MIT4Lyf

Here's my situation - I'm going to apply as transfer.

I have taken majority of my classes from a community college and have 4.0 gpa, while I have taken fewer classes from a 4-year university and have a 3.0+ gpa. In the university, I have never got anything less than B+, but I failed one class which doomed my gpa now. I had some unavoidable reasons for which I failed the class, but I wouldn't rub the issue cause that will only appear as whining. I do have a perfect score on the SAT now (if that counts ).

I'm not really after numbers but I'm just getting paranoid thinking that I shouldn't even apply as few of my friends who are also going to apply have perfect gpa. So taking only gpa into consideration, will MIT think that I'm idiot who can't perform in high academic standards ?

lidusha

You should still apply, and you should definitely explain the circumstances leading to your low GPA. No matter how low your chances, they are nonexistent if you don't apply.

That said, MIT will definitely be concerned about your ability to handle a rigorous courseload, and this is something you should think about as well. If you are challenged in your current environment, MIT will want to know why you should be transferring. This is something that MIT will think about when considering your application, and something you should be thinking about as well. Depending on your long-term plans, it might also be a good idea to think about how the prospect of getting even lower grades at MIT might affect your career and your mental health.

Best of luck.

MIT4Lyf

^Thanks for replying.

I can understand that MIT will be seriously concerned about me handling their rigorous workload but is there any way of showcasing that I am capable of tackling the workload ?
Should I take more classes at my university and give up CC classes ?

lidusha

I think you should be very careful not to overwhelm yourself, since that will end up doing more harm than good (especially if you don't end up transferring to MIT). MIT wants to see you taking advantage of the opportunities in your community and university. MIT wants to see evidence that you've taken advantage of the opportunities you have and are excited for more, that you have a lot to gain from an MIT education and will use it in creative and impactful ways, that you will contribute to the MIT community and do exciting things beyond just classwork here.

There are several ways to do this that will benefit not only your application to MIT but also your experiences at your current university. One is to do research with a professor. Another is to do an internship. Another is to do outreach work that is relevant to your field of interest and uses skills that are relevant to your intended career path. There are probably many others. Be creative and find something you enjoy.