Check How to Get Into Harvard University from India

If you’re dreaming of stepping onto the iconic campus of Harvard University that ranks 4 in the QS World Ranking 2025, you’re aiming high! But getting into Harvard can feel as daunting as trying to catch a greased pig at a county fair. 

With 500 to 800 Indian students and scholars studying at Harvard each year, you’re not alone in your quest. Many students like you wonder, “How do I stand out in this sea of talent?”

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Fear not! Whether you’re battling the stress of application essays or trying to impress with your extracurriculars, this blog will guide you through the process. 

So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to tackle how to get into Harvard University from India! 

Key Highlights

The table below outlines the key highlights of how to get into Harvard University, detailed in the article. 

How to Get Into Harvard University: Requirements

First things first. You must ensure you have all the right documents lined up for a smooth application process. This section covers that! You must pay the application fee of INR 7.1K (USD 85) or request a fee waiver to start with.

With that, you can start preparing for the rest. Here are the other requirements and application processes you must fulfil to get in. 

Undergraduate Studies 

If you want to apply for undergraduate admissions at Harvard University, here’s a list of essential documents and steps you’ll need to complete. 

• Submit an online application through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
• Provide transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions you’ve attended.
• Have your Secondary School Report completed by your school counsellor.
• Submit a Midyear School Report with your first-semester senior year grades.
• Provide two teacher recommendations.
• Submit your Final School Report and transcript after graduation.
• SAT or ACT scores (optional for the classes of 2027-2030). Minimum scores as given below.

• TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, Duolingo English test results with minimum scores as given below.

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Postgraduate Studies 

If you’re looking to understand how to get into Harvard University for postgraduate studies, here’s what you’ll need to do. 

1. You will need to submit an online application as the first step.
2. Ensure you provide transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions you’ve attended.
3. You’ll be required to write essays responding to specific prompts provided by the program.
4. You must submit two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your qualifications.
5. You must include your GMAT or GRE scores in your application (if applicable). However, no minimum score is needed to apply. 

Note: If you already hold a bachelor’s or first university degree, you’re ineligible for Harvard College, but you can explore one of Harvard’s 12 graduate schools.

Now that you clearly understand the requirements to get into Harvard, explore some of the top courses at Harvard and their eligibility criteria. 

How to Get into Harvard University for MS?

Harvard Chan School offers a Master of Science (M.S.) program with various specialisations. The program emphasises public health research and collaboration among diverse students from over 40 countries. 

Here are some of the specialisations. 

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Eligibility Criteria 

Here are the criteria to answer how to get into Harvard University for MS. 

• 80-Credit Programs: Requires a prior bachelor’s degree or non-U.S. equivalent. Some departments prefer relevant work experience.
  
• 60-Credit Program: Requires a prior bachelor’s degree or non-U.S. equivalent in mathematical sciences or an allied field (For example, biology, psychology, economics).
  
• 42.5-Credit Programs: Requires a master’s or doctoral degree. Some departments prefer relevant work experience.

How to Get into Harvard University for MBA?

Harvard Business School offers a two-year, full-time MBA program with 45% women and 39% international students. The program emphasises real-world practise and collaborative learning through case methods and dynamic classroom experiences.

Eligibility Criteria 

Here are the criteria to answer how to get into Harvard University for MBA. 

• Business-Minded: Passionate about using business to create positive change.
• Leadership-Focused: Aspires to lead diverse teams and make a difference.
• Growth-oriented: Eager to broaden perspectives through creative problem-solving and active participation.
• Interpersonal Skills: Evidence of strong interpersonal and quantitative abilities.
• Diverse Experiences: Backgrounds from various professional and educational experiences are encouraged.

How to Get into Harvard University for Psychology PhD?

Harvard offers a research-oriented PhD in Psychology with tracks in Experimental Psychopathology, Clinical Science, Developmental, Social, Cognition, Brain, and Behavior. These emphasise collaboration and diverse career pathways.

Eligibility Criteria 

Here are the criteria to answer how to get into Harvard University for psychology PhD. 

• A bachelor’s degree is required with a concentration in psychology is not mandatory but recommended.
• Completion of introductory social science courses and college-level math and statistics is advised.
• Prior research experience, such as working with professors or in psychology research labs, is highly beneficial.
• A personal statement detailing research interests and motivations is required.
• GRE scores are required for experimental and clinical psychopathology. They are optional for cognition, brain and behaviour development, and social psychology.

For information on the minimum GRE scores required, please refer to the prior section of this blog.

