The admissions process for graduate programs at MIT is decentralized. Thus, applicants apply directly to the academic department, or degree-granting program of interest.

Each department or program determines admission through deliberations of its faculty graduate admissions committee. This committee receives and reviews applications, selects students, and determines the type and amount of financial support to be offered. Departmental admissions decisions are final, in that there is no central administrative review, oversight, or appeal.

The Admissions Office provides central administrative support to departments and degree-granting programs. View their web site for complete details on graduate admissions, including information on the application process, degree requirements, and how to order a course catalogue.

The Sloan School of Management has an independent, online application process and a unique application form. Refer to their Application Center for details.

Persons interested in taking graduate courses may apply for special student status. A special graduate student is one whose intended program of study is essentially graduate in nature, but who is not a candidate for an advanced degree.