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Harvard University Admissions 2026: Application Fee, Deadlines, Requirements

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Harvard University Admissions
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International students can apply to Harvard University admission to study undergraduate and graduate programs. The Harvard University application deadline for international students are mentioned below:

  • The Harvard early action application deadline 2026 for undergraduate admission is Nov 01, 2025
  • The Harvard application deadline for MBA admission in round 1 is Sep 03, 2025
  • MS (John A. Paulson School of Engineering): Dec 1, 2025

  • MS (Harvard Kennedy School): Early Dec 2025 (Application available in September)

 

 

 

Harvard University Admissions
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How to get admission in Harvard University?

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is Harvard online MBA worth it?
A: 

Harvard University does not provide any online MBA program; however, it offers various online business programs via Harvard Business School Online. It offers business courses like CORe, Leadership Principles, Negotiation Mastery, Business Analytics, Sustainable Business Strategy, and more. Students can never replace the actual MBA course with these online courses. However, the quality of these courses is excellent as it is taught by HBS faculty.

The overall quality of the online business programs at Harvard is completely worth it, especially for working professionals seeking credible, flexible, and branded programs to improve business skills.

Q:   How competitive is Harvard’s acceptance rate for international students from India?
A: 

According to unofficial sources, Harvard University acceptance rate is 3% and early acceptance rate of 7.6%. This means that students who apply early may have higher selection chances. Low acceptance percentage symbolizes that university is too stringent not only for Indians but for each country. Along with meeting basic eligibility criteria, students must provide work experience or internships and submit mandatory documents. 

Q:   Which is better, IIM or Harvard Business School?
A: 

IIM and Harvard Business Schools are elite in different contexts. IIM, especially in the locations in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, is best for excelling in India's Cooperate world, and is comparatively affordable than HBS. Students who want to build their career in India and have a limited budget for a world-class MBA must choose IIM over HBS. In contrast, students looking for consulting or Finance in the US and willing to join elite firms or seeking a career as a CEO must go to Harvard Business School. The comparison between the two is given below:

Feature

IIMs

Harvard Business School (HBS)

Global Ranking

~#50–60 (FT Global MBA)

Top 3 globally

Location

India (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kolkata)

USA (Cambridge, Massachusetts)

Program Duration

2 years (PGP/MBA), 1 year for exec MBAs

2 years full-time MBA

Eligibility

CAT/GRE/GMAT, Indian UG degree

GMAT/GRE, global application process

Teaching Style

Mix of case, lecture, projects

100% case method

Top Strengths

Indian management, cost-effective, domestic networks

Global leadership, alumni reach, case mastery

Tuition Fees

INR 20–28 L

INR 1.4–1.6 Cr

Post-MBA Salary (Avg.)

INR 25–35 LPA

INR 1.5–2.0 Cr

 

Harvard University Courses: Fees & Eligibility 2026

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are the eligibility requirements for Indian students applying to Harvard University?
A: 

International students, including Indians, must show their excellent academic performance, leadership qualities, intellectual curiosity, and extracurricular activities to improve their selection probability. UG applicants should submit a proof of completion of High school. For admission to PG courses, Harvard Uni applicants should have a Bachelor's degree. Also, the applicants should submit essays, letter of recommendation, SOP, resume, English language proficiency score, etc. 

Q:   How can I get admission to Harvard for LLM?
A: 

Admission to LLM program at Harvard University is highly competitive. Each year, around 1600 applicants compete for around 180 places in the LLM program. 

