Harvard University

The cost of living at Harvard University for undergraduate students is quite substantial. Annually, tuition and fees are approximately $57,000. On-campus housing and meal plans add around $18,000 to the cost. Additionally, students can expect to spend about $1,000 on books and supplies and another $2,000 on personal expenses. Therefore, the total estimated annual cost for an undergraduate student living on campus is around $78,000.

For graduate and PhD students (mostly funded) costs can vary widely based on programme specifics, but they generally include tuition fees, which can range from $45,000 to $55,000 per year, plus additional living expenses similar to those of undergraduates.

The word 'average' can be subjective here. If it means an average GPA, then yes, that can be overcome by showcasing in your application that you focus on holistic development and have an interest in the field of study. 

However, academic achievements, standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT for undergraduates, GRE or GMAT for graduates), extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays often have great weightage making admission extremely competitive. 

Preparation typically involves excelling academically, participating actively in extracurricular activities, and presenting a compelling application that aligns with Harvard's values and academic mission.

Harvard University in the USA can be a better choice for people aspiring to have an impact in a global setting.

Harvard's MBA programme is renowned globally and undoubtedly provides unparalleled opportunities for global exposure and high-profile career placements. The method of teaching is also innovative including case study methods.

On the other hand, GIM offers a foundation in management with a strong focus on the Indian market, which is invaluable if one aims to build a career within India. The close-knit community at GIM is very supportive.

Ultimately, if you aspire to work in a global setting and leverage a vast international network, Harvard seems like the better choice, given you have secured scholarships since otherwise it can be a huge investment. If your goal is to make an impact in the Indian business landscape with a regional focus, GIM could be the ideal fit.

This is hugely dependent on individual circumstances however campus life at Harvard University is an experience that many students cherish.

Living on-campus provides convenience, allowing students to immerse fully in Harvard's academic and social environment. Students are just steps away from classes, libraries, dining halls, and campus events, which fosters a sense of community and makes it easier to participate in clubs, sports teams, and cultural activities.

Off-campus living, while offering more independence, can sometimes mean longer commutes and fewer opportunities to engage in spontaneous campus activities. However, off-campus living can sometimes be cheaper for students to opt for.

Both options have their merits depending on personal preferences for privacy, lifestyle, and budget. 

This might have a very subjective answer varying from year to year, however, one of the most preferred courses by Indian students at Harvard University is typically the MBA programme offered by Harvard Business School (HBS). 

The HBS MBA programme is renowned for its case study method, which challenges students to analyze real-world business scenarios and develop strategic solutions, making them sought-after candidates by big firms.

Indian students often choose this programme to gain international exposure, access top-tier faculty, and leverage Harvard's extensive alumni network for career opportunities.

Additionally, Harvard's engineering, computer science, public health, and social sciences courses also attract Indian students.