How to Get into Harvard University: Getting into Harvard University is a dream for many students, but it takes more than just good grades. As one of most competitive universities in the world, you need to stand out in different areas. You should show your academic skills, leadership, and unique experiences.
This guide will help you understand the steps and requirements for “How to Get into Harvard.” From good grades to extracurricular activities and what makes you special, all of these things are important. By focusing on them, you can increase your chances of getting accepted.
Table of contents
- Admission Process at Harvard for Students
- Admission Requirement for Harvard University
- How to Get Into Harvard University: Preparing for the Interview
- Cost of Studying at Harvard University
- Harvard University Scholarships for International Students
- Why Harvard University Attracts Students in the World?
- Famous Indian Alumni of Harvard University
- Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Harvard
- FAQs
Admission Process at Harvard for Students
If you’re wondering how to get into Harvard as an Indian student, the process follows the same steps as for all international applicants. Harvard University has specific requirements and guidelines for students applying from outside the United States, but with careful preparation, you can successfully navigate the application process. Here are the key steps and requirements:
- Application Forms: Complete either the Common Application or the Coalition Application with required supplements.
- Standardized Tests: Submit SAT or ACT scores, or alternative exams like AP, IB, or national exams if SAT/ACT isn’t available.
- Academic Transcripts: Provide transcripts with English translations if needed.
- Financial Aid: Apply for financial aid based on need; it won’t affect your admission chances.
- Interviews: Interviews are optional and won’t impact your application if not conducted.
- Additional Documentation: You may need to submit extra documents based on your school’s grading system.
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Admission Requirement for Harvard University
Harvard is one of the toughest universities to get into in the USA. To apply, you need strong grades, good test scores, involvement in extracurricular activities, and a well-written application that showcases your achievements and personal qualities. Here’s a quick overview of the key requirements for applying to Harvard.
Application Platforms: Apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application on Scoir. After submitting the application you will get email confirmation and a PIN. The PIN helps to log into the Applicant Portal.
Required Materials:
- Application Form: Fill out the form on your chosen platform.
- Activities List: List your extracurricular activities.
- Personal Essay: Write an essay based on the prompts.
- Harvard Supplement: Answer five short questions (150 words each).
- Application Fee: Pay an $85 fee or request a fee waiver.
- Test Scores: Submit SAT or ACT scores. If you can’t take them, AP or IB scores may be accepted.
- Supplemental Materials: Optional items like music recordings, artwork, or academic work.
- School Report: Include your counselor’s letter and high school transcript.
- Teacher Recommendations: Two letters from teachers who know you well.
- Midyear Report: Grades from the first part of senior year.
- Final Report: For admitted students only.
Submission Method: Applications can be submitted online for faster processing, or mailed, but only one method should be chosen.
How to Get Into Harvard University: Preparing for the Interview
If you’re wondering how to get into Harvard University, preparing well for the interview is an important step in the process. The interview is your chance to showcase your personality, passions, and fit for Harvard. Here are some common questions you may be asked during your interview.
- Please brief the panel regarding your academic interests.
- What skills would you want to develop during this education program?
- Why are you interested in studying at Harvard University?
- What subjects or areas are you most passionate about, and why?
- Talk about an academic challenge that you faced.
- What are your long-term goals, and how do you think Harvard will help you achieve them?
- Describe your leadership experience.
- How have you been involved in extracurricular activities, and what have you learned from them?
- What are your plans to contribute to the Harvard community?
- How do you keep yourself updated with the current happenings around the world?
Tips to Ace the Interview
A successful Harvard interview is not just about having the right answers—it’s about presenting your best self. This is your chance to highlight your personality, passion, and fit for Harvard. Here are some key tips to help you stand out and leave a lasting impression.
- Be Yourself: Be genuine and let your true personality show.
- Research Harvard: Learn about the university’s values, programs, and community.
- Practice Common Questions: Think about how to answer common interview questions.
- Show Passion: Talk excitedly about your academic and extracurricular interests.
- Be Honest About Weaknesses: Share areas you’re working to improve and how you’re doing it.
- Ask Good Questions: Ask meaningful questions about the university to show interest.
- Show Leadership and Teamwork: Share examples of when you’ve led or worked with others.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Stay calm, even when discussing challenges or failures.
Also Read:
- Oxford vs Harvard University: Which one is better for Study abroad?
- Public vs Private University: Key Difference Between Universities
Cost of Studying at Harvard University
Harvard University fees include various components like tuition, hostel, insurance, transportation, and deposits. Some fees are one-time, while others, like tuition, are paid semester-wise or annually. The fee structure may vary based on the course or specialization chosen. Check the table below for the total tuition fees at Harvard University.
| Course level | Annual Tuition Fee in INR |
| UG | INR 51.17 L – 53.42 L |
| PG | INR 17.22 L – 66.78 L |
Harvard University Scholarships for International Students
Here’s a detailed table listing some scholarships available for Indian students at Harvard University, along with their eligibility criteria to help you understand the opportunities for funding your education.
