massachusetts institute of technology freshman admissions portal/community v. 2.0

"To-Do List for Regular Action Applicants"

If you are applying to MIT this year, here's an update on what you might want to be thinking about:

  • If you haven't yet done so, set up a MyMIT application portal account.

  • Schedule your interview now. The deadline (December 10) to schedule your interview is fast approaching! You can find the contact information for your interviewer (Educational Counselor) on the MyMIT website. [If your interview has been waived, don't worry about it, we understand that we can't be everywhere!]

    Even if you are applying elsewhere via an early decision or single choice early action program, you should still schedule your interview now, since the interview scheduling deadline falls before most schools notify. Having an interview with MIT does not violate early agreements.

  • If you qualify for a fee waiver, please request one. Requesting a fee waiver does not negatively impact your application. And if you qualify for a fee waiver, your family needs the $65 more than we do.

  • If you are interested in our music community or our arts community, consider sending in some of your work. If you are interested in playing on a varsity sports team at MIT, please contact the appropriate coach or fill out the form. And if you're interested in ROTC, please contact the appropriate branch (Army Navy Air Force).

  • Be sure your standardized test scores have been sent to MIT. Our College Board Code (for SAT and TOEFL) is 3514 and our ACT Code is 1858.

    And if you haven't yet completed your standardized testing (especially SAT Subject Tests), now is a great time to register for the January administration of the tests, which is the last acceptable testing date for MIT. Be sure to designate MIT (3514) as a recipient of the scores.

  • If you haven't yet given your teachers their MIT recommendation forms, what are you waiting for? Teachers get very busy this time of year, respect their time!

  • Try to get your application components to us in advance of the January 1 deadline, if you can. It will save you and us some angst in the long run. [For example, submitting your Part 1 now isn't a bad idea...]

  • As the year draws to a close, start talking with your parents about financial aid applications. For more information about this, check out the Financial Aid website and also Daniel's blog.

I hope you're having a great senior year so far!

Responses To This Entry:

(Please note that comments are closed after 30 days to reduce spam.)

Whoah, what timing! I just read Snively's post.
Is there a checklist for transfers internationals? And how much transfer internationals usually get admitted?

Posted by: Vytautas on December 1, 2008 04:50 PM


If only my senior year was going as planned!

Matt do you know when admissions will allow emails?

Posted by: stacy on December 1, 2008 04:53 PM


Have you guys gone into committee yet?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 1, 2008 05:10 PM


(For those of you who don't live in the area)
Things to do on a visit: Fall in love with the Boston skyline.
a-la- http://flickr.com/photos/cjtenny/3067595072/

Posted by: Cam on December 1, 2008 05:15 PM


Hey Matt,

I know you're probably busy, but like the anonymous poster a couple comments above, do you have any updates regarding Early Action applicants? Thanks!

Sam

Posted by: Sam on December 1, 2008 05:30 PM


I wholeheartedly second Sam's post above.

Posted by: Claire on December 1, 2008 05:36 PM


How exactly do I contact you through email to talk about admission in general into MIT?

Posted by: Amber on December 1, 2008 06:18 PM


I third Sam's post.

Posted by: Molly H. on December 1, 2008 06:33 PM


Hey, Matt!

I have a question about essay A. I'm really not sure what you guys expect of the applicants. I mean, I'm only 17 years old and haven't really encountered any personal tragedy. This isn't really my 'fault.' It's a little frustrating; What kinds of things do kids talk about when they choose that essay?

Thank you!

Posted by: Hey. on December 1, 2008 06:37 PM


Hey Matt,
I am having alot of problems with the short answers questions its like I just dont know where to start from with the whole what do you do on your spare time or what programs appeals the most to you.What should I do about that?

Thanks alot

Posted by: Du on December 1, 2008 06:48 PM


um question... It says my gc and eval b rec letters havent been processed yet, and so I'm just wondering if you guys still have more stuff to process or if I need to ask my teachers to send a copy

Posted by: anon on December 1, 2008 07:19 PM


Hey.:

I chose Essay A for my Early Action application, and I did not speak about a tragedy. It's possible to feel like something is the end of the world without it being a traumatic experience. In many high-schoolers' lives there have been moments of frustration, disappointment, embarrassment, or inaction that eventually led to a different outlook on life.

Hope that helps.

Posted by: Claire on December 1, 2008 07:25 PM


I third Sam's post. It's getting close to the decision date and I was wondering whether MIT give out online decisions...

