How do I get into Harvard as an Indian Student?

Are you thinking of applying to Harvard University from India? We have covered crucial steps, tips and strategies to help you make an exceptional application for admission. Check out everything here.

Getting into Harvard, the most popular, internationally renowned university with lowest acceptance rates can be challenging. As Indian applicants, getting into Harvard is difficult because of the tough competition and majority of toppers applying to this university annually. Though the cream applies for Harvard, yet only a handful get admitted. Harvard is an Ivy League and boasts of academic excellence. Admission requirements are tough and admissions are tougher. In order to get into Harvard from India, a lot of effort is required. 

From exemplary overall academic background to proper supporting documents, everything must be in place before applications. Harvard was test optional two years back, but now it mandatorily requires its applicants to submit standardised scores depending on the level of admission. For applicants who are looking at admissions to Harvard soon, they can check out this comprehensive guide on how to get into Harvard and maximise their admission chances. There are tips, admission requirements and some guidance on how to go about the admission process. So check out the article and begin your journey of admission to Harvard!

Admission Process at Harvard for Indian Students

The admission process for Indian students at Harvard are:

1. Undergraduates can apply via Common Application or the Coalition Application.

2. Standardised tests are accepted:

   1. SAT or ACT for undergraduate admissions also AP exam, IB scores, GCSE/A-Level results or any other national leaving exam result is accepted.

   2. For postgraduate admissions, GMAT or GRE scores are submitted.

3. English proficiency test scores are also needed of TOEFL or IELTS.

4. English translated academic transcripts.

Admission Requirement for Harvard University

Harvard is one of the hardest universities to get into USA. Thus, to apply to Harvard University, applicants must meet the following admission requirements:

1. Application Platforms: Complete either the Common Application or the Coalition Application by Scoir. Both platforms require the submission of specific supplements. The application deadlines are November 1 for Restrictive Early Action and January 1 for Regular Decision. After submitting the application you will get email confirmation and a PIN. The PIN helps to log into the Applicant Portal.

2. Required Materials:

   • Application Form: Fill out the form on the chosen platform.
   • Activities List: Provide a list of extracurricular activities.
   • Personal Essay: Write an essay based on the prompts provided by the application platform.
   • Harvard Supplement: Answer five short-answer questions (150 words each).
   • Application Fee: Pay an $90 fee or request a fee waiver.
   • Standardized Test Scores: Submit SAT or ACT scores. If these tests are not accessible, alternative assessments like AP exam results or predicted IB scores may be accepted. Apart from these, GCSE/A-Level or National Leaving Exams can also be accepted, with both actual and predicted results. 
   • Supplemental Materials: Optional materials such as music recordings, artwork, or academic work samples may be submitted to showcase exceptional talents or achievements.
   • School Report: Include a counsellor letter and high school transcript.
   • Teacher Recommendations: Two letters of recommendation from teachers in different academic subjects who know the applicant well.
   • Midyear School Report: Required to provide an update on the applicant's performance during the first half of their senior year.
   • Final School Report: Required for admitted students only.

3. Application Timeline:

   • Restrictive Early Action: Apply by November 1 and receive notification by mid-December.
   • Regular Decision: Apply by January 1 and receive notification by the end of March.

4. Submission Method: Applications can be submitted online for faster processing, or mailed, but only one method should be chosen.

Harvard University Application Tips

Following are the points you should know while filling out the Harvard University application form:

• There is a Profile section. You need to enter detailed information about yourself. It includes your fee waiver request, contact information and demographics. Enter your legal name and citizenship.
• An application fee waiver is given to those who face hardship in paying the application fee.
• You also need to enter details about your family.
• Enter the education details. Provides details of academic honors, current school or coursework, and future education plans.
• Enter about your extracurricular activities. Harvard University likes to know in which activities you participate outside the classroom.

Which Extracurricular activities are preferred by Harvard University?

Harvard University values a diverse range of extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership, commitment, and passion. Here’s a table summarizing some preferred extracurricular activities along with examples:

These activities not only showcase a student's interests but also their ability to contribute to the Harvard community.

Harvard University Scholarships for International Students

Harvard University is one of the few US universities that offers need based scholarship to international students. Here’s a table listing some scholarships available for Indian students at Harvard University along with their eligibility criteria:

Please check the specific scholarship websites or contact Harvard University for eligibility requirements.

Harvard University Selection Criteria

Harvard uses a comprehensive assessment method which consists of multiple evaluation stages to examine students who demonstrate academic excellence and extracurricular achievements and personal integrity and their individual life experiences. Admissions officers spend about eight minutes examining documents. They use a 1-6 rating system to evaluate academic performance, extracurricular activities, personal qualities and recommendation letters. The assessment process requires multiple key elements which include:

• Academic Excellence: Requires evaluation of high school curriculum difficulty and GPA and SAT or ACT results which usually show exceptional academic achievement.
• Extracurricular Activities: The evaluation model assesses leadership abilities and initiative skills and total organisational impact through activities which include sustained volunteering efforts and specific talent development.
• Personal Qualities and Character: The evaluation process uses SOP, admission essays and letters of recommendation, along with interviews when needed, to identify how candidates demonstrate traits such as persistence and maturity.
• Contextual Review: The evaluation process examines applicants through their various life experiences which include their educational, family and social community background.
• Hook or Theme: The admissions officers search for a strong story which provides an exceptional element that differentiates the applicant from other candidates.

The only hack to get into Harvard is to follow the instructions on the website carefully. Know the expectations and then go on to drafting your supporting documents. Try and mention all major achievements and goals, leaving no stone unturned.

Harvard Interview for Admissions

The admission process is not dependent on these interviews. Your application provides most of the information.

If the selection committee wants to know more about you, someone will reach out to you and schedule an interview. Mostly, alumni volunteers help the university in recruiting students. Even without the interview, the application is considered complete.

Why is Harvard University Popular among Indian Students?

It is one of the top choices for Indians who are looking to study in the US. It is one of the oldest universities in the USA and the world. This is the reason why Harvard University attracts students in the world. Harvard University is a prestigious university. It is known for its innovation, academic excellence and leadership. It has huge brand value in India and abroad. If you get admission to Harvard, it means you will be part of its rich legacy. The university produced influential thinkers, Nobel laureates and global leaders.

How to Get Into Harvard from India FAQs