Harvard University admission requirements for LLM course are: 

  • The applicants must have a J.D. (Juris Doctor) from an ABA approved US Law School or a first-law degree (J.D., LLB or equivalent) from a foreign law school
  • While evaluating the applications, the Committee of Harvard University takes into consideration the applicant’s grades and rank in their law and other university studies, occupational interests, letters of recommendation, professional and personal achievements, and other factors. 
Q:   Is it expensive to study at Harvard as an Indian student?
A: 

Yes, Harvard is quite an expensive option for international students, including Indians. Students can check the cost of living for students willing to take admission below:

Particulars

Expenses

Tuition

USD 59,320 (INR 52L)

Fees

USD 5,476 (INR 4.8L)

Housing

USD 13,532 (INR 11L)

Food

USD 8,598 (INR 7.5L)

Subtotal - billed costs

USD 86,926 (INR 76L)

Estimated personal expenses

USD 2,500 (INR 2L)

Estimated books

USD 1,000 (INR 87K)

Estimated transportation costs

USD 0-USD 5,000 (INR 4.3L)

Total billed and unbilled costs

USD 90,426-USD 95,426 (INR 79L-INR 83L)

Harvard University Admission Process 2026

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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   How can I get into Harvard University if I am currently studying in India?
A: 

According to some of student reviews at an unofficial source, the following are the key points that Indian students have to keep in mind if they want to get into Harvard University:

  • Focus on Academics: Try to ace your academics. Get good marks in the standardized tests (as required), school examinations, Olympiad tests, etc. In short, have a stellar academic record
  • Extra-curriculars: Choose any activity as per hobbies and be the best. For instance, if you like debating, try to win some of the international debates, etc.
  • Sports: If you can represent India abroad and manage to win, it will boost your Harvard University application considerably
Q:   What is the GMAT score required for Harvard?
A: 

To apply for Harvard graduate admission, applicanta can submit thier GMAT score along with thier admision application. As such, minimum GMAT score required for Harvard MBA has not been mentioned. Check the complete deatil about the Harvard MBA class 2025 GMAT score:

ParticularScore Range
Verbal Range25-51
Quantitative Range31-51
Total Range500-790
Median Verbal42
Median Quantitative49
Median Total740

Harvard University MBA Admissions 2026

7 courses 9 months - 2 years
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icon
20.9L - 80.3L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Accepting Exams: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, GMAT, GRE

Harvard University Application Process 2026

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process
Q:   Can I apply to Harvard without SAT?
A: 

For the Harvard College classes of 2027-2030, students can apply for admission without standardized test scores, meaning without SAT or ACT scores. But, you can submit the standardized test scores but, those who will not submit these scores will not be at a disadvantage. Harvard University is consistent with its whole-person admission process and the standardized tests are one of the factors among many others. The accomplishments of students in and out of the classroom during the high school years like extracurricular activities, community involvement, family responsibilities, etc. are considered too.

Q:   How can I get into Harvard Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Finance?
A: 

Harvard Uni requirements for Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Finance include having a 4-year bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent. Students are required submit the English language proficiency score too. For admission to Harvard's Master of Liberal Arts in Finance course, the applicants should submit documents like resume, personal statement, academic degrees of previous studies, etc. 

 

Q:   How to apply for Harvard Master's in Data Science?
A: 

To apply to Harvard MSc in Data Science, the applicants are required to apply through the designated application link mentioned on the official website. Harvard University admission requirements for MSc in Data Science are given below:

  • Online application form
  • Statement of Purpose
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • Academic transcripts
  • CV or resume
  • TOEFL / IELTS score report
  • Any other application material

Harvard University expects from applicants to have a knowledge of Calculus and Linear Algebra; familiarity with Probability and Statistical Inference; Fluency in at least one programming language such as Python or R, and understanding of basic Computer Science concepts.

Harvard University Enrollment Statistics 2026

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Commonly asked questions
On Admission
Q:   Can I apply to Harvard after 12th?
A: 

After passing Class 12, Indian students can take admission to Harvard Uni. The applicants can submit the application via Common App or Coalition App. SAT / ACT scores can be submitted too. 

