MIT Families

Helpful info as you join the MIT family

Parents at the newly admitted MIT parents information session.

Next Steps

All of this is pretty exciting and perhaps a bit overwhelming, so we want to break down what you can expect over the next few months when it comes to getting everything set up for your student's first year at MIT.

Financial aid: We recommend that every admitted student apply for aid—you may be surprised by what you receive. Our Student Financial Services website is a great resource where you can learn more about affordability, financial aid, and job resources for students. The SFS team will email your student a helpful guide in late January with what you can do to prepare for the fall.

Campus Preview Weekend
: Taking place April 17–20, CPW is 3.14 days full of events, fun, crafts, and panels for your student to explore what life at MIT is really like. CPW is for admitted students who have registered and submitted all of the associated materials. If you have questions about CPW, please see the FAQs on the bottom of the CPW page.

Please note: There is no parent programming at CPW, however, we hope you will join us for our virtual family programming!

Virtual family programming: We are hosting virtual programming for families in early April. Think of it as your own mini CPW. We will share more details in late March, so be sure to check back!

Enrolling at MIT
: All students have until May 1 to let us know their enrollment decision.

First-year info: The Class of 2029 will receive detailed information about housing, on-campus dining options, and orientation in early May, after they have officially enrolled. First-year students begin arriving on campus in mid-August for orientation programs, and classes begin the first week of September.

HOUSING AT MIT

"Where will my student live?" is one of the most common questions we hear from families.

MIT’s housing system is unique compared to other colleges. Students choose where they live, and each living group is a community with its own distinct cultures and traditions. We have 10 residence halls to choose from; some are pristine and modern, while others are full of murals and cats.

Housing is guaranteed for all four years, and many students stay with the same community for their entire time at MIT. Our Guide to Residences goes into detail about all the different options.

STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE

The MIT Student Medical Plan, included with tuition, provides students with access to most services at MIT Health at no additional charge. The MIT Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) provides further coverage, including prescriptions, off-campus specialty care, and hospitalization. Full-time MIT students are automatically enrolled in and billed for SHIP. However, if you already have comparable insurance from a U.S.-based insurer, you can waive this coverage. More information on health insurance options is available at MIT Health.

The back of a shirt that reads "MIT family weekend"
MIT students participating in marching band.

99%

first-year retention rate

75%

of seniors completed internships while at MIT

43%

MIT students who participated in an educational or work experience abroad