MS in CS from a U.S. R1 university, GPA 3.97, PhD field: Cybersecurity / AI Security. 2 first-author papers (1 published, 1 under review at submission). Extensive RA experience and TA’d 4 graduate-level courses with multiple professors. Multiple awards. No GRE submitted. No interview or communication prior to the decision. Rejection email received at 6:36 PM.

no funded research experience; only self-contained project research

lol why did i even apply... notified via a random email, they didn't even bother to upload anything onto the portal that they made us all create an account on. What a joke... Hello! We have reviewed every application submitted for admission into our PhD program for 2026. With much sadness, I share that we are unable to accept you this year. I know the significant effort you have made in preparing your application and in laying the foundation for graduate work. I understand the disappointment that my note brings, and I am very sorry. We received 4154 applications from talented and educated individuals all around the world. Many applications came from outstanding candidates who will undoubtedly make important contributions to science, engineering, and technology. In EECS at MIT, we work hard to only admit candidates for the projects that are available, and hence the number is quite limited. Thank you for considering our PhD program for your educational plans to help you to achieve your career goals. I am confident that your hard work has paid off and that you have many amazing opportunities available to you. I wish you the very best in all your future endeavors.

2 single-authored papers in review, 2 strong RLs, internship at MIT, and was informally invited by the PI I mentioned in my SOP to join his lab.