Academics / Graduate program

How to Apply

Eligibility

Graduate student selection is based primarily upon evidence of research interest and potential for work within the areas represented in the department. Candidates may have undergraduate concentrations in a variety of fields, but regardless of undergraduate major, applicants are expected to have outstanding records, particularly in mathematics and the sciences.

Application

You must apply online at https://gradapply.mit.edu/bcs. Paper applications are not available. Completed applications must be submitted by December 1st for admission the following September.

The online application has 12 sections to complete:

  1. Application Information: Choose your research field and degree objective
  2. Letters of Recommendation: Enter information for your three references
  3. Personal Information: Enter relevant information about yourself
  4. Ethnicity: Enter your background. For US citizens and permanent residents only. (Optional)
  5. Addresses: Enter address information
  6. Colleges/Universities Attended: Enter information about prior education and upload transcripts
  7. Test Scores / Experience:
    1. Enter scores for the GRE General Exam
    2. Enter IELTS or TOEFL and language information (International applicants only)
    3. List honors, prizes, awards, and fellowships
    4. List major publications
    5. List teaching and work experience
    6. List research experience
    7. List other experience, including military, volunteer work, travel
    8. Upload PDF of CV
  8. Financial Support: List financial resources that may be available
  9. Subjects Taken: Enter information for relevant subjects taken
  10. Statement of Objectives: Explain why you are a good candidate
  11. Disadvantaged: Optional question for US citizens or permanent residents only
  12. Submit Application: Submit and pay the fee before Dec 1 23:59:59 EST

Correspondence and Additional Information:
Graduate Office (46-2005Q)
Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
77 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139-4307
phone: (617) 253-7403
e-mail: bcs-admissions@mit.edu

 

current as of September 20, 2011