What is the average amount of classes per term at MIT? I’ve heard its around 4-5. Is 6 crazy especially if most of the classes are math and physics?
4 or 5 classes (48-60 units) is pretty typical. 6 is tough unless you take a bunch of easy classes. The most I’ve heard someone take is 8.
One thing to note is that with more classes, the less time you’ll be able to focus on lab, the only extracurricular activity that matters. Heh.
There’s a legend of some kid who took 14 classes in one semester and managed all A’s. There’s another story of E.J. Corey (Corey-House synthesis, anyone? :D) who finished his entire MIT undergraduate degree in one year after having been readmitted due to a Professor’s recommendation (flunked out the first time since he spent all his time in lab). He won the Nobel Prize 42 years later.
In short, you have a finite amount of time. Budget it wisely. 12 units per class means you are expected to spend 12 hours per week on that class.