How to Get Into Harvard: Tips for High School Students Applying to Harvard University
Harvard University is one of the most elite and prestigious universities in the world, known for its academic excellence and history as the oldest higher education institution in the U.S. Because of the school’s impressive reputation, many high school students wonder how they can gain acceptance to Harvard.
So how do you get into Harvard? The truth is… there isn’t any guarantee when it comes to gaining admission to Harvard University. In fact, Harvard has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the world. That being said, there are tips and strategies that may help students stand out in college admissions.
In this blog post, we are sharing some strategies that may help increase your chances of getting into Harvard.
How difficult is it to get into Harvard?
According to the school’s admissions website, “Harvard welcomes students from across the country and all over the world, with diverse backgrounds and far-ranging talents and interests.” But that certainly doesn’t mean it’s easy to get into Harvard.
Getting into Harvard is no small feat.
61,221 students applied to join the Harvard Class of 2026–and only 1,984 received a highly coveted spot (along with 36 students who were admitted off the waitlist). To put that in perspective, Harvard receives more applications each year than the entire population of many small towns.
These admissions statistics are typical for the university, with an average of 3-4% of students gaining admission each year.
However, it's important to note that while Harvard is extremely selective, it's not impossible to get in. Every year, thousands of students are accepted into Harvard, and if you have the right qualifications and a strong application, you could be one of them.
What do you need to get into Harvard?
To get into to Harvard, you will need to have a strong academic record, impressive extracurricular activities, and a compelling personal story. Here are some of the things that Harvard looks for in its applicants:
High GPA
Harvard students typically have very strong high school GPAs, meaning that the average student gaining admission had a 4.0 high school GPA. A 4.0 indicates that a student received primarily – if not exclusively – A’s in high school (or 7s if you’re an IB student with a minimum score of a 42).
Challenging Course Load
It’s not enough to just have a high GPA – you will also need to have taken a rigorous course load in order to get into Harvard. This means that you will want to have taken honors or AP courses across subjects – English, history, math, science, and foreign language.
Strong Extracurriculars
Extracurricular activities are actually a very important part of getting into Harvard. Admissions officers are looking for students who thrive both in and out of the classroom. In other words, they are looking for students who have interesting passions and are leaders in their community. Extracurricular activities can consist of community service, athletics, music, theater, or any other passions and commitments that students pursue outside of school. High school students who get into Harvard tend to have leadership positions when applicable.
Our team at Inspirit AI has helped guide numerous high school students to complete AI projects that they have showcased as extracurriculars on their college applications to Harvard. We have even had many students gain admission! You can learn more about our programs here.
Essays
Writing a high quality college essay is essential to standing out in the admissions process. Harvard admissions officers receive thousands of applications, so how can you write an essay that really captures their attention?
Harvard uses the Common Application, an undergraduate admissions application that the majority of colleges use, so you will want to make sure that your Common Application is strong. Harvard also asks students to complete additional supplemental essays that hold equal importance, so make sure you spend time thoughtfully completing the additional writing sections as well.
Successful applicants write essays that are authentic, well-written, and engaging. Make sure your essay reflects who YOU are.
Recommendation Letters
Recommendation letters are letters or testimonials, written by your teachers, that give the university more insight into your strengths, personality, and achievements. It is important to make sure that you ask teachers with whom you have built a strong relationship to write your recommendation letters.
Standardized Test Scores (optional)
Colleges are seemingly putting less emphasis on standardized test scores. In fact, some universities, like Harvard, have gone test-optional. If you are a strong test-taker, submitting your standardized test scores – like your SAT or ACT score – can help you gain admission. High school students who gain admission to Harvard have among the highest test scores in the U.S., typically in the top 1-3%. A score in the 99th percentile is ideal for students looking to get into Harvard.
How can you increase your chances of getting into Harvard?
As we mentioned earlier, there is no secret formula for getting into Harvard, but there are ways you can increase your chances.
Apply Early
If you are positive that you want to get into Harvard, take advantage of applying Early Action. You have a higher chance of getting into Harvard if you apply early – in fact, your chances are a couple percentage points higher. Every point adds up when the competition is fierce!
Plus, by applying early, you are showing admissions officers that Harvard is your top choice. They are looking to accept students who show interest, commitment, and enthusiasm to attend.
Take Challenging Classes and Receive High Grades
A combination of challenging classes and high grades will help increase your chances of getting into Harvard. Take honors classes when you can, and attempt to receive all A’s (or equivalent). Doing so won’t guarantee your acceptance, but it is necessary to be considered for admission.
Develop Meaningful Relationships with Your Teachers
Your teachers can write powerful letters of recommendation that can help your application stand out. Build strong relationships with your teachers by participating in class and seeking help when you need it.
Build a Strong Application
Put your best foot forward on your application by writing high-quality essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and submitting high SAT or ACT test scores. Even though standardized test scores are optional, submitting high scores can demonstrate your commitment to learning and academic excellence.
Show a Demonstrated Interest in the University
While this won’t guarantee your admission, Harvard does want to see that you're genuinely interested in attending their university. Attend information sessions, visit the campus, and connect with current students or alumni.
Final thoughts on how to get into Harvard
Getting into Harvard is a challenging and competitive process, but it's not impossible. If you have a strong academic record, impressive extracurricular activities, and a compelling personal story, you may have what it takes to get into Harvard. Remember to take challenging courses, get involved in extracurricular activities, build strong relationships with your teachers, show demonstrated interest, and craft a compelling application.
It's also important to keep in mind that there are many other great universities out there. While Harvard is undoubtedly a great school, it's not the only path to success. Don't let the pressure to get into a particular school overshadow your true interests and passions.
If you're not accepted into Harvard, don't be discouraged. There are many other excellent universities that can provide you with a top-notch education and a path to success. Keep working hard, pursuing your passions, and making a positive impact in your community, and you'll be sure to achieve great things, no matter where you end up going to school.
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
