Harvard University, one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions, is known for its rigorous admissions process and incredibly low acceptance rate. With thousands of exceptional applicants vying for a limited number of spots, getting into Harvard is a true testament to academic excellence and potential. While Harvard College’s acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 is 3.4%, Harvard Business School’s acceptance rate for the Class of 2025 is 11.5%, Harvard Law School’s acceptance rate for the Class of 2026 is 9.5% and Harvard Medical School’s acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 is 2.3%.
Getting into Harvard is becoming more competitive
Harvard’s overall acceptance rate has experienced a dramatic decline over the years. In recent times, it has hovered around a mere 3-5%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States and globally. This means that for every 100 applicants, only a handful gain admission. The competition is fierce, and the bar for entry is set exceptionally high.
Harvard’s acceptance rate’s downward trajectory can be attributed to several factors, including:
- Increased Applications: The rise of the Common Application and online platforms has made applying to multiple universities easier, leading to a surge in applications to Harvard.
- Global Reach: Harvard’s reputation attracts top students from around the world, intensifying the competition for limited spots.
- Emphasis on Diversity: Harvard actively seeks to create a diverse student body, potentially leading to fluctuations in acceptance rates for specific demographics.
Harvard University Acceptance Rates Across Faculties
While the overall acceptance rate is strikingly low, there can be variations across Harvard’s diverse faculties:
Harvard College’s (Undergraduate) Acceptance Rate
The undergraduate college is usually the most competitive, with acceptance rates often dipping below 5%. The acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 was 3.4%.
Harvard Graduate School’s Acceptance Rate
Programs like Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, and Harvard Medical School, though incredibly selective, may have slightly higher acceptance rates compared to the undergraduate college. This often reflects their focus on specific disciplines and the need for prior academic or professional experience.
- Harvard Business School Acceptance Rate: 11.5% (Class of 2025)
- Harvard Law School Acceptance Rate: 9.5% (Class of 2026)
- Harvard Medical School Acceptance Rate: 2.3% (Class of 2027)
Standardised tests play a crucial role in Harvard’s admissions process:
- SAT/ACT (Undergraduate): Harvard requires applicants to submit either the SAT or ACT. Students typically aim for scores in the top 1% to be competitive.
- GMAT/GRE (Graduate): Most graduate programs require either the GMAT (for business programs) or the GRE (for other fields). High scores on these exams demonstrate academic aptitude and readiness for graduate-level work.
Harvard adopts a holistic admissions approach, meaning they consider far more than just test scores. Here’s what else matters:
- GPA: A consistently high GPA throughout high school reflects academic rigor and dedication.
- Extracurricular Activities: Leadership positions, community service, and exceptional talents in areas like sports, music, or the arts showcase well-roundedness and potential contributions to the Harvard community.
- Essays: Compelling personal essays provide insights into an applicant’s personality, values, and intellectual curiosity.
- Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendations from teachers or mentors can highlight an applicant’s strengths, work ethic, and academic potential.
Harvard’s acceptance rate has been on a steady downward trajectory for decades. This trend can be attributed to several factors, including:
- Increased Applications: The rise of the Common Application and online platforms has made applying to multiple universities easier, leading to a surge in applications to Harvard.
- Global Reach: Harvard’s reputation attracts top students from around the world, intensifying the competition for limited spots.
- Emphasis on Diversity: Harvard actively seeks to create a diverse student body, potentially leading to fluctuations in acceptance rates for specific demographics.
Gaining admission to Harvard requires an extraordinary application that demonstrates academic excellence, passion, intellectual curiosity, and the potential to make a meaningful impact. While there’s no guaranteed formula for success, focusing on your academic record, test scores and extracurricular achievements, and crafting compelling essays will significantly increase your chances.
Harvard University’s ultra-low acceptance rate speaks volumes about its reputation for excellence and the sheer volume of exceptional applicants. Understanding the nuances of acceptance rates across faculties, the role of entrance exams, and the holistic admissions process is essential for anyone aspiring to join the ranks of Harvard’s student body.
Harvard’s Financial Aid
Harvard offers scholarships and grants for students who need financial aid. There is a financial aid office at each School at Harvard. To find out more, visit the financial aid website of the school you will be planning to attend.
External funding is also a possibility. Spark Finance offers a tuition loan product tailored especially for international students. Please see more information about options for Australian and New Zealand students looking to study at Harvard in our FAQs about student loans. You can also apply now for a student tuition loan.