Thanks.

Posted by: XYZ on December 1, 2008 07:40 PM


MIT definitely does give out online decisions.

log into http://decisions.mit.edu with your MyMIT username and password.

the site isn't up yet, but it will be for decision day.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 1, 2008 07:41 PM


To the regular action applicants from an Early Action applicant, don't do anything I did. This includes: stressing, procrastinating, and anything on this list: http://coltonprovias.com/?p=254

Posted by: Colton on December 1, 2008 07:48 PM


@Vytautas: I have no advice for you beyond what's at the transfer admissions site. Sorry.

@stacy: Hopefully tomorrow... I'll check on it when I get to the office.

@Anonymous, Sam, Claire, Molly H, XYZ: I'm sorry, but I don't have any more information now beyond what I've previously posted. When I have news, I promise I'll post.

@Amber: You can reach us at admissions at mit dot edu.

@Hey: No worries; there are two essay options. It sounds like we might learn more about you from the other option. (Claire's advice above is pretty good, too)

@Du: I don't know what to tell you. We honestly want to know about what you do for fun and what you're interested in at MIT. For the first, your friends or family may be able to help you; for the latter, I hope there's something about MIT that excites you!

@anon: If you are an EA applicant, you should get those to us ASAP. If you are an RA applicant, you can give it a little more time.

@All: After commenting under "madmatt" (my MIT Kerberos ID) for many years, starting with this post I'll be commenting as Matt '00. Just so you know.

Posted by: Matt '00 on December 1, 2008 08:28 PM


Who? EA Applicants
What? Decisions
When? (almost?) Always on a weekend, middle of December-ish. That means you're probably looking at either 12/13 or 12/20. As for exact time of day, usually noon eastern time, but they tend to be posted about 13 minutes early so probably around 11:47 AM eastern time.
Where? http://decisions.mit.edu. That site won't be active until later in December though.
Why? Duh.

I'd tell you guys to relax and forget about your decisions for a while because it'll make time go slower, but I know for me that would have been impossible, so don't worry about it. Freak out as much as you want, but don't hurt yourselves!

Posted by: Snively on December 1, 2008 08:29 PM


Snively: "Freak out as much as you want, but don't hurt yourselves!"

Oh great, now you tell me!

Posted by: Colton on December 1, 2008 08:37 PM


Thanks very much Matt and Snively. :D

Sam

Posted by: Sam on December 1, 2008 08:48 PM


most likely date for early decisions?
anyone?
i bet for the 13th

Posted by: anon on December 1, 2008 08:59 PM


I thank you, Matt and Snively, as well. The information that you have each provided is quite reassuring.

ρ

Posted by: LHCollider on December 1, 2008 09:03 PM


Definitely noticed that "Matt '00" thing before I actually read your comment, and it freaked me out!

Posted by: lilyrobin on December 1, 2008 09:03 PM


@anon

i'd bet the 20th. there are a lot of applicants, and i don't know about anyone else, but some pieces of my application haven't been processed yet (although they have been resent).

Posted by: Anonymous on December 1, 2008 09:07 PM


@Anon

I have to agree with Anonymous. In 2006, when decisions were released on December 9 (lucky ducks!), Ben was writing about the admissions decisions being on the 9th on November 22. He wasn't even announcing it, so someone else (probably Matt) announced it even before then. The fact that it's already December and we don't even know when the decisions will be released suggests to me that it will be December 20 at the earliest. I'm thinking that due to the huge number of applications, though, it might be even later. Matt did say that it could be any day in December... for all we know, they could release decisions on the 31st and be completely within their rights to do so.

Posted by: Lexy on December 1, 2008 09:14 PM


ouch, yeah my last rec. was just processed last week. your're probably right about the 20th, but i hope for the 13th.

Posted by: fellow_anon on December 1, 2008 09:14 PM


But whatever day they come out, decisions will be decisions.

Stay strong, my people!

Posted by: Claire on December 1, 2008 09:26 PM


I think it'll be the 13th, because they seem to be making an effort to release decisions before/by the 15th every year (as many schools do).

Posted by: centimeters on December 1, 2008 09:29 PM


@snively:
11:47. got it.


:)

Posted by: Anonymous on December 1, 2008 09:53 PM


I'm hoping for the 13th... Along with probably 4999 other people, haha.

