Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
---|---|---|
Course Language: | English | |
Required Degree | - | |
Course Level: | Master's | |
---|---|---|
Course Language: | English | |
Required Degree | - | |
Total Course Fees: | ₹ 4147000 | |
Course Level: | Master's | |
---|---|---|
Course Language: | English | |
Required Degree | - | |
1. History and Legacy
Founded: 1636, making it the oldest institution of higher learning in the U.S.
Type: Private Ivy League university.
Motto: Veritas (Latin for "Truth").
Endowment: As of 2023, Harvard has the largest university endowment in the world, valued at over $50 billion.
2. Academics
Schools and Colleges: Harvard has 12 graduate and professional schools in addition to Harvard College, which offers undergraduate programs. Prominent schools include:
Harvard Business School
Harvard Law School
Harvard Medical School
John F. Kennedy School of Government
Harvard Graduate School of Education
Programs: Harvard offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees across disciplines like arts, sciences, engineering, medicine, law, education, and business.
Faculty: Harvard is home to world-renowned scholars, including Nobel Prize winners, Pulitzer Prize winners, and former heads of state.
3. Campus
Harvard's main campus is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with facilities spread across the area.
Key landmarks include:
Harvard Yard: The historic center of campus.
Widener Library: One of the largest university libraries in the world.
Memorial Church and Harvard Art Museums.
Harvard Square, adjacent to the campus, is a vibrant area with shops, bookstores, and restaurants that cater to students, faculty, and visitors.
4. Research and Innovation
Harvard is at the forefront of research in fields like medicine, business, law, and artificial intelligence.
The university has numerous research centers and institutes, including the Harvard Stem Cell Institute and Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
It collaborates with other global institutions and plays a major role in addressing world challenges.
5. Admissions
Highly Selective: Harvard has one of the lowest acceptance rates globally, with only about 3-5% of applicants admitted each year.
Application Requirements: SAT/ACT scores (optional post-2020), essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities play a vital role in admissions.
Need-Blind Admissions: Harvard evaluates applicants without considering their ability to pay and provides generous financial aid. Over 55% of students receive financial aid.
6. Student Life
Harvard is home to a diverse student body from all over the world.
It has over 400 student organizations, including cultural, academic, athletic, and service-oriented groups.
Athletics are a big part of student life, and Harvard is a founding member of the Ivy League.
7. Alumni
Harvard has one of the most influential alumni networks in the world, including:
8 U.S. Presidents (e.g., John F. Kennedy, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Barack Obama).
Countless Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and leaders in various fields.
Influential figures like Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Natalie Portman.
8. Rankings
Consistently ranked among the top universities globally by organizations like QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, and U.S. News & World Report.
Harvard's library system is the largest academic library in the world, with over 20 million volumes.
Harvard's original mission was to train clergy, but it has since grown to encompass all academic disciplines.
Harvard's campus features the Harvard Crimson, one of the oldest and most respected student newspapers in the U.S.
Harvard College offers a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) and Bachelor of Science (S.B.) degrees with over 50 concentrations (majors) in the following academic divisions:
Arts & Humanities
Examples:
English
History of Art & Architecture
Music
Philosophy
Visual and Environmental Studies
Sciences
Examples:
Applied Mathematics
Astrophysics
Molecular and Cellular Biology
Neuroscience
Environmental Science & Engineering
Social Sciences
Examples:
Economics
Sociology
Anthropology
Government (Political Science)
Psychology
Engineering & Applied Sciences (through the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences)
Examples:
Biomedical Engineering
Computer Science
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Interdisciplinary Fields
Examples:
Environmental Studies
Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies
Social Studies (integrated social sciences program)
2. Graduate and Professional Programs
Harvard has 12 graduate and professional schools offering master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees in diverse areas:
A. Harvard Business School (HBS)
Degrees Offered:
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Executive Education Programs
Doctoral Programs (e.g., PhD in Business Economics, Organizational Behavior)
Specialized Programs:
Joint degrees with Harvard Kennedy School, Medical School, or Law School.
B. Harvard Law School (HLS)
Degrees Offered:
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Master of Laws (LL.M.)
Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.)
C. Harvard Medical School (HMS)
Degrees Offered:
Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)
Master’s in Medical Science (M.M.Sc.)
Ph.D. in Biomedical Science (offered jointly with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences)
Additional Programs:
Global Health Delivery Certificate
Dual Degrees (e.g., MD-MPH, MD-MBA)
D. Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
Degrees Offered:
Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.)
