Studying at Harvard University 2025: Complete Guide

Harvard University: Location, QS Ranking, & Key Attractions

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, USA, is the oldest higher education institution in the United States and a venerated member of the Ivy League. Harvard University Ranking is #4 in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It is renowned for its academic excellence, diverse Harvard University courses, and outstanding career outcomes for graduates.

Harvard University, established in 1636, is the oldest and premier higher education institution in the United States and a prestigious member of the Ivy League. Harvard University’s ranking at #4 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 underscores its consistency, viability, and global appeal. With an enrollment of around 24,596 students from 140 countries, international students make up 15.4% of the class of 2028. 

The acceptance rate to study at Harvard University in undergraduate courses is just 3.5%-5%, while in graduate or postgraduate programs, the admission acceptance rate is 10%-15%. Harvard received 54,008 undergraduate applications in 2024 alone. International students should prepare to pay the Harvard University tuition fee of 56,550 USD (47.24 lakhs INR) per year. 

Find Out: NYU acceptance rate | What are your chances of getting in NYU?

The university boasts a high employability rate, with 95% of graduates securing jobs after degree completion. The average salary for recent graduates is 96,000 USD, with MBA graduates earning an average of 175,000 USD annually. Additionally, it offers a wide spectrum of what is known as Harvard University scholarships for international students to help support their education.

Also Read: Top courses at Harvard | Your A-Z guide!

Why Should You Consider Studying at Harvard University?

Harvard University is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, offering students a vibrant confluence of academic excellence, diverse opportunities, and a cohesive community life. Here are some compelling reasons to consider Harvard for your higher education:

Learn more: Harvard University Fees in Indian Rupees – A complete gudie

Top Undergraduate Programs at Harvard University

1. Bachelor of Science (B.S) in Neurobiology

The Neurobiology Department at Harvard is among the first in the U.S. and combines knowledge from biochemistry, molecular biology, anatomy, physiology, and medicine. This program focuses on understanding the brain’s complex development and function through rigorous academics and hands-on research.

• Duration: 4 years

• Total Annual Fee: ₹47.3L/Yr

2. Bachelor of Arts (B.A) in Computer Science

Harvard’s Computer Science curriculum offers a flexible Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) degree, allowing students to combine their studies with fields such as mathematics, physics, economics, psychology, and linguistics. Key courses cover topics like artificial intelligence and computer systems, ensuring that students acquire a solid practical foundation in computing.

• Duration: 4 years
• Total Annual Fee: ₹53.2 L/Yr

3. Bachelor of Science (B.S) in Mechanical Engineering

The Mechanical Engineering program applies principles of physics and materials science to analyze and design mechanical and thermal systems. This field is vital for energy generation, transportation, manufacturing, and infrastructure development, influencing nearly every product and service in modern life.

• Duration: 4 years
• Total Annual Fee: ₹47.3 L/Yr

Top Postgraduate Programs at Harvard University

1. Master of Science (M.S) in Public Health Research

As a student at the Harvard Chan School, you will conduct original laboratory and field research, contributing to advancements in public health. This program equips you with the skills necessary to critically evaluate scientific literature and apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges.

• Duration: 2 years
• Total Annual Fee: ₹60 L/Yr

2. Master of Business Administration (M.B.A) in Entrepreneurship

The 2+2 Program at Harvard Business School allows current college or master’s students to secure deferred admission to the MBA Program. This program focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills while providing a comprehensive understanding of business management.

• Duration: 2 years
• Total Annual Fee: ₹63 L/Yr

3. Master of Science (M.S) in Data Science

Offered by the School of Engineering & Applied Sciences (SEAS), the Master’s in Data Science is a two-year program that requires students to complete 12 courses aligned with the learning objectives established by the Computer Science and Statistics faculty.

• Duration: 2 years
• Total Annual Fee: ₹53.2 L/Y

Check out: A closer look at Harvard’s Nobel Laureates

Harvard University Free Courses

Harvard University free courses provide an exceptional opportunity for learners to access high-quality education from one of the world’s leading institutions. Here’s a detailed overview of some notable offerings:

• PredictionX: Lost Without Longitude
• This course explores the fascinating history of navigation, covering techniques from ancient star navigation to modern satellite technology. You’ll learn about key historical figures and their contributions to navigation.
• Subject Area: Humanities
• Duration: 1 week
• CS50: Introduction to Computer Science

Widely acclaimed, this course serves as an introduction to the intellectual enterprises of computer science and programming. Topics include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and web development. No prior programming experience is required, making it accessible to beginners.

