How To Get Into Harvard Business School: Harvard Business School (HBS) is one of the most famous business schools in the world. It is part of Harvard University and is located in Boston. Founded in 1908, HBS remains one of the top-ranked business schools globally, consistently placing among the top five MBA programs each year.
Getting into HBS is tough, so you need a strong application. While the application process is similar to other MBA programs, HBS has specific expectations that you must meet to increase your chances of acceptance. This guide will help you understand how to get into Harvard Business School. Let’s get started.
Table of contents
- How to Get Into Harvard Business School: Step-by-Step Guide
- Harvard Business School Admissions Requirements
- Harvard Business School Admissions Statistics
- How to Prepare for the Harvard Business School Interview?
- How To Get Into Harvard Business School: Acceptance Rate
- Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting into HBS
- FAQs
How to Get Into Harvard Business School: Step-by-Step Guide
Wondering how to get into Harvard Business School? HBS is highly competitive, requiring strong academics, leadership experience, and a well-prepared application. To improve your chances, you need to plan carefully—excelling in studies, gaining work experience, writing a great essay, and preparing for the interview. Here are the key steps to help you get into Harvard Business School.
1. Understand What HBS is Looking For
- HBS seeks candidates with leadership potential, analytical skills, and a strong sense of community.
- Highlight achievements that showcase leadership skills.
- Maintain strong academic records and aim for a GMAT score between 725-735.
- Show integrity, teamwork, and a willingness to learn from others.
2. Ace the GMAT/GRE
- A strong GMAT/GRE score boosts your application (average GMAT: ~730).
- A lower score can be compensated with strengths in other areas.
3. Craft a Compelling Essay
- Use the essay to tell your unique story and aspirations.
- Be authentic—highlight personal experiences and what you bring to HBS.
4. Gather Strong Recommendations
- HBS requires two letters of recommendation.
- Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide detailed insights into your leadership and character.
5. Nail the Interview
- If shortlisted, you’ll face a thorough, fast-paced interview with the admissions committee.
- Be prepared to discuss all aspects of your application.
6. HBS Post-Interview Reflection
- Submit a 300-450 word reflection within 24 hours of the interview.
- Use this to clarify any points, add insights, and reinforce your commitment.
7. Stay Updated and Engaged
- Attend HBS webinars, information sessions, and networking events.
- Connecting with current students and alumni can provide valuable insights.
8. Apply Early but Only When Ready
- Early applications show enthusiasm, but only apply when your profile is strongest.
- If needed, wait for a later round to improve test scores or refine your essay.
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Harvard Business School Admissions Requirements
Harvard Business School (HBS) is a highly respected MBA program that attracts talented students from all over the world. Getting admitted requires a strong application that showcases your academic performance, leadership qualities, and professional achievements. Below is a list of key requirements you must fulfill to be considered for admission.
- Undergraduate Transcripts: Strong academic performance is key.
- GMAT/GRE Scores: A competitive score strengthens your profile.
- English Proficiency Test: Required for non-native English speakers.
- Essay: Showcases leadership, achievements, and career goals.
- Two Recommendation Letters: From mentors or supervisors highlighting your impact.
- Business Resume: Emphasizing professional growth and leadership.
- Application Fee ($250) or Waiver.
- Interview (By Invitation): Evaluates leadership potential and fit.
- Post-Interview Reflection: A 24-hour submission summarizing key takeaways.
Harvard Business School Admissions Statistics
Each year, thousands of applicants apply, but only a small percentage get admitted into Harvard Business School. To improve your chances, it’s important to understand the key admission statistics, including GPA, test scores, work experience, and employment rates. Let’s take a closer look at the key admission statistics of the Harvard Business School:
| Category | Details |
| Average GPA | 3.73 |
| Recommended Minimum GPA | 3.7 (Aim for 4.0) |
| Average GMAT Score | 740 |
| GMAT/GRE Requirement | You can submit either GMAT or GRE |
| Average GRE Score | 163 |
| Employment Rate After Graduation | 80% |
| Average Work Experience | 4.9 years |
| Common Industries | Consulting, Retail, Finance, Healthcare |
How to Prepare for the Harvard Business School Interview?
The Harvard Business School (HBS) interview is an important step in the admission process. It helps the admissions team understand your leadership skills, career goals, and overall fit for the program. Here’s how you can prepare:
1. Understand the Interview Process
- The interview lasts 30 to 60 minutes and is conducted by an HBS admissions officer.
