About
Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636 as Harvard College, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and among the most prestigious in the world. Harvard University has an enrollment of 23,000+ students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1. Harvard's four-year graduation rate is 87%, and its first-year retention rate is 96%.
What is the Acceptance Rate of Harvard University?
The acceptance rate of Harvard University is 3.59%, indicating that approximately 4 out of every 100 applicants are admitted. The early acceptance rate is slightly higher at 7.6%. In other words, this indicates that the university's selection policy is extremely competitive, giving only the most highly qualified applicants a chance of admission to Harvard University.
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Harvard University has a large, highly residential campus, and offers 500+ undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a wide range of fields. Harvard University is also a research powerhouse, with a faculty of Nobel laureates, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim Fellows.
What is the Annual Tuition fee at Harvard University?
The annual tuition fee at Harvard University is $56,550 (INR 47,23,539) for international students. This does not include room and board, books, supplies, and other personal expenses. The estimated total cost of attendance for graduate students living on campus for the 2023-2024 academic year varies depending on the school or program. For example, the estimated total cost of attendance for full-time MBA students is $107,500 (INR 89,53,460).
Harvard is known for its world-class faculty, groundbreaking research, and commitment to diversity. The university has produced many notable alumni, including 16 US presidents, 188 Nobel laureates, and many other leaders in business, government, academia, and the arts.
What is the Harvard University GPA Requirement?
The GPA requirements for Harvard University are between 3.8 and 4.2. To be competitive, you should aim for a GPA of 4.2 or higher.
Harvard University Scholarships
Harvard University offers various scholarships and financial aid options for international students. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key scholarship opportunities available at Harvard, along with the application process and important deadlines.
1. Harvard University Scholarships for International Students
|
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount |
Application Process |
Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Harvard College Financial Aid |
Undergraduate international students based on financial need |
Full or partial tuition coverage |
Apply through the Harvard Financial Aid Office; submit financial documents |
Early Decision: Nov 1, 2024, Regular Decision: Jan 1, 2025 |
|
Harvard Graduate School Scholarships |
International graduate students (varies by program) |
Varies by program |
Check with individual Harvard Graduate Schools for details |
Varies (check school deadlines) |
|
Harvard Kennedy School Fellowships |
Students pursuing public policy/administration degrees |
Partial to full tuition funding |
Apply with the admissions application |
January 2025 (Exact date TBA) |
|
Harvard Law School Scholarships |
International law students |
Need-based scholarships available |
Submit financial documents with the application |
February 2025 (Exact date TBA) |
2. Harvard University Scholarship Deadlines
|
Scholarship/Fellowship |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Harvard College Financial Aid |
Early Decision: Nov 1, 2024, Regular Decision: Jan 1, 2025 |
|
Harvard Kennedy School Fellowships |
January 2025 (Exact date TBA) |
|
Harvard Law School Scholarships |
February 2025 (Exact date TBA) |
|
Graduate School Program-specific |
Varies by program |
3. Harvard University Scholarship Application Process
To apply for scholarships at Harvard University, follow these steps:
-
Apply for Admission: First, you must apply and be accepted to a program at Harvard University.
-
Submit Financial Aid Forms: For need-based scholarships, complete the necessary financial aid forms, including the CSS Profile and Harvard Financial Aid Application. International students must also submit income documentation.
-
Program-specific Scholarships: If applying to graduate schools like Harvard Kennedy or Harvard Law, check for specific scholarships or fellowships on their respective websites and submit any required essays or recommendations.
