How to Get Admission in Harvard University

Harvard University is one of the world's most prestigious institutions and a dream destination for many Indian students. Known for its academic excellence, research, and global reputation, Harvard offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across diverse disciplines. Admission is highly competitive, making it essential to understand the eligibility criteria, application requirements and programme-specific admissions before applying.

Can I go to Harvard after 12th?

Yes. Indian students can apply directly after completing Class 12, after graduating from a recognised board like CBSE, ISC, State Boards, IB, or Cambridge.

Undergraduate Programmes

Eligibility for Indian students

• Must not already hold a bachelor's degree.

• Cannot be enrolled in another undergraduate degree programme.

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Undergraduate Requirements for Indian Students

• Complete and submit the Common Application or Coalition Application.

• Upload all required documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, and English proficiency scores (if applicable).

• Pay the $85 non-refundable application fee (or apply for a fee waiver if eligible).

• Attend an alumni interview if invited, and wait for the admission decision.

Postgraduate Programmes

Eligibility for Indian students

• Bachelor’s Degree from a recognised university 

• A 4 years’ bachelors programme is preferred, but a 3-year programme is considered on a case-by-case basis

• Excellent academic record in 12th Grade and Undergraduate studies

Postgraduate Requirements

• Online application

• Resume

• Letters of recommendation

• Short essays

• Official transcripts from previous schools

• $100 non-refundable application fee

Harvard Business School Eligibility for Indian Students

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent (three-year or four-year degree accepted if equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree)

• Strong academic record

• Competitive GMAT or GRE score

• English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo)

How to get into Harvard Law School

• Complete a bachelor's degree from a recognised university.

• Apply online through the LSAC application portal.

• Pay the $90 non-refundable application fee.

• Submit a valid LSAT or GRE score.

• Send official academic transcripts through the LSAC Credential Assembly Service.

• Submit two Letters of Recommendation (up to three are accepted).

• Resume.

• Submit a Statement of Purpose and Statement of Perspective.

• Attend an online interview if invited by the Admissions Committee.

Harvard University offers students a world-class education, exceptional research opportunities, and a globally recognised degree. Although admission is highly competitive, strong academics, leadership, extracurricular achievements, internships, and a well-rounded application can significantly improve your chances. With generous financial aid and excellent career prospects, Harvard remains one of the best study destinations for aspiring students from India.

FAQs

1. Can Indian students get admission to Harvard University?
   Yes. Indian students can apply to Harvard's undergraduate, postgraduate, business, and law programmes by meeting the respective eligibility criteria and submitting a strong application with the required documents.

2. Can I join Harvard after Class 12?
   Yes. Students can apply directly to Harvard College after completing Class 12 from a recognised board such as CBSE, ISC, State Boards, IB, or Cambridge. Professional programmes like MBA and J.D. require a Bachelor's degree first.

3. Does Harvard University offer scholarships for Indian students?
   Yes. Harvard offers generous need-based financial aid for undergraduate students, while postgraduate students can receive fellowships, assistantships, programme-specific scholarships and fully funded PhD opportunities.

4. How much does it cost to study at Harvard University?

Typical annual costs are:

Undergraduate: USD 90,000–97,000

Master's: USD 100,000+

Harvard Business School (MBA): USD 100,000+

Harvard Law School (J.D.): USD $120,000+

Actual costs may vary depending on the program and intake year. Students are advised to check the official university website for the most up-to-date fee details.

5. What makes Harvard University one of the world's top universities?
Harvard is renowned for its academic excellence, distinguished faculty, research, global alumni network, and outstanding career opportunities across business, technology, law, healthcare, consulting, research and public service.