Overview: FAQ
FAQ
LFM Program Information
- What degrees are granted upon completion of the LFM program?
- LFM was one of the original programs addressing challenges in manufacturing. How has the program focus evolved?
- How is LFM different from other management/engineering programs?
- Which engineering departments participate in the LFM program?
- What is the focus of the Engineering Systems option?
- What specific courses will I need to take for Mechanical Engineering?
- What about courses in the other engineering departments?
- How flexible is the academic timeline for LFM's curriculum? Can I take courses ahead of time and finish in less than two years?
- Why does the LFM program start in June instead of September? Are students required to participate in the summer program?
- Is there any way for me to join the LFM program mid-season? I just found out about this opportunity and would like to start as soon as possible.
- Does LFM offer a distance learning option?
- Are there other programs in manufacturing at MIT?
- How integrated are LFMs into the MIT Sloan MBA program?
- Which companies are members of the LFM partnership?
Internships & Plant Treks
- What types of internships does LFM offer?
- How are internships distributed?
- How can I research and plan for my 6.5 month internship?
- If I am sponsored, will my internship be with my company, or will I be able to use the internship to get experience in another company?
- Is participation in all LFM plant treks required? Are there additional costs for trips outside the Boston Area?
Admissions Information
- How many prospective students apply each year?
- What is the class size?
- I am not a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident. Can I still apply to the LFM program?
- How do I decide whether it would be best to apply through MIT Sloan or the School of Engineering ?
- I am applying through the School of Engineering . My department does not require some of the items required by LFM and LFM requires some items that are not required for my department. What should I submit?
- I am planning to apply to LFM through MIT Sloan. If I submit my materials in time for MIT Sloan's Round I deadline, will I receive notification (regarding MIT Sloan's decision) from the MBA program along with the other MIT Sloan Round I applicants?
- When will the LFM Admissions Committee notify applicants of its decisions?
- If accepted into the LFM program, is it possible to defer my admission?
- Does LFM offer feedback to non-admitted applicants?
Qualifications
- Am I a good candidate for LFM?
- I already have a Master's of Science degree or a Ph.D. or an MBA. Can I still apply to the LFM program?
- I do not have an undergraduate degree in engineering or science. Can I still apply to LFM?
- Do I need work experience to apply to the program?
- What if I don't have work experience in manufacturing or operations?
- Since I have focused more on operations strategy as part of my long-term career goals, I have not had substantial experience on the plant floor. Should I still apply to LFM?
- In addition to the basic qualifications, what qualities are most prevalent among LFM's competitive candidates?
- What is the grade point average of LFM students?
Tests and Test Scores
- Do I need to take both the GRE and the GMAT?
- Is the TOEFL or the IELTS required?
- If I already have a master's degree, do I still need to take the GRE/GMAT? How long are GRE/GMAT scores considered current?
- What school/departmental codes should I use when requesting my GRE/GMAT/TOEFL scores be sent to MIT?
- What are the average GMAT and GRE scores?
Financial Information and Sponsorship
- Does LFM offer financial aid?
- What other costs are students responsible for covering?
- My company will not offer to sponsor me to attend the LFM program. Can I still apply?
- Is there an obligation to work for a partner company after graduation?
- Are sponsored students required to work for their sponsoring company after graduation?
- My company is not a partner in the LFM program but would like to sponsor me to LFM. Is that possible?
- I work for one of LFM's partner companies, but don't know who to contact regarding sponsorship. Where do I find this information?
- My company has a tuition assistance/scholarship program for its employees. Can I be partially sponsored for LFM? Would my company still have to pay $50k or a percentage of that, based on less than full financial support?
- My company would like to find out about becoming an LFM partner. Who can I contact to find out more?
- Do "sponsored" applicants have a better chance of getting into the LFM program than non-sponsored students?
Visiting LFM and Interviews
- What are my options for visiting LFM on campus?
- What is the difference between the LFM Ambassador Program and the MIT Sloan Ambassador Program?
- Does LFM offer information events for prospective applicants?
- Does LFM offer informational interviews with faculty and staff members?
- What is LFM's interview policy?
Application Process
- What is the final admissions deadline for LFM?
