Savanna Hoffman
Harvard University is the oldest college in the United States and is considered one of the most prestigious. The university is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning, and research, and to developing leaders who make a difference globally. Harvard welcomes applications from all over the world and has a holistic admissions process that considers each applicant's academic achievements, extracurricular activities, personal qualities, and life experiences. Prospective students are encouraged to start the application process early and to challenge themselves academically by taking rigorous courses, such as honors or AP classes. Maintaining excellent grades, particularly in these advanced courses, is important as it demonstrates a strong work ethic and the ability to handle the rigorous coursework at Harvard. In addition to academic achievements, Harvard also values active involvement in extracurricular activities and seeks students with unique perspectives and personal qualities that can contribute to the diverse student body.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Academic Achievements | Excellent grades in high school, especially in honors/AP courses |
| Extracurricular Activities | Active involvement |
| Personal Qualities | Strong work ethic, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence |
| Life Experiences | Diverse backgrounds and perspectives |
| Application Requirements | Accurate and honest information, including letters of recommendation and academic transcripts |
| Admissions Process | Consideration of the whole application, including academic and personal achievements |
| Student Body | Diverse and inclusive, with no "typical" student |
| Academic Path | No single expected path, but a focus on challenging courses and personal development |
| Planning | Starting the application process early, ideally during the spring of junior year in high school |
| Fees | Application fee waivers available for financial hardship |
| Eligibility | No students with a previous bachelor's degree or equivalent are eligible |
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What You'll Learn
Maintaining excellent grades in high school
Stay Organized and Minimize Distractions
Create a study schedule and use a planner or paper agenda book to keep track of assignments and upcoming tests. Minimize distractions by turning your phone to "Do Not Disturb" and using anti-procrastination browser extensions. Keep your desk organized and manage your space to boost productivity.
Focus on Your Health
Eat nutritious and balanced meals, and never skip breakfast. Establish a regular sleep schedule, aiming for at least eight hours of sleep each night. Taking care of your physical health will fuel your brain and improve your productivity.
Stay Motivated and Participate
Believe in yourself and set goals to stay motivated. Participate in class to show your teacher you are engaged and care about the subject. Participation is often considered when grading, so don't be afraid to ask questions. If you're shy, write down your questions before class and then ask them.
Take Challenging Courses
Enroll in rigorous courses such as honors or AP classes. Pushing yourself academically demonstrates to Harvard admissions officers that you are a hard worker and can handle the rigor of Harvard's courses.
Seek Help and Study Groups
If you need support, don't hesitate to seek help from teachers or tutors. Consider joining a study group to stay motivated and accountable. Remember, getting into Harvard requires more than just good grades, so make sure to also focus on extracurricular activities and personal development.
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Getting high scores on SAT, ACT and AP tests
Getting into Harvard is no easy feat—the university accepts only a small percentage of applicants each year. While there are many factors that contribute to a successful application, achieving high scores on standardised tests such as the SAT, ACT, and AP exams is crucial. Here are some tips to help you maximise your performance on these tests and boost your chances of gaining admission to Harvard.
SATs
The SAT is a standardised test that assesses students' readiness for college. Harvard requires applicants to submit SAT scores, and achieving a high score is essential for a competitive application. The test covers various subjects, including reading, writing, and math, and is designed to evaluate critical thinking, reasoning, and analytical skills.
To excel on the SAT, start by familiarising yourself with the test format and question types. Practice tests are a valuable tool for this; by completing practice exams, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses and tailor your preparation accordingly. Focus on improving your performance in specific sections where you feel less confident. Aim to develop a strong foundation in the tested subjects by taking challenging classes in high school, such as AP or IB courses, which showcase your ability to handle college-level academics.
Additionally, consider utilising resources such as test preparation guides and courses, which can provide valuable strategies and tips for maximising your score. Keep in mind that the SAT is not the only factor in your application, so ensure you also devote time to extracurricular activities, community service, and developing a strong personal statement that showcases your unique qualities and experiences.
ACTs
The ACT is another standardised test accepted by Harvard, and it covers English, mathematics, reading, and science. Similar to the SAT, achieving a high ACT score is crucial for applicants. The average ACT score for accepted students at Harvard is exceptionally high, ranging from 34 to 36, with some sources stating that a score of 34 may be considered weak in the context of the competitive applicant pool.
To maximise your ACT score, begin by understanding the test structure and the types of questions asked. Utilise practice tests to simulate the exam environment and identify areas that require improvement. Focus on strengthening your performance in each section, aiming for a well-rounded score profile. Consider seeking additional support through test preparation resources or tutors to help you optimise your performance.
AP Tests
Advanced Placement (AP) tests are exams that assess students' knowledge in specific subject areas, and they can be taken to supplement your application. While not mandatory, strong AP scores can demonstrate your academic prowess and readiness for college-level coursework. Aim to take AP courses in subjects that align with your interests and strengths, as this can increase your motivation and likelihood of achieving high scores.
As with the SAT and ACT, practising with previous AP exam questions can help you familiarise yourself with the format and improve your performance. Consider the AP tests as an opportunity to showcase your academic strengths and supplement your overall application. Remember that Harvard values a well-rounded applicant, so ensure you also devote time to extracurricular pursuits and personal development.
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Participating in extracurricular activities
When it comes to extracurricular activities, quality matters more than quantity. Instead of merely joining numerous clubs or teams, focus on finding activities that genuinely interest you and where you can actively contribute and make a difference. For example, you could join the debate club if you enjoy discussing ideas and developing persuasive arguments. If you're passionate about a particular social cause, consider volunteering for a non-profit organisation or starting your own initiative to address that cause. Demonstrating dedication, leadership, and a passion for making a positive impact can set you apart from other applicants.
