Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #1

What field of study appeals to you the most right now? (Note: Applicants select from a drop-down list.)
Tell us more about why this field of study at MIT appeals to you. (100 words or fewer)

Interpretation:
This is a concise “Why major?” and “Why MIT?” essay. You should briefly tell the story behind your interest—what sparked it, how it has evolved, and why MIT is an ideal place to pursue it. Strong answers connect personal academic experiences with MIT-specific resources (labs, faculty, research programs). 

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #2

We know you lead a busy life, full of activities, many of which are required of you. Tell us about something you do simply for the pleasure of it. (150 words or fewer)

Interpretation:
This prompt is about your intrinsic motivations—what you enjoy for its own sake. Not an achievement, but something that energizes you. Effective responses show creativity, curiosity, or emotional depth through a small but meaningful personal anecdote.

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #3

While some reach their goals following well-trodden paths, others blaze their own trails achieving the unexpected. In what ways have you done something different than what was expected in your educational journey? (225 words or fewer)

Interpretation:
This prompt probes your independence, creativity, and willingness to diverge from norms. It might involve a passion project, self-directed study, or unconventional academic path. Showcase initiative and the ability to think beyond traditional expectations. 

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #4

MIT brings people with diverse backgrounds together to collaborate, from tackling the world’s biggest challenges to lending a helping hand. Describe one way you have collaborated with others to learn from them, with them, or contribute to your community together. (225 words or fewer)

Interpretation:
Collaboration is core to MIT’s culture. Highlight a specific teamwork experience—academic, extracurricular, or community-based. Focus on your role, what you learned, and what you brought to the group. Show emotional intelligence and collective achievement. 

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #5

How did you manage a situation or challenge that you didn’t expect? What did you learn from it? (225 words or fewer)

Interpretation:
This prompt examines resilience, adaptability, and self-awareness. Describe a real challenge, reflect on how you navigated it, and show personal growth. The emphasis should be on your learning process and how it has shaped your mindset.

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #6 (Optional)

No application can meet the needs of every individual. If there is significant information that you were not able to include elsewhere in the application, you may include it here. (300 words or fewer)

Interpretation:
Use this space strategically—only if there’s crucial context such as extenuating circumstances, major achievements left out, or aspects about your identity that genuinely shaped you. If there is nothing substantive to add, it’s perfectly fine to leave it blank. 

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #7 (Optional)

If you have additional information about your family that you think is important for us to know, please include it here. (100 words or fewer)

Interpretation:
Optional inquiry into your family background or responsibilities that influenced your educational journey—such as compelling caregiving roles, socio-economic challenges, or cultural contexts. Only use if it provides meaningful insight.

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #8 (Optional)

If there is anything we should know about your school’s course offerings, extenuating circumstances regarding your coursework, or school’s grading system, please use the space below. (250 words)

Interpretation:
This spot is for contextualizing your academic record—limited course options, remote learning disruptions, grade policies, etc. Use only to explain, not justify.

MIT Supplemental Essay Prompt #9 (Optional)

We understand that sometimes things outside of your control impact your ability to complete [standardized] tests to the best of your ability. If you have an extenuating circumstance, such as exam cancellations or illness, please let us know here. (150 words)

Interpretation:
A brief space to explain any standardized test irregularities. Only use it if you experienced genuine obstacles that significantly affected your scores.