• Subject Area: Programming
• Duration: 11 weeks
• PredictionX: Omens, Oracles & Prophecies

Dive into the world of divination systems through history, examining ancient practices such as Chinese bone burning and contemporary astrology. This course offers insights into cultural beliefs and their impact on decision-making.

• Subject Area: Humanities
• Duration: 1 week
• CS50’s Introduction to Programming with Scratch

This course provides a gentle introduction to programming concepts using Scratch, a visual programming language. Ideal for beginners, it prepares you for more advanced coding courses.

• Subject Area: Computer Science
• Duration: 3 weeks
• CS50’s Web Programming with Python and JavaScript

Building on the foundational CS50 course, this class delves deeper into the design and implementation of web applications using Python, JavaScript, and frameworks like Django and React. This course is amenable for those looking to enhance their web development skills.

• Subject Area: Programming
• Duration: 12 weeks
• CS50’s Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python

The course covers concepts like machine learning, neural networks, and AI algorithms, making it an excellent choice for tech enthusiasts.

• Subject Area: Computer Science
• Duration: 7 weeks
• Resilient Leadership

This lesson focuses on developing the skills necessary to lead with courage and conviction during challenging times. You’ll learn about resilience and effective decision-making in leadership roles.

• Subject Area: Business
• Duration: 35 minutes

Requirements to Study at Harvard University

• Harvard University Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Harvard University seeks academically exceptional students for its undergraduate programs. Below are the admission requirements you need to fulfill when applying:

• Harvard University Postgraduate Admissions Requirements

International students seeking admission to Harvard University’s postgraduate programs must meet the following requirements:

Harvard Admission Requirements – Documents

To complete the admission process, students must submit the following documentation:

1. Completed Application Form
2. Academic Transcripts
3. Secondary School Report
4. Standardized Test Scores (e.g., GMAT, GRE, SAT, or ACT)
5. English Proficiency Score Report (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
6. Two Letters of Recommendation
7. Personal Essay or Statement of Purpose
8. Midyear School Report (to include first-semester grades)
9. Resume or CV
10. Student Visa (USA)
11. Proof of Financial Support

How to Get into Harvard University – Ace Your Interview

Your Harvard journey starts the moment you hit that “Submit” button on your application. While you’re going about your daily life, the admissions committee is getting to know you through your essays, achievements, and story. If they’re intrigued and want to learn more about the person behind the application, they’ll reach out to arrange an interview.

If you’re selected for an interview, Harvard will connect you with one of their alumni who lives in your area. Whether you end up chatting over coffee at a local café or meeting through a video call, this is your chance to have a real conversation about your hopes, dreams, and what makes you tick. Don’t worry about your interviewer having preconceptions – they won’t see your application beforehand. They’ll only know your name, your high school, and how to reach you, which means you get to tell your story fresh, in your own words.

• Harvard Interview Questions and Sample Answers

1. Questions about your Interests

• What do you do in your free time?

Sample answer 1: “In my free time, I’m passionate about playing the guitar. I’ve been a self-taught guitarist for several years, and I constantly challenge myself by learning intricate and challenging songs. Being part of a band “Atomic Echo” with my friends is another fulfilling aspect of my musical journey.”

Sample answer 2: “Together, we’ve had the opportunity to perform at various local events and even a wedding. Music not only serves as a creative outlet for me but also fosters collaboration and camaraderie within our band. It’s a dynamic and rewarding experience that allows me to express myself and connect with others through the universal language of music!”

• What are you passionate about?

Sample answer 1: “I am most passionate about learning and teaching. You’ll be hard-pressed to find me without a book in my hands! My favorite genre is historical non-fiction. I enjoy learning more about the world’s past to see the progression we’ve made as a society.”

Sample answer 2: “This passion is what inspired me to become a teacher, and getting a degree at Harvard is the first step in achieving that goal.”

2. Questions about your Academics 

• What is your proudest academic achievement? 

Answers for students who learned a new language

Sample answer 1: “English was the only language I spoke at home growing up. Both of my parents immigrated to America from Mexico, but they rarely spoke Spanish in hopes I would become a better English speaker. While their plan worked, it left me feeling disconnected from my roots.”

Sample answer 2: “I not only learned a new language but also learned the importance of practice, perseverance, and consistency.”

• What was your favorite academic subject in high school?

