How to Get into Harvard University from India?

Are you dreaming of gaining admission to Harvard University and wondering how to make that dream a reality? With an acceptance rate of just 3.59%, it may seem difficult, especially for Indian students who face stiff competition from a large pool of academically strong applicants. Limited international spots and the need to stand out beyond academics make it even more challenging. In this blog, we’ll break down how to get into Harvard from India, covering key requirements, the application process, and scholarship options available for Indian students.

Harvard Admission Requirements

1. Academic Excellence

Harvard looks for students with strong academic records. For Indian students, this usually means aiming to be in the top 5-10% of your class. A score of 90% or above in Class 12 exams will make your profile competitive. It also helps if you have scored well in the subjects that are relevant to your major at Harvard University.

For instance, if you want to study Computer Science, aim to excel in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science during your Class 12 board exams. When you have a score of 95% or higher in these areas, you can show your problem-solving and analytical skills, forming a strong foundation for understanding algorithms and programming concepts.

If you are unsure about which major to choose for a career that is ideal for you, you can take our Ivy League psychometric career counselling test. This data-driven approach will provide personalized career guidance, along with insights from top US and UK university graduates, helping you choose the right path.

2. Standardized Test Scores

Harvard has brought back the SAT/ACT requirement, so you’ll need to take one of these tests. To stand out, aim for:

• SAT: 1500–1600
• ACT: 33–36

There is no official cutoff, but these scores would put you in the top tier of applicants. Excelling in the SAT can be especially advantageous if you have a particular major in mind. High Math scores, for instance, can showcase your preparedness for fields like engineering or physics, while strong scores in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing highlight analytical abilities that are essential in disciplines such as the humanities or social sciences.

Remember that your test scores are important but not everything because Harvard looks for applicants with a well-rounded profile. You can seek the help of US/UK undergraduate university consultants to create a strong profile that will stand out in the competitive admission landscape. 

3. Extracurricular Activities

Harvard wants to see students who make an impact beyond the classroom. A good extracurricular profile showcases your leadership capabilities, creativity, and passion. Here’s how you can help your application shine:

• Olympiads and Competitions: Representing your school in science or maths Olympiads or winning national-level quizzes can showcase your academic talent.

For example, Winning a gold medal in the International Math Olympiad or ranking in a national quiz competition shows intellectual curiosity and dedication.

• Leadership Roles: Taking up leadership roles in student clubs, cultural events, or the student council can make you prove your initiative.

For example, if you led a mental health awareness campaign as the president of the student council, that shows both leadership and commitment to important causes.

• Entrepreneurial Projects: Starting a small business or a non-profit during the school years may be a major differentiator.

For example, Creating a non-profit to teach coding to poor children or setting up an e-commerce platform demonstrates initiative and entrepreneurial spirit.

• Community Service: Participation in regular community service demonstrates a desire to make a difference in the world.

For example, Regularly volunteering at a local NGO for over two years or organizing fundraisers shows your commitment to helping others.

Harvard looks for depth in extracurricular activities. It prefers true long-term commitment in a few areas rather than wide-ranging, superficial involvement in many. It reflects passion, leadership, and growth in those areas. But, breadth can also help by presenting you as a versatile person who expresses readiness to explore multiple interests.

This is why a T-shaped list of extracurricular activities will be excellent. The horizontal line of the “T” symbolizes the exploration of multiple interests, while the vertical line signifies deeper commitment and excellence in one or two. Harvard welcomes a student who can come out as great in one area but at the same time is open to exploring others.

Here’s an example of the common application activities list for a student who got into Harvard University:           

4. Letters of Recommendation

Good recommendation letters are an integral part of your Harvard application. You’ll need two from teachers and one from your school counsellor.

Who should write it? Select teachers who have known you well and taught you in core subjects like Math, Science, or English. Such teachers can be expected to share specific stories of your achievements and character.

For example, a professor or instructor who collaborated with you on a significant project and/or guided you in writing a research paper can give you insights that are meaningful about your skills and abilities.

What should the letter contain? Your recommendation letters should include a presentation of your strengths, for example, teamwork, leadership, and academic curiosity.

Example: A letter about leading a project on climate change solutions, mentoring others, and leading by example will look good on your application.

5. Essays

Essays provide a wonderful chance to tell Harvard who you are beyond grades. They allow you to show your unique personality and experiences.

• Personal Statement: This is your chance to tell your story—share what has shaped you and what drives you.

For instance, if you have experienced financial difficulties yet maintained an exceptional academic record, then detail the resilience that resulted from this experience. Or, if you are interested in environmental activism, share how leading a local project sparked your desire to create global change.

Supplemental Essays: These are shorter essays that allow you to explore more specific activities or goals.

For example, Harvard may ask about a meaningful extracurricular activity and you can share how you created an app addressing mental health issues and its impact.

Here are some sample essays:

• Prompt: Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard? (10-150 words)
• Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are. (10-150 words)

6. English Proficiency Tests

International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate a strong ability in English. So, Harvard requires international applicants to submit scores from English proficiency tests. Here are a few you can take:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Aim for a score of at least 100. A higher score is always better, as it strengthens your application.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Harvard also accepts IELTS scores, with a minimum band score of 7.5 recommended.
• DuoLingo English Test: This is a newer option that has gained popularity. Aim for a score of 120 or higher.

The Harvard Application Process

1. Selecting Your Application Method

For submitting your Harvard application, you can use either the Common Application or Coalition Application. The Common Application is significantly more popular because it is user-friendly and allows you to fill out one application for several colleges. Before applying remember that you should prepare your materials well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays. 

2. Deadlines

Remember to keep track of the following deadlines and submit your application on time:

• Early Action Deadline: November 1
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 1

If you apply for Early Action, you’ll get your decision earlier, and it’s non-binding, meaning you don’t have to commit to Harvard right away. 

3. What You’ll Need

Your application to Harvard should include:

• Application Form: Either through Common App or Coalition App.
• Transcripts: You need to upload your official transcripts
• Standardized Test Scores: SAT/ACT scores can be sent directly from the testing agency.
• Letters of Recommendation
• Essays: Include both the main Common Application essay and the Harvard supplemental essays.
• Extracurricular Activities List
• Mid-Year Report: Your school will send this after your first-term Grade 12 results are in.

You can seek the help of undergraduate university application consultants to ensure that your application is unique and complete. Once you’ve submitted everything, you can track your application status through Harvard’s portal. 

Does Harvard Have Scholarships or Financial Aid?

Yes, Harvard provides generous need-based financial aid so that students from all walks of life can attend Harvard and not worry about the cost. For families earning less than $85,000 a year, Harvard usually covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, and other expenses. You can apply for financial aid using the CSS Profile and by providing income documentation.

How Can AddedEducation Help?

If you’re wondering how to get into Harvard University from India, our team is here to provide the support and expertise you need to improve your chances. At Added Education we offer personalized one-on-one counseling that helps students discover their unique “X factor” and showcase it effectively in their applications. Our expert counsellors work closely with you to build standout profiles and help you navigate the competitive admissions process. Ready to get started? Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to turn your Harvard dream into reality!