- Can I submit a paper application to LFM?
- What is the difference between applying through the School of Engineering and through the MIT Sloan School of Management?
- Although LFM applicants are required to apply online, can I pay my application fee by other means?
- Do I need to send any application materials directly to LFM, or should I submit everything to MIT Sloan or the School of Engineering ?
- Where should I send my official transcripts?
- Do letters of recommendation have to be submitted online, or can my recommender send a hard copy letter?
- How can I check the status of my application prior to the admissions deadline? What if I am having technical problems with the online application?
- How long does the LFM evaluation process take and when will decisions be sent?
- How will I receive notification of LFM's admissions decision?
- If I am not accepted to LFM, when will I hear from my engineering department regarding my admissions decision?
- LFM and the department I’m applying through have different application deadlines. Which one should I follow?
LFM Program Information
What degrees are granted upon completion of the LFM program?
All LFM graduates earn two degrees:
- A Master of Science degree (sometimes referred to at MIT as an SM) in an engineering field in one of the participating departments in the School of Engineering, and
- An MBA or a Master of Science in Management from MIT Sloan.
The primary difference between the MBA and Master of Science is that the science degree requires a thesis. Since all LFM students complete a thesis as part of their program, LFM graduates may choose either the MBA or the Master of Science degree. The LFM program does not offer a Ph.D. track. Top
LFM was one of the original programs addressing challenges in manufacturing. How has the program focus evolved?
The program in recent years focuses on the significant trends in operations, such as the impacts of globalization and outsourcing.
TopHow is LFM different from other management/engineering programs?
LFM offers a strong integrative program based on the stature of both the MIT Sloan School of Management and the School of Engineering . The combination of extended internship, generous financial package to all students, and strong relationships with its industry partners is unique to the LFM program.
TopWhich engineering departments participate in the LFM program?
- Aeronautics & Astronautics
- Biological Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
- Engineering Systems
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
What is the focus of the Engineering Systems option?
Applicants to Engineering Systems are required to focus on a specialty area. Tracks of study available to LFM students currently include Manufacturing Systems and Supply Chains, and Systems Architecture and Engineering.
TopWhat specific courses will I need to take for Mechanical Engineering?
In Mechanical Engineering, students need to take two courses from a set of manufacturing physics courses which include manufacturing processes, assembly systems, controls, and equipment.
TopWhat about courses in the other engineering departments?
The set of additional courses is selected by each student with the help of advisors.
TopHow flexible is the academic timeline for LFM's curriculum? Can I take courses ahead of time and finish in less than two years?
LFM's rigorous structure is integral to the completion of two master's degrees in two years. While the program is open to considering flexibility in exceptional situations, deviation from the format is not recommended. Within LFM's structure, however, there is ample flexibility in the areas of academic opportunity and individual program focus. LFM offers only full-time, on-campus study. Part-time and distance study are not available.
TopWhy does the LFM program start in June instead of September? Are students required to participate in the summer program?
Offering LFM students the opportunity to earn two MIT degrees in two years is one of the program's highlights. In exchange for this accelerated opportunity, LFM has implemented a rigorous program structure, including a 6.5 month internship. The summer program is essential to establishing the foundation of the two-year program. All LFM students must start the program in the summer.
TopIs there any way for me to join the LFM program mid-season? I just found out about this opportunity and would like to start as soon as possible.
LFM is not academically structured to admit students outside the official admissions timeframe. If you have missed the deadline, we encourage you to use the coming months to research the program and continue gaining experience that would enhance your future LFM application.
TopDoes LFM offer a distance learning option?
LFM does not offer a distance learning option. If you are in a position to consider LFM's full-time, on-campus program, we encourage you to research the LFM Web site and send any inquiries you may have to lfm@mit.edu. If your situation limits you to distance learning studies, you may wish to research opportunities offered by MIT's System Design and Management Program.
TopAre there other programs in manufacturing at MIT?
Check out the 12-month Master of Engineering in Manufacturing degree program offered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
TopHow integrated are LFMs into the MIT Sloan MBA program?
LFM students are a vital part of the MBA class. LFMs take the same core classes as MBAs and are integral to MIT Sloan’s teams and cohorts.