Posted by: Brandon on December 1, 2008 10:33 PM


As an EA applicant, I would rather find out in the middle of a week, on the 15th or so, instead of waiting until the 20th (assuming the decisions were ready by then). The 20th is the first day of winter break for my school, and I really really don't want to start it off on the wrong foot (given the 90+% odds that I won't be accepted).

Posted by: rachel on December 1, 2008 10:50 PM


As an EA applicant, I would rather find out in the middle of a week, on the 15th or so, instead of waiting until the 20th (assuming the decisions were ready by then). The 20th is the first day of winter break for my school, and I really really don't want to start it off on the wrong foot (given the 90+% odds that I won't be accepted).

Posted by: rachel on December 1, 2008 10:52 PM


I know I'm hoping for the 13th. Half of my school is getting his/her result back on the 11th.

Posted by: Tiffany on December 1, 2008 11:38 PM


@ rachel-out of school on the 20th! lucky! That would ruin vacation though if you're not accepted, but think happy thoughts and you will be in! We don't start vacation til the 24th, so I'm hoping for a decision by then!

Posted by: Anonymous on December 1, 2008 11:54 PM


Gosh, it already feels so long ago when I was on edge waiting for decisions...

Good luck EA and RA applicants!

Posted by: Seamus '12 on December 2, 2008 12:08 AM


Hi Matt,

I am a regular applicant and I sent all my school forms by mail about two weeks ago. How long does it take for it to appear on my MyMIT online application tracking?

Posted by: aMIT on December 2, 2008 01:08 AM


@Snively

You've given us the best, rational advice in the history of MIT. That's why you are awesome. Just saying...

Posted by: Anonymous on December 2, 2008 01:46 AM


I have communicated with my EC by email severally and she has responded once saying she was out of the country at the time. Since then I have not recieved any responses from her despite the fact that I have tried severally to reach her. I am worried about this because the deadline is on the tenth. I have submitted the rest of the application and I have sent my school forms by courier but it still says it is not processed on my application. Could you please advice me on what to do next.

Posted by: Alayibo on December 2, 2008 05:57 AM


hi,

need to knwo soem basic details which have been quite confusing n all

Want to know whether i am supoosed to send the evaluation form by post or email it you guys or fax it-what is the accepted step.

also about the secondory school report.Is it to be sent by teh school to you guys or can i put in with teh evaluation forms n all n than send it to u guys

well thanks in adavance, guide me through n hopefully someday might just thank you personnaly there-Kepping my fingers crossed

Posted by: Ruhban on December 2, 2008 09:50 AM


hi, i talked o my EC---tehres no one in my area...there are people quite a distance away--so eh aske dme to get a waiver but i figured out that i will be going out to that place somewhere in teh end of january--but he said liek tehres soem deadlien for submission of report--can i do teh interview in jan or is supposed to be done before jan 7 only

Posted by: Ruhban on December 2, 2008 10:07 AM


hi, i talked o my EC---theres no one in my area...there are people quite a distance away--so he asked me to get a waiver but i figured out that i will be going out to that place somewhere in the end of january--but he said like theres some deadline for submission of report-n asked me to contact u guys-can i do the interview in jan or is supposed to be done before jan 7 only

Posted by: Ruhban on December 2, 2008 10:10 AM


I hope the decisions are on December 20th. The 13th is closer, but I have final exams on the 17th, and I know that either way, whatever the decision may be, I won't be in the mood to study for my exams (if I don't get in, I'll be upset, and if I do get in, I'll probably want to just blow it off... though I guess that wouldn't be the best idea).

Posted by: Molly H. on December 2, 2008 10:41 AM


Hey Matt!

I am from Egypt and am applying this year. I was wondering whether you recommend that I take the TOEFL if I got a 600 in CR and a 640 in W. I did way better on my SAT II's than on my SAT I's, do you think I should take the option of applying with two SAT II's and the TOEFL only? Thanks for your help in advanced :-). Can't wait till you review my app.

AK

Posted by: Abdel-karim Moharram on December 2, 2008 11:16 AM


"I hope you're having a great senior year so far!"

Haha. Here's to hoping. Thanks anyway, Matt. Love your blog. :)

Posted by: Love These Blogs on December 2, 2008 12:48 PM


@ Mollly
yeah, now that I think about it, I have exams the 15th through the 20th, so maybe it would be better if the decisions were on the 20th. I bet they will be, because if they haven't told us yet, they probably have so many more applications that they can't even determine when they will finish reading.
good luck!!!