How to Get into Harvard University for Medicine?

Harvard Medical School is dedicated to creating a diverse community focused on excellence and leadership in medicine and science. The institution emphasises education, research, clinical care, and community service. Its commitment to diversity enriches the learning environment and enhances the overall impact on healthcare. 

Here are some of the specialisations, all of which span four years.

1. Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
2. Doctor of Medicine/Master of Academic Discipline (M.D./M.A.D.)
3. Doctor of Medicine/Master of Medical Science (M.D./M.M.Sc.)

Eligibility Criteria 

Here are the top eligibility criteria for this course. 

• Present intellectual solid and personal credentials predicting success in medicine.
• Demonstrate aptitude in biological and physical sciences, humanities and social sciences.
• If educated outside North America, complete at least one year of college or university training in the U.S. or Canada.
• Show fluent and nuanced English communication skills for effective interaction in medical settings.

How to Get into Harvard University for LLM? 

Harvard Law School hosts over 700 new students annually and offers 500+ courses across 88 student organisations. It provides a rigorous environment for legal education and professional growth.

The LL.M. (Master of Laws) program is a one-year degree program typically involving 180 students from 65 countries. 

Eligibility Criteria 

Here are the top eligibility criteria for this course.  

• You must have a J.D. (Juris Doctor) from an ABA-approved U.S. law school or a first law degree (J.D., LL.B., or equivalent) from a foreign law school.
• Harvard Law School rarely accepts applicants who already hold or are pursuing an LL.M. from another U.S. law school.

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Also Read: Oxford vs Harvard University: Which is better for Study abroad?

How to Get Into Harvard University: Application Process

Getting into Harvard University is a dream for many, but the application process can be challenging and competitive. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages to help you through the process and boost your chances of success.

1. Complete the Common Application: Start by filling out the Common App, where you’ll provide your personal details, academic history, and extracurricular activities.
   
2. Submit Transcripts and Test Scores: Ensure your school sends your transcripts, and if applicable, submit your SAT/ACT scores.
   
3. Write Strong Essays: Craft compelling personal and supplemental essays that showcase your unique experiences and why Harvard is the right fit for you.
   
4. Get Letters of Recommendation: Request recommendation letters from teachers who know you well and can highlight your strengths.
   
5. Submit Financial Aid Forms: If needed, complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and CSS (College Scholarship Service) Profile to apply for financial aid.
   
6. Track Application Deadlines: Ensure all materials are submitted before Harvard’s Early Action or Regular Decision deadlines.
   
7. Prepare for an Interview (If Offered): If invited, prepare for an alumni interview to highlight your skills and passion for Harvard further. After your interview, you must complete a post-interview reflection within 24 hours.

How to Get Into Harvard University: Preparing for the Interview

Take inspiration from Harvard alumnus Barack Obama, who once said, “The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something.” As you prepare for your interview, remember that your passion, drive, and ability to communicate your goals will set you apart. 

Here are some of the top questions you might be asked during your interview.

1. Please brief the panel regarding your academic interests.
2. What skills would you want to develop during this education program?
3. Why do you want to get into Harvard University?
4. Do you plan to continue your education in the upcoming years?
5. Talk about an academic challenge that you faced.
6. How do you handle failure?
7. Describe your leadership experience.
8. What are your long-term career goals?
9. What are your plans to contribute to the Harvard community?
10. How do you keep yourself updated with the current happenings around the world?

Tips to Ace the Interview

Nailing your Harvard interview takes more than just knowing the answers. It’s about showcasing your best self. Here are some key tips to ace the interview and make a lasting impression.

1. Be Yourself: Show authenticity and let your personality shine.
2. Research Harvard: Understand the university’s values, programs, and community.
3. Practise Common Questions: Prepare thoughtful responses to typical interview questions.
4. Showcase Passion: Highlight your academic and extracurricular interests enthusiastically.
5. Be Honest About Weaknesses: Acknowledge areas for improvement and how you address them.
6. Ask Insightful Questions: Engage your interviewer with meaningful questions about the university.
7. Stay Calm and Confident: Maintain composure, even when discussing challenges or failures.
8. Demonstrate Leadership and Teamwork: Provide examples of how you’ve led or collaborated with others.

What is Harvard Looking for?

Harvard University has shaped the future for nearly 400 years, earning its place as one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. With a remarkable graduation rate of 98% and around 7,103 students benefiting from a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Harvard creates an environment for success. 

But how to get into Harvard University? What exactly does Harvard look for in its applicants? Understanding these qualities can help you present your best self and enhance your chances of admission.  

