How to Get Into Harvard: A Complete Guide

Did you know that the acceptance rate for Harvard College is a mere 3%? It means that out of every 100 applications, only three are accepted. While it’s a daunting statistic, it shouldn’t deter you from pursuing your dream of attending this prestigious institution.

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the prospect of getting into Harvard, you’re not alone. The admissions process can be quite intimidating, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can significantly increase your chances of success. This comprehensive blog is your one-stop guide to cracking the Harvard admissions code and will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to ace the application process and increase your chances of success.

Harvard Application Requirements

To apply to Harvard University as a first-year student, you’ll need to fill out either the Common Application or the Coalition Application through Scoir and include the necessary supplements.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to submit:

Apply with a Common Application, or Coalition, Powered by Scoir

Harvard accepts two application forms: the Common Application and the Coalition Application. Both forms are considered equally by the Admissions Committee. To ensure your application is considered fully and on time, submit your materials as soon as possible. 

If you use the Common Application, submit your form before your supporting documents (Secondary School Report, Teacher Recommendations, etc.) can be sent to Harvard. Until you submit your application sections, no part of your application will be sent to Harvard Admissions.

Complete the Harvard Supplement Questions

Alongside the main application, you’ll need to complete five required short-answer questions, each with a 200-word limit. These questions are designed to help Harvard admissions officers get to know you better beyond your academic achievements. While there’s no specific format or structure, aim for thoughtful and engaging responses that highlight your unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations.

1. Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?

2. Briefly describe an intellectual experience that was important to you. 

3. Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are.

4. How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future?

5. The top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you.

Mid-Year School Report

Your high school counselor will typically submit your transcript when you apply, but it might not include any grades from your senior year. That’s why Harvard asks for a midyear school report, which gives us a snapshot of how you’re doing in your senior year classes. Your school counselor or another authorized school official needs to fill out the midyear school report. Please ask your counselor to complete the report and send it to Harvard as soon as possible.

Letters of Recommendation

Remember to ask two teachers from different subjects who know you well to write your recommendation letters. They’ll need to fill out a form and write a letter of recommendation. If you have any additional recommenders, you can add them after you submit your application. You’ll get a personalized link in your application confirmation email that you can send to your recommenders.

Harvard Application Fee and Waiver

Applying to Harvard costs $85, but you can request a fee waiver if you need it. Harvard wants to make sure everyone has a fair chance to apply, so if the application fee is a financial burden for you or your family, you can ask for it to be waived. This won’t disadvantage your chances of getting in anyway.

Standardized Test Scores

If you want to submit standardized tests, you can send in your SAT or ACT scores, with or without the writing section. While the College Board no longer offers SAT Subject Tests, you can still submit any Subject Tests you took in the past five years. 

There are no score cutoffs for the SAT, and Harvard does not admit “by the numbers.” For the ACT, they will evaluate your highest composite score and any other scores you choose to share with us.

If you’re deciding whether to submit Subject Tests, it’s generally better to focus on just one math test instead of two. Similarly, if English is your first language, submitting a Subject Test in your native language might not be as beneficial.

Additional Materials

Harvard’s standard application forms usually provide them with enough information to make admissions decisions. However, they understand that you might have some incredible talents or accomplishments you want to showcase, and they want to give you every chance to shine your brightest.

If you have something truly exceptional to share, such as music recordings, artwork, or exceptional academic work samples, you can submit them at your discretion. The Admissions Committee may review these supplementary materials, but they are entirely optional.

Harvard Admission: Dates and Deadlines

Harvard offers two application options: Restrictive Early Action (REA) and Regular Decision. Both options allow you to compare admission and financial aid offers from other colleges and universities before making your final decision by May 1st.

• For REA, you’ll need to submit your application by November 1st, and you’ll get a decision by mid-December.
• For Regular Decisions, you’ll need to submit your application by January 1st, and you’ll get a decision by the end of March.

You can apply to Harvard using either the Common Application, which opens on August 1st, or the Coalition Application, powered by Scoir, which opens on August 15th.

Is the SAT or ACT Required to Get Into Harvard?

For those who want their standardized test scores to be considered, you can submit either the SAT or ACT (writing is optional). You can self-report your scores directly, along with any Advanced Placement or other exam results. If you’re accepted and decide to attend Harvard, you’ll need to submit official copies of your test scores before enrolling.

Do you know that for the college Classes of 2027–2030 Harvard is currently test-optional?

If you’re applying for Early Action, Harvard prefers to have your test scores by the end of October. But if you need to take the November tests, that’s fine too. Once you get your scores, you can upload them to the Applicant Portal or order a score report. There is no need to pay for rush reporting.

For Regular Decision applicants, while you can send in scores from tests taken as late as the December SAT and February ACT, Harvard encourages you to submit them as soon as possible. Getting your scores in before the end of November means they can start reviewing your application if you submit it by December 15th.

From the Desk of Yocket

Getting into Harvard is a dream for many smart and ambitious students around the world. While the admissions process is tough, it’s not impossible. It’s crucial to demonstrate a combination of academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities that align with the institution’s values. Start early, ideally in the early years of high school. Make sure you know the deadlines and requirements, and plan accordingly.

• Aim for straight A’s or close to them. A strong GPA of 4 and above will help you stand out from the crowd. 
• Don’t just join a bunch of clubs to make your resume look good. Instead, focus on a few extra-curricular activities that you’re passionate about and where you can make a real impact.
• Harvard values students who are not just smart but also compassionate, creative, and independent. Develop these qualities by getting involved in your community, volunteering, or pursuing creative endeavors.
• Don’t try to be someone you’re not in your essays and interviews. Harvard wants to get to know the real you, so be authentic and let your personality shine through.

Harvard is looking for students who will contribute to the campus community in meaningful ways. Demonstrate your passion for learning and your potential to make a positive impact.

With dedication, strategic planning, and a genuine love for learning, you can increase your chances of achieving your dream of attending Harvard College.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What GPA do I need to get into Harvard?

Harvard does not have a minimum GPA requirement, but they do expect applicants to have a strong academic record. The average GPA for admitted students is around 4.18.

2. What standardized tests should I take?

Harvard accepts the SAT, ACT, and SAT Subject Tests. However, they are no longer required for the college classes of the 2027–2030 admissions cycle.

3. What is the acceptance rate at Harvard?

According to the latest data available from the College Board, the acceptance rate for Harvard University for the 2023–2024 admissions cycle was 4%. Harvard is consistently ranked among the most selective universities in the world.