TopWhich companies are members of the LFM partnership?
Please see the section on Partner Companies for a complete and current list.
TopInternships and Plant Treks
What types of internships does LFM offer?
The main types are:
- projects about improving, optimizing or analyzing the supply chain
- projects on analyzing or improving a manufacturing process
- projects that are designed to reduce variability and improve consistency in some aspect of the manufacturing or distribution system
- projects that involve the design and development cycle and its relationship with manufacturing
- projects that involve strategy for manufacturing or the supply chain
How are internships distributed?
LFM students bid on a list of available internships according to their preferences. LFM then assigns students based on these preferences and partner company needs. The process simulates a hiring process that takes into account both sets of preferences. All students are guaranteed internships. A committee of LFM second-year students manages this process with the Director of the LFM program.
TopHow can I research and plan for my 6.5 month internship?
During the first summer and fall terms, partner company representatives work with faculty to give overviews of their organizations and define internship projects. Second-year LFM students in the midst of their internships, alumni, and staff are also available to share information on how to align personal career goals with LFM's available internships.
TopIf I am sponsored, will my internship be with my company, or will I be able to use the internship to get experience in another company?
Sponsored students can go to another company if their sponsoring company and the proposed internship company approve.
TopIs participation in all LFM plant treks required? Are there additional costs for trips outside the Boston Area?
Local plant treks in the first summer and the two-week January plant trek are required. The January plant trek will cost a maximum of $500 but has always been significantly less than that. The international plant trek (Spring) is optional. The cost of this trip is approximately $1,500.
TopAdmissions Information
How many prospective students apply each year?
We receive an average of 200 applicants annually.
TopWhat is the class size?
The LFM class size ranges from 45 to 50. LFM students join 325 MIT Sloan MBA students in September. Visit the current first-year class profile for more details .
TopI am not a U.S. citizen or a Permanent Resident. Can I still apply to the LFM program?
LFM welcomes international applications. While all applications are carefully considered by LFM's Admissions Committee, preference may be given to those who are legally authorized to work where our partner companies have major facilities.
TopHow do I decide whether it would be best to apply through MIT Sloan or the School of Engineering ?
Candidates applying to LFM through the MIT Sloan School of Management will still be considered for the MBA program at MIT Sloan in the event they are not accepted to LFM. Candidates applying to LFM through most departments within the School of Engineering, with the exception of the Engineering Systems Division, will be considered for the engineering Master's or Ph.D. program in the department through which they are applying. One additional item to consider: MIT Sloan requires the GMAT or GRE, while if you are applying through Engineering, you must take the GRE. If you have taken one of these tests within 5 years of the application deadline, your scores are considered current and you may wish to choose your department of entry based on already having taken one of these tests.
TopI am applying through the School of Engineering . My department does not require some of the items required by LFM and LFM requires some items that are not required for my department. What should I submit?
You must submit admissions materials required by both departments for your application to be considered complete.
TopI am planning to apply to LFM through MIT Sloan. If I submit my materials in time for MIT Sloan's Round I deadline, will I receive notification (regarding MIT Sloan's decision) from the MBA program along with the other MIT Sloan Round I applicants?
No. LFM applicants will receive a decision on the MBA Round II decision date regardless of how early the application was submitted. There is no advantage to submitting an LFM application to MIT Sloan prior to the designated LFM deadline (other than finishing your application early).
TopWhen will the LFM Admissions Committee notify applicants of its decisions?
Notification will be sent via mail.
TopIf accepted into the LFM program, is it possible to defer my admission?
LFM does not offer deferrals. If you would like to apply again for the program in the future, you would need to follow the procedure required for reapplicants at that time. These requirements may change from year to year. Be sure to check for updates at the time you reapply.
TopDoes LFM offer feedback to non-admitted applicants?
We appreciate your continued interest in LFM. The LFM Admissions Committee evaluates each applicant both as an individual and against the merits of other applicants the same year. It is difficult to single out one reason for the decision on any applicant, and we are therefore unable to provide individual feedback. We welcome reapplications and encourage you to identify clearly additional experiences and achievements since your initial application.
TopQualifications
Am I a good candidate for LFM?
