Harvard University: A Guide for Prospective Students

Harvard University is a world-renowned institution that attracts some of the brightest minds in the world. If you are considering applying to Harvard, this guide will provide you with important information about the school, including admissions requirements, popular majors, demographics, financial aid, and essay examples that have helped students get admitted.

Top Majors

Harvard University offers a wide variety of majors across all fields. Some of the most popular majors at the school include:

• Economics
• Computer Science
• Engineering Sciences
• Psychology
• Government

Admissions Requirements

Harvard University is known for its selective admissions process that considers a range of factors in addition to academic credentials. Here are the admissions requirements for applying to Harvard University:

• Application and Supplemental Materials
• ACT or SAT (with or without writing)
• 2 SAT Subject Tests (recommended, except in the case of financial hardship. Standardized tests are optional for students applying for fall 2021, 2022, and 2023 due to difficulties with test access caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.)
• Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interviews (optional)

Admitted students typically have a high school GPA between 4.0 and 4.18. The middle 50% of admitted students have a composite SAT score between 1460 and 1570, and a composite ACT score between 33 and 35.

Demographics

Harvard University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community of students. The demographic breakdown of the admitted class of 2024 is as follows:

• Asian American: 25.4%
• African American: 13.9%
• Hispanic or Latino: 11.8%
• Native American or Pacific Islander: 2.3%
• White: 47.6%
• International: 11.6%

Financial Aid

Harvard University is committed to making education affordable for all students, regardless of their financial situation. The average financial aid package for the Class of 2024 was $54,000. More than half of Harvard students receive need-based scholarships, and families with incomes below $65,000 are not expected to make any contribution.

Essay Examples

Harvard University places a strong emphasis on essays in the admissions process. Here are some examples of essays that helped students get admitted to the school:

• Essay Prompt: Share a message that has made a difference in your life.
  Essay: "Growing up with a single mother who worked long hours to support us, I often felt like a burden. One day, my mother told me that I was her greatest accomplishment. Those words have stayed with me and have motivated me to work hard and make a difference in the world."
• Essay Prompt: What is one thing you would like to tell your future roommate?
  Essay: "Dear Roommate, I am looking forward to living with you and getting to know you. One thing you should know about me is that I am a morning person and like to start my day early. I promise not to be too loud, but I might make a pot of coffee in the morning. Let's make the most of our time at Harvard!"
• Essay Prompt: What motivates you?
  Essay: "My grandmother came to the United States as an immigrant and worked tirelessly to provide for her family. Her resilience and determination inspire me to work hard and never give up. I want to honor her legacy by making a difference in the world and helping others."

In conclusion, Harvard University is a highly selective institution that values academic excellence, diversity, and inclusivity. If you are considering applying to the school, use this guide to familiarize yourself with the admissions requirements, popular majors, demographics, financial aid, and essay examples that have helped students get admitted. Good luck!