Washington University in St Louis (WashU) vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)?

  WashU and MIT, while both prestigious, differ significantly in focus and culture. MIT is renowned as a global leader in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), emphasizing research and innovation at the cutting edge. WashU, while strong in STEM, offers a broader range of highly-ranked programs, including medicine, law, business, and social sciences. WashU is often perceived as having a more collaborative and less intensely competitive environment than MIT. MIT's campus culture is heavily influenced by its strong engineering and scientific focus, while WashU offers a more diverse academic and social atmosphere.

• Which school is better for STEM fields?

  MIT is generally considered the top institution globally for STEM fields. Its unparalleled resources, faculty, and research opportunities in areas like computer science, engineering, physics, and mathematics make it the premier choice for students seeking a rigorous and highly specialized STEM education. While WashU has excellent STEM programs, particularly in biomedical engineering and pre-med, MIT's reputation and resources in STEM are unmatched.

• Which school is better for pre-med or health-related fields?

  Both WashU and MIT are excellent choices for pre-med students. WashU has a particularly strong reputation in medicine and health sciences, largely due to its renowned medical school and affiliated hospitals. This provides ample research and clinical opportunities for undergraduates interested in pursuing a medical career. MIT also offers strong pre-med preparation, particularly for students interested in the intersection of technology and medicine, such as biomedical engineering or computational biology. The 'better' choice depends on your specific interests within the health field; WashU offers more direct access to clinical settings, while MIT excels in technologically advanced medical research.

• How do the campus cultures compare?

  MIT's campus culture is known for its intense focus on academics and research, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving and innovation. It's a highly collaborative environment, but also very demanding. WashU's campus culture is generally considered more balanced, with a greater emphasis on student life and a more relaxed atmosphere. While academics are still a priority, there's a stronger focus on creating a well-rounded experience with opportunities for involvement in various extracurricular activities and social events. WashU is often described as having a more 'work hard, play hard' mentality compared to MIT's more singular focus on academic pursuits.

• What are the differences in location and surrounding environment?

  MIT is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a vibrant city adjacent to Boston. This provides students with access to a rich cultural scene, numerous academic institutions, and a thriving tech industry. WashU is located in St. Louis, Missouri, a major Midwestern city with a lower cost of living than Boston. St. Louis offers a diverse cultural scene, including museums, parks, and a growing startup ecosystem. The choice depends on your preference for urban environments; Boston is a larger, more established hub, while St. Louis offers a more affordable and accessible urban experience.

• How do the admissions processes differ?

  Both WashU and MIT have highly selective admissions processes. MIT places a strong emphasis on demonstrated excellence in STEM fields, often looking for students with exceptional math and science skills, research experience, and a passion for innovation. WashU seeks well-rounded students with strong academic records and a demonstrated commitment to leadership, service, and intellectual curiosity across a broader range of disciplines. While both value high test scores and grades, MIT may place slightly more weight on STEM-related achievements, while WashU may consider a wider range of extracurricular activities and personal qualities.

• Which school is more expensive?

  The cost of attendance at both WashU and MIT is very high and comparable. Tuition, fees, and living expenses are significant at both institutions. However, the overall cost can vary depending on financial aid packages. Both schools offer need-based financial aid, and the actual cost to attend may be lower for students who qualify for aid. It's crucial to compare the financial aid packages offered by each school to determine which is more affordable for your specific circumstances.

• What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios like?

  Both WashU and MIT pride themselves on offering a relatively low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for more personalized attention and interaction with professors. MIT generally has slightly larger class sizes, particularly in introductory STEM courses, but also offers many opportunities for small group learning and research. WashU tends to have smaller class sizes overall, fostering a more intimate learning environment. Both institutions prioritize providing students with access to faculty and research opportunities.

• Which school is better for undergraduate research opportunities?

  Both WashU and MIT offer extensive undergraduate research opportunities. MIT is renowned for its cutting-edge research facilities and its emphasis on involving undergraduates in research projects from an early stage. WashU also provides ample research opportunities, particularly in its medical school and affiliated research centers. The 'better' choice depends on your specific research interests. If you're interested in highly technical and specialized STEM research, MIT may be a better fit. If you're interested in biomedical research or interdisciplinary research, WashU may be a better option.

• What are the strengths of each school outside of academics?

  Outside of academics, MIT is known for its strong maker culture, hackathons, and entrepreneurial ecosystem. It fosters a community of innovators and problem-solvers who are passionate about creating and building things. WashU offers a more diverse range of extracurricular activities, including a vibrant arts scene, numerous student organizations, and a strong emphasis on community service. WashU is known for its welcoming and inclusive campus environment, while MIT is known for its intense focus on innovation and technological advancement.