To be considered competitive, LFM applicants should have an undergraduate degree in engineering, biology, chemistry, computer science or physics plus a minimum of 2 years full-time, post-graduation work experience (3-5 years preferred).
TopI already have a Master's of Science degree or a Ph.D. or an MBA. Can I still apply to the LFM program?
If you already have an MS in engineering, you are encouraged to apply as long as you pursue a different engineering discipline for the LFM program. Some students have had a Ph.D. in engineering upon entering the program. We are hesitant to accept those who already hold MBAs.
Some restrictions may apply to applicants in your situation. You should research the engineering department(s) you are interested in (different from your MS discipline) to assure academic eligibility and include on your application why you feel an additional MS in this field would benefit your future goals. Choosing Your Department of Entry on the Application Process page of our Web site will give you more information about LFM's eight affiliated engineering departments. The contact information for Admissions in each engineering department is also available there.
TopI do not have an undergraduate degree in engineering or science. Can I still apply to LFM?
It is important that a student's academic history shows an ability to keep up with the rigorous requirements of the MIT engineering curriculum. Without a bachelor's degree in engineering or science, chances of admission are relatively low. If you feel that your transcripts reflect a strong record in math, science and/or engineering courses without an engineering or science degree, we encourage you to complete an application.
TopDo I need work experience to apply to the program?
LFM welcomes all applications. The most competitive applicants meet LFM's basic degree and post-graduation work requirements (two years of full-time work experience; three to five years are preferred).
TopWhat if I don't have work experience in manufacturing or operations?
LFM accepts students from diverse backgrounds. Each successful applicant clearly explains both why LFM would be the best next step toward furthering his or her educational and career goals and how his or her current background (particularly with regards to technical ability and leadership experience) would contribute to the cohort's group dynamic.
TopSince I have focused more on operations strategy as part of my long-term career goals, I have not had substantial experience on the plant floor. Should I still apply to LFM?
Absolutely! From its inception, LFM has defined Big M manufacturing to include the production process from product concept to delivery and service, including product development and supply chain.
TopIn addition to the basic qualifications, what qualities are most prevalent among LFM's competitive candidates? Successful LFM applicants show evidence of the following characteristics:
- Strong commitment to manufacturing and operations and desired engineering discipline
- Goal to excel in manufacturing and operations companies
- Interest in operations, supply chain and systems thinking
- Success in the workplace
- Competitive academic background
- Excellent leadership and communication skills
- Ability to work well with others and contribute to a team-based environment
- Solid English language skills demonstrated by essays, letters of recommendation and test scores.
What is the grade point average of LFM students?
Visit the first-year class profile for more details. Please keep in mind that averages are not minimums, and that all applications are carefully considered.
TopTests and Test Scores
Do I need to take both the GRE and the GMAT?
No. MIT Sloan requires the GMAT -or- the GRE. If you are applying to LFM through an engineering department you must take the GRE.
TopIs the TOEFL or the IELTS required?
MIT Sloan does not require the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) although most engineering departments require it for students whose native language is not English. If your department of entry requires TOEFL or IELTS you must submit current scores prior to the admissions deadline for your application to be considered complete.
TopIf I already have a master's degree, do I still need to take the GRE/GMAT? How long are GRE/GMAT scores considered current?
All applicants must submit current test scores. GMAT and GRE scores are considered current if taken within 5 years of the application deadline.
TopWhat school/departmental codes do I use when requesting my test scores to be sent to MIT?
MIT Sloan Applicants: GMAT X5X-QS-41 GRE 3791
Engineering Applicants: GRE/TOEFL 3514 (departmental codes are listed in the Graduate School of Engineering Application)
TopWhat are the average GMAT and GRE scores?
Visit the first-year class profile for more details . Please keep in mind that averages are not minimums, and that all applications are carefully considered.
TopFinancial Information and Sponsorship
Does LFM offer financial aid?
LFM's dedicated corporate partners provide generous fellowships for all LFM students.
Loans are also available through MIT and financial institutions.
TopWhat other costs are students responsible for covering?
Visit the program costs page for more details.
TopMy company will not sponsor me to attend the LFM program. Can I still apply?
