Indian Students: Getting Accepted At Harvard University

Getting into Harvard University is a dream for many Indian students. The application process is the same for all international applicants, and there are no quotas for international students. The admissions process is highly competitive, with an average acceptance rate of 5%. Here are the key steps and requirements for Indian students aiming to get into Harvard:

Application Forms

Complete either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, along with the required supplements. There is no preference between the two, and both are treated equally by the Admissions Committee.

Standardized Tests

Harvard accepts either the SAT or ACT. In exceptional cases, where these tests are not accessible, students may submit AP exam results, IB scores, GCSE/A-Level results, or national leaving exam results. English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) cannot substitute for standardized testing but can be submitted as part of the application.

Academic Transcripts

Indian students need to provide translated versions of academic credentials if they are not in English. Translations can be done by someone like an English teacher and do not need to be done by a professional translator.

Financial Aid

Harvard offers financial aid based on demonstrated financial need, and admissions decisions are made without considering whether an applicant has applied for financial aid.

Interviews

Interviews are not mandatory and are conducted based on availability. Not having an interview will not negatively impact your application.

Qualifications and Documentation

As an international applicant, additional documentation may be required based on your school's grading system and academic history.

Other Requirements

Other requirements may include an activities list, a personal essay, Harvard supplement, application fee, teacher recommendations, school reports, and midyear/final school reports.

Tips for Indian Students

- Maintain a high GPA (above 90%) in board exams and relevant subjects.

- Achieve competitive scores in SAT/ACT and SAT Subject Tests.

- Demonstrate English language proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS if English is not your first language.

- Engage in extracurricular activities and leadership roles.

- Write a compelling personal essay.

- Obtain strong letters of recommendation.

- Understand Harvard's values, programs, and culture.

- Meet application deadlines.

- Prepare for potential interviews.

- Explore scholarships and financial aid options.

Maintain a high GPA and achieve competitive scores in SAT/ACT

Maintain a High GPA

To get into Harvard, you need to demonstrate academic excellence. This means achieving a high GPA, with the average GPA of successful applicants being 4.2. This is a weighted GPA out of 4.0, and it indicates that you need to be at the top of your class with almost straight As. To achieve this, you should take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, as these are considered more challenging.

However, it's important to note that your GPA isn't the only factor that determines your admission to Harvard. The admissions process is holistic, and while a high GPA is necessary, it's not sufficient on its own.

Achieve Competitive Scores in SAT/ACT

In addition to a high GPA, you need to aim for competitive scores in either the SAT or ACT. For the SAT, a good target score is 1560-1580 out of 1600, which will place you in the top 25% of applicants. For the ACT, aim for a score of 35-36 out of 36.

It's worth noting that Harvard does not have specific SAT or ACT score requirements or cutoffs, and they emphasize that they do not admit "by the numbers." However, most admitted students have high standardised test scores.

To improve your chances of achieving competitive SAT/ACT scores, consider the following strategies:

• Start preparing early and create a study plan that covers all sections of the test.
• Take advantage of practice tests and sign up for test prep classes if needed.
• Focus on understanding the test format and the types of questions asked.
• Work on improving your time management skills to ensure you can complete the test within the allotted time.
• Familiarise yourself with the testing environment by taking advantage of any opportunities to take the test before your official exam date.

Demonstrate English language proficiency by taking the TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test

As an Indian student, if you want to get into Harvard University, you will need to demonstrate your English language proficiency by taking a standardised test. This is a requirement for all international applicants, and you will need to submit your scores alongside your application.

Harvard University accepts three types of English language tests: the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and the Duolingo English Test.

TOEFL

The TOEFL is the oldest English proficiency test, having been introduced in 1964. It is widely accepted by most universities in the USA and worldwide. To demonstrate proficiency, you will need to achieve a minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test (iBT).

IELTS

The IELTS is also widely recognised and accepted by universities worldwide. It was introduced in 1989 and is jointly owned and conducted by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. To meet the requirements for Harvard, you will need a minimum score of 6.5 on the Academic test.

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test is a newer option that is gradually gaining popularity. Over 2,000 schools now accept the Duolingo test, including those in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK.

Tips for International Applicants

It is recommended that you aim to complete your chosen English language test at least a year before you want to start university, usually in August.

If you received your undergraduate degree from an institution in the United States where a significant portion of your program was conducted in English, you may be able to petition for a waiver of the TOEFL/IELTS requirement.

Other Options

If you are applying to Oxford or Cambridge, you may not need to take an English language test before you apply. However, if your application is successful, you will probably need to complete a proficiency test to a set minimum score as one of the conditions of your offer.

Provide two letters of recommendation from teachers

Harvard University requires two letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and personal qualities. These letters should be written by faculty members who have taught you in different academic subjects. The teachers should be able to provide specific examples and details of your academic accomplishments, personal endeavours, and character traits. It is important to give your recommenders plenty of notice and provide them with clear instructions on what to include in the letter. Make sure to share your motivation for applying to Harvard, as well as your application materials such as essays and resumes.

• Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and achievements.
• Give your recommenders plenty of notice and provide them with clear instructions and deadlines.
• Share your motivation for applying to Harvard, as well as your application materials such as essays and resumes.
• Remind your recommenders of your achievements and how their course was significant to your development.
• If you haven't had much interaction with faculty members, consider asking a teaching fellow to work together with the faculty course leader to generate a co-signed letter.
• If you have work experience, consider getting a letter of recommendation from your employer.

