Harvard University Admissions 2025: Process, Requirements & Deadlines

Harvard is a renowned private University set up in 1636, home to numerous Nobel laureates and prominent individuals. The university has high admission standards, reflected by an acceptance rate of just 3%.

With over 3,700 courses across disciplines such as humanities, applied sciences, management, and medicine, Harvard provides diverse academic opportunities. Its need-based scholarships make it more affordable, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to education. 

Here’s an overview of Harvard University.

Also Read: University of Harvard: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

The above table gives you a brief idea about Harvard University, helping you understand its structure. Now, let’s look at the admission timelines at Harvard.

Harvard University Admission Dates

Admission to Harvard courses, both undergraduate and graduate, is usually for the fall semester. Some courses, like those offered by Harvard Extension School, may accept spring.

Here’s a look at admission deadlines for various courses.

Fall Intake

Harvard’s admission for both graduate and undergraduate courses is for the fall semester, taking place in August-September.

Here are the application deadlines for applicants.

Spring Intake 

Harvard University does not offer a separate spring intake for undergraduate courses. However, some courses in public administration and education offer spring intake.

The application deadlines for these programs vary, so it is advised to verify specific dates on the official website before applying.

Summer Intake 

The summer intake under Harvard Summer School study abroad courses allows you to take courses either in Harvard's summer programs or at partner institutions around the world. 

Here’s the deadline for summer intake at Harvard.

Now that you’ve explored the deadlines for different intakes at Harvard, let’s take a look at the admission requirements for the bachelor’s degree.

Harvard University: Bachelors Admission

Harvard University offers bachelor’s degree admissions for programs such as Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Liberal Arts through its Harvard College. 

Before exploring the requirements, let’s understand the advantages of getting into Harvard.

What are the Advantages of Getting into Harvard University? 

upGrad's Study Abroad program offers students a flexible learning path that allows them to begin their education online before transitioning to campus.

Here are the other benefits of getting into Harvard University.

• Research Opportunities: As an undergraduate or graduate student, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside renowned faculty and contribute to groundbreaking research.
• Networking Through Alumni: Harvard boasts a vast network of successful alumni. This extensive network can provide invaluable connections, career advice, mentorship, and even job opportunities.
• Career Support: The Harvard Career Services offers personalized career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship exploration. 
• Scholarships and Financial Aid: Harvard is known for its generous need-based financial aid. The university ensures that financial constraints do not prevent students from receiving a world-class education.
• Quality Faculty: Harvard is home to some of the world's best professors, many of whom are Nobel laureates and pioneers in their fields. 
• Leadership Development: Whether it's through student government, cultural organizations, or sports, Harvard provides ample opportunities to develop skills that go beyond academics and prepare you for leadership roles.

Admission Requirements

Harvard University requires students to submit test scores (SAT/ACT), English language proficiency scores, and academic transcripts.

The requirements include:

Scholarships 

Harvard University offers 100% need-based financial assistance in the form of scholarships. In addition to need-based aid, here are some other scholarships available:

These scholarships help reduce your financial burden, ensuring you can complete your studies without any hindrance. Now, let’s take a look at the admission requirements for MBA courses.

Harvard University: MBA Admissions

The MBA degree at Harvard is offered by Harvard Business School, which provides a program focused on leadership, management, and general business education.

MBA Admission Requirement 

For MBA admission at Harvard, you need to provide documents such as academic transcripts, GRE/GMAT scores, and proof of English language proficiency.

MBA Scholarships 

The Harvard Business School (HBS) offers financial assistance to students based on their needs. Here are some popular scholarships.

Now that you’ve reviewed the admission requirements for an MBA at Harvard, let’s explore the details of the MS courses.

Harvard University: MS Admissions

Harvard University offers Master of Science (MS) courses through the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). The school provides graduate-level programs in various fields, including Data Science and Applied Mathematics.

MS Admission Requirement 

The admission for MS courses requires you to submit documents like a resume, IELTS score, GRE/GMAT score, and high school transcripts.

Here are the documents required.

MS Scholarships 

Financial aid is not available for master’s students in M.E. and MS programs at Harvard. However, there are a variety of funding opportunities available.

After exploring the admission requirements for MS applicants, let’s check out the same for those applying for MBBS. 

Harvard University: MBBS Admissions

Harvard offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program through the Harvard Medical School, which is equivalent to an MBBS degree.

MBBS/MD Admission Requirement 

The main requirements for an MD program include your MCAT score and letters of evaluation. Here are the other requirements.

MBBS Scholarships 

Scholarships like Harvard Medical School Scholarships ensure students can complete their degree without the burden of loans.

Now that you’ve checked out the requirements for an MBBS/MD degree at Harvard University, let’s explore the requirements for other PG courses.

Harvard University: Other PG Courses Admission

Apart from the courses mentioned above, Harvard offers postgraduate degrees like Master of Education and Master of Public Policy.

Other PG Course Admission Requirement 

The specific requirements for each course may vary. However, most postgraduate courses require the following general criteria for admission.

Now that you’ve looked at the requirements for courses like MS, MBA, and MBBS/MD courses, let’s explore the general admission process for Harvard.

Harvard University: Admission Process

To apply to Harvard, you need to complete steps such as filling out the application form, submitting the required documents, and paying the application fee.

Here are the detailed steps:

• Application Platforms: Harvard accepts both the Common Application and Coalition Application through Scoir.
• Application Submission
  • For the Common Application, you need to submit the main application before the supporting materials (like teacher recommendations) are sent to Harvard.
  • For the Coalition Application, you need to submit the Harvard supplement in addition to the main application to complete the process.
• Confirmation: After submitting, you’ll get an email confirmation and a PIN to access the Applicant Portal. This email is usually sent the day after you submit your application.
• Fee Payment: You can pay the application fee online via the Common or Coalition Application websites or by check/money order to Harvard College Admissions. Fee waivers are available for eligible applicants.
• Supplementary Questions: Complete the required Harvard-specific questions via either application, which includes five short-answer questions, each with a 150-word limit.

The following steps will guide you through the Harvard application process smoothly. Now, let’s explore the support Harvard offers for both pre-admission and post-admission queries.

Harvard University Student Support Services

Harvard University’s student support services ensure the well-being of its students. These include:

• Counseling and Mental Health Services: Harvard provides confidential counseling, therapy, and mental health support through the Harvard University Health Services (HUHS).
• Food Security: Harvard addresses food insecurity through initiatives like Harvard University’s Food Security Initiative.
• Campus Transportation: Harvard offers convenient campus transportation options, including shuttles and biking facilities, to ensure easy mobility around the campus for students.
• Academic Support and Advising: Harvard provides academic advising, tutoring, and writing resources to help students succeed in their studies.

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