Independent Activities Period (IAP)

IAP, a unique MIT experience, is a four-week period in January when you are freed from the rigors of regularly scheduled classes to explore some of the things you're interested in but don't have time for during the regular academic year. The emphasis in IAP is on learning and exploring in a relaxed, more informal environment. To that end, you can choose from more than 600 activities and about 100 for-credit subjects. Also, if you have some skill or knowledge that you'd like to share with others, you may decide to teach during IAP. (Students are not required to participate in IAP or stay on campus in January, but many do.)

IAP offerings are distinguished by their variety, innovative spirit, and fusion of fun and learning. During IAP 2008, for-credit subjects included "Nuclear Power Plant Dynamics and Control", "Hands-On Introduction to EE Lab Skills", Reading Paradise Lost, and "Drawing for Architects". Non-credit activities range from "Climate Change Boardgame Series" and "Battle of the Brownies" to the famous "Charm School", which helps you learn to pitch a business strategy as well as pick up the right fork at a fancy banquet.

Information about IAP can be found on the IAP website, with new activities and subjects announced starting in October and continuing through the IAP period.

All students (undergraduate as well as graduate) are limited to no more than 12 units of academic credit during IAP. Note that there are certain freshman subjects that begin in the Fall Term and continue into IAP (8.01L, 18.02A): these do count towards the 12-unit limit.

Check the IAP website for more information.