Q:   Is it harder to get into MIT or Harvard?
A: 

Harvard and MIT are the top-ranked universities and some of the toughest universities to take admission. Considering the acceptance rates of these universities, Harvard is more selective with around 3.6% acceptance rate. On the other hand, MIT's acceptance rate is around 4.5%

 

Harvard University
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.6/5
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Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 100% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Multi-dimensional
Friendly
Academically oriented
Internships5
Part time work5
Post study jobs4
Quality of faculty5
Student Life5
Value for money5
Public transportation5
Safety5
Indian Food4
Permanent Immigration3
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Master in Public Policy - Batch of 2024
4.6
Life of a Harvard student in the US.
Tips: Harvard's rigour demands self-discipline and expects intense course work but unparalleled resources to navigate the same, be it world-class libraries, faculty, grants, alumni network, peer group, etc. The culture thrives on collaboration, and you will meet some of the most brilliant minds in the world, which is highly inspirational. I availed a generous scholarship from Harvard, which covered 80% of my tuition and made this dream possible for me. Overall, this was an incredible learning experience, and I would highly recommend it.
Likes (Quality of faculty): Harvard's faculty brings in unparalleled expertise, accessibility and mentorship. Professors blend cutting edge research with practical and interactive teaching, ranging from case studies to internships to discussions. The departments also bring in global faculty which enriches classroom discussions and projects.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): While the US offers strong career opportunities and great mentorship, currently, the country is going through several changes in its immigration rules and that could lead to some uncertainty with settlement options. My chances of settlement rely heavily on an employers sponsoring my H1-b visa and that is always uncertain as its a lottery process so the volatility makes it hard to be certain.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2500
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85000
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Harvard University Admissions 2026 FAQs

Q:   Does Harvard require an English proficiency test?
A: 

International students whose first language is not English must meet the Harvard University English language requirements for UG and PG admissions. The language requirements vary as per the school and programme type. Mentioned below are general Harvard University Duolingo requirements along with details on other test scores:

English Language Test

Minimum UG Score

Minimum PG Score

IELTS

6.5

7.5

TOEFL iBT

80

109

PTE

60

75

Duolingo

100

145

Note: Harvard undergraduate admission to the Class of 2025 is test optional and a lack of test results will not affect students’ chances of admission.

Check how to Study in the USA without IELTS and TOEFL

Q:   How do I get into Harvard for CSE Masters?
A: 

Check the Harvard University University admission requirements for Harvard University MS in CSE: 

  • A bachelor’s degree in the relevant field
  • Completed application form
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Academic Transcripts
  • CV or Resume
  • TOEFL / IELTS score report
Q:   What is the fees for LLM at Harvard?
A: 

A year of an LLM programme at Harvard’s Law School is expensive. Check the 2023-24 academic year budget from the table given below:

ParticularsAmount (USD)
TuitionUSD 73,600
Health Insurance and Health Services FeesUSD 5,528
Activities FeesUSD 400
Rent and UtilitiesUSD 17,100
FoodUSD 5,850
Personal ExpensesUSD 5,647
Books & SuppliesUSD 1,650
TravelUSD 1,725
Q:   Can I do LLM from Harvard University?
A: 

Students can get admission to Harvard University LLM program if they meet the program requirements. Applicants must have a first law degree from a recognized Law school. Final year Law students must complete the degree no later than June of the year in which you intend to enroll. Below are the application materials checklist:

  • Online application form
  • CV/Résumé
  • Personal statement, parts (A) and (B)
  • Transcript(s) (including diplomas for all degrees that have been received)
  • Recommendations (at least two)
  • Official TOEFL report (if applicable; please note that we do not accept MyBest™ TOEFL score reports)*
  • Financial Aid application (if applicable)
  • Application fee of USD 85 or INR 7,103.90
Q:   How hard is it to get into Harvard?
A: 

The Harvard acceptance rate is around 3.6%,  which means admission at Harvard University is too hard for internationl students. As it is widely known, Harvard is among the top-ranked universities worldwide and its rank justifies so. For the Class of 2028, over 54,000+ applicants were there at Harvard and out of this, 1,900+ students admitted. 

