Dreaming Of Studying At Harvard University? Here’s Everything You Need To Know – News18

Last Updated:February 06, 2025, 13:31 IST

Dreaming of studying at Harvard? Find answers to all FAQs on admissions, tests, financial aid, and more for international students.

Founded in 1636, Harvard University is one of the world’s oldest and most renowned universities. Gaining admission to this prestigious institution is highly competitive, but with diligent preparation and a strong application, it is achievable. Approximately 30 per cent of students at Harvard come from over 150 countries. International students from low-income families can receive financial aid through university scholarships.

If you are planning to enrol at Harvard University, here is a breakdown of common questions for international students aspiring to study there:

Harvard University Admission FAQs

How do international students apply?

The application process is generally the same for all applicants, regardless of whether a student attends high school within or outside the US. All first-year candidates must complete either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, along with specific Harvard supplements. The university states, “We have no preference, and each application is treated equally by the Admissions Committee.”

Which standardised tests are required to apply to Harvard University?

Harvard requires applicants to take the ACT or SAT to fulfil its standardised testing requirement. However, in exceptional cases where these tests are inaccessible, one of the following may suffice:

• AP exam results
• IB Actual or Predicted Scores
• GCSE/A-Level Actual or Predicted Results
• National Leaving Exam Results (externally assessed) or Predictions

Exceptional cases typically include applicants facing financial difficulties in paying for or accessing a test centre, or those unable to secure a seat before the Regular Decision deadline. Additionally, students who have taken other forms of testing (AP, IB, GCSE, or National Leaving Exams) are still expected to take the SAT or ACT, unless financial constraints or test availability prevent them from doing so.

Are there any quotas for international applicants?

There are no quotas or limits at any stage of the admissions process. All applicants, regardless of their nationality or the secondary school they attended, are considered in the same pool for admission.

Is there an interview for international applicants?

Where possible, Harvard arranges interviews with alumni in or near applicants’ school communities. In the US, Canada, and the UK, an alumnus contacts applicants directly by phone, email, or letter if an interview is feasible. For students outside these regions, the university makes efforts to arrange an interview where possible. The absence of an interview does not negatively affect an applicant’s chances of admission.

Is it mandatory to take the TOEFL?

A strong command of English is essential for successful study at Harvard, including the ability to comprehend and articulate thoughts quickly and clearly. First-year and transfer applicants are not required to take an English proficiency exam, though they may submit scores if they wish. However, applicants for the Visiting Undergraduate Students Programme must take either the TOEFL or IELTS.

Are application fee waivers available for international students?

Yes, the application fee is waived for students who meet specific indicators of financial need. Applicants can request a waiver directly through the Common Application or the Coalition Application, powered by Scoir. Even if they do not meet the standard indicators, they may still request a fee waiver.

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Is financial aid available to international students?

Yes, Harvard provides financial aid to all students, including international applicants, on the same basis as American students. While foreign students are not eligible for US federal funding, Harvard offers its own scholarships and job opportunities for international students.

Can students receiving financial aid expect travel expenses to be covered by Harvard?

According to the university, “All students, American and international, who are on financial aid have a travel allowance included in their financial aid award to help cover the cost of travel to and from Cambridge. Overseas students are advised to seek information from the nearest US Cultural Affairs Office about travel grants and other financial assistance available to qualified students from various foundations and from the US government.”