Pursuing your passions and interests outside of the classroom is essential, and it's crucial to showcase your dedication and commitment to these activities. For instance, if you're interested in music, consider joining the school band or orchestra, taking music lessons, or participating in local concerts and competitions. If you're inclined towards visual arts, enrol in art classes, join an art club, or even consider exhibiting your artwork in school or community events. Remember, the goal is to showcase your enthusiasm and dedication to your extracurricular pursuits.
Sports can also be a significant part of extracurricular activities. Whether you're a talented athlete or simply enjoy playing sports recreationally, participating in school teams or local sports leagues can demonstrate your ability to collaborate and work within a team. If competitive sports aren't your forte, you can still showcase your interest in physical well-being by joining fitness clubs or organising events that promote a healthy lifestyle.
Extracurricular activities also provide excellent opportunities for developing leadership skills. Consider running for student council or taking on leadership roles within your chosen clubs or teams. Organising events, leading initiatives, and mediating discussions are all valuable experiences that showcase your ability to take on responsibility and make a positive impact in your community. Remember, Harvard seeks students who can actively contribute to the university's vibrant and diverse community.
Lastly, don't be afraid to explore unique or unconventional extracurricular activities. If you have a passion for robotics, join a robotics club or participate in robotics competitions. If you're interested in creative writing, consider joining a literary magazine, writing for the school newspaper, or even self-publishing your work. The key is to showcase your individuality, creativity, and dedication to your passions. Remember, Harvard University is not just looking for straight-A students; they want well-rounded individuals who will bring diverse talents and interests to their campus.
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Seeking teacher recommendations
Choose the Right Teachers
Select teachers who know you well and have worked closely with you. Ideally, choose eleventh-grade instructors as they will be familiar with your performance in higher-level courses and will have more recent memories of your classroom performance. Consider asking teachers who focus on a subject you are passionate about and may want to pursue at Harvard. It is also beneficial to choose teachers with whom you have a strong rapport and good relationship.
Provide Necessary Information
Give your chosen teachers plenty of time to compile their letters and be polite and gracious in your request. Help them out by sharing your resume, talking points, and any other relevant information that showcases your unique character and achievements. Include real-life examples or anecdotes that demonstrate the kind of impact you will make at Harvard.
Seek Additional Recommendations
While the minimum requirement is two teacher recommendations, you can submit additional letters if you wish. Consider including a supplemental letter from someone who knows you well, such as a supervisor, coach, or religious leader, to provide a more well-rounded view of your character and achievements.
Stand Out as a Student
Harvard is a highly selective and competitive institution, so it is important to stand out as a student. Excel in your academic performance, demonstrate maturity, intelligence, and a positive attitude. Showcase your motivation, independence, and initiative to make a strong impression on your teachers, which will reflect positively in their letters of recommendation.
Timing and Submission
Remember to submit your application before your supporting materials, including teacher recommendations. You can submit additional letters of recommendation after submitting your application using the personalized link provided in your application confirmation email.
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Filling out the application form accurately
Filling out the application form is a critical step in the admissions process. Harvard University uses the Common Application or the Coalition Application, powered by Scoir, for first-year and transfer applicants. Both are treated equally by the Admissions Committee. The online application requires basic information about the applicant, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and standardised test scores.
It is essential to be completely accurate in your application materials. Misrepresentation or inaccuracy in your application may result in denial or withdrawal of admission, or revocation of an already awarded degree. Ensure that your name is filled out exactly as it appears on other legal documents and application materials, such as financial aid forms and official test score reports. Inconsistencies in names can cause your application to be flagged as incomplete.
The application process at Harvard is holistic, and the admissions committee considers various factors beyond academic achievements. These include extracurricular activities, personal qualities, life experiences, and special talents or excellences. The application form will likely include sections for you to share detailed information about yourself, including contact information, demographics, and a fee waiver request if necessary. You may also be asked about your family background, including information about your household, parents, and siblings. Answer these questions as honestly and fully as possible, as this helps the admissions officers understand your circumstances and how you have maximised the opportunities presented to you.
Additionally, you may include any challenging circumstances you have faced, such as illness or other difficulties, that may have impacted your grades. You can also submit additional information such as Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, A-levels, national leaving examinations, national or international contests, early high school assessment scores, and courses taken outside your school. If you have already taken Subject Tests or the essay portion of the SAT, you may submit these as well, although they have been terminated otherwise.
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Frequently asked questions
Harvard University requires applicants to submit a secondary school report, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a school profile. Applicants are also encouraged to maintain excellent grades, particularly in honours or Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and to achieve high scores on standardised tests such as the SAT or ACT. Additionally, Harvard values extracurricular activities, personal qualities, and diverse life experiences.
It is recommended to start planning for college applications as early as possible, ideally during the spring of junior year in high school. Starting early can help ease the stress associated with the application process and allow for a more comprehensive application.
The application essay is an opportunity to showcase your unique experiences, perspectives, and personal growth. Consider describing a time when you strongly disagreed with someone and how you engaged with their perspective. Reflect on how your life experiences will contribute to the diverse Harvard community.
Harvard University seeks students with a strong academic foundation, as demonstrated by rigorous courses and excellent grades. They also value well-rounded individuals who actively participate in extracurricular activities and possess notable personal qualities. There is no single academic path expected, but a good high school education that prepares students for the demands of a liberal arts college is beneficial.
While there is no "one size fits all" curriculum, challenging oneself with appropriate courses is advised. Honours, International Baccalaureate (IB), or other advanced courses can enhance an application. Additionally, demonstrating proficiency in English through extensive reading of classical literature is recommended.
