The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a global leader in science, engineering, technology, and innovation, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Known for its world-changing research, MIT constantly ranks among the top universities in the world. It receives over 20,000 undergraduate applications annually and admits about 4%.

MIT uses its own application portal, and applicants must submit necessary school transcripts, essays, teacher recommendations, and standardized test scores (SAT or ACT). Additionally, students are encouraged to submit optional creative or research portfolios if applicable/possible.

MIT places significant focus on STEM, problem-solving, and intellectual curiosity, but also values students who show collaboration, resilience, and a drive to contribute meaningfully to the world or to make a diffference. New Zealand applicants are expected to have NCEA Level 3 with Excellence, or equivalent results in Cambridge A Levels. Success in national/international STEM competitions, coding projects, Olympiads, or independent research can strengthen an application.

Annual tuition is approximately NZD $100,000, with full cost of attendance (tuition, housing, meals, fees) around NZD $135,000 to $140,000. MIT is generous to international students, including New Zealanders, and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need with no need to pay them back afterwards.