Sample answer 1: “In high school, my favorite academic subject was always math, specifically AP calculus in grade. While math may not be deemed particularly thrilling by many, I have always found it absolutely fascinating. What captivated me about advanced calculus was the precision and predictability it offered.”

Sample answer 2: “Unlike other subjects where surprises were often part of the journey, calculus provided a sense of calm. In a world where I tended to avoid surprises – always skipping to the end of movies or reading the last chapter of a book – calculus stood out.”

• What subject did you struggle with the most in high school?

Sample answer 1: “However, recognizing the importance of improvement, I took it upon myself to address this struggle. I enrolled in tutoring sessions, sought extra help from my teachers by staying back after classes, and devoted additional time to each assignment—even if it meant rewriting entire essays to refine my skills.”

Sample answer 2: “Over time, my efforts paid off, and I not only learned how to excel in the subject but also discovered an appreciation for essay writing. The process became more enjoyable, and my overall outlook towards English significantly improved.”

3. Questions about Challenges

• What is the greatest challenge you faced? How did you overcome it?

Sample answer 1: “I had lived in the same house for 13 years. I knew my neighborhood, was close to my favorite restaurant, and had a large friend group that stuck with me from kindergarten to grade eight. Then, I moved.”

Sample answer 2: “I moved 124 miles away from my hometown to a place that felt unfamiliar and hostile. I had to start all over. Hardest of all, I had to make new friends and start school at a high school I had never even heard about.”

• Tell us about a failure of yours. What happened, and how did you handle it?

Sample answer 1: “One notable failure I faced was not making it onto the girl’s basketball team at my school for two years in a row. It was disheartening, especially when many of my friends did make it onto the team.”

Sample answer 2: “Instead of letting the disappointment overwhelm me, I used it as motivation to improve. In my sophomore year, I dedicated myself to rigorous practice, spending every day of the summer at the courts, relentlessly working on my skills.”

4. Questions about your Goals 

• Why Harvard?

Sample answer 1: “Harvard has a beautiful campus. That was clear to me the first time I toured it last summer. But, its beauty goes beyond its iconic red-brick buildings and polished yards. There was a vibrancy and energy I felt being on campus that was unlike anything I’ve experienced, which is a major draw for me to join Harvard.”

Sample answer 2: “It is rare for undergraduate students to gain such extensive experience in research, so I am excited to collaborate with experts in the field, especially at the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, where I can help develop microrobots!”

• What do you hope to accomplish within the next 5 years?

Sample answer 1: “In the next five years, my primary goal is to complete a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry at Harvard, leveraging the exceptional resources the university provides.”

Sample answer 2: “As part of my academic journey, I aim to contribute to ongoing research initiatives, such as the ‘Harvard Brain Initiative,’ renowned for its groundbreaking work in understanding the intricacies of the brain’s function and dysfunction.”

• What motivates you to pursue your career?

Sample answer 1: “A personal tragedy shaped my dedication to animal welfare and my ultimate choice to pursue veterinary medicine. The loss of a 10-month-old rescue puppy to heartworms exposed me to the devastating consequences of veterinary-preventable diseases.”

Sample answer 2: “The thought of actively contributing to their health, alleviating suffering, and strengthening the human-animal bond fuels my passion for pursuing a veterinary career dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of our beloved pets.”

Quick Interview tips:

1. Just Be You – This is your moment to let the real you shine through – share stories and experiences that genuinely matter to you. Authenticity speaks volumes, and your interviewer wants to meet the actual person, not a rehearsed version.
2. Keep It Natural – While it’s smart to think about your answers ahead of time, let them flow like a natural conversation. Take your time, breathe, and don’t feel pressured to rush through your responses.
3. Share the Full Picture – When you’re telling your story, paint the complete scene. Instead of just mentioning your activities, dive into why they matter to you and how they’ve shaped who you are. Real examples speak louder than general statements.
4. Expect the Unexpected – Harvard interviews often include some creative curveballs like “What would your friends say about you?” or “Who’s your historical dream dinner guest?” These questions let your personality and quick thinking shine.
5. Turn the Tables – Have a few thoughtful questions ready about your interviewer’s Harvard experience. It shows your genuine interest and helps make the conversation more engaging for both of you.

Harvard University Scholarships for International Students 2025

Harvard University offers several prestigious scholarships to support Indian students in their pursuit of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies. Below is an overview of key financial aids to study at Harvard University, along with their eligibility criteria and benefits.

1. Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship

This fellowship is awarded to students with a strong background in leadership, particularly those involved in non-profit organizations.

