Getting admitted to Harvard is a highly competitive process, and there is no guaranteed formula for success. However, there are certain steps that you can take to increase your chances of being admitted:
- Excel academically: Harvard is known for its rigorous academic standards, so it’s important to have a strong academic record. This includes taking challenging courses and earning top grades, particularly in core subjects such as English, math, science, and social studies. Additionally, it’s important to perform well on standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. It is important for you to be an A or A+ student in your graduating class and be in the top 2% of your class to have a meaningful chance of being admitted.
- Demonstrate leadership and impact: Harvard values students who have made a positive impact in their communities, whether that be through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or other leadership positions. It’s important to demonstrate your commitment to your passions and interests and to showcase your ability to make a difference. Many students tend to follow the mediocre activity route here by pursuing leadership and extracurricular activities being done by tens of students in their class or by tens of thousands around the world. In order for Harvard to evaluate your impact, take a path that others are not following and show them how you can be a leader in your own community, whatever that means and stands for you.
- Write a compelling personal statement: The personal statement is an opportunity to showcase your unique voice and perspective, and to provide insight into your experiences, goals, and motivations. Make sure to spend much time brainstorming and drafting your essay, and consider seeking feedback from teachers, counselors, or other trusted advisors. These essays are all about your own story, what interests you, why you have followed a path so far, and where you want to go. Another student’s path is not your own so do not try to copy essays of students who have been successful in the past in getting admitted.
- Secure strong letters of recommendation: Harvard requires two letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and personal character. Choose teachers who have taught you in challenging courses and who can provide specific examples of your strengths and potential.
- Participate in meaningful extracurricular activities: Harvard is looking for well-rounded students who have pursued their passions outside of the classroom. This can include sports, music, art, volunteer work, or other activities that have helped you grow as a person and contribute to your community.
- Be authentic and genuine: Ultimately, Harvard is looking for students who are passionate, driven, and authentic. Don’t try to present yourself as someone you’re not, or mold yourself to fit a certain image or stereotype. Instead, be true to yourself and showcase your unique strengths and qualities.
It’s important to keep in mind that the admissions process is holistic, and that each applicant is considered within the context of their individual circumstances and experiences. While there are no guarantees of admission, by following these steps and presenting your best self in your application, you can increase your chances of being admitted to Harvard.
If you want to see your chances of admissions at Harvard university for undergraduate admissions, visit this page to see the 2023 results.
To put these results in simple terms, remember they accepted about 3% of applicants for the 60,000 or so students who applied. Out of 2000 or so students who were offered admissions to the class of 2027, there is a mix of diverse students who are accepted with a decent number of students who may be coming from the lane of either legacy students or high achiever students from the extra-curricular path of sports, music, journalism others. There are also a number of students who come from underprivileged, first generation and international pool. So, if you are not one of them, you definitely have to a strong academic achiever in your region or state i.e. being recognized on academic side for something that very few other kids have achieved.
Here is the link to more admission information.
Read our blog on how to get into MIT.