Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Applying to study at college is a huge life decision, and the thoroughness of the MIT application process reflects this. Candidates apply through an online application system known as MyMIT. The application fee is US$75 and initially candidates submit biographical details. They then answer short response questions and essays before listing and writing about four activities of particular significance to them and submitting information about coursework and grades. 

Additional requirements include letters of recommendation from two teachers (one math/science, one humanities), plus extra materials from a school counselor (typically including a transcript, a school profile and letter of recommendation). 

Applicants also complete standardized tests: native English speakers must submit SAT/ACT scores as well as undertake two SAT subject tests, in mathematics and science. Non-native English speakers are encouraged to take the TOEFL and two SAT subject tests. 

The final part of the process is the interview, which will usually be conducted locally by alumni or over Skype. Overall the process is highly competitive, with candidates who reach the interview stage typically having a 10.8 percent chance of being admitted. 

Fees and tuition for 2017–18 cost US$67,430 per academic year, which includes housing and dining, books, and personal expenses. Financial aid is available and is claimed by 91 percent of undergraduate students. The school stresses that 72 percent of its undergraduate students currently graduate debt free. 

Candidates apply to MIT as a whole, not to a specific major or school. First year students begin with an undeclared major then during their freshman year, attend academic fairs, lectures, seminars, and other programs to determine their major. 

There is a dizzying array of bachelor's degree and minor programs on offer, from nuclear science to political science, with all manner of arts, languages, and humanities subjects in between. There are also interdisciplinary majors, such as American Studies, as well as joint majors such as Chemistry and Biology, or Humanities and Engineering. 

However, life as an undergraduate at MIT isn’t all about studying: there is a flourishing center for the arts, over 500 student organizations, and thriving athletics and sports culture as well as a culture of elaborate practical jokes, known as “hacks”. 

Much of the fun on campus is also centered around MIT's residential life system, where different cultures thrive in different residence halls and living groups. About 90 percent of undergraduate students live in residence halls and fraternities, sororities, and independent living groups.