<p>Is it true that regardless of your major, you must take the same courses as everyone else as a freshman? [Even if I plan to be a business major?]</p>
<p>And if so, how rigorous is this so called "exhilarating path to mastery in biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics."</p>
<p>Yes, it’s (mostly) true. MIT requires <em>everyone</em> to take 2 semesters of math (single-variable and multi-variable calculus), 2 semesters of physics (mechanics and E&M), a semester of chemistry, and a semester of biology, in addition to 8 humanities classes over your MIT career. The math/science GIRs all have Advanced Standing Exams that you can use to pass out of these classes, but it’s not exactly common; the exams are hard. Also, single-variable calculus and mechanics can both be bypassed by AP tests (AP Calculus BC and AP Physics C: both varieties, respectively). Most people take 3 math/science GIRs and one humanities class their first semester, regardless of major. This isn’t <em>required</em>, per se, but strongly recommended; it sucks having to take these freshman-geared classes after freshman year.</p>
<p>There is another benefit to taking the intro classes with the rest of the freshman class. </p>
<p>P-sets are done collaboratively in study groups (most often by dorm), so if physics as an example is not your strong suit, you will have other students in your group to help you along.</p>
<p>Are you asking if MIT has a core curriculum? Like most schools, yes, yes it does.</p>
<p>[“[Does</a> MIT] Have A Core Curriculum?”](<a href=“http://www.mitadmissions.org/topics/learning/general_institute_requirements/week_in_review.shtml]"[Does”>http://www.mitadmissions.org/topics/learning/general_institute_requirements/week_in_review.shtml)</p>