Advanced Graduate Education Programs (in specialties like Orthodontics, Periodontology, etc.)
E. Harvard Kennedy School (HKS)
Focus: Public policy, administration, and governance.
Degrees Offered:
Master in Public Policy (MPP)
Master in Public Administration (MPA)
Joint degrees with Law, Business, or Medicine schools.
F. Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE)
Degrees Offered:
Master of Education (Ed.M.)
Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.)
Ph.D. in Education (offered jointly with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences)
G. Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)
Degrees Offered:
Master’s and Ph.D. in fields like Computer Science, Data Science, and Engineering Sciences.
Joint degrees with Harvard Business School (e.g., MS/MBA in Technology Innovation).
H. Harvard Divinity School (HDS)
Degrees Offered:
Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
Doctoral Studies in Religion (Ph.D., in conjunction with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences).
I. Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) (T.H. Chan School of Public Health)
Focus: Global health and public policy.
Degrees Offered:
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Master of Science (M.S.) in specialized areas (e.g., Epidemiology, Biostatistics).
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
J. Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS)
Degrees Offered:
Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in over 50 disciplines (e.g., History, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, etc.).
K. Harvard Extension School
Offers flexible learning options for part-time and online students.
Degrees & Certificates Offered:
Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in fields like Data Science, Software Engineering, Creative Writing, etc.
Graduate Certificates in various disciplines.
L. Harvard Radcliffe Institute
Offers research opportunities and fellowships across disciplines.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Arts & Humanities |
|
|
- English |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- History |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Philosophy |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Music |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Visual and Environmental Studies |
4 years |
$57,246 |
|
|
|
Sciences |
|
|
- Biology |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Physics |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Chemistry |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Neuroscience |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Environmental Science & Engineering |
4 years |
$57,246 |
|
|
|
Social Sciences |
|
|
- Economics |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Government (Political Science) |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Sociology |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Psychology |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Anthropology |
4 years |
$57,246 |
|
|
|
Engineering & Applied Sciences |
|
|
- Computer Science |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Biomedical Engineering |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Applied Mathematics |
4 years |
$57,246 |
|
|
|
Interdisciplinary Studies |
|
|
- Environmental Studies |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies |
4 years |
$57,246 |
- Social Studies |
4 years |
$57,246 |
Program Name |
Graduate School |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Business Administration (MBA) |
Harvard Business School |
2 years |
$73,440 |
Master of Public Policy (MPP) |
Harvard Kennedy School |
2 years |
$58,816 |
Master of Public Administration (MPA) |
Harvard Kennedy School |
1–2 years |
$58,816 |
Master of Education (Ed.M.) |
Graduate School of Education |
1 year |
$56,928 |
Master of Laws (LL.M.) |
Harvard Law School |
1 year |
$71,430 |
Master of Medical Science (MMSc) |
Harvard Medical School |
2 years |
$69,500 |
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
T.H. Chan School of Public Health |
1–2 years |
$66,000 |
Master of Science (M.S.) in Epidemiology |
T.H. Chan School of Public Health |
1–2 years |
$66,000 |
Master of Divinity (M.Div.) |
Harvard Divinity School |
3 years |
$34,488 |
Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) |
Harvard Divinity School |
2 years |
$34,488 |
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) |
Harvard Extension School |
Varies |
$3,220 per 4-credit course |
Master of Science (M.S.) in Data Science |
Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) |
2 years |
$57,590 |
Master of Science (M.S.) in Computational Science |
SEAS |
2 years |
$57,590 |
Master of Engineering (M.E.) in Bioengineering |
SEAS |
2 years |
$57,590 |
Master in Design Studies (M.Des.) |
Graduate School of Design |
2 years |
$59,984 |
Master in Landscape Architecture (M.L.A.) |
Graduate School of Design |
3 years |
$59,984 |
Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) |
Graduate School of Design |
2–3.5 years |
$59,984 |
Master of Arts (A.M.) in Economics |
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) |
2 years |
$54,032 |
Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Mathematics |
GSAS |
2 years |
$54,032 |
Master of Arts (A.M.) in History |
GSAS |
2 years |
$54,032 |
Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) |
Harvard Kennedy School |
2 years |
$58,816 |
Program Name |
Graduate School |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
PhD in Business Administration |
Harvard Business School |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Public Policy |
Harvard Kennedy School |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Economics |
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Applied Mathematics |
GSAS |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in History |
GSAS |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology |
GSAS |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Computer Science |
Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Data Science |
SEAS |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Education |
Graduate School of Education |
5 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Public Health |
T.H. Chan School of Public Health |
4–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) |
T.H. Chan School of Public Health |
3–4 years |
$66,000 |
PhD in Biological Sciences in Public Health |
T.H. Chan School of Public Health |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Biomedical Sciences |
Harvard Medical School (HMS) |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Health Policy |
GSAS (Interfaculty Program) |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
PhD in Religion |
GSAS & Harvard Divinity School |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) |
Graduate School of Education |
3 years |
$56,928 |
PhD in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Planning |
Graduate School of Design |
5–6 years |
$54,032 (Years 1 & 2) |
Harvard offers programs at all levels for international students:
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's degrees) at Harvard College.
