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How To Get Into Harvard University

  • May 26, 2025
  • 3 minutes
Admitix Editorial Team

Harvard University is one of the world’s most prestigious universities, renowned for its exceptional academic rigor, groundbreaking research, and profound global influence.

As a proud member of the Ivy League, Harvard leads the way in innovation, thought leadership, and academic excellence.

How To Get Into Harvard University

Credit: Harvard University

Why Choose Harvard University?

Here’s why thousands of students from across the globe dream of attending Harvard:

FeatureDetails
Global Ranking4th worldwide (QS 2025)
Student PopulationOver 21,000 students (undergrad + grad)
CampusesCambridge, Massachusetts (main); Allston and Longwood (satellite campuses)
Ivy LeagueFounding member of the Ivy League
Graduate EmployabilityAmong the highest in the world, especially in law, business, medicine, and academia
Research ExcellenceGlobal leader in research across disciplines like genetics, economics, AI, and public policy

Entry Requirements for International Students

Harvard welcomes students from all countries and evaluates applications holistically, considering academics, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations.

Undergraduate Programs at Harvard University

RequirementDetails
Academic Qualification90–95%+ in Class XII (CBSE/ISC/State Boards) or equivalent
English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 100+ / IELTS 7.5+ (recommended)
Standardized TestsSAT or ACT (test-optional policy may apply)
Essays & RecommendationsRequired – Common App/Coalition App essays + 2 teacher recommendations
Extracurricular ProfileLeadership, awards, community service, or unique talents

Postgraduate Programs at Harvard University

RequirementDetails
Academic QualificationBachelor’s with strong First Class (75–85%+)
English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 100+ / IELTS 7.5+
GRE/GMATRequired for certain programs (e.g., MBA, Public Policy)
Work ExperienceRecommended or required for some programs (e.g., MBA, MPA)
Research ProposalFor research-based degrees (e.g., PhD)

Application Process to Harvard University

StepDetails
Research CoursesExplore Harvard’s schools and departments (e.g., Harvard College, HBS, GSAS)
Prepare DocumentsAcademic records, personal statement, test scores, LORs, resume, passport
Apply OnlineSubmit via Common App (UG) or program-specific portals (PG)
Pay FeesApplication fee: $85 (UG) / varies for PG
InterviewBy invitation only (UG and many PG programs)
Offer LetterDecisions released in March (UG) / varies for PG
Accept OfferConfirm your place and begin visa process
Apply for VisaF-1 student visa through U.S. Embassy/Consulate

Required Documents Checklist

DocumentUndergraduatePostgraduate
Academic TranscriptsYesYes
Statement of PurposeYes (essay)Yes
Letters of Recommendation22–3
English Test ScoresYesYes
Passport CopyYesYes
CV/ResumeOptionalOften required
PortfolioFor specific fields (e.g., Arts, Architecture)Required for programs like Design, M.Arch

Key Deadlines at Harvard University

IntakeApplication OpensDeadline
Fall Intake (UG)August (previous year)January 1 (RD) / November 1 (EA)
Rolling (PG)Varies by schoolVaries (typically Dec–Jan)

Important Dates for 2025 Entry

EventDate
UG Regular Decision DeadlineJanuary 1, 2025
PG Application DeadlinesDecember 2024 – January 2025
Financial Aid DeadlineFebruary 2025
Visa Documentation (I-20)May–June 2025
Course Start (Main Intake)August–September 2025

Popular Courses at Harvard

CourseDurationAnnual Tuition Fee (USD)
Bachelor of Arts/Science (UG)4 years$56,550
MBA (Harvard Business School)2 years$74,910
Master of Public Health (MPH)1.5 years$65,000
Master in Education (Ed.M.)1 year$54,000
Master in Data Science2 years$60,000
JD (Harvard Law School)3 years$73,600

Scholarships for International Students

Scholarship NameAmount (USD)Eligibility Criteria
Harvard Financial Aid InitiativeUp to 100% need-based aidDemonstrated financial need (UG)
Graduate FellowshipsPartial to full fundingMerit and need-based (PG programs)
External ScholarshipsVariesFulbright, Inlaks, Tata Trusts, etc.

Student Life & Support at Harvard

FeatureDetails
AccommodationOn-campus dorms for UG; PG housing options available
Part-Time WorkUp to 20 hours/week on campus during semesters
Student Societies400+ clubs including drama, debate, entrepreneurship
Career ServicesResume help, internships, networking with top employers
Health & WellbeingHarvard University Health Services (HUHS), fitness centers, therapy
International SupportOrientation, visa help, cultural events via Harvard International Office

Need Personalized Help?

With a well-prepared application, strong academics, and tailored guidance from Admitix, your dream of studying at Harvard University can become a reality.

Start your journey today!

FAQs – Harvard University

Is it hard to get into Harvard?
Yes. Harvard is one of the most competitive universities globally, with an undergraduate acceptance rate below 4%.

Does Harvard only offer liberal arts?
No. Harvard offers a broad spectrum of programs including STEM, business, law, medicine, and more.

What is the acceptance rate at Harvard?
For undergraduate programs, around 3.5–4%. Graduate school acceptance rates vary by department.

Can international students apply for financial aid?
Yes. Harvard offers need-based financial aid to all admitted students, regardless of nationality.

Do I need to submit a portfolio to Harvard?
Only for specific programs in the arts, architecture, or design. Always check individual department requirements.