How to Get Into Harvard University From India

Why Study at Harvard as an Indian Student?

• Reputation for academic excellence and research
• Access to world-class faculty and global alumni networks
• Scholarships and financial aid for international students
• Diverse and inclusive student environment
• Higher employability and global recognition

Top Undergraduate Programs at Harvard University

• Computer Science
• Economics
• Political Science
• Biological Sciences
• Engineering and Applied Science

Top Postgraduate Programs at Harvard University

• MBA (Harvard Business School)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Master in Law (LLM)
• Master of Education (Ed.M.)
• MS in Data Science

Harvard University Courses & Fees 2025

 

PG Programs	Academic Qualifications	English Proficiency Requirements	Documents Required
MBA	Bachelor's + GMAT/GRE	IELTS/TOEFL (7.5/100+)	SOP, LORs, Resume
MS in CS	Bachelor's in STEM	IELTS/TOEFL	GRE, SOP, LORs
LLM	LLB or Equivalent	IELTS/TOEFL	Resume, Essays
MPH	Medical/Science UG	TOEFL/IELTS	LORs, SOP, CV
M.Ed.	Bachelor’s in Education	IELTS/TOEFL	Statement of Purpose

Harvard Bachelor’s Programs and Requirements

UG Programs	Academic Qualifications	English Proficiency Requirements	Documents Required
BSc, BA	10+2 with High GPA	IELTS 7.0+/TOEFL 100+	Transcripts, SOP, LORs
Engineering	PCM in Class 12	TOEFL/IELTS	Academic Scores, Resume
Economics	10+2 with Math	IELTS/TOEFL	School Reports, Essays

Preparation Tips for Indian Students to Get into Harvard University

Preparation Tips	Details
Academic Excellence	Maintain high GPA & board exam scores
Test Scores	Prepare early for SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT
Essays	Write impactful, personal statements
Extracurriculars	Show leadership and initiative
Research Faculty	Align interests with department goals

How Much Does It Cost to Study at Harvard?

Expense	Avg. Annual Costs (in USD)
Tuition Fees	$50,000 – $70,000
Accommodation	$10,000 – $15,000
Living Expenses	$8,000 – $12,000
Health Insurance	$4,000 – $5,000

What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

• Strong academic background with high GPA
• SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE/GMAT for postgrad
• TOEFL/IELTS for English proficiency
• Extracurricular achievements and leadership skills
• Clear, concise Statement of Purpose and Letters of Recommendation

What Are the Available Harvard Scholarships for Indian Students?

Scholarship Names	Description
Harvard Financial Aid Initiative	Need-based aid covering up to 100%
Tata Scholarship	Full tuition for Indian students
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation	Covers tuition and living expenses
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship	Partial to full funding
Harvard Kennedy School Fellowships	For public service programs

Which Extracurricular Activities Are Preferred by Harvard University?

 

Category	Examples
Leadership	School Captain, MUN Leader
Innovation	Science Projects, Coding Competitions
Social Work	NGOs, Community Work
Arts & Sports	Music, Theatre, Athletics
Writing	Publications, Blogging, Journalism

How to Get Admission in Harvard University from India?

• Research your course and department
• Build a compelling profile (academics + ECAs)
• Prepare and take standardized tests
• Draft SOPs and gather recommendation letters
• Apply through Harvard's official portal
• Track application deadlines

Harvard University Admissions 2025

Admission Process at Harvard for Indian Students

• Choose your program and check deadlines
• Submit online application
• Upload academic transcripts, SOP, and LORs
• Take interviews (if shortlisted)
• Await decision and apply for visa

Admission Requirements for Harvard University

• High school or UG academic excellence
• TOEFL/IELTS, SAT/GRE/GMAT (as per course)
• SOP, LORs, Resume/CV
• Extracurricular involvement
• Application fee or waiver

Harvard University Application Tips

• Start preparation early
• Be authentic in your essays
• Highlight unique Indian experiences
• Connect with current Indian students or alumni
• Seek feedback on SOPs and resume

How to Write a Letter to Enlist Financial Aid Requirements from Harvard University

Step-by-Step:

1. Start with a formal salutation
2. Mention the program and your interest
3. State your financial situation clearly
4. Explain why you're a deserving candidate
5. Attach relevant financial documents
6. Thank them for the opportunity

Example Letter Excerpt:

Dear Admissions Officer,
I am writing to respectfully request consideration for financial aid for the MBA program at Harvard Business School...
[Continue with explanation, family income, academic excellence, and aspirations.]

Careers After Studying from Harvard University for Indian Students

Jobs	Avg. Annual Income (USD)
Investment Banker	$120,000 – $150,000
Data Scientist	$110,000 – $140,000
Consultant	$100,000 – $130,000
Lawyer	$90,000 – $120,000
Academic/Researcher	$70,000 – $100,000

FAQs

What is the SAT score required to get into Harvard from India?

A score above 1500 is typically competitive.

Is work experience required for Harvard MBA?

Yes, 2–5 years of work experience is preferred.

Can Indian students get full scholarships at Harvard?

Yes, through need-based aid and Tata scholarships.

How many Indian students get into Harvard annually?

Around 100–150 Indian students across all programs.

Is NEET required for Harvard MBBS?

Harvard doesn't offer MBBS; instead, apply for MD via MCAT.