Progress Toward the Degree: Improving Academic Performance

Nearly every MIT student experiences some degree of academic difficulty at some point. When this happens to you, don't get caught in feelings of embarrassment, shame, or guilt, and don't try to solve your problems alone. Seek help!

MIT offers many resources and people who can help you identify and overcome your particular problems:

• Start with the MIT Center for Academic Excellence (ACADEX), a virtual space designed to provide you with the tools and resources required to succeed as a student at MIT.
• Consult your TA and/or instructor right away. Go to office hours, speak after class, or email them to make an appointment. They are the experts on how to pass your subject and are waiting to share their knowledge.
• Tell your advisor what's going on. She or he may be able to help you directly; if not, he or she can point you toward other people and offices who can work on specific situations.
• Make an appointment with Student Support Services (S3), especially if you are also dealing with health problems, family or relationship issues, or financial stress. The S3 deans can also work with you on issues of time management and possible learning disabilities. They will help you clarify your situation and plan ways to move beyond it. If necessary, they will help with requests for extensions and other adjustments that your instructors may be able to provide.
• You can also go directly to MIT Medical for physical illness, personal concerns (Mental Health), and health and wellness resources.
• For any financial question or worry, consult your Account Representative and Financial Aid Officer in Student Financial Services. You can walk in to the Student Services Center in 11-120 or make an appointment.
• Student Resources provides a roadmap to find the support you need for any situation.