Graduate Programs (Master’s, PhD, and professional degrees) across various schools, including:
Harvard Business School (HBS)
Harvard Law School (HLS)
Harvard Medical School (HMS)
Graduate School of Education (HGSE)
School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)
T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS)
International students applying to Harvard College must meet the same rigorous admissions standards as U.S. students.
Academic Requirements:
Strong academic performance in high school (equivalent to U.S. standards).
Advanced coursework, such as A-Levels, IB, or other national qualifications, is highly encouraged.
Required Documents:
High school transcripts (translated into English if applicable).
Standardized test scores:
SAT or ACT (optional for the 2024–2026 admissions cycles but still recommended).
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores if English is not your first language.
Personal essays.
Two letters of recommendation (one from a teacher and one from a school counselor).
Extracurricular activities and leadership experiences.
Application Deadlines:
Early Action: November 1
Regular Decision: January 1
Admissions for graduate programs vary by school and program. General requirements include:
Bachelor’s Degree: Equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
Test Scores:
GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT depending on the program.
TOEFL or IELTS for students whose first language is not English (minimum scores vary by school).
Supporting Documents:
Academic transcripts.
Statement of purpose or personal statement.
Letters of recommendation (2–3).
CV or résumé.
Deadlines: Varies by program; typically from December to February.
Choose Your Application Portal:
Harvard accepts applications through:
Common Application.
Coalition Application.
Universal College Application (UCA is being phased out).
Select one portal and fill in the application details.
Submit the Required Documents:
Academic Records/Transcripts:
High school transcripts or equivalent (translated into English if necessary).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional for 2024–2026 admissions cycles):
SAT/ACT scores (optional but highly encouraged if available).
Harvard’s SAT code: 3434; ACT code: 1840.
English Proficiency Test Scores (if English is not your first language):
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.
Essays:
Personal statement (250–650 words as part of the application).
Additional Harvard-specific essay (optional, typically 150–200 words).
Letters of Recommendation:
One from a high school teacher.
One from a school counselor or additional teacher.
List of Extracurricular Activities:
Showcase leadership, volunteer work, athletics, arts, or other achievements.
Pay the Application Fee:
$85 (can be waived if you demonstrate financial need).
Interview (if invited):
After the initial application review, some students may be contacted for an alumni interview (typically virtual).
Application Deadlines:
Early Action: November 1 (non-binding).
Regular Decision: January 1.
Decision Notification:
Early Action applicants: Mid-December.
Regular Decision applicants: Late March.
Academic Excellence: Aim for a GPA of 4.0 or equivalent in challenging coursework (AP, IB, A-levels, etc.).
Extracurriculars: Show depth, leadership, and impact in activities beyond academics.
Essays: Write compelling essays that reflect your values, experiences, and personality.
Recommendations: Obtain strong, personalized letters from teachers who know you well.
Graduate admissions vary by school and program but generally follow these steps:
Choose a Program:
Visit the website of the specific Harvard graduate school (e.g., HBS, HLS, GSAS) to select a program that aligns with your career goals.
Check Eligibility:
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution is required.
Meet specific prerequisites for your program (e.g., coursework, research experience).
Submit the Online Application:
Complete the application form on the school’s portal.
Pay the application fee (typically $85–$275, depending on the school and program).
Submit Required Documents:
Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts of all undergraduate and (if applicable) graduate coursework.
Standardized Test Scores:
GRE or GMAT (required for many programs, depending on the field).
LSAT (for Harvard Law School), MCAT (for Harvard Medical School), or other specific exams.
