How to get into Harvard University from India? Getting into Harvard University from India is highly competitive and requires strong academics, top entrance exam scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for post grad), and impressive extracurriculars. A compelling personal essay and strong letters of recommendation are also key to standing out. Graduate applicants must have […]
How to get into Harvard University from India? Getting into Harvard University from India is highly competitive and requires strong academics, top entrance exam scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for post grad), and impressive extracurriculars. A compelling personal essay and strong letters of recommendation are also key to standing out.
Graduate applicants must have a strong academic record, relevant test scores, English proficiency (TOEFL/ IELTS), and well-written Statement of Purpose. Demonstrated leadership, research or work experience can also further strengthen your application. Careful planning and early preparation are important.
Admission Process at Harvard for Indian Students
How to get into Harvard University from India? Understanding the admission process is the most important step for Indian students aspiring to study at Harvard. Here is a breakdown of the key stages involved:
Requirement
Details
Application Forms
Complete the Common Application or the Coalition Application along with the required supplements—no preference between the two.
Standardized Tests
Submit SAT or ACT scores. If unavailable, submit AP exam results, IB scores, GCSE/A-Level results, or national leaving exam results. English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS) cannot replace standardized tests but can be submitted as additional materials.
Academic Transcripts
Provide translated versions of academic transcripts if they are not in English. Translations can be done by an English teacher, not necessarily a professional translator.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is based on demonstrated need and is considered separately from the admissions process. Harvard’s financial aid policies apply equally to all applicants.
Interviews
Not all applicants are interviewed due to availability. Not having an interview will not negatively impact the application.
Qualifications and Documentation
International applicants may need to provide additional documentation based on their school’s grading system and academic history.
How to get into Harvard University from India? Harvard is among the most competitive universities for admission into the United States. For application to Harvard University, applicants must fill in the following requirements:
Application Platforms: Applicants must submit their application via the Common or Coalition Application through the Scoir. Both platforms require specific supplemental material. The deadlines are November 1 for Restrictive Early Action and January 1 for Regular Decision. After submitting, applicants will receive an email confirmation and a PIN, which is needed to access the Applicant Portal.
Required Materials:
Application Form: Completion of the application form on the selected platform.
Activities List: Provide a list of extracurricular activities.
Personal Essay: Write an essay based on the prompts provided by the application platform.
Harvard Supplement: Respond to five short-answer questions (150 words each).
Application Fee: Pay a non-refundable $85 fee or request a waiver.
Standardized Test Scores: Submit the SAT or ACT scores. If these tests are unavailable, alternative assessments like AP exam results or predicted IB scores can be accepted.
Supplemental Materials: Optionally, submit materials that include music recordings, artwork, or academic work samples.
School Report: Include a counselor letter and high school transcript.
Application Timeline
Restrictive Early Action: Apply by November 1 and receive notification by mid-December.
Regular Decision: Application by January 1 and also receive notification by the end of March.
Submission Method: Applications can be submitted online (for quicker processing) or by mail, but only one method should be used.
Harvard University Application Tips
Here are the key points for keeping in mind when filling out the Harvard Application form:
Profile Section: Provide the personal information, which includes:
Fee waiver request ( if applicable due to financial hardship).
Contact information and demographic details.
Your legal name and citizenship.
Fee Waiver: Applicants who face financial difficulties can request a fee waiver which can cover application costs.
Family details: Include information about your family background.
Education Details:
List your academic honors, current school and coursework.
Mentioning your future educational plans.
Extracurricular activities: Harvard does value your involvement outside the classroom, which provides details about the extracurricular activities you participate in.
Extracurricular Activities Preferred by Harvard University
How to get into Harvard University from India? One key aspect is showcasing strong extracurricular involvement. Harvard University values a diverse range of activities that demonstrate leadership and passion. The table below summaries:
Category
Examples
Academic Clubs
Debate Team, Math Club, Science Olympiad
Arts and Performance
Theater Productions, Choir, Dance Troupe
Sports
Varsity Athletics (e.g., Soccer, Swimming)
Community Service
Volunteering at local shelters, Organizing fundraisers
Leadership Roles
Student Government, Club President
Cultural Organizations
International Student Association, Cultural Dance Groups
Media and Journalism
School Newspaper, Yearbook Committee
Entrepreneurship
Starting a business, Developing a nonprofit
Research Projects
Independent research, Science Fair participation
Environmental Initiatives
Eco-clubs, Sustainability projects
Harvard University Scholarships for International Students
The table below lists some of the scholarships available for Indian students:
S.No.