- Questions are personalized based on your application.
2. Review Your Application
- Be prepared to discuss your resume, essay, and career journey.
- Expect questions about your leadership experiences and decision-making skills.
- Be honest and confident in explaining any gaps or changes in your career.
3. Practice Common Questions
While every interview is different, some common questions include:
- Why do you want to study at HBS?
- Tell me about a leadership challenge you faced.
- How do you handle criticism and feedback?
- What are your long-term career goals?
4. Use Real-Life Examples
- Answer questions using specific experiences from work or personal life.
- Keep your answers clear, short, and structured.
5. Stay Updated on Business Trends
- HBS values awareness of industry trends and global issues.
- Be ready to share your thoughts on business challenges and leadership.
6. Practice Mock Interviews
- Do practice interviews with friends or mentors.
- Work on clear communication, confidence, and body language.
7. Prepare for the Post-Interview Reflection
- HBS asks you to submit a reflection within 24 hours after the interview.
- Use it to clarify any points and express your enthusiasm for the program.
8. Be Yourself!
- HBS wants to know who you are—so be honest, confident, and show your passion for leadership and learning. Good luck!
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How To Get Into Harvard Business School: Acceptance Rate
Now that you know how to get into Harvard Business School, it’s important to understand just how competitive the admissions process is. HBS has an acceptance rate of just 11.5%, meaning only 938 students were admitted out of 8,149 applications. This low rate highlights the school’s high standards and focus on selecting exceptional candidates with strong academic and leadership potential.
If you aim to secure a spot at HBS, make sure your application is outstanding and submitted on time. Keep in mind that this acceptance rate is an estimate, as many MBA programs no longer release official data.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting into HBS
Getting into Harvard Business School (HBS) is highly competitive, but with careful planning, a strong application, and the right mindset, you can improve your chances of admission. Here are some simple tips to help you stand out:
- Strong GMAT/GRE Score – Aim for a high score to stay competitive.
- Outstanding Academic Record – A solid GPA from a reputable institution helps.
- Clear Career Goals – Show a strong vision and how HBS fits into it.
- Leadership Experience – Highlight leadership roles in work and extracurriculars.
- Impactful Work Experience – Demonstrate career growth and meaningful contributions.
- Compelling Essays – Tell a unique and authentic story that sets you apart.
- Strong Letters of Recommendation – Choose recommenders who know you well and can highlight your strengths.
- Extracurricular Involvement – Show engagement in meaningful activities outside of work.
- Networking & Research – Connect with HBS alumni and understand the school’s values.
- Polished Interview Performance – Prepare thoroughly and communicate your story confidently.
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FAQs
If your GMAT score is below the average (which is around 730), you can still get into HBS by excelling in other areas. A strong academic background, leadership experience, impactful work history, and a well-written essay can compensate for a lower score. You can also consider taking the GRE instead, as HBS accepts both GMAT and GRE scores.
After the interview, you must submit a 300–450 word reflection within 24 hours. This is an opportunity to address anything you missed in the interview and reinforce your enthusiasm for HBS.
The HBS interview lasts 30–60 minutes and focuses on your resume, achievements, leadership experiences, and career goals. If you’re serious about how to get into Harvard Business School, practice answering behavioral questions and be prepared to discuss your biggest leadership challenges.
Work experience is crucial, with most HBS students having 4–5 years. However, if you’re applying with minimal experience, highlight leadership roles, internships, and exceptional academic achievements to increase your chances.
HBS admits students from diverse industries like consulting, finance, tech, healthcare, and the arts. If you’re from a non-business background, focus on leadership, career progression, and transferable skills.
International students should meet the same criteria as domestic applicants. If your undergraduate degree was not in English, take TOEFL or IELTS. Also, highlight global work experience and cross-cultural leadership.
Two letters of recommendation are required for Harvard Business School.
The HBS essay is open-ended, giving you the opportunity to share your personal journey, goals, and impact. When writing your essay, clearly express why you want to attend HBS and how you will contribute to the school’s community.
There is no specific industry requirement. Students come from consulting, finance, technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and even arts or nonprofit sectors. The key is to demonstrate leadership, impact, and career progression in your field.
The acceptance rate for Harvard Business School is approximately 11.5%, making it one of the most competitive MBA programs in the world.
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