English Proficiency Tests:
TOEFL (minimum 80–100) or IELTS (minimum 7.0) for international students if English is not your first language.
Statement of Purpose (SOP):
A 500–1,000-word essay explaining your academic and professional goals.
Letters of Recommendation:
2–3 letters from professors, employers, or others familiar with your academic and/or professional achievements.
Resume or CV:
Highlight academic, professional, and extracurricular accomplishments.
Portfolio (if applicable):
Required for programs in design, fine arts, or related fields.
Interview (if applicable):
Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process (e.g., MBA at HBS).
Application Deadlines:
Varies by school and program. Most deadlines fall between December and February.
Decision Notification:
Decisions are typically released 2–4 months after the application deadline.
Funding/Financial Aid:
PhD programs generally provide full funding (tuition, stipend, and health insurance).
Master’s programs may offer limited scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships.
Competitiveness: Admission rates for many graduate programs are between 5–15%.
Harvard University offers admissions during specific seasons depending on the program:
Program Type |
Intake Seasons |
Application Deadlines |
---|---|---|
Undergraduate (Harvard College) |
Fall Intake Only |
- Early Action: November 1 |
Graduate Programs |
Fall Intake (primary) |
- Master’s Programs: December–February (varies by school) |
MBA (Harvard Business School) |
Fall Intake (Rounds) |
- Round 1: September |
Doctoral (PhD) |
Fall Intake (primary) |
- December–January |
Fall Intake: Most programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral, only offer admissions during the Fall semester (starting in late August or early September).
No Spring or Summer Intakes: Unlike some other universities, Harvard does not offer Spring or Summer intakes for most degree programs.
To apply for a Bachelor’s degree, students must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent (e.g., A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), or other national qualifications).
Strong academic performance in rigorous coursework.
Recommended coursework: Advanced-level courses in subjects like English, Math, Science, History, and a foreign language.
English Language Proficiency:
Required if English is not your first language. Accepted tests:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 100 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120 (accepted during the pandemic).
Standardized Tests (Optional):
Harvard has an optional standardized testing policy for the 2024–2026 admissions cycles.
SAT: Recommended score range is 1460–1570.
ACT: Recommended score range is 33–36.
SAT/ACT scores are optional but can strengthen the application.
Other Requirements:
Personal Essays: A well-crafted essay showcasing your personality, goals, and experiences.
Letters of Recommendation: Two recommendations (one from a teacher, one from a counselor).
Extracurriculars and Leadership: Significant involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, sports, or arts.
Graduate programs have specific eligibility criteria depending on the school and program. Here are the general requirements:
Academic Requirements:
A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution.
A minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (higher GPA preferred for competitive programs).
Some programs may require coursework in specific areas (e.g., Economics for an MBA, Science for Public Health).
English Language Proficiency:
If your native language is not English, submit one of the following scores:
TOEFL: Minimum 80–100 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Accepted for select programs.
Standardized Tests (Varies by Program):
GRE/GMAT: Required for most graduate programs.
GRE score: Competitive programs often expect scores above 315.
GMAT score (for MBA): Recommended range is 710–750.
LSAT/MCAT: Required for law and medical school admissions.
Other Requirements:
Statement of Purpose (SOP): A detailed essay explaining your goals, academic background, and reasons for choosing the program.
Letters of Recommendation: 2–3 letters from professors, employers, or supervisors.
Resume/CV: Highlight academic achievements, work experience, and research projects.
Portfolio (if applicable): For design and arts-related programs.
PhD programs are research-intensive and highly selective. Eligibility criteria include:
Academic Requirements:
A Bachelor’s and Master’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution in a related field.
Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 or equivalent.
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100.
IELTS: Minimum 7.0.
Standardized Tests:
GRE Scores: Required for most PhD programs. A competitive GRE score is preferred.
GMAT: Required for business-related doctoral programs (e.g., PhD in Business).
Other Requirements:
Research Proposal: A clear and concise research statement outlining your interests and potential dissertation topic.
Letters of Recommendation: 3–4 strong recommendations from academic and professional sources.
Resume/CV: Detailing your academic, research, and professional experience.
Publications (optional): Submitting published work or research papers is encouraged for competitive programs.
