Harvard Average SAT Scores and GPA
Harvard College stands proud of its illustrious legacy and world-renowned opportunities. However, for aspiring students, the acceptance rate can seem like an insurmountable academic benchmark. So, one of the biggest questions for applicants is: What SAT scores and GPA do I need to get in?
This blog post is your answer to your question. We’ll get into the numbers game, exploring the typical SAT ranges and GPA expectations.
What is the GPA Required for Harvard?
The average unweighted GPA of admitted students falls between 3.9 and 4.0, and the 25th and 75th percentiles are around 3.8 and 4.0, respectively. This means that half of all admitted students have GPAs within this narrow range.
Harvard GPA requirement for undergraduate admissions doesn’t have an explicit minimum. The reality is that admitted students possess exceptionally strong academic records with high GPAs.
Read More: What Is a Good GPA in High School?
What is the Average SAT Score for Harvard?
The average SAT score for Harvard is 1520. While Harvard University’s admissions process is currently test-optional, strong standardized test scores remain a valuable asset for applicants. During the latest admissions cycle, admitted students scored an average of 1530 on the SAT, with scores ranging from 1480 to 1580.
| There are no score cutoffs for the SAT, and Harvard does not admit “by the numbers.” |
Aiming for a score within this range or higher will significantly strengthen your application, even though submitting scores is not mandatory. Harvard seeks well-rounded individuals with exceptional academic potential, so your test scores should be considered alongside your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and other application components.
Read Also: What is a Good SAT Score for 2024
Is the SAT Mandatory to Get Into Harvard?
If you want to submit standardized tests, you can send in your SAT 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.
When considering the SAT Subject Tests for Harvard applications, focusing on just one math test might be more strategic than taking both. Similarly, if English is your first language and you perform well on the general SAT English sections, submitting an additional Subject Test in your native language may not provide a significant benefit.
For those who want their SAT scores to be considered, 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 an official copy of your SAT score before enrolling.
| Do you know that for the college Classes of 2027–2030, Harvard is currently test-optional? |
For Early Action applicants, submitting your SAT score by the end of October is ideal, but November scores are also accepted. Once you have your results, upload them to the Applicant Portal or order a SAT score report. Rush reporting is unnecessary.
For Regular Decision applicants, submitting your SAT scores as early as possible is highly encouraged, ideally by the end of November. This allows Harvard to begin reviewing your application if submitted by December 15th, offering you a potential advantage. While scores from December tests are accepted, earlier submission helps ensure your application receives the fullest consideration.
Read Also: 16 Top Colleges That Require the SAT Scores in 2024
What is the Acceptance Rate at Harvard?
Harvard is extremely selective, and according to the College Board, the current acceptance rate for Harvard is 3%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only 3 are admitted. While this number can feel intimidating, it is comparable to other extremely selective colleges in the US. This includes the other Ivy League schools. For example, the acceptance rate for Columbia University is 4%, and the acceptance rate for Yale University is 5%.
As you can see, Harvard University is one of the most selective universities in the world, and the most selective among the Ivies. Thus, it is important to have a strong academic record and to demonstrate your potential to contribute to the Harvard community in order to be competitive.
Suggested: SAT Percentiles and Score Rankings [Updated 2024]
From the Desk of Yocket
Harvard College’s admissions standards, particularly the emphasis on GPA and SAT scores, create a highly competitive applicant pool. It’s important to consider the nuance behind the numbers and the wider context of college admissions.
Requiring high GPAs and SAT scores ensures a baseline level of academic preparedness. These metrics offer a standardized way to compare students from diverse educational backgrounds and assess their potential for success in Harvard’s rigorous academic environment. This focus on academic achievement can be seen as a way to maintain the institution’s high academic standards and reputation.
With an acceptance rate hovering around 3%, Harvard is undeniably selective. While high GPAs and SAT scores are important, they only paint part of the picture. The vast majority of applicants with perfect scores still won’t get in, highlighting the significance of other factors like extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and the uniqueness of each applicant’s story. For comprehensive insights and guidance, explore Yocket, a valuable resource for aspiring Harvard students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Harvard SAT Requirement?
Harvard University does not have a specific SAT score requirement for undergraduate admissions. However, a score significantly lower than the 25th percentile will likely make your application less competitive.
What SAT score should I aim for to get into Harvard?
To be a competitive applicant, aiming for the 75th percentile score of 1580 or higher is ideal. Harvard is incredibly selective, so even a score above this doesn’t guarantee admission.
What is the average GPA for Harvard?
The average GPA for admitted students to Harvard is 4.0. This means that most students have nearly straight A’s in their coursework.