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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 to study undergraduate and graduate programs. The Harvard University application deadline for international students are mentioned below:

  • The Harvard Regular Action application deadline 2026 for undergraduate admission is Jan 1, 2026
  • The Harvard application deadline for MBA admission in Round 2 is Jan 5, 2026
  • MS (John A. Paulson School of Engineering): closed
  • MS (Harvard Kennedy School): closed

 

Harvard University Admissions
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Harvard University Admissions 2026

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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. 
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 have higher selection chances. Low acceptance percentage show that university is too tough for Indians. 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. 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 Admission Dates 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

How to get into Harvard University?

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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. 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

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
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
Manvi Aggarwal Verified Icon
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:   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. 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)

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. 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 11 hours ago

No,  PhD is not available for Data Science course. The Data Science course is only offered as Master of Science (S.M.) under School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. PhD degree under SEAS is available for Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, etc. 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 10 hours ago

While the Harvard University do not offer in person tours or individual information sessions,  students who are interested to know more about the university can view virtual information sessions available on university website. Also, if student are interested in a self guided tour,  there are some o

...Read more

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 10 hours ago

International students are required to pay Harvard SEAS fees to pursue Data Science course. First year tuition fee of MS in Data Science is USD 65,536 (INR 59.08 L)This tuition fee can be considered expensive for international student. Harvard SEAS application fee is USD 105 (INR 9.4 K). 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 10 hours ago

The graduate application for Fall 2026 were available at GSAS in Fall 2025. Application deadline for 2026 admission have been closed on Dec 1,  2025 and the decision for the same will be declared in mid-Feb. 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 9 hours ago

It is true that Data Science course which is offered at the Harvard University is ranked by top ranking body in world. Harvard SEAS School is part of Ivy League. According to the QS World Ranking- 2025,  Data Science programme is ranked #6. 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

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Akansha katariya

Study Abroad Expert

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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