Ranking Authority |
Global Ranking |
National Ranking (USA) |
Category |
---|---|---|---|
QS World University Rankings |
#3 |
N/A |
Academic Reputation |
U.S. News & World Report (Global) |
#1 |
N/A |
Best Global Universities |
U.S. News & World Report (National) |
N/A |
#3 |
Best National Universities |
Times Higher Education (THE) |
#2 |
N/A |
Teaching, Research, & Citations |
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) |
#1 |
N/A |
Research Output & Influence |
Forbes (America's Top Colleges) |
N/A |
#2 |
Best Undergraduate Colleges |
Center for World University Rankings (CWUR) |
#1 |
#1 |
Academic Excellence |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Coverage |
Applicable Programs |
Additional Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Harvard Need-Based Scholarship |
Undergraduate students with financial need |
Up to 100% of demonstrated financial need |
Undergraduate (Harvard College) |
Families earning <$75,000 pay $0 tuition. |
Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) Aid |
Based on financial need |
Tuition, fees, and living expenses |
Undergraduate and Graduate (FAS) |
Covers all demonstrated financial need. |
Harvard Business School (HBS) Fellowships |
MBA students with financial need |
$40,000–$80,000 per year |
MBA (Harvard Business School) |
Need-based; ~50% of MBA students receive aid. |
Harvard Kennedy School Fellowships |
Public policy and leadership students |
Partial to full tuition, living expenses |
Graduate (HKS - MPP, MPA, etc.) |
Includes joint programs with HBS and HLS. |
Harvard Medical School (HMS) Financial Aid |
Medical students with financial need |
Up to 100% of demonstrated financial need |
MD and MMSc programs |
Covers tuition, living costs, and fees. |
T.H. Chan School of Public Health Scholarships |
Public health students (merit or need-based) |
Partial or full tuition |
Graduate (MPH, MS, PhD) |
Includes specific scholarships like Zuckerman Fellowship. |
Harvard Law School (HLS) Low-Income Protection Plan |
Law students entering low-income careers |
Loan repayment assistance |
JD (Harvard Law School) |
Loan forgiveness program for low-income graduates. |
GSAS Fellowships |
PhD students in research programs |
Full tuition, stipend, and health insurance |
Doctoral (GSAS programs) |
Most PhD students receive full funding. |
Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) Aid |
Master’s and doctoral students with financial need |
Partial to full tuition |
Graduate (Ed.M., Ed.D.) |
Includes both need- and merit-based awards. |
International Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship |
International students from developing countries |
Full tuition, stipend, travel expenses |
Graduate (Public Health, Development) |
Focus on development-related programs. |
Harvard Extension School Scholarships |
Part-time or online students with financial need |
Partial tuition |
Undergraduate and Graduate (Extension School) |
For degree and certificate programs. |
Outside Scholarships (External) |
N/A |
(can be combined with Harvard aid) |
All Programs |
Examples: Fulbright, Chevening, etc. |
Zuckerman Fellowship |
Leadership in public health, law, or policy |
Full tuition and living stipend |
MPH, JD, MPP programs |
For leadership-focused students. |
Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans |
Immigrants or children of immigrants in the U.S. |
$90,000 over two years |
Graduate Programs |
Open to all fields, U.S.-based only. |
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship |
Merit-based for exceptional MBA students |
$102,000 for two years |
MBA (Harvard Business School) |
Requires internship with the Boustany Foundation. |
HBS Forward Fellowship |
MBA students from low-income backgrounds |
$20,000–$40,000 |
MBA (Harvard Business School) |
Focused on students with family dependents. |
Type of Accommodation |
Description |
Facilities |
Cost Per Year (Approx.) in USD |
---|---|---|---|
Undergraduate On-Campus Housing (Harvard College) |
- Housing is guaranteed for all 4 years for undergraduate students. |
- Fully furnished rooms |
$12,400 (Room Only) |
Freshman Dormitories |
- Freshman students live in dormitories located in or near Harvard Yard. |
- Single, double, or triple rooms |
Included in undergraduate costs above |
Upperclassmen Houses |
- Sophomore, junior, and senior students live in one of 12 residential houses (e.g., Adams, Quincy, Kirkland). |
- Suite-style rooms |
Included in undergraduate costs above |
Graduate On-Campus Housing (GSAS) |
- Options for single students or families at Harvard-owned apartments. |
- Studios, 1-bedroom, or multi-bedroom units |
$1,100–$2,900 per month ($13,200–$34,800/year) |
Harvard Business School Dorms |
- On-campus single dormitories exclusively for HBS students. |
- Fully furnished rooms |
$1,660–$2,420 per month ($19,920–$29,040/year) |
Harvard Law School Dorms |
- Single dormitory-style rooms or apartments for HLS students. |
- Fully furnished |
$1,000–$1,800 per month ($12,000–$21,600/year) |
Harvard Medical School Housing |
- Vanderbilt Hall is the primary on-campus housing for HMS students. |
- Single and double rooms |
$1,300–$1,800 per month ($15,600–$21,600/year) |
Family Housing (Graduate/PhD) |
- Apartments for students with families or partners, managed by Harvard University Housing (HUH). |
- 1–3 bedroom apartments |
$1,800–$4,000 per month ($21,600–$48,000/year) |
Off-Campus Housing |
- Students can opt to rent private apartments in Cambridge, Somerville, or Boston. |
- based on location |
$1,500–$3,500 per month ($18,000–$42,000/year) |
Vacation Housing |
- Limited on-campus housing available during winter/summer vacations (primarily for international students). |
- Shared dormitories |
$35–$70 per night ($1,050–$2,100 per month) |
1. Academics and Learning Environment
World-Class Education: Harvard provides access to exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive library resources, including the world-renowned Harvard Library system.
