How to Get into Harvard University from India

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 Sciences

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.

 

 

Disclaimer: Please note that we are not visa agents or consultants. The information provided is for general guidance only and should not be considered as official visa advice.

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