4. Harvard University External Scholarships for International Students
Aside from internal scholarships, international students may also explore external funding opportunities. Here are some notable external scholarships that are often awarded to Harvard students:
|
External Scholarship |
Eligibility |
Award Amount |
Application Process |
Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fulbright Program |
International graduate students in any field |
Full tuition and stipend |
Apply through Fulbright Commission in your home country |
Varies by country |
|
Rhodes Scholarship |
International students from eligible countries pursuing graduate degrees |
Full tuition and living expenses |
Apply via Rhodes Trust |
October 2024 (Exact dates vary) |
|
Chevening Scholarship |
International students from Chevening-eligible countries |
Full tuition, airfare, and living stipend |
Apply via the Chevening website |
November 7, 2024 |
|
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship |
Students from World Bank member countries pursuing graduate studies in development |
Full tuition and living expenses |
Apply via World Bank portal |
March 2025 (Exact date TBA) |
5. Harvard University Student Loans for International Students
Harvard offers limited loan options for international students, which are primarily need-based and vary depending on the student's financial situation and program. The Harvard University Employees Credit Union (HUECU) offers student loans to international students who have a U.S.-based co-signer. Other external loan options include:
|
Loan Provider |
Eligibility |
Interest Rate |
Application Process |
Repayment Terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Harvard University Loans (Need-based) |
International students with financial need |
Variable |
Apply through the Harvard Financial Aid Office |
Begins 6 months after graduation |
|
HUECU Student Loans |
Requires U.S.-based co-signer |
Variable (based on credit) |
Apply via HUECU website |
Begins 6-9 months after graduation |
|
Prodigy Finance |
Graduate students (no co-signer needed) |
Variable (depends on loan type) |
Apply via Prodigy Finance website |
Begins 6 months after graduation |
Note: Student loans typically cover the full cost of tuition and living expenses, but students should explore scholarship opportunities before considering loans.
By leveraging these scholarships, fellowships, and loans, international students at Harvard University can receive substantial financial support to cover their academic expenses. It's important to apply early and meet all deadlines for a better chance of securing funding.
Top Reasons to Study in the Harvard University
Several reasons add to the popularity and international students' demand to study at Harvard University. Here are some of the top reasons:
-
World-class faculty
Harvard has over 2,700 faculty members, including many Nobel laureates and other distinguished scholars.
-
Groundbreaking research
Harvard University's faculty are engaged in cutting-edge research in a wide range of fields. The university has over 100 research centres and institutes.
-
Diversity
Harvard's student body is made up of students from all over the world and from all walks of life.
-
Harvard University courses
Harvard offers 100+ undergraduate and graduate degree courses, which are full-fledged, preparing individuals to thrive professionally and intellectually.
-
Leadership opportunities
Harvard University provides students with many opportunities to develop their leadership skills. Students can participate in student government, clubs and organizations, and internships.
-
Harvard University scholarships
Harvard is a close-knit community where students can find support from their peers, professors, and staff. The university also offers financial aid through various scholarships and grants to make studying at Harvard affordable for international students.
These reasons are just a glimpse of what you will get to learn and explore at Harvard University. To know more, click here.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
3%
Application Fee
$25 - $250
How to Apply at Harvard University
Harvard University admissions are an extensive process and their undergraduate program focuses on liberal arts and sciences. Students are required to take courses in a variety of subjects. The graduate program offers over 500-degree programs in a wide range of fields. Here are the steps on how to apply to Harvard University as an international student:
- Be an early bird: The application deadline varies for various Harvard University courses. However, international students must begin as soon as possible. Missing the admission deadlines can severely affect your chances of getting into Harvard University.
|
Early Action |
November 1, 2024 |
|
Regular Decision |
January 1, 2024 |
|
Transfer Application |
March 1, 2024 |
|
Financial Aid Application |
February 1, 2024 |
Meet the eligibility requirements: Harvard has several eligibility requirements for international students.
- You must have completed a rigorous secondary school education.
- You must have a GPA of 4.2 or above.
- You must have taken the SAT or ACT standardised tests.
- You must also submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement.
Gather the required materials: The required materials for the Harvard application include:
- An application form.
- Official transcripts from your secondary school, and school report.
- Harvard College questions for the Common Application or Coalition Application Harvard supplement.
