Admissions Information for Master of Science in Visual Studies
Candidates compete for the six places available each year in the Department of Architecture’s Master of Science in Visual Studies (SMVisS) program. Admission is based on a careful examination of the applicant's previous artistic and academic record, including relevant samples of completed work, a statement of purpose and letters of recommendation. The applicant should demonstrate superior achievement and the ability to initiate and complete independent academic work in the visual arts.
English Requirement
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of those applicants whose first language was not English, regardless of residency in the US or attendance at other US educational institutions. No exceptions are made. The admissions committee regards English proficiency as crucial to success in all degree programs. In order to meet the admissions deadline, it is recommended that candidates take the TOEFL on the earliest possible test date.
The minimum TOEFL score required for SMVisS candidates is 600 for the paper-based test; 250 for the computer-based test; and 100 for the Internet-based test. Applicants must ask the Educational Testing Service to send official test results directly to MIT. Scores must be no more than two years old. To avoid delays, please use the following codes when having your scores sent to MIT:
Institution Code: 3514
Department Code: 12
All students whose first language is not English are required to take the English Evaluation Test (EET) prior to registration at MIT. Even students who satisfy the TOEFL requirement for admission may be required to take specialized subjects in English as a Second Language (ESL), depending on their EET results. These subjects do not count toward the required degree credits.
Graduate Record Examination
The Graduate Record Examination is not required of SMVisS candidates.
Portfolio
The non-returbable portfolio should include evidence of recent creative work, whether personal, academic or professional. Work done collaboratively should be identified as such, and the applicant’s role in the project defined. Name, address and program of application should also be included.
While there is no strict format, all the material should be contained in one notebook, folder or envelope. Slides, CDs, DVDs or videos are welcome. Written material (articles or papers) may be included with the application.
MIT Visual Arts Program
77 265 Massachusetts Ave., Room N51-328
Cambridge, MA 02139-4307
E-mail: vap@mit.edu
Telephone: 617-253-5229
Application Deadline
The Application for Graduate Admission is requested directly from the MIT Graduate Admissions Office. An application for admission in September must be received by December 15. The SMVisS program does not accept applications for admission in the spring term. It is the responsibility of the applicant to be sure that the completed application forms and all supporting materials are at the following address by the deadline.
MIT Department of Architecture
77 Massachusetts Ave., Room 7-337
Cambridge, MA 02139-4307
Attn: Admissions
Telephone: 617-253-7387
Applicants will be notified by mail of the department's decision by April 1. Decisions cannot be given by telephone.
Quick Links
Test of English as a Foreign Language
MIT Graduate Admissions Office
