Harvard University Admissions
Graduate Programs:
- For graduate programs, Harvard generally expects a strong academic record. While there is no strict minimum GPA, competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
- International applicants are advised to aim for a GPA between 3.7 and 3.9 (93-99%) to be more competitive.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Harvard does not have a minimum GPA requirement. However, successful applicants typically have outstanding academic records.
- For international students, a high academic standing is expected, often reflected by top grades in challenging courses.
Application Fee | UG: 85 USD PG: Varies as per course MBA: 250 USD |
Acceptance Rate (UG) | 3.4% |
ELP Tests Accepted | |
Standardized Test Scores (PG) | |
International Application Deadlines | UG
PG: Varies as per course MBA: Sep 06, 2024 |
Harvard University Admission Requirements for Graduate Programs
Harvard University offers 134 graduate degrees and 32 professional degrees across 12 graduate and professional schools. International students seeking admission at harvard university will have to fulfill the following admission requirements:
University Eligibility
- Bachelor’s Degree
- GPA or aggregate- 3.0/4.0 (85%)
- GRE Scores between 260-340
Documents Checklist
- Personal essay
- TOEFL-iBT Score of 100
- 2 Recommendation Letters
- Resume
- Writing Sample (if required)
- Work Experience (if required)
Harvard University Graduate Program Requirements
The following table will give details about the specific admission requirements for international students seeking admission at Harvard University:| Program | Academic Requirement | ELP Scores | GMAT/GRE Scores |
| Master of Science Data Science | Bachelor’s degrees in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, or engineering. | TOEFL IBT: 100 | IELTS: 7.0 | GRE score of 330 or better |
| MBA | 3.73 undergrad GPA | TOEFL IBT:109 | IELTS: 7.5 | No minimum GMAT or GRE to apply |
| LLM | J.D. (Juris Doctor) from an ABA-approved U.S. law school or a first law degree (J.D., LL. B. or the equivalent) from a foreign law school | TOEFL IBT:100 | GRE is not required. |
| Master of Science Health Data Science | An undergraduate degree in mathematical sciences or allied fields (statistics, economics, etc.) or computer science | TOEFL IBT: 100 | IELTS: 7.5 | GRE score above the 60th percentile in the quantitative section. |
| Master of Science Computational Science and Engineering | A four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with prerequisite include knowledge of calculus, linear algebra and differential equations | TOEFL IBT: 100 | IELTS: 7.0 | GRE score of 330 or better |
Harvard University Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programs
You have many options when pursuing your Harvard degree. The university offers more than 3,700 courses in 50 undergraduate fields of study, which they call concentrations. International students seeking an undergraduate degree at Harvard University will have to fulfill the following admission requirements:
Documents Checklist
- School report and high school transcript
- Teacher report (2)
- Midyear school report (after the first semester grades)
- Final school report
Harvard University Application Deadlines
The application deadline for graduate and PhD programs is different for each program. On the other hand all undergraduate programs have the same deadline for all of its programs. International students have to fill and submit their application before the following application deadline:
Type | Application Deadline |
Early Action | November 1, 2024 |
Regular Decision | January 1, 2025 |
Harvard University Selection Criteria
Harvard University doesn’t have a formula for admission, but it does consider many factors, including:
- Academic achievement
Harvard often accepts students with top marks, and you should aim for the 75th percentile. A high GPA is key, and if your GPA is lower, you can compensate with a higher SAT or ACT score.
- Extracurricular activities
Harvard looks for students who are more than just academic achievers, and they want to see that you’re an outgoing leader who can positively impact the world.
- Personal qualities
Harvard also considers your character and personal qualities. You can demonstrate these through a strong essay that reflects your unique experience, ambition, and character.
- Community involvement
Harvard also considers your community involvement.
- Recommendation letters
Harvard requires two letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and personal qualities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Harvard have an application fee waiver?
Harvard University offers an application fee waiver to students if the fee causes financial hardship in their families. You can directly request a fee waiver on satisfying the respective indicators of financial requirement through the Common Application or the Coalition Application.When are the application deadlines for undergraduate admissions at Harvard University?
The deadlines for undergraduate admissions at Harvard University include November 1, 2024, for Early Action and January 1, 2025, for Regular Decision.What criteria does Harvard University prioritize in selecting applicants?
In addition to academic accomplishment, Harvard University considers community involvement, leadership in extracurricular activities, personal qualities, and character in its admissions decisions.How much is the Harvard application fee?
The application fees at Harvard University vary according to the level of study. Here is an overview:| Level | Application Fee (USD) | Application Fee (INR) |
| Graduate | 105 (non-refundable) | 8,622 |
| Undergraduate | 85 | 6,980 |
| MBA | 250 (non-refundable) | 19,520 |
What GPA is required for Harvard?
The minimum GPA requirement for Harvard University is 3.0 on a scale of 4.0. But students with an unweighted GPA of 4.0 have higher chances of getting into Harvard. You need to be a straight A student and have a high GPA to get admission at Harvard University.Can I get into Harvard at 24?
There is not an age requirement for applying to Harvard, though applicants are expected to have some secondary school experience.