- SAT or ACT scores
- Teacher reports.
- English proficiency test scores.
- Submit your application: Harvard University uses the Common Application or the Universal College Application for undergraduate admissions and the respective departmental websites for graduate programs.
- Submit the application fee: The Harvard application fee is $85 - $105 (INR 7,068 - 8,731). An application fee waiver is available for eligible students. Moreover, there are many Harvard University scholarships available for international students, so check before applying.
- Attend an interview, and wait for a decision.
Documents Required to Apply to Harvard University
There are many documents that international students need to submit to study at documents at Harvard University, such as
Undergraduate Programs:
|
Document |
Description |
|
High School Transcripts |
Official transcripts from all high schools attended. |
|
Standardised Test Scores |
SAT or ACT scores and/or TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores for non-native English speakers. |
|
Letter of recommendation |
Two letters of recommendation from high school teachers. |
|
Essay explaining the student's interest in the program and how it aligns with their academic and career goals. |
|
|
Application Fee |
Non-refundable application fee of $85 (INR 7,068) |
Graduate Programs:
|
Document |
Description |
|
Bachelor's Degree Transcripts |
Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. |
|
Standardised Scores. |
GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT scores depending on the program. Submit TOEFL and IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references. |
|
Resume or CV |
Detailed resume or curriculum vitae highlighting relevant academic and work experience. |
|
Statement of Purpose |
Essay outlining the student's academic and professional goals and how the program aligns with them. |
|
Application Fee |
Non-refundable application fee. |
PhD Programs:
|
Document |
Description |
|
Master's Degree Transcripts |
Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. |
|
Graduate Entrance Exam Scores |
GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT scores depending on the program. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Three to four letters of recommendation from academic or professional references. |
|
Research Statement |
Detailed essay outlining the student's research interests, experience, and proposed research topic. |
|
Resume or CV |
Detailed resume or curriculum vitae highlighting relevant academic and work experience. |
|
Application Fee |
Non-refundable application fee. |
Exams Accepted By Harvard University
Harvard University accepts the following English proficiency and standardised test scores from international applicants:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- SAT
- ACT
- GRE
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
Cambridge has a good public transportation system, making it easy to get around without a car. The main public transportation providers are:
- Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA): The MBTA operates the subway, buses, and commuter rail in the Boston area. The Red Line subway runs through Cambridge, and many bus lines serve the city. The MBTA also operates the Commuter Rail, providing service to Boston and other parts of the region.
- Blue Bikes: Blue Bikes is a bike share system in Cambridge and other parts of the Boston area. There are over 3,000 bikes available at over 300 stations.
EZRide: EZRide is a door-to-door shuttle service in Cambridge and other parts of the Boston area. It is available to people with disabilities and seniors.
Services offered by the university
Harvard University offers various services to its students, faculty, and staff, including
-
Academic advising
Harvard University advisors can help students choose courses, develop a major, and plan their careers.
-
Financial aid
Harvard University scholarships provide generous financial aid to students who need it. The university meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need of all admitted students.
-
Health services
Harvard University has a state-of-the-art health centre that provides comprehensive medical care to students, faculty, and staff; alongside offering mental health services, counselling, and other support services.
-
Technology
Harvard University provides students with access to technology resources, including computers, software, and printing services. The university also offers IT support to students and staff.
-
Career services
Harvard's career services office helps students find jobs and internships, offering resume writing, interview skills, and other career development services.
-
International students services
Harvard's international students office helps international students with immigration paperwork, cultural adjustment, and other services.
All these are some basic services provided by Harvard University. But there are also some special services offered for the disabled, and individuals belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, amongst others.
Student life at Harvard University
With an array of activities, clubs, and cultural events offered by Boston, you are sure to feel involved. Let us look at the factors that contribute to the vibrancy of the student life at Harvard University:
-
Academics
Harvard is a world-renowned academic institution, and its students have the opportunity to take courses from some of the leading scholars in the world. Students can also participate in research projects, conduct independent studies, and collaborate with faculty on creative projects.
