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Harvard University Admissions 2026: Application Fee, Deadlines, Requirements

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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 27 Aug '25

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)

 

 

 

How to get admission in Harvard University?

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

According to an unofficial ranking body, Harvard University acceptance rate is 3% for Indian students, and the early acceptance rate of 7.6%. This means that the students who apply early may have higher selection chances. The low acceptance percentage symbolizes that the university is too stringent not only for Indians but for each country. Along with fulfilling the basic eligibility criteria, students must provide relevant work experience or internships in some cases and submit the mandatory documents. The crucial list includes standardized test scores, essays, a resume, transcripts, English language requirements, a letter of recommendation, and more.

Q:   Is Stanford better than Harvard?
A: 

There can be no comparison between the two elite universities. Students must choose the university between the two universities based on the program, campus life, location, affordability, and more. Students who are looking for programs like Finance, Law, or Government, and prefer Ivy League prestige, must choose Harvard over Stanford. On the other hand, students willing to become tech entrepreneurs or engineers, who prefer innovation, startups, and tech culture, must choose Stanford. The comparison between the two is given below:

Particulars

Harvard University

Stanford University

Shiksha popularity rankings

#1

#3

Acceptance Rate

3%

4%

Top programs

Law, Business (HBS), Medicine, Government, Economics

Computer Science, Engineering, Business (GSB), AI

US News National Rankings 2025

#3

#4

Graduation rate

66%

64%

Student-Faculty ratio

7:1

6:1

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.

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 showcase their excellent academic performance, leadership qualities, intellectual curiosity, and extracurricular activities to improve their selection probability. The undergraduate students must submit proof of high school completion, along with the mandatory requirements. On the other hand, graduate applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a recognised university or equivalent, with relevant work experience. Some mandatory documents include a letter of recommendation, essays, standardized test scores, English language requirements, statement of purpose, and more.

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. Scoring an excellent score is not enough; students must have a high budget not only for tuition but also for additional expenses like housing, food, personal expenses, transportation, and more. Students can check the cost of living for students willing to take admission below:

Particulars

Cost of attendance 2025

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)

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. 

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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20.9L - 80.3L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Accepting Exams: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, GMAT, GRE
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Commonly asked questions
On MBA/PGDM Admissions
Q:   What is the maximum salary for Harvard MBA?
A: 

According to the data of the class of 2023, 73% of students sought employment. Out of this, 86% received an offer and 80% accepted an offer. The median base salary was $175,000 and the median signing bonus was $30,000. Some of the industries that were most popular among students included Consulting, Health Care, Private Equity, Technology, Venture Capital, Hedge Fund, etc.

Harvard University Application Process 2026

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process
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.

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

Harvard University admission requirements for Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Finance include having a 4-year bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent. Students need to submit the English language proficiency score too. The application requires materials like academic transcripts, updated resume, personal statement, any other additional document (as applicable).

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.

Harvard University Enrollment Statistics 2026

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

Yes, Indian students can apply for Harvard admission after 12th class by meeting the undergraduate admission requirements. You can submit your admission application through online portal. Applicants must submit the standardized test score as part of the comprehensive application process. The College will accept the SAT or ACT to meet the standardized testing requirement.

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

Both MIT and Harvard are among the toughest university in the world to get into. If we compared them in terms of their acceptance rate, then Massachusetts Institute of Technology acceptance rate is 4.8% while Harvard University acceptance rate is 3.24%. This clearly shows that admissions at both the university are highly competitive but Harvard is harder to get into then MIT.

Harvard University
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.6/5
Verified Icon1 Verified ReviewInfo Icon
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
Reviewed on 27 Mar 2025Read more
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Harvard University Admissions 2026 FAQs

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:   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:   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 3.41%,  which means admission at Harvard University is too hard for internationl students. The university is highly selective and the chances of getting admitted increase if your grades are at the top and your extra-curricular activities align with Harvard’s values. For the Class of 2027, Harvard College has offered regular admission to 1,220 applicants, with 1,942 admitted in total. The total number of applications for the Class of 2027 was 56,937.

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 considers many other factors such as strong personal qualities, special talents or excellences of all kinds, and the ability to take advantage of available resources and opportunities. The university looking for the profile with an outstanding personal qualities, students who excel in one or more 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:   Which Indian students are famous in Harvard University?
A: 

There is a long list of famous Indian students who complete their degree from Harvard University. The table below includes the list of some popular Harvard Indian graduates:

StudentsProfession
Ratan Naval TataIndian industrialist
Anand Gopal MahindraChairman of Mahindra Group
Rahul BajajChairman Emeritus of the Indian conglomerate Bajaj Group
Suhel SethCo-founder of Equus Redcell Advertising Co. Ltd
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:   How much will a Masters in Computational Science and Engineering at Harvard cost?
A: 

The first-year tuition fee for MS in Computational Science and Engineering at Harvard University will be around INR 50 lakhs. Some of the other expenses in the first year will be of accommodation and meals, insurance, books and supplies, etc. All of the other expenses included in the first-year will account for INR 19 lakh.

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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Akansha katariya is a content creator at shiksha.com, creating content for study abroad. Having pursued B tech. in Electronics and communication from RGPV University, she has been creating content across diverse domains. When not guiding students, sh...Read Full Bio

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