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Harvard University

Overview

Harvard University

Nestled in the historic city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard University stands as an iconic beacon of academic excellence and intellectual pursuit. With a legacy spanning over three centuries, Harvard’s illustrious reputation precedes it, drawing more than 50,000 applications annually. However, with an acceptance rate hovering around a mere 3%, securing a spot at Harvard is a formidable feat, reserved for the most exceptional minds. U.S. News & World Report ranks Harvard University #3 among national universities. Renowned as one of the world’s leading research institutions, Harvard also consistently ranks at the pinnacle of global university rankings, solidifying its status as a premier educational institution. Situated in the picturesque city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard’s 5,076-acre campus exudes an atmosphere of scholarly charm, complemented by historic architecture and lush greenery. Beyond academics, Cambridge also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with an array of museums, theaters, and dining establishments dotting its streets. From the bustling Harvard Square to the serene banks of the Charles River, the Harvard experience transcends the confines of the classroom, fostering a dynamic environment for learning, exploration, and personal growth.

Spark Admissions’ college consulting results are 8X the national average for Ivy League admissions and 6X the national average for many top 50 colleges.

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Harvard University Academics

At Harvard University, the 7:1 student-faculty ratio fosters an environment conducive to personalized learning and mentorship. The institution further enhances academic engagement with more than half of their classes accommodating fewer than 20 students, facilitating vibrant discussions and close interactions with professors. Harvard’s array of popular concentrations spans across diverse fields such as Social Sciences, Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science, History, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Psychology, Visual and Performing Arts, and more.

The student/faculty ratio at Harvard University is 7:1 and 71% of classes have 20 students or fewer.

Harvard Undergraduate Colleges:

  • Harvard College
  • Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)

Popular Majors at Harvard:

  • Economics
  • Computer Science
  • Political Science
  • Biology
  • Psychology
  • Applied Mathematics
  • History

Notable or Distinct Majors at Harvard:

  • Human Developmental and Regenerative Biology
  • Mind, Brain, Behavior

Unique Academic Opportunities at Harvard:

  • Harvard offers a Dual Degree Program for musicians with the New England Conservatory of Music.
  • All students take one course in each of four categories: Aesthetics & Culture; Ethics & Civics; Histories, Societies, Individuals; and Science & Technology in Society.
  • The Harvard College Undergraduate Research Association (HCURA) promotes research opportunities and provides a platform for students to present their research.
  • Conservation/environmental research is conducted at Harvard Forest, a center comprising 4,000 acres of land in Petersham, MA.
  • Dual-degree music programs are offered with the New England Conservatory and Berklee College of Music.

Harvard University Admissions

Harvard Application Details:

  • Outside of exceptional cases, Harvard requires standardized test scores from applicants. According to recent reports, the 75th percentile SAT score of an admitted student was 1580, and the 75th percentile composite ACT score was 36.
  • The Common Application is accepted at Harvard.
  • While the Admissions Committee may reach out to schedule an interview with a prospective applicant, applicants are not allowed to request an interview of their own volition.
  • A personal statement or personal essay is part of the Common App.
  • Harvard usually requires at least five supplemental essays within the Common App.
  • Students must submit a counselor recommendation, mid-year report, and school report.
  • First-year applicants must submit two teacher recommendations with their application.

Harvard Application Deadlines

Early Decision
Nov
Regular Decision
Jan 1
Fall Transfer
Mar 1

Class Profile

Harvard College Demographics (2023-2024):

  • Asian students: 23%
  • Black students: 9%
  • Hispanic students: 12%
  • White students: 34%
  • International students: 13%
  • First-generation college students: 17%
  • 52% women; 48% men

Life in Cambridge

Cambridge, Massachusetts, the vibrant city that houses Harvard University, offers an eclectic mix of urban amenities and natural attractions for students to explore.