-
Extracurricular activities
Harvard students have over 400 student organisations to choose from, including sports teams, clubs, and student government. There are also many opportunities to get involved in the arts, community service, and activism.
-
Social life
Harvard students live in residential houses, which are small communities within the larger university. Houses offer social activities, including dining halls, libraries, and meeting spaces. Students also have the opportunity to socialise in other parts of campus, such as the Harvard Yard and the Cambridge Common.
These are just a few factors that make Harvard University’s student life so happening. If you go there, you will feel involved and get various opportunities to shine as an individual.
On campus accomodation at Harvard University
Harvard University offers several on-campus housing options for all students.
Undergraduate Students
- Freshman dorms: All first-year students are guaranteed housing and live in one of the all-freshman dorms that are either in Harvard Yard or very near it. These dorms have various rooming arrangements, from doubles to larger suites. Some have their bathrooms, but most students share a bathroom with other suites. There are very few singles available.
- Upperclassmen dorms: Upperclassmen have options like traditional dorms which offer various rooming arrangements; apartment-style living offers more privacy and space; and special interest housing is available for students with specific interests, such as the arts, athletics, or community service.
Graduate Students
- Harvard Griffin GSAS residence halls: Harvard Griffin GSAS residence halls are located in Harvard Yard and offer several rooming arrangements, from doubles to apartments. These halls are usually reserved for graduate students in the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).
- Harvard University Housing apartments: Harvard University Housing (HUH) offers apartments to all full-time Harvard graduate students, faculty, and staff. These apartments are located throughout Cambridge and are available in various sizes and configurations.
Housing costs: The cost of a double room in a traditional dorm at Harvard University is usually around $10,000 (INR 8,31,545) per year, while the cost of an apartment is around $15,000 (INR 12,47,317) per year.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
Harvard University has a vast number of faculty members, and some of its facts are:
- There are a total of 16,000 staff and faculty, including 2,400 professors, lecturers, and instructors.
- The percentage of female faculty is 25% for tenured faculty and 39% for tenure-track faculty.
- The average age of faculty is 53 years old.
Career Opportunities
University Endowments Value
Internship opportunities at Harvard University
Harvard University offers various internship and part-time job opportunities for students, available in academics, research, administration, and business.
Internships and part-time jobs at Harvard are typically paid, with hourly wages ranging from $13 to $20 (1,081 - 1,663). The number of hours you can work per week will vary depending on the position, but most students work 10-20 hours per week during the academic year and up to 40 hours per week during the summer.
Some of the most popular internship and part-time jobs at Harvard include:
- Research Intern: Work with faculty on research projects in a variety of fields.
- Teaching Assistant: Help professors teach classes and grade papers.
- Administrative Assistant: Provide support to faculty and staff in a variety of departments.
- Business Intern: Gain experience in business functions, such as marketing, finance, or operations.
- Technology Intern: Work on projects related to software development, data science, or cybersecurity.
Working can be elemental, especially if you are an international student. Through the array of opportunities offered by Harvard, you will surely find internships or part-time jobs offered on campus and in the surrounding community.
Placement of Harvard University
Placement: Harvard University graduates have excellent job placement opportunities. According to the Harvard Business School's Career Data for the class of 2022, 95% of graduates received an offer of employment and 90% accepted an employment offer.
Hiring Companies: Some of the top employers of Harvard University graduates include
- McKinsey & Company
- Goldman Sachs
- Bain & Company
- Boston Consulting Group
- Morgan Stanley
- JPMorgan Chase
- Deloitte
- Apple
- Amazon
Salaries: The salaries for Harvard University graduates vary depending on the industry, position, and experience. However, the median base salary for all graduates is $1,75,000 (INR 1,45,52,037). This is significantly higher than the national average salary of $53,490.
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Last updated August 14, 2026