Eligibility:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Leadership experience in a nonprofit organization
• English proficiency: IELTS 7.5, TOEFL 109, or PTE 75

Benefits:

• A grant of $10,000 to support education costs

Application Process:

• No separate application required. Students are automatically considered for this fellowship during the application to their chosen program.

2. Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

This scholarship is designed for outstanding MBA students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.

Eligibility:

• Admitted MBA students at Harvard
• Strong academic performance
• Demonstrated leadership potential

Benefits:

• Financial support totaling $102,200 (US$51,100 per year) over two years of study
• May also include travel and accommodation expenses related to the scholarship

Application Process:

• Submit necessary documents to the Boustany Foundation by emailing admissions@boustany-foundation.org.

3. The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship

This fellowship supports students pursuing life sciences, particularly those with a strong academic background in the field.

Eligibility:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field
• Exceptional academic performance
• English proficiency: IELTS 7.5, TOEFL 109, or PTE 75
• An interview may be required

Benefits:

• Covers tuition fees and living expenses during the course of study

Application Process:

• No separate application is required. Eligible students are automatically considered during the admission process.

4. Need-Based Fellowships

Harvard offers need-based fellowships to help students with exceptional academic backgrounds but limited financial resources.

Eligibility:

• Demonstrated financial need
• Outstanding academic achievements
• English proficiency: TOEFL 109, IELTS 7.5, or PTE 75

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage and a living stipend to assist with living expenses

Application Process:

• Students are automatically considered for need-based fellowships upon application to Harvard. No separate application is required.

Harvard University scholarships for international students provide invaluable financial support and opportunities to excel academically while experiencing a world-class education.

Also Read: 20 Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students!

How to Write a Letter to Enlist Financial Aid Requirements from Harvard University

Think of a financial aid appeal like asking for a salary negotiation – it’s possible, but you need to have a strong case. While colleges don’t often increase their initial offer, writing a compelling appeal letter could open the door to more financial support if your situation truly warrants it. But here’s the thing – this isn’t a step everyone needs to take, and you’ll want to be careful: in some cases, having your aid package reviewed could actually result in less money if the review uncovers discrepancies.

Timing is crucial here – you’ll want to get that appeal letter in as quickly as you can. While it’s unusual for colleges to talk about money before they’ve actually accepted you, it’s smart to get your appeal in early. Think of it like reserving your spot in line – the financial aid office probably won’t respond until after you’re admitted, but you’ll already be in their system.

Here is a sample letter to enlist financial aid requirements from Harvard University for Undergraduate international students written by a parent looks like:

Dear Director of Financial Aid,

I am very excited that my daughter/son, [name of daughter/son], has been accepted by such a prestigious university. I am proud of her/his accomplishments.

Unfortunately, there are some unusual aspects of our family’s finances that make it difficult for my daughter/son to afford to enroll, despite your generous financial aid offer.

*I am a single parent, raising three children on my own. My husband/wife died last year after a long battle with cancer.

* Our family income has decreased significantly in the last two years. Besides the loss of my husband’s/wife’s income, I was laid off by my employer and had to accept a job at a much lower salary after six months of unemployment. Also, my income two years ago included a big one-time bonus that obviously will not be repeated.

* I am still making payments on a significant amount of medical debt. The insurance company did not cover all of the costs of my husband’s/wife’s cancer treatment because it included therapies that were classified as experimental by the insurance company. The COBRA payments after my husband/wife lost his job because of cancer were and remain very high. We also liquidated our small retirement plans to cover the deductibles and co-pays.

* My daughter’s/son’s Social Security survivor’s benefits end next year when she turns 18.

* My daughter’s/son’s younger siblings are enrolled at a private high school. Although the school has helped with a scholarship after my husband’s/wife’s death, it doesn’t cover full tuition. I thought about sending them to public school because the expense is no longer affordable, but I don’t have the heart to do that to them after they lost their father/mother. I don’t want them to lose their friends. Plus, our reasons for sending them to a private school are still valid.

I have enclosed copies of documentation of these circumstances, a copy of my pay stubs before and after the job change, a copy of the unemployment benefits, a copy of my husband’s/wife’s death certificate, copies of our medical bills and a copy of this year’s federal income tax return.

Your university is my daughter’s/son’s first choice. I hope you will provide her/him with more financial aid so she/he can afford to enroll at your fine institution. I am sure she/he will thrive there.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

As for sending your appeal letter, treat it like any other important document. The old-school approach works best here – mail it directly to the financial aid office and spring for certified mail with tracking. It’s worth the extra few dollars to know exactly when it arrives. Just make sure to double-check the mailing address with the financial aid office first – you don’t want your important letter ending up in the wrong department!