Posted by: Laura on December 2, 2008 07:50 PM


My daughter, greatest kid in the world, (see the family connection), applied EA. This wait is brutal! Any suggestions on making the wait less stressful? Thx!!!

Posted by: The Best Mom in the World on December 2, 2008 09:08 PM


Snively: "Freak out as much as you want, but don't hurt yourselves!"

@Snively: Best Advice I have heard ever!

Also starting december 13th at 11:47 I'll be checking decisions.mit.edu at least 10 times a day.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 2, 2008 09:14 PM


My EC just called me and I still feel kind of excited about it. He seemed so awesome.
I've read some of the entries on interviews and I'm still kind of confused about what to bring. I know that some interviews for other colleges can be really formal, and people should bring resumes and stuff. But I always thought MIT interviews would be more much more laidback (and amazing.) So do most people bring supplementary materials to their interview? Is it recommended? I can understand why it would be a good idea, but I don't want to talk about "the me on paper."
Advice is much appreciated.

Posted by: Emily on December 2, 2008 10:28 PM


Hi Emily-
I didn't bring anything to my interview, and I thought it went well enough. My EC didn't ask me for anything and didn't ask about anything that I could have brought on paper... so I guess unless you have something you want MIT to see but you don't want to make the admissions officers read (family photos? artwork of yours?) it could be a good idea, but it definitely isn't expected or required.
Good luck!

Posted by: Lexy on December 2, 2008 10:30 PM


Dec 13 is better, it is EA!

Posted by: The earlier the better on December 2, 2008 10:40 PM


@Emily:
I didn't bring anything special to my interview either - I never even thought to - and it seemed to go fine. Colton (see up about 30 posts) apparently had to print out a half completed application while there, but my EC didn't seem to expect me to have anything other than myself. My EC was a financial executive so I feel my interview was on the formal side, even. So I wouldn't stress about it - just be relaxed and natural.

Posted by: Chris on December 2, 2008 11:09 PM


About the interview, how bad is it if I feel as though I messed it up?

Posted by: Kat on December 2, 2008 11:47 PM


@ Emily and everyone else who's yet to give their interview,
ECs are amazing and very interesting to talk to. Most ECs won't ask you to get anything to the interview, but may ask for info beforehand, like my EC did. And that's because they just want to get a brief idea of what kind of a person you are , your interests and so on.

@Kat,
No can mess up an interview; its not a test! At worst, you might have spilled your drink on the EC's clothes or mispronounced their name, or slipped in their office, or something like that. Don't worry, they're not assuming, judgmental people at all!

Hope that helps!

Posted by: Ahana on December 3, 2008 01:59 AM


This comment won't help much, but don't bash me for it >

In retrospect, I thought the hype of waiting for the decisions made actually getting the decision anticlimactic.

Just throwing that out there ;)

Posted by: Oasis '11 on December 3, 2008 04:03 AM


@Alayibo: You should try and keep in touch with your current EC, but you should also email interview [at] mit [dot] edu and explain your dilemma. They should either assign you a new EC or waive your interview.

@Emily: I didn't have a resume in high school, but I did throw together a list of activities I participated in and leadership positions I held to bring to my MIT interview. (One page, double-sided.) This was helpful for my EC to get a quick overview of some of the various things I was interested and involved in, but it became irrelevant after we'd been talking for a while and he got to know me better. :) Without a doubt, my conversation with my EC was one of the most exciting and most enjoyable aspects of my MIT application.

Helpful tip - come with a question or two about MIT, such as something about the academics or the culture. ECs generally reserve time at the end of the interview precisely for this sort of thing. "What dorm did you live in?" and "What sort of activities did you do?" are two great starter questions if you're not sure what else to talk about. :)

@Matt '00: Long live madmatt!

Posted by: Paul on December 3, 2008 07:31 AM


@ruhban

lol-gues iw ill answer my questions myself.might just be useful for someone else.do correct me if i go wrong somewhere

1)courier the evaluation forms, secondory report and financila aid form if u have to--togetehr to teh admission office

2)interviws cannot be held toward steh ed of janauary atmost in the first week of jan.

that would be it na

thanks

Posted by: Ruhban on December 3, 2008 09:56 AM


Hi Matt,

I am an international student. I contacted my EC a few days ago (after I submitted Part 1 of the application). He has replied to me saying that he can schedule an interview only after I submit Part 2 of my application. Is that OK as I have contacted him before the December 10 deadline though we have not actually scheduled an interview as yet (part 2 of my application will not be ready for submission before December 10).

