What are the acceptance rate and average grades for international students at Harvard University?

Hello dear Lakshmi Narayan,

I wish that you pursue your further studies at Harvard University god bless you and best of luck for your future, Harvard University is one of the most prestigious and selective institutions in the world, with an extremely competitive admission process. Here’s a summary of the acceptance rate and average grades for international students at Harvard:

Acceptance Rate

General Acceptance Rate Harvard's overall acceptance rate is approximately 3.4% for undergraduate admissions (as of recent years). This rate fluctuates slightly, but it remains one of the lowest in the world.

International Student Acceptance Rate The acceptance rate for international students is slightly lower, as Harvard has a limited number of spots for non-US applicants. While exact numbers aren't published separately, the rate is estimated to be under 5%.

Average Grades (Academic Performance)

High School GPA: Harvard generally expects applicants to have an unweighted GPA of 4.0 (on a scale of 4.0), meaning nearly perfect grades across all subjects. 

Standardized Test Scores

SAT: A competitive score would be in the range of 1500–1600 out of 1600.

ACT: A score in the range of 33–35 out of 36 is considered highly competitive.

  Subject Strength : Applicants typically come from academically rigorous high school programs, often with AP, IB, or honors courses.

Other Factors

Holistic Review: Harvard uses a holistic admissions process, meaning they consider more than just grades and test scores. Essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, leadership qualities, and personal achievements all play a significant role in the decision-making process.

International Experience: Harvard values diversity, so international students who bring unique perspectives or experiences (academic, cultural, or otherwise) can be competitive.

Conclusion:

Getting admitted to Harvard is highly challenging, with an acceptance rate below 5% for international students. To be competitive, you would need near-perfect academic grades, strong SAT/ACT scores, and demonstrate exceptional extracurricular achievements and personal qualities.

Hello dear Lakshmi Mam, here is the short answer guys - Harvard University’s acceptance rate for international students is extremely competitive, typically around 5-6%, similar to the overall undergraduate acceptance rate. The university follows a holistic admissions process, meaning it considers more than just grades, including essays, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements.

For Undergraduate Admissions- Grades: Successful applicants generally have near-perfect grades, typically A+ or equivalent in their national grading systems.

Test Scores: SAT scores tend to be in the top percentiles, often above 1400 (out of 1600) or ACT scores above 30.

Extracurriculars: A strong emphasis is placed on leadership, initiative, and meaningful involvement in extracurriculars, volunteering, or unique personal experiences.

For Graduate Admissions- Grades: Most successful applicants have exceptional academic records, typically a GPA of 3.7 or higher on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent in other systems).

- Test Scores: Graduate programs, depending on the department, often require GRE or GMAT scores, though some have waived these in recent years. The required scores are typically competitive (GRE scores above 160 in verbal and quantitative sections).

- Research/Professional Experience: For graduate programs, strong research experience, publications (for research-based programs), or relevant professional experience are important.

Harvard’s admissions process is highly competitive, and they look for applicants who not only excel academically but also demonstrate passion, creativity, and potential to contribute to the campus and global community.