MIT and Princeton University are both elite institutions offering exceptional academic and research opportunities. MIT is particularly strong in science and technology, while Princeton offers a broader range of disciplines with a strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a tight-knit academic culture. Both universities offer substantial financial aid, ensuring accessibility for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The choice between the two depends on individual academic interests, preferred campus environment, and specific career goals.
| Attribute | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Princeton University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | — | Around 4%; Regular Decision: 2.87% (Class of 2028) |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | — | 5:1 (some sources say 3:1 or 2:1) |
| Average SAT/ACT Scores | — | SAT: 1500-1580, ACT: 34-35 |
| Tuition and Fees | — | Undergraduate: $65,210 (2025-2026); Graduate: $57,410 + $3,000 fees (2022-23); Total Cost of Attendance: ~$86,700 (2024-2025) |
| Financial Aid Availability | — | Covers total cost for families making less than $65,000/year; Average package: ~$70,000 |
| Research Opportunities | — | Summer research programs, ReMatch program, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory |
| Internship Programs | — | International Internship Program (IIP), Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment (ACEE) funding |
| Career Placement Rate | — | 95% placement (Class of 2021); 62% received full-time job offers within six months (2022 data); Average salary: $104,000 |
| Graduation Rate | — | 6-year: 98%, 4-year: ~90% |
| Campus Housing Quality | — | Mix of old and new, ongoing efforts to improve accessibility |
| Student Life and Activities | — | Over 250 student organizations, tight-knit and supportive academic culture |
| Location and Accessibility | — | Princeton, New Jersey; 600 acres; improving campus accessibility |