Harvard College is the oldest college in the United States and offers a renowned Ivy League education that is crafted to educate citizen-leaders for the global society. The college exposes its students to new understandings through a rigorous curriculum that provides an intellectual transformation. Through collaborative learning experiences with diverse perspectives and multi-disciplinary core courses, students will begin to assess their values and interests, develop a sense of their future career and life goals, and learn how they can best serve the world. The nearby city of Boston provides plenty of opportunities for students to engage their interests, participate in internships, and get involved in community service.
The admissions process at Harvard is highly selective. Students who are accomplished in their academic coursework, and who have engaged in rigorous classes will be sought by the college. Those with special talents and diverse perspectives are also sought by the school. The ideal applicant is someone who takes initiative and availability of opportunities and resources to achieve their goals. Harvard University is likely to admit students who have a focused passion and have worked to cultivate, or desire to further explore, this interest through current or future learning and extra-curricular opportunities.
The selectivity of applicants for undergraduate admissions to Harvard is considered highly selective. Many accepted applicants score in the top-range on the SAT or ACT exam, as well as having a solid high school GPA and number of college prep courses.
The acceptance rate for Harvard University is eighty-nine percent lower than the national average of all colleges which is around 57%.
Prospective students should complete either the Common Application, Universal College Application, or the Coalition Application. A Secondary School Report and an official transcript are required from the high school guidance office. A midyear report must be submitted once seventh semester grades are finalized.
Students must submit official ACT or SAT results. Two SAT subject tests are recommended except in situations where there is financial hardship. The writing portion of both exams is optional. Applicants must submit two teacher recommendations from core academic areas.