Posted by: Abhi on December 3, 2008 01:15 PM


@abhi

you should be able to schedule the interview before submitting part 2. i know i didn't submit my part 2 until after my interview...

Posted by: possible MIT '13 on December 3, 2008 03:59 PM


@Emily (and anyone else who hasn't interviewed yet):

So do most people bring supplementary materials to their interview? Is it recommended? I can understand why it would be a good idea, but I don't want to talk about "the me on paper."

Some advice from an EC: We're not here to talk to you about "the me on paper." The admissions committee already sees that. What we're looking for is something in your personality and/or background that will distinguish you from the other applicants, preferably in a good way. There is absolutely no need to bring supplemental materials to the interview.

@Abhi:

From your name it sounds like you might be from India. The admissions people have told us ECs that they are being stricter about applicants from India (as well as China) scheduling interviews, due to the large numbers of applicants from those two countries. The official word is that applicants from India and China need to have submitted part 1 before scheduling the interview. If you are from anywhere else, it is recommended but not strictly required that you submit part 1 before you schedule the interview (some ECs may insist on it, but I usually don't). Submitting part 2 is absolutely not required; your EC is misinformed if he tells you otherwise. You might also want to get in touch with the EC office at MIT (via the address Paul gave above) if your assigned EC is stubborn about part 2.

Posted by: Eric '89 on December 3, 2008 09:07 PM


If EA applicants are deferred to regular action, do we get to re-write any part of our application?

Posted by: Andrew on December 3, 2008 09:26 PM


Hey Matt

I heard my uncle Vic told you about me. I'm the nephew from Ottawa heh. Just a quick question: My guidance counsellor said she sent in my midterm reports awhile back. How long do they usually take to get into the system? Cuz I have everything else checked in. Also do you have an email address I can contact you with?

Posted by: Phil Park on December 3, 2008 09:49 PM


I sent Admissions an email two days ago...Should I be expecting a reply soon?

Posted by: Tree on December 4, 2008 09:22 AM


Two things:

1. My school fedexed my documents two weeks ago, but they have not been checked on my application status page. How long does it normally take to acknowledge receipt of documents?

2. I am self-studying for some advanced physics/mathematics courses. May I report them in the self-reported courses section?

Thanks!

Posted by: muhammad on December 4, 2008 10:39 AM


Quick question,

How can you know if MIT has processed any supplementary information? I had a non-mandatory rec letter sent about 2 weeks ago...and I just wanted to make sure it was received.

Posted by: Brandon Dillow on December 4, 2008 11:51 AM


What if I didn't send in a letter of rec from a humanities teacher?

For instance, I sent in 2 from math and science, one from orchestra. Am I auto DQ'ed ??? hahahhaa that would be wonderful ;)

Posted by: Łĭvĕŗpőőł on December 4, 2008 09:43 PM


@ahana

yes I realize that...but...I blanked when the EC asked why I want to go to MIT 0_0 how can that not be bad? I planned what I was going to say but I just completely forgot it the moment he asked

Posted by: kat on December 5, 2008 12:47 AM


@Kat
Haha, don't worry...I guess he might have understood that you were nervous. If it makes you feel any better, read my blog about my interview. I thought it was a disaster until everyone told me it was not. Doesn't make sense, eh?

Posted by: Ahana on December 5, 2008 01:03 AM


I have posted my secondary school report, teacher evaluations and art supplement last night!Here I come MIT!

Posted by: saad(bahawlpur pakistan) on December 5, 2008 03:38 AM


I have posted my secondary school report, teacher evaluations and art supplement last night!Here I come MIT!

Posted by: saad(bahawlpur pakistan) on December 5, 2008 03:38 AM


My school has a deadline of Dec 16 to mail out all transcripts. I guess many schools have similar rules. A Dec 13 decision date makes a lot of sense so that some students may not need to apply for more schools.

--Amy

Posted by: Amy on December 5, 2008 09:12 AM


is there a set deadline for when MIT HAS to tell the EA applicants of their decisions? I'm getting worried seeing as there is nothing posted and its December 5th.

Thanks!!!

Posted by: worriedEAapplicant on December 5, 2008 09:45 AM


@Eric'89 & possible MIT '13-
thanks for clarifying that :)

Posted by: Abhi on December 5, 2008 10:37 AM


@worriedEAapplicant

Last year they announced the decision date on the 10th, so I wouldn't get took worked up until then.

