Coursework and test requirements
We recommend that prospective transfer students take a variety of mathematics and science courses before applying, taking full advantage of their institution’s offerings in these areas. To prepare for MIT’s academic program, we recommend that transfer students complete the following college courses before entering MIT:
- Single variable calculus
- Multivariable calculus
- Calculus-based physics
- Introductory biology
- Introductory chemistry
If you received college credit through advanced exams (AP, IB, etc.), then you should enroll at the appropriate level for each of the disciplines mentioned above.
Core graduation requirements
General Institute Requirements for undergraduate students of all majors at MIT include a science core that consists of two semesters of college calculus and calculus-based physics, and one semester each of chemistry and biology. For more details about the GIRs, please refer to the MIT Bulletin.
GPA
There is no minimum required GPA, but competitive applicants generally have a GPA of 3.5 or above, and mostly A’s in mathematics and science courses.
Testing must be completed by the October test date for spring (February) entry and by the March test date for fall (September) entry. These dates change each year and are set by the testing agency. Click here for specifics on our testing requirements.
Credit transfer
Transfer students typically lose at least one semester of coursework. Most students enter MIT as sophomores, regardless of the amount of coursework they completed at their previous college(s). If we admit you as a transfer student, you can expect to receive credit for subjects of study that are substantively equivalent to corresponding MIT subjects. If your academic record doesn’t appear to merit credit in a certain subject, you may be allowed to demonstrate that you are entitled to such credit by passing an Advanced Standing Examination.
Academic credit is not assessed until after you are admitted to MIT, at which point it is evaluated by the relevant academic departments. If you would like to compare the courses offered at your institution to those offered at MIT, you can refer to the MIT Bulletin (Course and Degree Catalog).
Standardized tests
We require the SAT or the ACT for transfer applicants. We do not require the ACT writing section or the SAT optional essay. We accept both the paper and digital SAT.
In order to apply for transfer admission, you must take the required tests before October 31 for spring entry, and before March 31 for fall entry.
Superscoring
If a student takes the same test multiple times, we will consider the highest score achieved in each section. We do this in order to consider all applicants in their best light.
Please note that our office will verify scores for all enrolling students. Any discrepancies between official and self-reported scores may affect a student’s offer of admission.