Yes. The majority of LFM students are not sponsored by their former employers.
TopIs there an obligation to work for a partner company after graduation?
There is no post-graduation obligation requiring non-sponsored students to work for LFM partner companies. LFMs have had a long history of assuming leadership roles in a wide variety of manufacturing and operations companies, both partners and non-partners.
Partner companies fund the program with the expectation they will hire LFMs to meet their manufacturing/operations leadership needs. This industry/academic partnership allows LFM to offer its unique and generous fellowship. Students admitted to LFM should make a good faith effort to consider employment by our partners. Students are encouraged to use the networking and career development opportunities offered through LFM to become familiar with its partner companies and associated manufacturing job opportunities, as well as with other manufacturing and operations companies.
Students seeking careers in banking, financial services, or consulting should consider programs other than LFM that are more aligned with these career goals.
TopAre sponsored students required to work for their sponsoring company after graduation?
Sponsored students' obligations vary depending on the company.
TopMy company is not a partner in the LFM program but would like to sponsor me to LFM. Is that possible?
While company sponsorship of students into LFM is primarily reserved for LFM partners, LFM has occasionally allowed non-partner companies to sponsor an employee into the program. Those companies are asked to pay the student's full tuition plus a $50K premium. In addition to sponsorship of an employee into LFM, the fee allows the company to sponsor an LFM internship in the same academic cycle. LFM has found that the students who have come from non-partner organizations have enriched the cohort, and students have discovered that after their two years in the program they carry back to their organizations the knowledge and skills learned in the diverse LFM environment. Company-sponsored students go through the same rigorous admissions process as all LFM applicants.
Non-partner companies interested in sponsoring a student should contact Don Rosenfield, Director of the LFM Fellows program, to discuss this option.
TopI work for one of LFM's partner companies but don't know who to contact regarding sponsorship. Where do I find this information?
Speak with your Human Resources department or the company's LFM Operating Committee member. You may also contact Jon Griffith, LFM Director of Operations and Partner Integration.
TopMy company has a tuition assistance/scholarship program for its employees. Can I be partially sponsored for LFM? Would my company still have to pay $50k or a percentage of that, based on less than full financial support?
The LFM program office would need to review all such requests on an individual basis to determine whether sponsorship by a non-partner company is appropriate and to discuss financial arrangements. To discuss this option contact Don Rosenfield, Director of the LFM Fellows program.
TopMy company would like to find out about becoming an LFM partner. Who can I contact to find out more?
Contact Jon Griffith, LFM Director of Operations and Partner Integration.
TopDo "sponsored" applicants have a better chance of getting into the LFM program than non-sponsored students?
No, all applicants are reviewed on an equal basis.
TopVisits and Interviews
What are my options for visiting LFM?
LFM offers a variety of options for getting to know us.
Request a visitProspective students are welcome to visit campus and the LFM department informally at any time the Institute is open. Student and staff availability varies during times when the Ambassador Program is not available.
TopWhat is the difference between the LFM Ambassador Program and the MIT Sloan Ambassador Program?
Both Ambassador programs offer the benefit of program information through student contact and visiting classes when in session. Prospective students are welcome to visit campus through both programs. If you plan to visit both programs on the same day, please inform LFM of any time restrictions you may have. If you only have time for one program, you may want to prioritize visiting LFM to find out first-hand information and investigate the engineering schools.
TopDoes LFM offer information events for prospective applicants?
To find the latest offerings, visit our Admission Calendar. To register for an event, email lfm@mit.edu.
TopDoes LFM offer informational interviews with faculty and staff members?
LFM does not offer faculty or staff informational interviews. We have found that the best way for prospective students to find out about LFM is through its students and alumni. Prospective students are encouraged to take advantage of LFM's Ambassador Program. If after speaking to our students and/or alumni you still have questions, email us and an Admissions Officer will assist you.
TopWhat is LFM's interview policy?
Interviews are conducted by invitation only. Invitations are extended from January until the decision deadline.
TopApplication
What is the final admissions deadline for LFM?
LFM application materials for both MIT Sloan and Engineering applicants are due on the third Monday of December (December 15, 2008).
TopCan I submit a paper application to LFM?
