<p>Hey guys :) First off I would like to say that I am in no way ignorant to my chances of even getting a shot. I am fully aware of how demanding it is and that many MIT students have achieved extremely highly and in turn deserve to attend. Despite this, I am still considering applying. I am an international student who resides in the UK. This already presents me with a huge road block. Along side this, I have had some family issues and mental health problems which have prevented me from devoting my self fully academically. In my GCSE's (first high school exams) I got A*ABBBBBBBCC. I was hugely disappointed and went on to take my A-Levels. I am taking Biology, Chemistry, Psychology and Maths. By the time I apply I hope to have achieved A * A * A A at least. I am taking the SAT's here in the UK this year too with a goal of reaching at least 2300. I am doing a lot of extra curricular ventures outside of high school such as University lectures, research groups, and a lot of sports. Whilst my gcse examinations went very badly I still have developed a true love for the sciences, mostly chemistry. It interests me hugely and after researching the incredible opportunity's MIT has to offer I have fallen in love with it LOL. I know these "how do I get in" threads have been annoying but I am in a rather different situation and could really use some advice. Before commenting please know I am fully aware my chances are extremely low not only as an international student but a low performing student too, I am just looking into the possibility's :) If I get the grades I have stated above, would I have a chance?</p>
<p>Your situation is not “different.” Many kids “find their passion” after achieving low grades. Many others do so without the low grades. I don’t know the UK schooling system well enough to know if your grades make it even slightly possible, but I’ll believe you when you say they’re lowish. </p>
<p>By all means, apply, but know that there are many other schools that you can learn these things at. MIT is not the only way to go, and just want to go there/having passion will not make up for poor grades.</p>
<p>Ohh I know, Thanks for the reply :). I plan to apply to other schools including Dartmouth :)</p>
<p>Dartmouth is just as competitive as MIT. Make sure you have safeties.</p>
<p>jjm</p>
<p>As long as you’re realistic about your chances, I would encourage you to apply to a couple of dream schools.</p>
<p>However, you should have a realistic list, that is mainly comprised of Matches and Safety Schools (this is most likely where you will go). As long as you do that – if you want to take a flyer on MIT or Dartmouth, go ahead. </p>
<p>Something to think about – the impression we got from MIT was that it’s mostly hard-core science students. The impression we got from Dartmouth is that it is primarily a liberal arts school that provides an opportunity to branch off into the sciences. You can succeed in the sciences at either school, but I think they have very different philosophies of education. I’m always a bit surprised to see thes two schools on the same list.</p>
<p>*Possibilities.</p>
<p>Might help you when it comes to some of your essays.</p>
<p>Why are you “in love” with MIT? Just because of it’s science rankings?</p>
<p>There are plenty of schools with great science departments that would be better social and academic fit. Don’t fall in love with a school just because of a ranking. Fall in love with a school because its a good fit.</p>