Also Check: Harvard University Acceptance Rate for International Students 

Q:   What does Harvard University look for in college applicants?
A: 

Students who are planning to enrolled at Harvard must have other qualities apart from meeting the admission requirements. The Harvard University Admission Committee consider other things too such as personal qualities, extracurricular activities, etc. 

Q:   What are the fees for an MS in Aerospace Engineering at MIT, Stanford, and Harvard University?
A: 

MIT, Stanford, and Harvard University offers quality MS in Computer Science course to international students. The table below includes the fees for an MS in Aerospace Engineering at MIT, Stanford, and Harvard University:

UniversitiesMS in Computer Science First-Year Fees
MIT University MS in CSINR 50.35 L
Stanford University MS in CSINR 35.65 L
Stanford,3 University MS in CSINR 53.62 L
Q:   What is the average tuition a student pays to study at Harvard?
A: 

The Harvard University tuition fees for international students varies from INR 16 L to INR 72 L for first year. We have mentioned below the first-year Harvard University fees for Indian students with course duration:

Courses1st Year Tuition Fees
MIM (9 months-2 years)
INR 18 L - 47 L
MS (1 year-3 years)
INR 18 L - 72 L
MBA/PGDM (9 months-2 years)
INR 18 L - 62 L
BSc (4 years)
INR 41 L - 45 L
BA (4 years)
INR 41 L - 45 L
MA (12 months-3 years)
INR 17 L - 44 L
BE / BTech (4 years)
INR 45 L
LLM (1 years)
INR 59 L
Others UG (4 years)
INR 41 L - 44 L

Read about the Harvard University job outcomes

Q:   Can Indian get admission in Harvard University?
A: 

Indian students can get admission at Harvard University in America if they meet the entry criteria. Students can apply for Harvard University admissions online through the Common Application or Coalition Application to study UG programs. Many Indian students apply here and get admisison to thier perefered program every year. Harvard University acceptance rate is moderatly high, which means admissions are moderatly competitive. Mentioned below are the University of Harvard admission requirements for Indian students to get admission in UG program:

  • SAT or ACT scores are optional
  • Must meet English language proficiency requirements
  • School report and high school transcript
  • Letters of Recommendation from two teacher
  • Mid-year school report and final school report (for admitted students only)
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(3)

qna

Harvard University

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered a month ago

Law is a very different study . Interdisciplinary study or some other different subject knowledge enhance the level .

 

Harvard is a brand worldwide and also the education is comparatively higher .You need to have some exceptional achievements to get there.Also a good research before applying for Harv

...Read more

78589986
Dinesh upadhyay

Scholar-Level 16

Answered a month ago

MIT vs Harvard is one decision that you want to be in the position of making, if you're looking for higher education in the USA. Fierce competitors, academic peers, and neighbours, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University are two of the most elite institutions in the world an

...Read more

M

MANPREET KAUR

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 months ago

Studying at Harvard can be expensive for Indian students. Located in Cambridge, the cost of living when studying at Harvard is high. Apart from the tuition fee, students also need to pay for housing, food, transportation, insurance, among others on a monthly basis. 
Indian students can check the cost

...Read more

E

Esha Srivastava

Beginner-Level 3

Answered 2 months ago

As per the latest employment data made available by the institute, the median salary earned by Ed.M. graduates at Harvard Education School graduates is USD 70,000 (INR 61.17 L). While Ph.D. graduates earn an even higher median salary of USD 79,500 (INR 69.47 L). 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

Harvard Univ acceptance rate usually stays under 5%. For class of 2029 Harvard received around 53,700 applications from prospective students. Whereas no. of students admitted stood at approximately 1950 suggesing that Harvard acceptance rate 2025 stands at 3.63% meaning that out of every 100 student

...Read more

R

Ridhi

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

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Loveleen Sharma

Study Abroad Expert

Loveleen is a seasoned content writer with 4+ years of experience, currently writing for Shiksha. When he is not writing and helping students, he can be found at the movies, reading fiction, and learning a new language.

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