Don't despair! There are thousands of people feeling very similar things as you. Decisions will come soon.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 5, 2008 10:46 AM


oh really, thanks, thats nice to know. I guess I should wait another 6 or 7 days then. I just didn't want to get a decision on the 31st.

Posted by: worried college applicant on December 5, 2008 12:07 PM


what if we dont get good marks in toefl bbut seemingly r geeting more than good grades in english language---can there be mde an exception

Posted by: Ruhban on December 5, 2008 12:43 PM


@Matt '00: Why not one of your other secret identities, angrymatt, furiousmatt, and slightlyperturbedmatt? ;P

Posted by: Mikey on December 5, 2008 12:44 PM


i know i gone crazy askin iditic question.
got my toefl tommorow--maybe thats y
wish me luck guys
n a party is due to u oin my arrival there-lol

Posted by: Ruhban on December 5, 2008 12:46 PM


Hey there,

In addition to my online MIT application, I also want to send my RESUME via DHL. Does the admissions office allow students to send their RESUMES?

I will appreciate your quick reply!!!

Thanks.

Posted by: Tae on December 5, 2008 02:15 PM


Hi,

I was wondering:

I haven't scheduled my interview yet... :S do you just have to schedule your interview before then, or do you have to also have it conducted by then?

Posted by: Tara on December 5, 2008 05:16 PM


@Tae
MIT will look at your resume if you send one. it's just not required

Posted by: deng on December 5, 2008 05:23 PM


@ Matt

I had a quick question. I submitted my application and requested a fee waiver. However, I am unable to get this waiver from my school since my Free/Reduced lunch privileges expired. Should I just mail $65 to the admissions office for the application fee or is there some way I can turn the fee in online?

Posted by: Arnav on December 5, 2008 06:12 PM


hi chris,

Thanks for the info. I am a student from India. Is it absolutel necessary to get 800 in all the tests to get into MIT ? A question regarding the teacher evaluations forms: Can they be written by teachers who taught me in Grade 9 or 10, or does it have to be only Grade 11 and 12? Does MIT have any preference?

Posted by: akhila on December 6, 2008 08:23 AM


hey matt,

really sorry for the naming mistake. I was trying to send a question to chris' question and answer blog. But the question was not posted. So, I thought I'll post it to you and directly copied the matter along with the name from yhay blog. Sorry.

Posted by: akhila on December 6, 2008 08:26 AM


Where an update at son?

Posted by: BHO on December 6, 2008 08:32 AM


Akhila - I'm assuming that an 11th or 12th grade teacher would be preferred, but I'll leave that to the admissions officers to answer. As for the SATS - you ABSOLUTELY do not need triple 800s. You don't even need one 800. Look at the MIT statistics - most MIT students score somewhere in the 700s in each area, and there is no minimum test score. Good luck!

Posted by: Lexy on December 6, 2008 09:08 AM


to matt mcgann
My school does not give GPA as promotion is based upon externally administered examinations like o- level and AS level?So should my guidance conselor leave the GPA thing blank?
please reply soon!
thanks

Posted by: saad(bahawlpur pakistan) on December 6, 2008 09:50 AM


@Andrew

Hey, I know this one!

You cannot rewrite your application for RA, but you CAN send in new supplemental materials like an updated resume, etc. They will be placed in your file for review during the regular admissions process along with your app.

Posted by: Narce on December 6, 2008 12:52 PM


@arnav:
you can pay with a credit card online when you submit the first part of your application electronically.

Posted by: deng on December 6, 2008 03:56 PM


Hey Matt,

I sent an e-mail to admissions[at]mit[dot]edu about my questions but reply mail wasn't enough for me.

I am attending a high school as Guest student for two years and I will graduate in June 2009. I have question about secondary school report and teacher recommendation forms.

# Secondary school report and evaluation forms must be completed by principal/teachers of first school or that can be completed by principal/teachers of other school which I am attending as guest student ?

Posted by: Ugur on December 6, 2008 05:09 PM


@ Ugur: you can have the evaluation forms filled out by the teachers of your current school. This would actually be better since they know you best. But bring them to your teachers soon! They need time to fill them out.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 6, 2008 06:19 PM


Do you by any chance know when the date for the admissions decisions will be announced? What seems to be the most likely of either the 13th or the 20th?

Posted by: Anonymous on December 6, 2008 10:50 PM


@matt : Thanks !

