<p>I disagree with this. I am an international EC, and over the years I have seen quite a few students admitted and I would definitely disagree with the idea that “Almost All” international students have some regional distinction in some way. Some do, absolutely. But many do not. The simple rule is that the admissions criteria is no different for internationals than it is for Americans, it is simply more competitive. You definitely do not need an IMO medal or the equivalent. I have certainly seen ordinarily good students get in. These are all kids who did well in their secondary schools and took advantage of the opportunities available to them </p>
<p>That being said, every year I meet brilliant, talented, wonderful candidates who are not admitted. It is a numbers game, and MIT simply does not have room to take all of the wonderful candidates who apply.</p>