Getting into MIT: Am I Good Enough/How to Get Good Enough

In summary, the individual is a sophomore at an HBCU with a full scholarship and is planning on double majoring in physics and mathematics. They have a GPA of 3.84 overall, with a 4.00 in physics and math. They have a few B's in non-science classes and are currently studying for the GRE. They have an on-campus internship with XTREEMS-QED, have presented at a conference, and have been recommended to be a tutor for Physics I. They will also have an internship at a medical mall next semester. The individual is wondering if they are good enough for MIT and what improvements they can make to increase their chances of being accepted, as well as if these improvements would also be helpful
  • #1
neosoul
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I really want to attend MIT graduate school. Here are some things about me:
I am a sophomore at an HBCU on a full scholarship. I am a physics major planning on double majoring by adding mathematics (because I LOVE it).
-Overall GPA: 3.84
-Physics GPA: 4.00 (but I've only taken Physics I & Physics I Lab)
-Math GPA: 4.00 (Calc I, II, and III; set theory)
-The B's I had were in two English classes, chem lab and bio lab)
-I'm starting the spring of my sophomore year studying for the GRE
-I have an on-campus internship with XTREEMS-QED. We have been studying/predicting climate change using computer simulations and may have a work being published soon.
-I gave a presentation at a Differential Equations conference and my partner and I were the only undergraduates presenting which made everyone else notice us.
-I was recommended to be a tutor for Physics I next semester and the dean approved.
-I will have an internship next semester in the same city at the medical mall.

Am I good enough for MIT so far if I improve? What improvements can I make to increased my chances of being accepted? Would these improvements also be helpful when applying to other top graduate schools?
 
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To get into the top schools (MIT, Harvard, Stanford, Princeton), you need to have excelled in the most difficult classes your schools offers, do great research (a publication really helps, especially if you are first or second author), and get great letters by professors who know you well and preferably have done research with. The PGRE is important but can be overlooked by most schools if the rest of your application is very strong.
 
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Likes neosoul

1. Am I smart enough to get into MIT?

This is a common question among students considering applying to MIT. The answer is that while intelligence is certainly an important factor, it is not the only factor in admissions. MIT looks for well-rounded students with a passion for learning and a strong work ethic. It's important to showcase your unique strengths and accomplishments in your application.

2. What grades and test scores do I need to get into MIT?

MIT does not have strict cutoffs for grades and test scores, as they consider the entire application as a whole. However, most admitted students have near-perfect or perfect GPAs and SAT/ACT scores in the top percentiles. It's important to challenge yourself academically and strive for excellence in your coursework.

3. What extracurricular activities should I participate in to get into MIT?

MIT values students who are passionate and engaged in extracurricular activities. However, there is no specific list of activities that will guarantee admission. It's important to pursue activities that you are genuinely interested in and to make a meaningful impact in whatever you choose to do. Quality over quantity is key.

4. What can I do to improve my chances of getting into MIT?

Aside from maintaining high grades and participating in meaningful extracurricular activities, there are a few other ways to improve your chances of getting into MIT. This includes taking challenging courses, writing a strong and genuine personal essay, obtaining strong letters of recommendation, and showcasing your unique talents and accomplishments in your application.

5. Is it worth applying to MIT if I don't think I have a chance of getting in?

It's always worth applying to MIT if it's your dream school. Admissions decisions are not solely based on grades and test scores, and every year, there are students who are admitted despite not meeting the typical criteria. You never know what might catch the attention of the admissions committee, so it's always worth giving it a shot. Plus, the application process itself can be a valuable learning experience.

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