Collaborative Culture: Students work closely with peers and professors, fostering a collaborative environment through group projects, research, and academic discussions.
Flexibility: Students can explore interdisciplinary studies, cross-register for courses at other Harvard schools, or take classes at nearby institutions like MIT.
2. Diversity and Inclusivity
Global Representation: Students come from over 200 countries, ensuring a culturally rich and inclusive campus.
Cultural Events: Cultural festivals, international food fairs, and celebrations like Diwali, Lunar New Year, and Eid bring the community together.
Support Networks: Offices like the Harvard International Office (HIO) and student affinity groups provide guidance and support to students from diverse backgrounds.
3. Residential Life
Undergraduate Housing: All undergraduates live on campus, fostering a close-knit community. Freshmen live in Harvard Yard dorms, while sophomores, juniors, and seniors move to one of the 12 residential houses, each with its own traditions and resources.
Graduate Housing: Graduate students can live in Harvard-owned apartments or off-campus housing. Many housing options include social spaces and opportunities to interact with peers.
Dining: Dining halls provide nutritious meals with options for all dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and halal.
4. Extracurricular Activities
Student Organizations: Harvard has over 400 student-run organizations, including cultural clubs, academic societies, athletic groups, and arts organizations. Students can join groups like:
The Harvard Crimson (newspaper)
Harvard Glee Club (choral music)
Harvard Debate Council
Athletics and Fitness: Students can participate in intramural, club, or varsity sports. Harvard is a founding member of the Ivy League and boasts excellent athletic facilities, including gyms, swimming pools, and courts.
Performing Arts: From theater productions to dance groups and orchestras, Harvard’s vibrant arts scene offers numerous opportunities for students to perform or enjoy performances.
5. Social and Recreational Activities
Harvard Square: The lively area surrounding campus is filled with cafes, bookstores, restaurants, and shops, offering students a place to relax or study.
Events and Lectures: Harvard hosts regular events, including guest lectures by world leaders, concerts, film screenings, and festivals.
Outdoor Activities: Students can enjoy the beautiful Charles River for kayaking or rowing and explore parks and walking trails around Cambridge and Boston.
6. Career Development and Networking
Career Services: The Office of Career Services (OCS) helps students explore internships, job opportunities, and career paths. They also assist with resume building, interview preparation, and networking events.
Alumni Network: Harvard’s alumni network is one of the largest and most influential in the world, offering connections across industries and countries.
Work Opportunities: Many students participate in on-campus jobs, research assistantships, or internships to gain experience and build professional skills.
7. Community and Support Systems
Advising and Mentorship: Academic advisors, faculty mentors, and peer advisors guide students throughout their academic journey.
Mental Health and Wellness: Services like the Harvard Counseling and Mental Health Services (CAMHS) provide mental health resources and wellness programs.
Student Health Services: On-campus health facilities ensure students have access to medical care, including general healthcare, immunizations, and specialized services.
8. International Student Experience
Harvard International Office (HIO): Assists international students with visas, cultural adjustment, and other support services.
Global Community: International student groups host events and activities to celebrate cultural diversity and help students feel at home.
Cultural Adjustment Programs: Orientation programs and ongoing support help international students navigate life in the U.S.
9. Research and Innovation
Undergraduate Research: Students can collaborate with professors or work on independent research projects through programs like the Harvard College Research Program (HCRP).
