Almost all of our financial support is awarded to applicants who enter in September. We do accept applications for February admission. However, since these are considered after financial commitments for the year have been made, the likelihood of financial aid is much less than for September admission. In general, the Physics Department encourages students to become involved with research as early as possible. The best way to determine whether or not a field is for you is to try it out, and the MIT pattern of early research experience makes this possible.
Many students have some ideas about possible areas of interest.
Students normally join a research group and are supported by an RA after the first year. In some cases, this may be delayed one or two semesters. Students who desire TA support after the first year must apply with the Graduate Appointments Coordinator. TA support beyond the second year is provided only under extenuating circumstances such as a temporary shortfall of research funding, a student s transition to a different research group, or departmental teaching needs. The award of an assistantship imposes no obligation to continue such support beyond a given appointment.