@tara : Just schedule it for then, i.e. 10th dec. An in case you can even schedule it after. It's usually flexible. The EC's have got a date of 7th jan or so to submit their responses. So just get your interview done before it. all the best..

@akhila : MIT tries to make a combination of your scores, activities, interests, ambitions, academics; in fact everything and then considers yours admission. 800's will surely set you a little apart but students even without these have been accepted at MIT. This might be useful : http://www.mitadmissions.org/topics/apply/admissions_statistics/index.shtml

Posted by: Dhvanit on December 7, 2008 04:43 AM


i second anonymous-- us 5000 ea's who were cheated out of an update are dying to know.... even speculation would be fine-- anything at this point would satisfy this itching, nervous twitching "EA fever" that I and my fellow seniors have caught.

please.

Posted by: don't want to study for midterms...NEED mit decision on December 7, 2008 10:38 PM


Hey,

I am from India and I graduated from my 12th in June 2008 and have already joined a college,but I wish to restart at MIT as a freshman by giving TOEFL and 2 SAT2s in Jan2009.Is it alright.
Reply soon!

Posted by: ak on December 8, 2008 03:43 AM


Hi Matt,
I am from India.I recently came to know that I've to go to Japan in a cultural exchange programme in few days.However my teacher evaluation forms and school reports are not yet done with.Since I'll return after 10days,I don't think my forms will reach MIT in time.Is there any faster way to send the forms.Can I fax it(or scan and mail) and then send the original by mail??? Please help.

Posted by: Abhilash on December 8, 2008 06:46 AM


hey, matt
i know you are busy, but i have a little question: it is ok if i send in a CD that contains the wesite i designed, since it is not online anymore? or i can email to you?
Thank you very much!!!!

Posted by: victoria on December 8, 2008 07:55 AM


I'm sorry to bother about this case in here but i really uncomfortable and anxious about this case. had sent an e-mail about this to the admissions office but the problem isn't solved yet.
1.i am applying from Iran and as you may know Iran has not any financial cooperation between the us so i can't pay my admission fee, please can it be waived.(don't say that principal letter or form because they won't do it)
2. because of the same reason above i can't report you my toefl score through ets. and i have already sent my docs through dhl, and i can not afford another one. may i e-mail my scanned toefl report.

Posted by: sepideh on December 8, 2008 12:17 PM


Hey Matt,

I've contacted my EC and have already received a response from him. But the interview hasn't yet been set up. And apparently, he hasn't answered the recent mail I've sent him. So what to do about it? What if it gets too late to set up the interview? The deadline, I guess is 10. Dec. But with the Eid-ul-Adha coming up, is there any other way for the interview timings to be set before the given deadline? Please, I want to have the interview done with.

Posted by: faizaafatima on December 8, 2008 12:40 PM


Hey Matt,
hi. i m an Indian aspiring for MIT presently im in 11th and ill try next year.I have a very good academic performance and have a lot of co-curriculars. i have participted in Model United Nations, Quizzes , workshops, eco-tour, member of the editorial board of english and hindi magazines. i have got a creditable performance in an ASSET test, secured good ranks in many olympiads and got best handwriting and essay writing awards ..so what are the other things thta i need to focus so that i get admision in MIT.Please help me out

Posted by: Sarthak on December 8, 2008 01:00 PM


I just wanted to say how amazing the MIT application is. I know this sounds lame, but it totally made me think about myself and who I really am more effectively than the CommonApp + _______ supplement combination, which is terrifyingly non-specific and unorganized. I absolutely love the transparency MIT has in its admissions process - few other colleges devote so much time to blogging to connect to their applicants and say what's happening when. No matter what the outcome is, I'm glad I wrote this app...it was really a learning experience!

Posted by: Connie on December 8, 2008 01:15 PM


@Sarthak : That's a good profile. Now just get some good scores on the SAT and continue doing well with your high school education - no senioritis!

@Connie : Yeah, I share the same thoughts! Great app, transparent process!

Posted by: Suril on December 8, 2008 02:01 PM


Oh my goodness! Next Monday! 9 pm! I'm excited.

Posted by: Anonymous on December 8, 2008 06:55 PM


woot ^^

Posted by: Anonymous on December 8, 2008 07:49 PM


I have emailed my EC 3 times till now but he hasn't replied yet.What should I do?Deadline's on 10th Dec.
Also,I completed my 12th grade in 2008(June) and have joined a college but I really wish to restart at MIT as a freshman in 2009(fall).Is it alright if I apply as a freshman?