  • Situated north of the Charles River, Cambridge provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Students can enjoy strolling or biking along the Charles River Esplanade, which offers scenic views of the city skyline and opportunities for picnics and recreation.
  • Cambridge is home to numerous additional parks and green spaces, including Harvard Square, where students can relax, socialize, and enjoy events such as outdoor concerts and festivals, while nearby attractions like Mount Auburn Cemetery, Fresh Pond Reservation, and the Minuteman Bikeway offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and cycling amidst lush natural surroundings.
  • The Sinclair is a dynamic music venue and kitchen offering a vibrant nightlife scene with live performances from both emerging and established artists. It’s a perfect spot for music lovers.
  • Cambridge boasts a wide range of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale eateries. Students can enjoy various cuisines, including popular spots Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage, Veggie Galaxy, Felipe’s Taqueria, Flour Bakery, and more.
  • The Brattle Theater is a historic and independent theater known for its unique film screenings, including classic, foreign, and cult movies. It’s a cultural gem for film enthusiasts.
  • The city is home to several renowned museums, such as the Harvard Art Museums, the MIT Museum, and the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, providing endless opportunities for cultural enrichment and exploration.
  • Additionally, the city of Boston, with its world-class museums, theaters, and historical landmarks, is just a short distance away, accessible via public transportation or on foot.

Campus Life:

Harvard University boasts a bustling campus life, with over 6,000 undergraduate and nearly 14,000 graduate students contributing to its dynamic atmosphere. With an impressive array of more than 400 student organizations covering diverse interests, from politics to the arts, there’s ample opportunity for involvement. Whether engaging in lively debates at the Harvard Political Union or enjoying performances at the renowned Sanders Theatre, students are immersed in a rich cultural and intellectual landscape. Harvard’s iconic spaces, such as Harvard Yard, provide gathering points for its vibrant community, fostering connections and collaboration. With more than 98% of undergraduates living on campus, the university’s residential system plays a central role in shaping campus life, fostering lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.

Harvard Social Activities:

  • Over 80% of students participate in athletics of some kind. Club sports include teams like ultimate frisbee, rugby, and sailing.
  • There is no Greek life at Harvard University.
  • The Phillips Brooks House Association (PBHA) is a student-run nonprofit offering a variety of public service programs.
  • Founded in 1873, the Harvard Crimson is the daily student newspaper of Harvard University and is known for its comprehensive coverage of university news, events, and issues, as well as for producing many notable journalists and public figures.

Harvard College Traditions:

  • Housing Day: Housing Day at Harvard is an eagerly anticipated tradition where freshmen receive their housing assignments for the following year. Upperclassmen from each residential house don costumes and deliver letters and treats to announce the housing placements and welcome first-years into their new house communities.
  • Primal Scream: Before the start of final exams each semester, students participate in Primal Scream, a quirky tradition where they run through the Yard in various stages of undress, letting out stress and tension in preparation for exams.
  • Harvard-Yale Football Game: The annual football game between Harvard and Yale, known simply as “The Game,” is a beloved tradition dating back to 1875. Students, alumni, and fans from both schools come together for a weekend of spirited rivalry, tailgating, and camaraderie.
  • River Run: A lighthearted tradition among Harvard students involves completing a “River Run,” where participants attempt to visit all the social clubs along the Charles River in a single night, often wearing themed costumes and making memories along the way.

Harvard University Housing and Dorms:

First-year undergraduate students are required to live on-campus, and Harvard requires all undergraduates living on campus to participate in the unlimited meal plan. Several unique dorm opportunities are available:

  • Harvard undergraduates are assigned to one of 12 residential houses, each with its own distinct identity, facilities, and community. Houses serve as more than just dormitories; they are hubs of social and intellectual life, providing a supportive environment for students to live, learn, and grow together.
  • In addition to traditional residential houses, Harvard offers specialized housing options such as co-op living arrangements, and affinity housing for students with shared interests or identities.
  • Dorm housing ranges from historic buildings with traditional architecture to modern facilities with suite-style living arrangements. Students typically live in shared suites or single rooms, with access to communal bathrooms and shared common areas.
  • Upperclassmen who wish to live off-campus can take advantage of university-affiliated housing.

Harvard University Cost of Attendance

This estimate takes into account tuition and fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Total tuition costs

$79,450
  • There are multiple opportunities to receive financial aid assistance including grants, work study programs, loans, and outside scholarships.

Get Into Harvard with Spark Admissions

Having gained insight into Harvard’s esteemed academic environment, rigorous admissions criteria, and competitive acceptance rate, you may be eager to embark on this journey towards your Ivy League aspirations. If you’re considering pursuing admission to Harvard University, one of the best colleges in the United States, navigating the application process successfully is paramount. Whether you seek guidance in refining your resume or polishing your background to stand out amidst the competition, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us today for a complimentary initial consultation, and let’s work together to turn your Harvard dreams into reality.

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