All LFM applicants must submit an online application, either to the MIT Sloan School of Management or the Graduate School of Engineering. We do not accept paper applications.
TopWhat is the difference between applying through the School of Engineering and through the MIT Sloan School of Management?
The difference is in the outcome of your application if you are not admitted into the LFM program. Apply through the program you prefer to attend in the event you are not selected for the LFM program. If you are not accepted to the LFM program, your application will be considered for admission by the school through which you originally applied.
There is no formal process by which we can help you to make the decision of which school to apply through. We suggest that you determine where your strengths lie and weigh them against the school's acceptance criteria. You may also speak to LFM students, alumni, faculty and/or staff members to provide another perspective. Check the MIT Sloan Web site and the engineering department Web sites to help you make an informed decision.
Once the program begins, virtually no difference exists between students who applied through the School of Engineering and those who applied through MIT Sloan.
TopAlthough LFM applicants are required to apply online, can I pay my application fee by other means?
MIT Sloan Applicants: If you wish to pay by means other than a credit card, you must send an email to adcom@sloan.mit.edu at least one week before you intend to submit your online application, to indicate your interest and learn of the requirements regarding this option. The application fee cannot be waived.
Engineering Applicants: If you wish to pay by means other than a credit card, you must send an international money order or check drawn through a US bank containing your name in full and payable to “MIT Office of Admissions”. You must also include a copy of the first page of your online application, detailing your biographical information. Do not send cash or coupons. This fee will not be waived. Send check to:
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyOffice of Graduate Admissions
Room 3-103 (G)
77 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge , MA 02139 -4307
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Do I need to send any application materials directly to LFM, or should I submit everything to MIT Sloan or the School of Engineering?
All application materials should be submitted through your department of entry. LFM will receive completed applications from MIT Sloan and the School of Engineering after the admissions deadline. If you submit late materials, contact both your department of entry and LFM via email as soon as you are able. We do not guarantee full consideration of materials submitted after the application deadline.
TopWhere should I send my official transcripts?
Original transcripts should be sent directly to the department you are applying through. It is preferred that your academic institution sends these directly to the addresses listed on our Web site, although LFM accepts official transcripts sent directly from applicants. If you do not wish to part with your only original, send an email to lfm@mit.edu, to request permission for submitting a notarized copy of your record. Transcripts in languages other than English should be accompanied by an official or notarized translation .
TopDo letters of recommendation have to be submitted online, or can my recommender send a hard copy letter?
Hard copy letters are acceptable and should be submitted to your department of entry according to their instructions.
TopHow can I check the status of my application prior to the admissions deadline? What if I am having technical problems with the online application?
MIT Sloan Applicants: MIT Sloan Admissions will monitor the receipt of all admissions materials through the application deadline. If you have questions regarding the status of your materials, technical problems with the online application, or deadline-related concerns, email mbaadmissions@sloan.mit.edu or call 617.258.5434.
Engineering Applicants : The engineering department to which you are applying will monitor the receipt of all admissions materials through the application deadline. If you have questions regarding the status of your materials or deadline related concerns, contact your engineering department directly. If you encounter technical difficulty with the online application, email help@collegenet.com or call 503.973.5213.
TopHow long does the LFM evaluation process take and when will decisions be sent?
LFM receives applications from MIT Sloan and the School of Engineering shortly after the admissions deadline. Completed applications will be read and discussed by the Admissions Committee (including LFM/MIT Sloan/Engineering faculty and staff as well as industry representatives). This evaluation process will continue through the end of February. Decisions will be mailed on March 9, 2009.
TopHow will I receive notification of LFM's admissions decision?
LFM will mail admissions decisions on March 9, 2009 to all applicants. LFM does not notify applicants online or via phone.
TopIf I am not accepted to LFM, when will I hear from my engineering department regarding my admissions decision?
Engineering applicants who are not admitted to LFM will be reviewed for the Master's of Science in Engineering by their respective engineering departments and notified of their admissions decision in March or April. Contact your engineering department for more detailed information.
TopLFM and the department I’m applying through have different application deadlines. Which one should I follow?
All LFM applications are due the third Monday of December regardless of other department deadlines.
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