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
1
Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship
For graduate students, especially those pursuing public service, with strong leadership and community commitment.
2
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
For students accepted into the Harvard MBA program, with strong academics and an interest in the developing world.
3
Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship
For life sciences students with financial need and exceptional academic excellence, committed to advancing their field.
4
HGSE Financial Aid
For Harvard Graduate School of Education students, based on financial need, with merit consideration in some cases.
5
Aga Khan Scholarship
For students from developing countries, including India, demonstrating financial need and a commitment to social impact.
6
Banyan Impact Fellowship
For students committed to social impact, with strong academics and leadership, focused on sustainable development.
7
Harvard Medical School Financial Aid
For admitted Harvard Medical School students based on financial need.
8
GSAS Fellowships
For graduate students in various disciplines, based on academic excellence, departmental recommendations, and financial need.
9
Kim and Stephen Denning Scholarships
For graduate students showing promise in their field and a commitment to social enterprise or leadership.
10
OPM Fellowship
For graduate students interested in public service and government, with a public policy or governance background.
Harvard University Popular Courses
How to get into Harvard University from India? A crucial step is choosing the right academic path. Below is an overview of popular courses offered by Harvard University:
MBA/PGDM:
Harvard Business School offers a prestigious MBA program focused on leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship, with core areas in marketing, finance, and operations.
Medical Courses (MD, MS)
MD: A renowned program training physicians with a blend of clinical education and research.
MS: Advanced degrees in biomedical sciences, clinical investigation, and good health.
Sociology:
It focuses on social behavior, institutions, and inequalities, examining issues like race, class, and gender through an interdisciplinary lens.
Economics and Econometrics:
Harvard’s program covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, emphasizing quantitative analysis and applied economic research.
Biotechnology (Life Sciences):
Offers interdisciplinary studies in genetics, molecular biology, and biomedicine, preparing students for research and innovation in biotech.
History:
It covers global and regional history, focusing on political, social, and cultural movements and combining history with other fields like political science.
Psychology:
Offers in-depth cognitive, social, developmental, and clinical psychology studies, emphasizing scientific research and inquiry.
Preparation Tips for Indian Students to Get into Harvard
Some important tips for getting into Harvard University from India require careful planning and preparation. Here are few tips:
Preparation Tips
Details
Academic Excellence
Maintain a high GPA (above 90%) in your board exams and relevant subjects.
Standardized Tests
Achieve competitive scores in SAT/ACT (recommended above 1500+ for SAT, 34+ for ACT) and SAT Subject Tests.
Language Proficiency
If English is not your first language, take the TOEFL or IELTS. Aim for high scores (TOEFL: 100+).
Extracurricular Activities
Engage in leadership roles in clubs, sports, or community service to showcase well-roundedness.
Personal Statement
Write a compelling personal essay reflecting your unique experiences, values, and aspirations.
Letters of Recommendation
Obtain strong letters from teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your abilities.
Research Harvard
Understand Harvard’s values, programs, and culture to tailor your application effectively.
Application Deadlines
Keep track of application deadlines and ensure all materials are submitted on time.
Interview Preparation
Prepare for potential interviews by practicing common questions and articulating your goals. Be ready to discuss your interests and experiences.
Financial Planning
Explore scholarships and financial aid options early to manage costs effectively.
Networking
Connect with current students or alumni for insights and advice on the application process.
Famous Indian Harvard Alumni
How to Get into Harvard University from India? One way to stay inspired is by looking at those who’ve done it. Some of the famous Indian Harvard alumni is listed below to highlight the university’s popularity among Indian students:
Name
Notable Position/Contribution
Year of Graduation
Ratan Tata
Industrialist, Former Chairman of Tata Group of Industries
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Waiver policy and Prices are subject to change without prior notice and no
refund will be provided under any circumstances.
At any time, you can avail only ONE of the scholarships that the student
is eligible for.
Also, you cannot combine the scholarships with any other offers/ waivers
offered by IMS at the time of enrolment.
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