Posted by: AK on December 8, 2008 11:57 PM


@AK : Ring him up. Although 10th Dec is no strict deadline, and ECs can allocate time even after that, best is to do it as early as possible. And if you still end up getting no response, inform MIT to change your EC.

Posted by: Suril on December 9, 2008 01:42 AM


@AK
Yes you can do that..

Posted by: Dhvanit on December 9, 2008 02:11 AM


So, has my dear friend, Dhvanit! :-)

Posted by: Suril on December 9, 2008 02:25 AM


Look what I made :)
http://www.DidIGetIntoMIT.com/

Posted by: Brandon on December 9, 2008 02:48 AM


Here is a joke to lighten the atmosphere:

Question:
How does a man sitting in a deluxe car, which is parked in the middle of the desert, have a much needed bath ?

Answer:
He integrates - : ∫ d (lux) = lux + c . Now he can use the soap ‘lux’ and get water from the sea (c ) for his bath.

Lux – A brand of soap marketed in India
c- constant


Hope that brings a smile to everyone's face.....

Posted by: Utkarsh on December 9, 2008 11:20 AM


Hey, is that true then Matt? Can we discard our college record and start as freshmen at MIT?
(international student from India, if it helps)

Posted by: Gaurav Ragtah on December 9, 2008 11:34 AM


hey matt,
i m an international student and want to send my music portfolio. is it alright if i send my music portfolio after 1st jan, i.e. in separate package?? this is because of some technical problems. pls reply me asap. i m really worried

Posted by: Rohana on December 10, 2008 11:54 PM


hey matt, I am an international student, I wanted to know, if due to unforseen circumstances one cannot regive the sat1(very limited dates,there has been a death in the family)... but his sat2 scores indicate that he is capable of much better math scores .. will MIT consider?

Posted by: Arpan Shah on December 14, 2008 07:04 AM


hi all....
I just want to congrats you.
You all are really lucky that you are applying for MIT.
May God bless you with success!
MIT was my dream too. Everytime I just used to think about MIT till yesterday. I even started prep. for my SAT & TOEFL. But unfortunately I couldn't be able to pay for these tests. I tried to earn money by doing jobs but couldn't make much of it. I even made a page for donation but couldn't get a single penny. However, my test deadline is coming near and near i.e. January 1st.
Now I can't do anything just pray for you all.
Do work Hard and acheive your goal. You CAN make it!
What I can do is that I can try next year if I will be having enough money ( I hope I'll make ).
Just pray for me!
Best Of luck!

Posted by: Younus on December 15, 2008 12:51 PM


Hi!!
If one of two teachers who is writing a letter of recommendation left my current school, can she send in a recommendation letter in a form of her choice?

Posted by: Gyu on December 17, 2008 10:37 PM


would "not having an interview" impose a negative impact on my application??

Posted by: Anonymous on December 17, 2008 10:40 PM


hi!!

i have submitted my part 2 by paper but now i came to know that it would be reaching MIT by 2nd or 3rd jan. i don't have any backup of part 2.
will my part 2 be considered ...its really important..

Posted by: Mohit Sindhu on December 21, 2008 07:16 AM


MIT's policy of scheduling an interview before the 10th of December is a first that I've encountered, compared to most other colleges at least. I'm a little late in the game here, unfortunately. However, would applying be a waste of the admissions workers' time, as well as mine, considering that I did not schedule an interview on the 10th of December?

Posted by: Iain on December 21, 2008 10:39 PM


If we send the part one in time....
can we send the second part after 1st Jan....??

Posted by: Anon on December 24, 2008 11:52 AM


I am an international student and I want to take SAT exam. Closest SAT is in May , can I do anything? Or will May SAT exam be acceptable?

Thanks.

Posted by: There is no SAT exam in January for international students on December 28, 2008 09:01 AM


Dear Matt,

I am applying for a fee waiver request but due to various circumstances I have only been able to get in contact with my guidance counselor very recently regarding my fee waiver document. Simultaneously there was also a mix up with my teacher evaluation forms- hence only recently has he sent, via post, the forms+fee waiver document. The special post assures us that it will all arrive on the 31st of December. In case it doesn't I have also emailed a copy of the fee waiver document to MIT admissions (however I do not have copies of the evaluation forms). In the event that the post does not arrive in time- will the emailed version be accepted/read?

Thanks a lot,

Thomas

Posted by: Thomas on December 30, 2008 12:56 PM


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