All undergraduate students are required to complete the Biology General Institute Requirement (GIR). There are two ways for you to complete this requirement: core class 7.01x or the Biology Advanced Standing Exam.
Core class 7.01x
Every semester we offer several versions of the Biology GIR: 7.01x. All of the classes cover the same core material, as well as distinctive material.
The core material focuses on function at a molecular level including:
- Molecules of Life
- Enzymes and metabolism
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Subject options
You can make changes to your recitation section in your 7.01x Canvas site.
7.012
7.014
7.015
7.016
7.01x Comparison Sheet
| Class | Offered | Typical enrollment | Lecture | Recitations | Suggested background knowledge | Other considerations |
| 7.012 | Fall | 350-400 | MWF 10 – 11am | TR multiple times | None | Covers broad range of topics in biology. Excellent option for those with little exposure to Biology. Recommended for first years and sophomores (does not fit in the schedule of most upperclassmen) |
| 7.015 | Fall | Limited to 60 | TR 9:30 – 11am | MW multiple times | Some chemistry suggested | Teaches fundamentals through modules and discussions; Ideal for students who prefer a smaller sized class |
| 7.014 | Spring | ~180 | MWF 11 – 12pm noon | TR | Some chemistry suggested | Emphasize on ecology, evolution, and earth as dynamic system |
| 7.016 | Spring | ~220 | MWF 10 – 11am | TR | None | Spring 7.01x option that is similar to 7.012 in content. |
Lottery information
All biology classes where the number of students registered surpasses the number of seats available will be subjected to a general lottery.
To be considered for an over-enrolled 7.01x course, first year students should register by the fall registration deadline, the last Thursday in August before Labor Day.
Please note that students who are not lotteried into a class may need to enroll in a Biology GIR: 7.01x class in a subsequent semester.
If you have additional questions about the lottery process, contact biogir@mit.edu.
GIR Video
Joshua Stone, Undergraduate Office stonej@mit.edu
Janice Chang, Educational Administrator jdchang@mit.edu