

What SAT score do you need for MIT?

Admitted students at MIT typically score between 1530 (25th percentile) and 1580 (75th percentile) on the SAT. Hitting or exceeding the 75th percentile gives you a meaningful edge.

What GPA do you need for MIT?

The average admitted student at MIT has an unweighted GPA of approximately 3.96 on a 4.0 scale — though weighted GPAs and course rigor matter just as much as the raw number.

Is MIT test-optional?

MIT's testing policy varies by cycle. Some years they are test-optional, some years test-required. Always confirm on the official admissions page before submitting.

Compare MIT with similar schools

Stats are approximate, drawn from publicly-reported Common Data Set figures. Confirm current numbers on MIT's official admissions site.