Graduate Research: Graduate and PhD students have access to cutting-edge labs, research centers, and funding for innovative projects.
Entrepreneurship: Harvard Innovation Labs (i-lab) supports student entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities.
10. Nearby Attractions
Boston City Life: Just a short ride from Harvard, Boston offers cultural landmarks like Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Historic Cambridge: The historic city of Cambridge, where Harvard is located, is filled with charming neighborhoods, markets, and academic institutions like MIT.
Day Trips: Students often take weekend trips to nearby destinations like Cape Cod, New York City, or the White Mountains.
11. Traditions and School Spirit
House Rivalries: Upperclassmen houses engage in friendly rivalries through events like intramural sports competitions.
The Harvard-Yale Game: The annual football game between Harvard and Yale is one of the oldest and most celebrated college traditions.
Commencement Ceremonies: Harvard’s graduation ceremonies are iconic, with notable guest speakers and celebratory events.
Undergraduate (Harvard College):
Harvard College has a 95% employment rate within 6 months of graduation for its students.
Median starting salary: $70,000–$100,000/year depending on the industry.
Popular sectors: Finance, Consulting, Technology, Nonprofit, and Research.
Graduate Programs:
Graduates of professional schools like Harvard Business School (HBS) and Harvard Law School (HLS) often achieve placements at top-tier organizations worldwide.
MBA Graduates: Median starting salary of $175,000/year (plus bonuses).
Law Graduates: Median starting salary of $190,000/year (at leading U.S. law firms).
Medical Graduates: Highly competitive residency placements in top U.S. hospitals.
Public Health Graduates: Median starting salary of $60,000–$80,000/year in healthcare organizations, NGOs, or government sectors.
PhD Programs:
Harvard PhD graduates frequently secure academic positions at leading universities or research roles in industry and government organizations.
Postdoctoral positions are common stepping stones for those pursuing academic careers.
Harvard graduates are highly sought after by top global companies and institutions. Below are some notable recruiters across industries:
Technology & Consulting:
Microsoft
Meta (Facebook)
Apple
McKinsey & Company
Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
Bain & Company
Finance:
Goldman Sachs
Morgan Stanley
JPMorgan Chase
BlackRock
Citibank
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals:
Massachusetts General Hospital
Pfizer
Johnson & Johnson
World Health Organization (WHO)
United Nations (UN)
Law Firms:
Cravath, Swaine & Moore
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom
Kirkland & Ellis
Latham & Watkins
Sullivan & Cromwell
Nonprofit & Public Sector:
Teach for America
The Gates Foundation
U.S. Department of State
Amnesty International
Academia & Research:
Tenure-track positions at top universities (e.g., MIT, Stanford, Oxford)
Research roles in leading think tanks and government organizations.
Harvard's Office of Career Services (OCS) and school-specific career offices (e.g., HBS Career & Professional Development Office) provide exceptional support for job placements.
Career Counseling: Personalized career guidance and goal-setting.
Workshops & Events: Resume writing, interview preparation, and networking events.
On-Campus Recruitment: Top companies conduct interviews and recruitment drives directly on campus.
Internship Support: Assistance in securing internships in various industries.
Job Portals: Harvard-exclusive job boards connect students with employers.
Networking Events: Alumni networking programs and industry-specific career fairs.
Resume and Cover Letter Building: Career counselors and workshops help students craft compelling resumes and cover letters tailored to specific industries.
On-Campus Recruiting (OCR): Many companies visit campus to recruit students for internships, full-time positions, or research opportunities.
Interviews: Students undergo multiple rounds of interviews (on-campus or virtual) for their desired roles.
Internships: Many students convert their internships into full-time roles. Internship programs are often a stepping stone to securing high-profile job offers.
The following industries are some of the most popular career paths for Harvard graduates:
Industry |
Percentage of Graduates |
Median Salary (USD) |
---|---|---|
Finance |
20% |
$120,000–$180,000 |
Consulting |
19% |
$140,000–$160,000 (plus bonuses) |
Technology |
15% |
$120,000–$150,000 |
Healthcare/Medicine |
12% |
$60,000–$100,000 |
Education/Research |
10% |
$50,000–$80,000 |
Nonprofit/Public Sector |
8% |
$50,000–$75,000 |
Law |
7% |
$190,000+ |
Entrepreneurship |
4% |
N/A |
Many Harvard undergraduates opt to pursue higher education:
Law School (HLS): Top placements in Big Law firms or government roles.
