MIT vs Brown University

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CollegeRanker is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

MIT Overview

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Established in 1861, MIT is known for its strong emphasis on science, engineering, and technology. The institute offers undergraduate and graduate programs, boasting top-ranked programs in fields like computer science, engineering, mathematics, and economics.

MIT Costs & Tuition

For the 2021-2022 academic year, MIT’s tuition is estimated to be around $55,175. Including room and board, health insurance, and other expenses, the total cost of attendance is approximately $79,000 per year. However, MIT is committed to making education affordable by offering need-based financial aid to eligible students.

MIT Admissions

MIT has a highly competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of around 6.7% for the class of 2025. The institute places great importance on academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. To apply, students must submit the Common Application or Coalition Application, along with additional materials specific to MIT.

MIT Degrees Offered

MIT offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in various fields, including engineering, computer science, mathematics, economics, architecture, management, and humanities. The institute is divided into five schools and one college, comprising numerous departments and interdisciplinary programs.

MIT Academics

MIT is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and cutting-edge research. The institute has a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, encouraging students to participate in research projects and real-world applications of their knowledge. With a 3:1 student-faculty ratio, MIT provides an intimate learning environment for students to engage with faculty members and challenge themselves academically.

MIT Diversity

MIT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The institute’s student body represents more than 120 countries, and around 46% of undergraduates identify as people of color. MIT offers numerous resources and support systems for underrepresented students, such as the Office of Minority Education, the Office of Multicultural Programs, and various cultural clubs and organizations.

MIT Students

MIT students are known for their exceptional intellectual abilities, creativity, and passion for learning. The undergraduate population is around 4,500, while the graduate population is around 6,800. Students are encouraged to participate in various clubs, student organizations, and extracurricular activities to enrich their educational experience and foster a sense of community.

MIT Campus

The MIT campus spans 168 acres along the Charles River in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The campus features a mix of modern and historic architecture, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous research labs. In addition, MIT provides on-campus housing for undergraduates, graduate students, and families, with a range of housing options, including dormitories, apartments, and cooperative houses.

MIT Alumni

MIT boasts a vast network of successful alumni, including numerous CEOs, innovators, and Nobel laureates. Some notable alumni include astronaut Buzz Aldrin, former U.S. Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz, and World Wide Web inventor Tim Berners-Lee.

MIT Rankings

MIT consistently ranks among the top universities in the world. In the 2021 QS World University Rankings, MIT was ranked #1 in the world for the tenth consecutive year. Additionally, the institute holds top positions in various subject rankings, such as engineering, computer science, and mathematics.

MIT Outcomes

MIT graduates are highly sought after by employers in various industries, including technology, finance, and consulting. The institute offers extensive career services and resources, helping students secure internships, co-ops, and full-time positions. The median starting salary for MIT graduates is around $88,000, and the institute boasts a strong alumni network that supports graduates throughout their careers.


Brown University Overview

Brown University is a private Ivy League research university located in Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1764, Brown is the seventh oldest institution of higher education in the United States. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in a wide range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, engineering, and life sciences.

Brown University Costs & Tuition

For the 2021-2022 academic year, Brown’s tuition is estimated to be around $60,746. Including room and board, health insurance, and other expenses, the total cost of attendance is approximately $80,000 per year. Brown University offers need-based financial aid to eligible students, ensuring that a Brown education is accessible regardless of financial background.

Brown University Admissions

Brown has a highly competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of around 5.4% for the class of 2025. The university values intellectual curiosity, creativity, and personal qualities, alongside academic achievements and standardized test scores. To apply, students must submit the Common Application or Coalition Application, along with additional materials specific to Brown.

Brown University Degrees Offered

Brown offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across various fields, including humanities, social sciences, engineering, life sciences, and public health. The university is organized into six schools, including the College, the Graduate School, and the Alpert Medical School.

Brown University Academics

Brown is known for its open curriculum, allowing students to design their own course of study based on their interests and goals. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and collaboration, fostering a vibrant intellectual community. With a 6:1 student-faculty ratio, Brown provides a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Brown University Diversity

Brown is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive community. The university’s student body represents more than 100 countries, and around 45% of undergraduates identify as people of color. Brown offers numerous resources and support systems for underrepresented students, such as the Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, the Center for the Study of Race and Ethnicity in America, and various cultural clubs and organizations.

Brown University Students

Brown students are known for their intellectual curiosity, creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact. The undergraduate population is around 7,000, while the graduate population is around 2,600. Students are encouraged to participate in various clubs, student organizations, and extracurricular activities to enhance their educational experience and foster a sense of community.

Brown University Campus

The Brown campus covers 143 acres in the College Hill neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island. The campus features a mix of historic and modern architecture, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous research centers. Brown offers on-campus housing for undergraduates, graduate students, and families, with a range of housing options, including dormitories, apartments, and cooperative houses.

Brown University Alumni

Brown has a strong network of accomplished alumni, including leaders in government, business, academia, and the arts. Notable alumni include former U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kennedy Jr., Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jeffrey Eugenides, and actress Emma Watson.

Brown University Rankings

Brown consistently ranks among the top universities in the U.S. In the 2021 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, Brown was ranked #14 among national universities. The university also holds high rankings in various subject areas, such as engineering, public health, and English.

Brown University Outcomes

Brown graduates enjoy successful careers across various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and the arts. The university offers extensive career services and resources, helping students secure internships, fellowships, and full-time positions. The median starting salary for Brown graduates is around $70,000, and the university boasts a strong alumni network that supports graduates throughout their careers.


MIT vs Brown University Cost Comparison

MIT and Brown both have a cost of attendance around $80,000 per year, including tuition, room and board, and other expenses. However, both institutions are committed to making education affordable through need-based financial aid. While tuition at MIT is slightly lower than at Brown, the overall costs are quite comparable. Financial aid packages may vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is essential for prospective students to consider their financial needs when comparing the two schools.

MIT vs Brown University Admissions Difficulty

Both MIT and Brown have highly competitive admissions processes, with acceptance rates around 6.7% and 5.4%, respectively. Each institution values academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities in their admissions processes. Given their selective nature, admission to either school is difficult, and prospective students should be prepared to showcase their unique strengths and achievements in their applications.

MIT vs Brown University Academic Difficulty

MIT is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and focus on science, engineering, and technology. Brown, on the other hand, is known for its open curriculum and emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. While both institutions offer challenging academic experiences, the academic culture and focus differ significantly. Prospective students should consider their academic interests and preferences when comparing the two schools.

MIT vs Brown University Outcome Comparison

MIT and Brown graduates enjoy successful careers in various industries, with median starting salaries of $88,000 and $70,000, respectively. Both institutions offer extensive career services and resources to help students secure internships and full-time positions. Furthermore, both schools boast strong alumni networks that support graduates throughout their careers. While MIT graduates may enjoy slightly higher starting salaries, both schools provide excellent outcomes and opportunities for their graduates.