Documents required for Harvard University Scholarships for International Students 

The documentation for Harvard University scholarships varies depending on the specific scholarship. However, the general requirements typically include:

• Completed online application form
• Application fees
• Language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Resume
• Letters of Recommendation
• Portfolio (if applicable)
• Interview (if required)

Steps to Acquire a U.S. Student Visa

To study in the United States, international students must follow specific procedures to secure a student visa. This guide outlines the essential steps to apply for an F-1 or J-1 visa, from receiving your acceptance letter to attending your visa interview. 

Step 1: Apply and Get Accepted to a U.S. University
Submit your application to SEVP-approved schools for undergraduate or graduate programs, typically by December or January. Admission decisions are generally released in March or April.

Step 2: Receive Form I-20 or DS-2019
Once accepted, the school will issue either Form I-20 (for F-1 and M-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (for J-1 students). This form contains your SEVIS ID, which is necessary for the visa application process.

Step 3: Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee online—$350 for F-1/M-1 students and $220 for J-1 students. This fee is separate from the visa application fee.

Step 4: Find Your Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Locate the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate where you will apply for your visa. Each embassy may have specific documentation requirements, so check accordingly.

Step 5: Complete Form DS-160 Online
Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160). Ensure you have your passport, visa photo, and Form I-20 or DS-2019 ready for submission.

Step 6: Schedule Your Visa Interview
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate where you plan to apply and schedule your visa interview. Interview wait times may vary, so check the U.S. visas website for updated wait times.

Step 7: Pay Your Visa Application Fee
Pay the $160 visa application fee following the specific instructions provided by your embassy regarding payment deadlines and methods.

Step 8: Attend Your Visa Interview
Bring all necessary documents to the interview, including your passport, visa photo, DS-160 confirmation, I-901 SEVIS fee confirmation, and Form I-20 or DS-2019.

Step 9: Pay the Visa Issuance Fee (If Applicable)
Depending on your nationality and reciprocity agreements, some students may be required to pay an additional visa issuance fee. 

Step 10: Receive Your Visa
If your visa is approved, the embassy will return your passport with the visa stamp. Check whether you need to pick it up or if it will be mailed to you.

Also Read: J1 Visa | Rules and requirements

Key Takeaways

• With an undergraduate acceptance rate of just 3.6%, Harvard is one of the most phenomenal and selective universities globally, receiving over 54,000 applications for the Class of 2024.
• Harvard provides over USD 245 million in scholarships annually, with 4,422 awards to help talented students from all financial backgrounds access its programs. Harvard University scholarships for international students are particularly crucial in supporting diverse global talent.
• Harvard boasts a 95% job placement rate, with recent graduates earning an average salary of USD 96,000 and MBA graduates earning up to USD 175,000 annually.

If you wanna know what more you can do to increase your chances of getting into Harvard or have any other doubts, feel free to get in touch with some of the best education counselors at iSchoolconnect.

You can also comment below to get in touch with us!

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FAQs

Q1. What are the requirements to get into Harvard after class 12?

Answer- The main requirements to get into Harvard after completing class 12 are scoring above 85% in class 12, SAT score requirement above 1200, and a TOEFL score of more than 100.

Q2. What is the rate of acceptance for International students at Harvard?

Answer- Harvard University has an overall acceptance rate of about 3.5%-5% for undergraduate programs and 10%-15% for graduate programs.

Q3. Are three-year degrees accepted at Harvard?

Answer- Harvard University typically requires a four-year undergraduate degree for its graduate programs. However, three-year degrees may be accepted, especially from countries where this is standard, depending on the specific program and the academic quality of the applicant’s prior education.

Q4. Who are some of the popular Harvard alumni?

Answer- Some of the famous Harvard alumni include- 

• Ratan Tata 
• Barack Obama
• Sheryl Sandberg 
• Steve Ballmer
• Kapil Sibal

Q5. How many courses are offered by Harvard University?

Answer- Harvard University offers over 3,700 undergraduate courses across 50 disciplines, along with 134 graduate degrees and 32 professional degrees.

Q6. Do applicants submit the GRE score for admission at Harvard University (Department of History)?

Answer- No, applicants to Harvard University’s Department of History are not required to submit GRE scores for admission. The GRE is optional, and choosing not to submit a score will not negatively impact their application.

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Study Abroad Expert

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