How to Apply to Harvard University

A complete step-by-step guide to the application process

About Harvard University

Harvard University is a private Ivy League school in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636, it is the oldest higher education institution in the United States.

Each year, thousands of students apply to Harvard. The school accepts only about 4% of all applicants.This makes it one of the most selective universities in the world.

Harvard offers undergraduate degrees in many fields. These include arts, sciences, engineering, and more. The university is known for its excellent teaching, research, and global impact.

Application Timeline

Early Action

• Application Deadline: November 1
• Financial Aid Deadline: November 1
• Decision Notification: Mid-December
• Student Reply Deadline: May 1

Early Action is non-binding. You can apply to other schools and decide by May 1.

Regular Decision

• Application Deadline: January 1
• Financial Aid Deadline: February 1
• Decision Notification: Late March
• Student Reply Deadline: May 1

Regular Decision allows you to compare offers from multiple schools before deciding.

Application Requirements

Common or Coalition Application

Complete either the Common Application or Coalition Application. Both platforms allow you to apply to multiple schools with one form.

Academic Records

• High school transcript
• School Report and counselor letter
• Two teacher evaluations
• Mid-year School Report

Application Fee or Waiver

The application fee is $75. Fee waivers are available for students with financial need. You can request a waiver through the Common Application or Coalition Application.

Standardized Tests (Optional) Harvard has extended its test-optional policy. You can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores.

If you choose to submit scores, Harvard accepts:

• SAT scores
• ACT scores

Not submitting test scores will not hurt your application. Harvard will consider your achievements in context.

Essays and Supplemental Materials Your essays help Harvard learn about your personality, interests, and writing ability.

• Personal essay (from Common or Coalition Application)
• Harvard-specific supplemental essays
• Optional: Arts, music, or athletic supplements
• Optional: Research papers or additional writing samples

Tips for a Strong Application

Do:

Start your application early. Give yourself plenty of time to work on essays and gather materials.
Show depth in your activities rather than joining many clubs briefly.
Write essays that reveal your personality and unique perspective.
Ask for recommendation letters from teachers who know you well.
Research Harvard to show why it’s a good fit for your goals.

Don’t:

Wait until the last minute to submit your application.
Try to guess what the admissions committee wants to hear.
Submit a generic essay that could apply to any college.
Exaggerate or misrepresent your achievements.
Forget to proofread your application for errors.

Financial Aid

Harvard’s Financial Aid Policy

Harvard has one of the most generous financial aid programs in the country. About 55% of students receive need-based scholarship aid.

Key Points:

• Harvard’s financial aid is entirely need-based
• Families with incomes below $85,000 pay nothing toward college costs
• Families with incomes between $85,000 and $150,000 typically pay 0-10% of their income
• No loans are required in Harvard’s financial aid packages

Required Forms:

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• CSS Profile
• Parents’ and student’s tax returns
• Other documentation as requested

Harvard is committed to making college affordable for all admitted students. Don’t let financial concerns stop you from applying.

After You Apply

After submitting your application, here’s what happens next:

Application Review: Your application will be carefully reviewed by multiple admissions officers.
Interview: Many applicants are invited for an alumni interview. This is an opportunity to share more about yourself and learn about Harvard from a graduate.
Decision: You’ll receive one of three decisions: accepted, denied, or waitlisted.
If Accepted: You’ll need to confirm your enrollment and pay a deposit by May 1.

If you’re waitlisted, Harvard may offer you admission later if spots become available. You should accept a spot at another college while waiting for a final decision.

Final Thoughts

Applying to Harvard is a big step. Remember that the admissions process is highly competitive, but also holistic. Harvard looks at your entire application, not just grades and test scores.

Focus on showing your authentic self. Harvard wants to know who you are, what you care about, and how you might contribute to their community.

Whether or not you’re admitted to Harvard, the application process itself is valuable. It helps you reflect on your goals and achievements. Good luck with your application!

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