English Language Proficiency

English is the language of instruction in all subjects within the Institute, and all papers and theses must be written in English. All applicants whose first language is not English, including those currently enrolled in U.S. institutions, must present evidence of their ability to carry on their studies in English by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS). A minimum TOEFL score of 577 (233 computer-based) is required by the Institute; however, some departments require higher scores. Refer to department information for testing requirements. Scores below 577 (233 computer-based) may result in the withholding of the visa documentation for a candidate otherwise considered admissible.

Students who have received instruction in English in their primary and secondary schools and students who have been in the U.S. for four years or longer and have received a degree from an American institution may be eligible for a waiver of the TOEFL requirement by sending a written request to the department or program to which they are applying. (The departments of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Architecture, Chemical Engineering, Economics, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Urban Studies and Planning, and the Program in Media Arts and Sciences do not grant TOEFL waivers.)

In addition to the TOEFL, all students whose first language is not English are required to take the English Evaluation Test (E.E.T.) at MIT during the week prior to Registration Day. This examination is a diagnostic test whose purpose is to help students identify their strengths and weaknesses in written and oral English. English classes may be recommended as a result of the E.E.T.

Passport and Visas

To enter the U.S., each international student admitted to the Institute needs a passport issued by his or her government. Students must also visit U.S. embassies or consulates in their home countries to be issued student visas which will enable them to enter the U.S. Students must present a certificate of eligibility (Form I-20 or Form DS-2019) with the supporting financial documentation when they apply for the visa. The International Students Office at MIT will send the required document to all admitted students who provide evidence of sufficient funds to meet the estimated costs and of adequate English language proficiency. It is important to note that the validity of the visa does not indicate how long a student may remain in the U.S.; this determination will be made by the Immigration Service at the port of entry. Canadians do not need student visas; instead, they may obtain the appropriate immigration status at the port of entry to the U.S. by showing proof of citizenship and the Certificate of Eligibility.

Visa Options

Students admitted to MIT can choose between two visas: the F-1 (student visa) and J-1 (exchange visitor visa). Individuals on any other non-immigrant visa will be unable to register in a program of studies at MIT.

The F-1 visa
This option is normally used by those who will enroll as full-time students at an approved educational institution. It is obtained by presenting the Form I-20 to a U.S. consulate or embassy and submitting an application for an F-1 visa. F-1 students are expected to attend the school that issued the Form I-20 and maintain a full course of study while in the U.S. Students whose studies are funded by their families or other private sponsors are normally issued the Form I-20. Upon arrival in the U.S., students will be granted permission to remain in this country for the period of time required to complete their programs of study.

Some students hold fellowships or assistantships. Students with full assistantships, however, are not allowed to hold any additional employment on or off campus.

Spouses and children of F-1 students may hold the F-2 visa. The F-1 student may apply for Form I-20 for each of his or her dependents who wish to join him or her in the U.S. in F-2 status. Those dependents will then need to apply for F-2 visas at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Health and hospitalization insurance is a requirement for all F-1 students and their dependents.

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
This visa may be used by those who come to study, or conduct research as participants in an Exchange Visitor program. Students must be substantially (more than 50%) funded by their home government, educational institutions, international or national organizations, private companies, etc. in order to be eligible for a J-1 visa. Students on personal/family funds are not eligible for J-1 status; they must apply for F-1 status. The J-1 visa is obtained by presenting to the American Consul form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility). When students accept funding from the Fulbright or any other agency of the U.S. government or their own governments (even though it may be only a travel grant), this visa carries with it a "two-year home country residency requirement," which obliges students to return to their home countries for two years before they can apply for permanent residency or change to an H or L visa. In addition, this restriction applies to students from certain countries which have registered a list of needed skills with the American government. Students intending to use the J-1 visa to enter the U.S. should ask the U.S. Consul in their home country whether or not they will be subject to the two-year home residency requirement.

J-1 students will be allowed to remain in this country for the period of time indicated on their DS-2019. This time can be extended, as long as they are pursuing a full course of study or are on authorized academic training.

Health and hospitalization insurance is a requirement for all J-1 students and their dependents.

Financial Aid

Financial aid for international students is extremely limited. Applicants are urged to make every effort to secure funds from sources other than MIT.

Many countries place limitations on the purchase of U.S. dollars. Prospective students should consult the proper authorities in their countries about foreign exchange regulations to make certain that the academic levels and fields of study to be pursued permit the exchange of the local currency for dollars. Students should also be familiar with the procedures established for sending money to the U.S.

The dollar awards accompanying research and teaching assistantships at MIT often do not meet total student expenses. Additional funds must therefore be assured to meet the minimum budget projected by MIT for a new graduate student before a certificate of eligibility for an F-1 or J-1 visa will be issued.

Expenses

MIT is aware of the substantial expenses that graduate education at MIT represents, and we want to give international applicants a realistic assessment of the costs involved. Living costs in the Cambridge/Boston area are among the highest in the U.S. Since the Institute cannot assume financial responsibility for its students, we must be satisfied that entering students will have sufficient funds to meet all expenses while at MIT.

Because the first few months in the U.S. usually demand more financial outlay than any other period, students should plan to arrive with enough money to meet substantial initial expenses, such as travel to Cambridge from the port of arrival; insurance; temporary accommodation in hotels, if necessary; meals in restaurants; advance payment of rent; purchase of furnishings; and deposits for electricity and telephone.

Questions

If you have additional questions, please contact:
Danielle Guichard-Ashbrook
Associate Dean for Graduate Students, Director of the International Students Office
MIT Room 5-133
77 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139-4307, U.S.A.