| S.No. | Scholarship Name | Eligibility |
| 1 | Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship | For graduate students at Harvard. Preference for those aiming to work in public service. Must show leadership and community commitment. |
| 2 | Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship | For students accepted into Harvard MBA. Must have strong academics and interest in the developing world. Financial need may be considered. |
| 3 | The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship | For life sciences students. Must show financial need, academic excellence, and commitment to advancing knowledge in the field. |
| 4 | HGSE Financial Aid | For students at Harvard Graduate School of Education. Based on financial need and sometimes academic merit. |
| 5 | Aga Khan Scholarship | For students from developing countries (including India). Must show financial need and commitment to social impact after studies. |
| 6 | The Banyan Impact Fellowship | For students committed to social impact. Must have strong academics and leadership in sustainable development projects. |
| 7 | Harvard Medical School Financial Aid | For students at Harvard Medical School. Based on financial need assessed through the application process. |
| 8 | GSAS Fellowships | For graduate students in various GSAS disciplines. Based on academic excellence, financial need, and departmental recommendations. |
| 9 | Kim and Stephen Denning Scholarships | For graduate students showing promise in their field. Must show commitment to social enterprise or leadership in their communities. |
| 10 | The OPM Fellowship | For graduate students interested in public service/government. Must have a background in public policy or related fields and commit to public service after studies. |
| 11 | Harvard Kennedy School Financial Aid | For Harvard Kennedy School students. Based on financial need with encouragement for diverse applicants. |
| 12 | The Zuckerman Fellowship Program | For outstanding graduate students in leadership roles tackling societal challenges. Must have academic excellence and prior leadership experience. |
| 13 | Edwin S. Webster Fellowship | For graduate students focused on improving public service and community engagement. Based on leadership and motivation to create change. |
| 14 | Frank Knox Memorial Fellowship | For international students committed to their home countries. Must show leadership potential and contribute positively to society post-study. |
| 15 | Harvard Business School (HBS) Scholarships | For HBS students. Based on merit and financial need, must have outstanding academic records and professional accomplishments. |
| 16 | R. David Thomas Scholarship | For MBA students showing financial need and commitment to leadership in minority communities. Supports underrepresented groups in business education. |
| 17 | The Gates Scholarship | For high school seniors from low-income households with outstanding academics. Must demonstrate leadership, resilience, and impact on their community. Requires essays and recommendations. |
Why Harvard University Attracts Students in the World?
Harvard University is a top choice for many students who want to study in the US. It is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the world, known for its great academics and leadership. Harvard has a strong reputation both in India and around the world. If you get into Harvard, you become part of its rich history, which includes many famous thinkers, Nobel Prize winners, and leaders.
Famous Indian Alumni of Harvard University
Harvard University has many famous Indian alumni who have achieved success in various fields. Some of the famous Indian Harvard alumni are listed in the table below:
| Name | Notable Position/Contribution | Year of Graduation |
| Ratan Tata | Former Chairman of Tata Group | 1975 |
| Sundar Pichai | CEO of Alphabet Inc. (Google’s parent company) | MBA, 2002 |
| Raghuram Rajan | Former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India | PhD, 1991 |
| Anand Mahindra | Chairman of Mahindra Group | MBA, 1981 |
| Rahul Bajaj | Former Chairman of Bajaj Auto | 1964 |
| Suhel Seth | Author, Consultant, Public Speaker | MBA, 1996 |
| Ashish Nanda | Former Dean of Harvard Law School | PhD, 1993 |
| N. R. Narayana Murthy | Co-founder of Infosys | MBA, 1969 |
| K. Radhakrishnan | Former Chairman of ISRO | 1975 |
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Harvard
If you’re wondering how to get into Harvard, it’s important to know that it’s a competitive process. Harvard looks for more than just good grades—they want students who show strong academics, leadership, and a passion for making a difference. Here are some simple tips to help you stand out:
- Applying through Early Action increases your chances of getting into Harvard, as the acceptance rate is higher than regular decisions. It shows your interest in the university and helps you plan your next steps sooner.
- Harvard likes students who push themselves. Take tough courses like AP or IB and aim for high grades (a GPA of 4.0 or higher). This helps you stand out from other applicants.
- Even though submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional, sending high scores can strengthen your application. A score of 1580 or higher on the SAT, or 35-36 on the ACT, shows you are academically strong.
- Harvard values students who make a difference. Get involved in activities, take on leadership roles, and help your community. Starting a club or leading a community project shows leadership and dedication.
- Write a Strong Personal Essay. Your essay is a chance to show who you are. Share your experiences, values, and what makes you unique. A well-written essay helps Harvard see why you’d be a great fit for their community.
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FAQs
To get into Harvard, focus on achieving top academic performance, excelling in standardized tests (though optional), engaging in meaningful extracurriculars, and submitting a compelling personal essay. Harvard values strong academic records, leadership qualities, and a genuine passion for your field.
While a strong GPA is important, you can still get into Harvard with a lower GPA if you have a compelling story. Focus on excelling in standardized tests, showcasing leadership in extracurricular activities, and writing an exceptional personal essay.
To apply, you must have completed high school or an equivalent qualification. Strong academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and high standardized test scores (if applicable) are essential.
No, the SAT/ACT is optional for 2025 applicants. You can submit scores if you think they will enhance your application, but it’s not required.
Interviews are optional, but they can offer a great opportunity to further demonstrate your interest in Harvard and explain why you’re a good fit.
Applying via Early Action can improve your chances slightly, as the acceptance rate tends to be higher for early applicants. Early Action is non-binding.
Harvard values well-rounded individuals. If you have limited extracurricular activities, you can still get into Harvard by excelling in other areas like academics, standardized tests, and submitting a powerful personal essay that reflects your growth and potential.
For a focus on environmental sciences, demonstrate your interest through relevant coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities like environmental clubs, projects, or volunteer work. Harvard looks for students passionate about solving global challenges in the sciences.
While Harvard has become test-optional recently, strong SAT or ACT scores can still enhance your application. However, a high GPA and outstanding extracurricular achievements are equally important.
Your essay should reflect who you are as a person and provide insight into your character, goals, and motivations. Write about a meaningful experience or passion that will help the admissions committee understand you beyond your grades and test scores.
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