Can you solve 7x – 5y = 24? Find out if you could have gained admission to MIT with this viral entrance exam

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has long been recognized as a premier institution for engineering, mathematics, and science. With a history spanning almost 200 years since its founding in 1861, the institute boasts over 101 Nobel laureates and 8 Fields Medalists among its alumni and faculty. However, its admission process remains one of the most selective in the world, with an acceptance rate of only 4%. Recently, an entrance exam from June 1869 has captured the attention of the internet, offering a glimpse into the past of one of the most prestigious academic environments.

MIT Entrance Exam from 1869

A Reddit post showcasing the entrance exam question paper has gone viral. The exam paper, dated just eight years after MIT’s establishment, reflects a different approach to admissions. Initially, students who enrolled in 1865 were not required to take formal entrance exams; they only needed to be “properly prepared.” However, an entrance test was introduced later, and the 1869 paper includes an algebra section.

MIT Entrance Examination for 1869-1870
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Content of the Exam

The test bears the title “Massachusetts Institute of Technology” and presents algebraic equations that many find surprisingly simple. In addition to algebra, the original test reportedly included sections on geometry, arithmetic, English, and calculus.

Social Media Reactions

The reaction to the historical exam has been mixed, with many users on social media expressing amusement at the perceived simplicity of the questions. One user commented, “Good to know that I could have joined MIT in 1870. Yeah, these are surprisingly easy; I didn’t actually solve them, but there is nothing here I don’t know how to solve, and I only have high-school level math from decades ago.” Another user remarked, “None of the above problems require a calculator! They only require a basic understanding of Algebra. Most can be solved mentally without even requiring to put pen on paper to be honest.” A third commenter exclaimed, “HOLY MOLY I could get into MIT back in 1869.”

The viral entrance exam paper from MIT not only offers a fascinating look at the institute’s history but also highlights how educational standards and expectations have evolved over the years. While the challenges of admission remain high, this glimpse into the past reminds us that even the most elite institutions once embraced simpler measures of knowledge.