Standardized Tests

Standardized tests—such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)— play an important role in the application process. Although applications are reviewed as a whole, the most competitive applicants often attain high test scores on required examinations.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE®)

MIT Institution Code: 3514 (codes for the MIT Sloan School of Management may vary).

Most MIT departments require the GRE General Test. A small number of departments require a related Subject Test. Please check the department program pages for information about specific test score requirements.

The computer-delivered General Test is offered in the United States and many other locations around the world, while the paper-delivered test is administered in select locations. The computer-based GRE General Test is available year-round, and appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Register early to maximize your chances of scheduling your preferred test date and time.

The GRE General Test has a fee of $205 in most parts of the world. Further information about fees can be found online.

To register for the GRE, please visit www.ets.org/gre.  

Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT)

MIT Program Code varies by department.

A select number of programs in the field of management will accept the GMAT exam in place of the GRE. Please check the department program pages for information about specific test score requirements.

The GMAT exam has a fee of $250. Further information about fees can be found online

To register for the GMAT, please visit www.mba.com/us/the-gmat-exam/register

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

MIT accepts electronic score reports. Choose “MIT Graduate Admissions” as reporting option; no code is required.

The IELTS exam measures the ability to communicate in English across all four language skills—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—for people who intend to study or work where English is the primary language of communication. Most departments prefer this test. Please check the department program pages for information about specific test score requirements.

The IELTS examination fee is charged in local currency and varies by country.

To register for the IELTS, please visit www.ielts.org.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL®)

MIT Institution Code: 3514 (codes for the MIT Sloan School of Management may vary).

Applicants whose native language is not English may take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). In most departments, a minimum TOEFL iBT test score of 90 is required (577 for TOEFL PBT). Many departments have higher score requirements. Please check the Programs page for further department requirements

The TOEFL exam fee is charged in local currency and varies by country.

To register for the TOEFL, please visit www.toefl.org.

Waivers

TOEFL or IELTS waivers may be offered on a limited basis for select departments. Such waivers often require several years of study at an English speaking university and the completion of a degree from an English speaking university. Applicants must review the department specific requirements and follow the instructions for requesting a waiver. Applicants should not contact the main Graduate Admissions office to request a waiver.

GRE waivers are unlikely to be approved. Applicants should not request a GRE waiver. In programs related to management the GMAT may be accepted in place of the GRE.