Interphase EDGE/x FAQ

What is the difference between Interphase EDGE and Interphase EDGEx?

Interphase EDGE requires scholars to be on campus for the full 8 weeks, fostering an immersive experience. Interphase EDGEx features a mostly online summer component, and scholars in EDGEx join the on-campus cohort in week 6 for the final 2 weeks, culminating in an enriching in-person experience. This structure offers a blend of online flexibility and on-campus engagement, providing a comprehensive learning experience.

Why was Interphase EDGEx created?

The number of students applying to the Interphase EDGE program has been increasing annually. However, the capacity to bring students to campus remains unchanged. Interphase EDGEx is the OME's initiative to accommodate as many students as possible within the Interphase program

How do I apply to Interphase EDGE/x?

The joint application will go live on Thursday, March 21st, 2024 at 12pm EST

Who is eligible to apply to Interphase EDGE/x?

All admitted MIT incoming first-year students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible to apply, but only enrolled students may participate.

What do I have to submit to have a complete application?

 Your application is only considered complete when you have submitted your online Interphase EDGE/x application, including your personal statement, by Monday, April 22nd, 2024, at 12 pm EST

The application asks for a non-academic letter of recommendation. Who can write that for me?

This letter should be written by someone who has known/worked with you for at least 2 years. This person can be a teacher who is an extra-curricular advisor or who has a relationship with you outside of academics, such as a coach, a minister, a scout leader, etc. A letter of recommendation from a family member will not be accepted.

If I have a question about the application process whom can I contact?

You may email interphase [at] mit.edu (subject: Question%20about%20Interphase%20EDGE%20Application) (interphase[at]mit[dot]edu). We will try to respond to all questions within 48 hours except for questions submitted on weekends or holidays.

What is the selection process?

You can submit an application as soon as the online application opens, but it will not be reviewed until after you have been admitted to MIT. After admission, we review your Interphase EDGE/x application alongside your MIT application. A diverse selection committee will then determine which applicants will become Interphase EDGE/x scholars.

What if my graduation date is after the start of the summer component of Interphase EDGE?

You are still strongly encouraged to apply, and we will make decisions on a case-by-case basis.

When does the Interphase EDGE/x program officially end?

The Interphase EDGE/x program officially concludes at the end of the spring semester of your sophomore year. In May of your sophomore year, we will host a graduation ceremony to formally recognize and celebrate your achievements and contributions to Interphase programming. This ceremony serves as a culmination of your two-year journey with the program.

Who will be my academic advisor(s)?

Your academic advisors will be the Interphase Administrative staff with whom you closely collaborate during the summer. The relationships you build over the summer will contribute to the strength of the advisor-advisee dynamic. Both Interphase EDGE and Interphase EDGEx scholars will experience a structured advising format, involving monthly one-on-one check-ins with your advisor for personalized academic guidance

What are the program dates for the summer part of Interphase EDGE/x 2024 Program?

The summer portion of the Interphase EDGE/x 2024 Program is set to run from Tuesday, June 18th, 2024, through Friday, August 9th, 2024.

When is the deadline to apply?

The application portal will close Monday, April 22nd, 2024 at 12pm EDT

When will decisions be made?

All applicants will receive notifications via the email provided on their application by Tuesday, May 21st, 2024, at 12 pm EDT

Once accepted, when do I need to notify your office of my decision to participate?

To secure your spot, you need to complete the Interphase EDGE/x Participant Confirmation webform by Friday, May 24th, at 12 pm EDT. If you do not respond by the deadline, you will forfeit your spot. In such cases, applicants on the waitlist will be considered for admission into the program. The finalization of the cohort will be completed by Friday, May 31st.

How many students generally participate in the program?

We anticipate an approximate total of 90 students for the program, with 70 on-campus scholars and 20 participating online

When do classes for Interphase EDGEx Scholars begin?

Interphase EDGE/x classes kick off on Monday, June 24th, 2024. Before the start of classes, scholars must participate in a mandatory 3-day Interphase orientation, which encompasses sessions with the Office of the First Year (OFY) and the Career Advising and Professional Development (CAPD)

What types of classes will Interphase EDGE scholars be taking over the summer?

You will be taking calculus, chemistry, physics, communication/writing classes, and physical education.

What classes are offered to Interphase EDGEx Scholars?

Interphase EDGEx scholars will engage in physics and calculus classes, actively participating in weekly hands-on technical projects. Furthermore, each scholar will finalize a Communications Capstone Project by the end of the summer, facilitating a smoother transition into MIT. In a new offering this year, Interphase EDGEx scholars will have the opportunity to partake in asynchronous Physical Education courses!

 

Will Interphase EDGEx Scholars be given the opportunity to take their swim test before First Year Orientation?

For Interphase EDGE (on-campus) scholars, the swim test is scheduled at the start of the Interphase summer during their orientation week. In contrast, Interphase EDGEx (remote) scholars will have the opportunity to complete their swim test during their first week on campus (week 7).

Do I still have to take the Freshman Essay Evaluation (FEE)?

Yes. Interphase EDGE/x scholars will be extremely busy with their summer curriculum and should plan to take the first FEE exam. Read more information about the FEE.

Do I have to pay for the summer component of Interphase EDGE?

No, you do not have to pay for the summer component of Interphase EDGE/x. However, it is recommended to bring money for personal and incidental items, such as bedding, towels, and personal care items for your dorm room

What happens to my student summer earnings expectation in my financial aid package during the summer component of Interphase EDGE?

During the summer component of Interphase EDGE/x:

  • First Summer:
    • Your student summer earnings expectation is fully waived for the required residential/on-campus component.
  • Second Summer:
    • There is no required residential/on-campus component, but if you meet the program requirements, half of your summer earnings expectation will be waived.

For personalized information about this waiver and specific details, please reach out to MIT’s Student Financial Services.

 

When will Interphase EDGEx Scholars be brought to campus?

Interphase EDGEx scholars will be brought to campus for two weeks, specifically during week 7 and week 8, preceding the conclusion of the summer programming. During this time, activities will be organized to facilitate the holistic integration of both remote scholars and on-campus cohorts

Can I plan to arrive early if I am admitted into the on campus cohort?

We do not generally allow early arrivals, however these are generally dealt with on a case by case bases. Please contact interphase [at] mit.edu (interphase[at]mit[dot]edu) for more information.

I will not be able to get to campus by arrival day (because my family is out of town, etc.). Can I arrive late?

Late arrivals are generally not allowed, considering the importance of the events and activities during the first week of the summer programming. If you have concerns or questions about your specific circumstances, please email interphase [at] mit.edu (interphase[at]mit[dot]edu) for further assistance

Will there be transportation?

Yes, transportation is provided on arrival day only, starting as early as 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., from Logan Airport (BOS). If your arrival is after 4 p.m., you may need to make your own arrangements for transportation to campus. The MBTA train from the airport to MIT costs $2.75, and a taxi ride typically ranges between $30 and $35. Further details will be provided as the arrival date approaches.

Can I select my roommate for the summer program?

No. Your roommate will be selected for you. 

Can I have visitors during the summer program?

No, the academic demands and scheduled social activities within the program are likely to occupy much of your time, leaving limited opportunities for socializing outside of the program

Am I allowed to go home during the summer program once I arrive on campus?

No, the summer program is demanding, and, unless there are rare or pre-arranged exceptions, you will not be permitted to go home. However, after moving into your fall dorm on Friday, August 9th, you are welcome to return home.