1. Academic Excellence

Harvard seeks students with high academic standards, typically graduating in the top 10% of their class. Competitive SAT or ACT scores and a demonstrated intellectual curiosity through advanced courses, research, or independent projects are essential.

2. Personal Qualities

Harvard values candidates who exhibit leadership skills and a commitment to positively impacting their communities through volunteer work or initiatives. Personal traits such as integrity, resilience, and kindness are equally important, as they indicate your potential to contribute positively to the campus environment.

3. Extracurricular Engagement

You should demonstrate diverse interests through significant achievements in extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, or community service, ideally gaining national or regional recognition. Harvard prefers if you show a depth of commitment and make substantial contributions in a few areas rather than superficial involvement in many.

4. Recommendations and Essays

Strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know the applicant well are crucial, highlighting academic abilities and personal qualities. Compelling personal essays allow candidates to express their unique perspectives and motivations for wanting to attend Harvard, providing insight into their character and aspirations. 

Also Read: Letter of Recommendation for Masters: Sample, Format & Template. 

Cost of Living in and Around Harvard

When budgeting for life near Harvard, expect to spend around INR 1L (USD 1.2K) monthly, excluding rent. Now it’s time to look at the other things you might spend on as a student at Harvard throughout the month. 

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Harvard

With its rigorous admissions process, standing out is crucial. While academic excellence is important, Harvard looks for more than just good grades. Here are some essential tips to help boost your chances and make your application shine.

1. Apply Early

Applying through Early Action boosts your chances at Harvard with a higher acceptance rate than regular decisions. It demonstrates your commitment to the university and lets you decide earlier, helping you plan your next steps more effectively.

2. Take Rigorous Courses & Score Well

Harvard seeks students who challenge themselves academically. Enroll in AP or IB courses and aim for a GPA of 4.0 or higher. Strong academic performance is crucial to standing out among highly competitive applicants.

3. Submit Your SAT/ACT Scores

Although test-optional, submitting high SAT/ACT scores can strengthen your application. A score of at least 1580 (SAT) or 35-36 (ACT) demonstrates your academic potential and commitment to the admissions process.

4. Demonstrate Leadership and Community Involvement

Harvard values leadership and community impact. Engage in extracurricular activities, seek leadership roles, and contribute to your community to showcase your ability to make a positive difference.

For example, start an environmental club or lead a community project to show leadership and impact.

5. Write a Strong Personal Essay

Your essay is your chance to stand out. Use it to highlight your personality, experiences, and unique qualities. A well-written essay demonstrates your fit for Harvard and your potential to contribute to its community.

Top Courses to Study at Harvard University 

Besides world-class academics, Harvard is home to great cultural experiences like the Cultural Rhythms Festival, a weeklong celebration of diversity. Imagine indulging in delicious food from 20 different cultures and joining in fun social events. 

Sounds like a blast, right? To be a part of it, you must choose your course first. Check out the top courses that make Harvard even more exciting. 

Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students

As you explore how to get into Harvard University for international students, it’s essential to recognise the fierce competition. In 2024, Harvard received an astounding 54,008 applications for the Class of 2028, making it crucial for aspiring students to stand out. 

One significant way to enhance your chances is through scholarships, which provide financial support and access to valuable resources. 

Take a look at some of the top scholarships available for you.

Placements by Harvard 

Harvard’s reputation for opening doors is well-earned. After graduation, 86% of students receive job offers. The median base salary is INR 1.4Cr (USD 175K) per year. 

Check out some of the top high-paying job roles after graduation. 

With that, it’s time to look at the top recruiters that make these impressive placements happen. 

1. McKinsey & Company
2. Goldman Sachs
3. Google
4. Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
5. Microsoft
6. Amazon
7. Morgan Stanley
8. J.P. Morgan
9. Bain & Company
10. Facebook (Meta)

Conclusion 

Cracking the code on how to get into Harvard University might seem tricky, but with the right strategies and a dash of perseverance, you’ll be sipping that Crimson tea in no time.  

Remember, your hard work could lead to incredible opportunities. Imagine earning INR 1.4Cr (USD 175K) per year as the average Harvard MBA graduate salary! 

Ready to take the next step toward your Harvard education? Leap Scholar is here to guide you every step of the way. We’ll help you choose the right university, provide visa assistance, help with SOP reviews, and more.  

Connect with us now and make your Harvard dreams a reality because who wouldn’t want to trade their daily grind for a taste of Ivy League magic? 

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