Business School (HBS): Graduates take leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies, startups, or global consulting firms.
Medical School (HMS): Exceptional residency match rates in top U.S. hospitals.
Public Health (T.H. Chan School): Graduates work in international health organizations like WHO and UNICEF.
Harvard fosters entrepreneurship through initiatives like the Harvard Innovation Labs (i-Lab). Many students and alumni start successful companies, including:
Facebook (Mark Zuckerberg, Harvard dropout)
Reddit (Steve Huffman and Alexis Ohanian)
Moderna (Noubar Afeyan and Derrick Rossi, Harvard affiliates)
Dropbox (Drew Houston, Harvard alum)
The Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs Network provides resources and mentoring for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Harvard’s alumni network is one of the largest and most influential in the world, with over 400,000 members in various industries globally.
Alumni connections provide access to mentorship, job referrals, and networking opportunities, significantly enhancing career prospects.
Internships play a critical role in Harvard students' career paths:
Undergraduates often secure summer internships at top organizations, which can lead to full-time offers.
Graduate Students in fields like MBA, law, or public policy are encouraged to complete internships during their programs.
Harvard’s partnerships with global companies ensure students access to prestigious internship programs.
High Employability: Harvard graduates are among the most employable globally, thanks to the university's reputation, rigorous education, and career services.
Strong Alumni Support: The global alumni network facilitates mentorship, career guidance, and job referrals.
Lucrative Salaries: Graduates consistently secure some of the highest starting salaries across industries.
Prestigious Companies: Harvard graduates are employed by top companies, government agencies, and academic institutions worldwide.
Overall Acceptance Rate: Approximately 3–5%.
Early Action Acceptance Rate: Around 7–10%.
Regular Decision Acceptance Rate: Around 2.5–4%.
Application Pool: Over 57,000 applications are submitted annually for undergraduate admissions, and only about 2,000 students are admitted.
Harvard has one of the lowest undergraduate acceptance rates globally, reflecting its selectivity and competitiveness.
Holistic Admissions Process: Applicants are evaluated based on academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, essays, recommendations, and personal qualities.
International Students: Harvard’s undergraduate acceptance rate for international students is similar to the overall acceptance rate (~5%), with students admitted from over 200 countries.
Graduate programs at Harvard University are also highly selective, with acceptance rates varying by school and program. Below is a breakdown of approximate acceptance rates for graduate programs:
Harvard Graduate School |
Program |
Acceptance Rate |
---|---|---|
Harvard Business School (HBS) |
MBA |
9–11% |
Harvard Law School (HLS) |
JD |
7–10% |
Harvard Medical School (HMS) |
MD |
3–4% |
Graduate School of Education (HGSE) |
Master’s & Doctoral Programs |
10–13% |
T.H. Chan School of Public Health |
MPH & MS |
20–25% |
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) |
PhD Programs |
5–12% |
Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) |
MPP, MPA, etc. |
20% |
Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) |
MS & PhD Programs |
10–15% |
Highly Competitive: Professional programs like the MBA, JD, and MD have some of the lowest acceptance rates.
PhD Programs: Acceptance rates vary by department and field. Research-heavy programs typically have lower rates (~5–7%).
Master’s Programs: Programs like public health or education may have higher acceptance rates (10–25%) due to larger class sizes.
Academic Excellence: A high GPA and competitive test scores (SAT/ACT for undergraduates, GRE/GMAT/LSAT/MCAT for graduate programs) are essential for consideration.
Holistic Review: Admissions committees look for leadership, extracurricular involvement, impactful personal statements, and strong letters of recommendation.
International Students: Harvard has no quotas for international students, but they compete in the same highly selective applicant pool.
Program Size: Programs with smaller cohorts, such as PhD or JD, naturally have lower acceptance rates due to limited spots.
Harvard Yard: The iconic center of Harvard University, home to the undergraduate freshman dormitories, libraries (like Widener Library), Memorial Church, and administrative offices. It is the focal point of the Cambridge campus.
Harvard Square: Adjacent to Harvard Yard, Harvard Square is a lively area filled with cafes, bookstores, shops, restaurants, and public spaces, creating a vibrant community atmosphere for students.
Residential Houses: Upperclassmen live in one of the 12 residential houses located along the Charles River, such as Adams House, Dunster House, and Lowell House.