MBBS (MD) in Harvard 2026: Curricular Tracks, Eligibility, Fees & Admission Process

Do you want to pursue MBBS in Harvard from India soon? Here is an article that will give you all the major details around MBBS/MD at Harvard University. We have covered the course curriculum, admission process, eligibility criteria and useful insights for Indians planning to study MBBS in Harvard.

Studying medicine in USA after completing high school from India is a different challenge altogether. If you shortlist US medical schools like Harvard University for an MBBS program, know that its going to be a long process. MBBS in US is basically MBBS (MD) in USA. It is a dual degree, and Harvard Medical School (HMS) also offers it for international students. 

An MD or MBBS in Harvard is also a four-year-long course like other med schools in US. This course is taught by 12,000+ specialised faculty. MBBS at Harvard University gives students a choice of 200+ electives in clinical sciences, along with experience with patients. Harvard partners with 15 affiliate hospitals where MD applicants can get first-hand clinical experience and one-on-one patient interaction. Also, the cost of studying MBBS at Harvard is high, but Harvard is a need-based college, so 72% students on average get funding to cover their study costs. 

If you are also planning to apply to Harvard for an MBBS/MD course, then be prepared with your curriculum track choice, MCAT scores and application materials. We have covered all major details here for your reference.

MBBS in Harvard for Indian Students Highlights

Can Indian Students Apply to Harvard Medical School?

Yes, Indian and other international students can apply to Harvard Medical School. However, Harvard clearly mentions that applicants without a US or Canadian degree are “rarely accepted.” Most successful international applicants complete at least one year of study in the US or Canada before applying. This means admission to Harvard for MBBS or MD requires:

• Indian students cannot apply directly after Class 12.

• Students usually complete the following before applying for MBBS/MD in Harvard:

• A bachelor’s degree in India or abroad (US preferably).

• Pre-med coursework

• MCAT

• Research/clinical exposure

NOTE: Admission to Harvard Medical School is extremely competitive for international students. As per the class of 2025 data, only 165 students got admitted to HMS. The acceptance rate at Harvard is as low as 3%, including admission to HMS.

MBBS/MD at HMS Course Curriculum & Structure

There are ideally two ways in which MBBS at Harvard is structured. In order to complete it, you will have to go through three major stages. First, know the two curricular tracks for MBBS/MD in Harvard University, followed by the stages of study:

Choosing Curricular Tracks for MBBS (MD) in Harvard

The two tracks include Pathways and HST. While Pathway courses replace passive lectures with hands-on, critical-thinking training and introduce patient care from the first year. On the other hand, HST is offered in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This is for those who show interest in biomedical science, physical or molecular science. Here is a basic difference between the two below:

Want to know more about the Pathways for MBBS in Harvard? Download - MBBS_Pathway_Course_Details_at_Harvard 

Stages for MBBS/MD at Harvard University

Regardless of the chosen curricular track - Pathways or HST, you move through different stages of medical education. The different stages of MBBS in Harvard are divided into three main stages:

So, how you plan to study MD at Harvard (curricular track) will define when you study different stages of medical education. When applying for MBBS (MD) at Harvard, choosing one of the tracks is essential to move through the different stages of study.

Eligibility Criteria to Apply for MBBS in Harvard University

Admission to MBBS at Harvard University is not restricted to academics; there are many other factors. To be eligible for MBBS admission in Harvard, you have to fulfil these:

Academic Eligibility

Academically MBBS applicants for Harvard must complete:

• At least 3 years of college coursework.

• A bachelor’s degree before matriculation.

• Strong academic GPA, average GPA accepted for class of 2025 was 3.9.

• Science-heavy coursework.

Prerequisite Courses Required

Harvard states that a “limited number” of required courses is needed, but strong preparation in the sciences is expected. Common prerequisite subjects include:

MCAT Requirement

Harvard Medical School requires the following medical entrance exam score from international students:

• MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

• Competitive applicants usually score in 515–525 range.

• Median admitted score often around 520.48 for the class of 2025.

NOTE: NEET is not required for Harvard, but it is necessary if you intend to practice in India later.

English Language Requirements

International applicants may need proof of English proficiency if their previous education was not in English. Common score expectations for MBBS in Harvard are:

• TOEFL iBT: around 100+

• IELTS: around 7.5+

When to Apply for MBBS in Harvard for 2026-27?

Applications for 2026 are open and ongoing. If you plan to apply to HMS, you can apply via AMCAS. To know the whole timeline for the MBBS at HMS, check out the table below:

The timelines are mostly the same. If the weekend falls on any of these dates, then deadlines shift to the next working day or business day.

How to Get Admission in Harvard Medical School for MBBS?

Applications for MBBS (MD) at HMS are not accepted like other programs. You don't have to go to Harvard's application portal, select your course and apply. The application process for MD at Harvard is different. You have to route your admission application via AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service). Check out how to get admission for MD at Harvard:

1. Complete a pre-medical course at the bachelor's level in USA, from any SEVIS-approved institution.
2. Next sit for MCAT exam. Wait for the score release.
3. After getting MCAT scores, log on to AMCAS website, create an account and start filling out the application.
4. In the application, you will have to select your course - MD and med school - HMS (Harvard).
5. In the MD application at HMS, you need to submit six evaluation letters to AMCAS.
6. Pay USD 180 for your AMCAS application and submit.
7. Next, complete Harvard’s secondary application with admission essays and information before the deadline on its portal.
8. If shortlisted, attend the interview for MBBS at HMS.
9. Wait for the final decision. Once you get accepted and receive I-20 form from Harvard, accept your offer and submit.
10. Prepare for F1 visa formalities by then to start studying MBBS at HMS.  

AMCAS takes six to eight weeks during peak times to process and evaluate your applications. The timeline may vary based on the load of applications with AMCAS.

Documents Required for MBBS at Harvard

Indian/international applicants generally need the following supporting documents for MBBS applications for Harvard:

• Academic transcripts

• Bachelor’s degree records

• MCAT scores

• Letters of recommendation

• Personal statement

• Research/clinical experience details

• Resume

Harvard University MBBS Fees in Indian Rupees

The cost of studying MBBS in Harvard is calculated for five years. Know that the Harvard University fees for MBBS/MD will vary based on the curricular track you choose.

Cost of Studying HST for MBBS in Harvard

Check out the fee below for Pathway and HST below for 2026-27:

Cost of Studying Pathway for MBBS in Harvard

Harvard University fees for MBBS in Rupees for the Pathway track for 2026-27 are as follows:

Harvard University's fee is dynamic and is subject to change. Check the latest fee and current exchange rates before applying. Fee is as per USD 1 = INR 95.72 (as of May 14, 2026).

Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students for MBBS

Harvard University gives need-based scholarships to students, including MD applicants. Around USD 44 million was awarded by Harvard to 71% of students from class of 2024. Some of the popular Harvard scholarships available for international students pursuing MD are:

• Harvard Medical School Scholarships

• Dean’s REACH Scholarship Award Program

• General Restricted Scholarships

• MD-PhD Funding

An average financial aid of USD 50,000 is offered to MD applicants at Harvard each year. Majority of the students graduate with lesser debt amount from Harvard as compared to other med schools - private or public universities in USA. 

On the whole, MBBS in Harvard is though expensive, yet its ROI is also taken care of at Harvard through different financial aid. Indian students who plan on studying MBBS (MD) in Harvard University will have to plan their applications, MCAT scores and documents meticulously. If you need help with admissions, you can get in touch with our premium counselling services at Shiksha Topper Counselling. Our team of experts shall get back to you soon after you sign up for free!