Nonresident Doctoral Research

A doctoral student who has completed all requirements except for the dissertation may apply for nonresident thesis research status for financial reasons. Students granted this status pay approximately 5 percent of regular tuition for the first three terms of non-resident status and 15 percent for the following three terms.

Application

Permission to become a nonresident doctoral candidate must be sought from the dean of graduate students. The request form is submitted to the Office of the Dean of Graduate Education (ODGE) at least one month before the start of term (a fee is assessed for late requests). The student’s thesis advisor and the department’s graduate officer must approve the application prior to submission.

Approval can be granted for two successive regular terms in the same academic year. Registration as a nonresident student is not required during the summer. Students must reapply each year for additional terms of nonresident status up to a maximum of six terms. Students must return to regular status to defend and submit their doctoral dissertation.

Eligibility

Registered in a doctoral program
In residence as a regular graduate student for at least four regular terms
Completed all degree requirements except for the dissertation and has submitted required paperwork to the Degree Administrator
Must have an approved thesis proposal

Privileges of a Nonresident Student

Nonresident students are considered full-time students. They may retain their MIT IDs and are permitted access to the libraries and athletic facilities. They continue to have the same student health plan options as resident students, although, students are financially responsible for their own health insurance.

However, nonresident students are NOT eligible to:

use offices, laboratories, design studios or computer facilities in the Department unless specifically approved
reside in student housing
serve as graduate resident tutors
receive financial support from sources administered by the Department of Architecture or processed through any MIT office. This includes fellowships, assistantships, work-study, loans, etc. (In addition, MIT administrative offices cannot accept payment on behalf of nonresident students from an outside sponsor.)
accept employment of any kind at MIT

Although nonresident students are responsible for payment of tuition and appropriate fees, US citizens or Permanent Resident students may apply for federal and alternative loans. Current loans may be adjusted because tuition will be decreased to nonresident levels. Questions regarding loans should be addressed to Student Financial Services.

Quick Links
Nonresident Request Form
Office of the Dean for Graduate Education (ODGE)
Student Financial Services