Showcase extracurricular activities and leadership qualities

Extracurricular activities are a crucial aspect of your application to Harvard University. They demonstrate your passions, interests, and ability to contribute to the university community. When selecting extracurricular activities to include in your application, it is essential to showcase your leadership qualities and initiative. Here are some tips and examples to help you showcase your extracurricular activities and leadership qualities effectively:

• Leadership Activities: Seek leadership positions within your school or community. Participate in activities that develop your leadership skills, such as Model United Nations, Future Business Leaders of America, or student government. Demonstrating your ability to take initiative, guide others, and make decisions will leave a positive impression on the admissions committee.
• Commitment: Demonstrate your ability to commit to your passions by taking them to the next level. For example, if you are passionate about fashion, you could organise a clothing swap event or a thrift fashion show at your school. This showcases your ability to pursue your interests and make a positive impact.
• Personal Development: Showcase your willingness to learn and develop new skills by engaging in extracurricular activities that foster personal growth. For instance, learning to play a musical instrument or taking up a new sport can demonstrate your curiosity and desire for self-improvement.
• Initiative: Take the initiative to create new opportunities or solve problems. For instance, if your spring recital was cancelled, organise an outdoor recital and live-stream it for your peers and family. This demonstrates your ability to identify opportunities, take action, and create positive change.
• Academic Activities: Pursue academic activities outside your regular curriculum, such as taking courses at a local college or online during the summer. This demonstrates your intellectual curiosity and passion for learning, which is highly valued by Ivy League schools.
• Community-Based Activities: Engage in extracurricular activities that serve your community, such as volunteering at a daycare or summer camp. Ensure you choose activities that genuinely interest you and align with your values. This demonstrates your empathy and dedication to making a positive impact on the world around you.
• Work Experience: Balancing a job with your academic responsibilities showcases your ability to manage your time effectively and develop practical skills. It also provides real-world experience that can be beneficial for your application.
• Social Justice Activities: If you are passionate about social issues, find ways to engage with them meaningfully. For example, if you want to study civics and politics, you could start a project related to poverty and homelessness. This demonstrates your commitment to addressing important societal issues.
• Research-Based Activities: Engage in research activities, such as participating in a research project at a local university. This demonstrates your intellectual curiosity, analytical skills, and contribution to the creation of new knowledge.
• Unique Activities: Be authentic and pursue extracurricular activities that align with your unique interests and passions. Whether it's a passion for music, art, trains, or animation, ensure you showcase your dedication and development in these areas. This demonstrates your courage to explore your interests, even if they don't fit the typical mould.

Remember, it's not just about the number of extracurricular activities you include, but also the quality and depth of your involvement. Select activities that genuinely interest you and allow you to develop your skills and make a meaningful impact. This will help you stand out as a well-rounded and passionate candidate in your application to Harvard University.

Write a compelling personal essay

To write a compelling personal essay as an Indian student applying to Harvard University, here are some key tips and strategies to keep in mind:

• Understand the Purpose of the Essay: The personal essay is your opportunity to showcase your individuality, values, interests, and aspirations. It allows the admissions committee to learn more about you beyond your academic achievements and extracurricular activities.
• Reflect on Your Journey: Think about the important moments, challenges, and influences that have shaped your life. Reflect on how these experiences have contributed to your personal growth and development.
• Question Your Individuality: What sets you apart from your peers? What challenges have you overcome? Have your values ever been called into question, and how did you respond? Reflecting on these questions can help you identify unique aspects of your personality and experiences to include in your essay.
• Showcase Your Field of Study: Discuss what initially sparked your interest in your chosen field and how it has evolved. Explain how your field of study has influenced you and what specific aspects of it you are most passionate about.
• Highlight Non-Academic Experiences: Discuss the internships, clubs, or other activities you've engaged in and why you chose them. Explain what these experiences say about your values and interests outside of the classroom.
• Be Authentic: Use your genuine voice, sense of humour, and natural way of speaking in your writing. Write about something that is genuinely important to you, rather than choosing a topic solely to impress the admissions committee.
• Grab the Reader's Attention: Start your essay with a bold opening sentence or paragraph that captures the reader's imagination. This could be a powerful statement, a thought-provoking quote, a question, or a descriptive scene.
• Focus on Deeper Themes: Instead of simply listing facts, figures, or extracurricular activities, focus on the deeper themes and lessons you've learned from your experiences. Discuss how these experiences have influenced your personal growth and development.
• Show, Don't Tell: Use vivid anecdotes and scenes to illustrate your points, rather than just providing a list of accomplishments. Admissions officers want to understand the arc of your emotional journey, not just your academic achievements.
• Try a Different Perspective: Approach your topic from a unique perspective. For example, instead of writing about your wins, consider writing about what you've learned from your losses.
• Write for the Reader: Build a clear and logical argument, using transitions between paragraphs to guide the reader through your essay. Provide sufficient background information, and ensure your essay has a strong opening and ending.
• Revise and Edit: Write multiple drafts of your essay and set it aside for a few days between revisions. Reading your essay aloud can help you identify areas that need improvement. Ask people from different demographic groups, such as a teacher or a parent, to read your essay and provide feedback.

Frequently asked questions