Harvard University

№4 in the world
QS World University Rankings
№1 in the world
Times Higher Education (THE)
№1 in the world
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU)
USA, Massachusetts, Cambridge
For many applicants, the word Harvard is practically synonymous with "impossible." In fact, getting into Harvard University is possible; this school annually opens its doors to talented and motivated students from all over the world. Yes, an invitation from Harvard is the result of a well-thought-out strategy: a strong academic foundation, a compelling essay, a well-compiled application package, and an understanding of how the Harvard admissions system works. When our experts are asked, "Is it possible to get into Harvard?" they honestly answer, "Yes, it is!" It's difficult, and the competition is fierce, but for candidates with a strong profile and competent support, this goal is achievable, and admission is possible with a partial or full scholarship.

About the university

Princeton University was founded in 1746 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. Located in Princeton, New Jersey, it is a member of the Ivy League, which unites elite educational institutions. The university provides funding for undergraduate and doctoral studies, and some master’s programs are completely free.

Degree of studyBachelor's, Master's, Doctoral studies
Percentage of students accepted6%
Probability of employment after trainingabout 84% of graduates find employment or continue their education within six months of graduation
Scholarshipsa wide range of financial assistance for foreigners
Directionsa multidisciplinary university with a wide range of programs
Typeprivate university
Student body sizeabout 9,000 students
% of international students12%
Student townThe location in the small American town of Princeton Limits cultural and entertainment opportunities compared to large cities, but the town's infrastructure is well developed and represents a whole student "city"

Harvard University as a symbol of academic excellence

Harvard University is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world. Founded in 1636, it is a member of the Ivy League, a group of the highest-ranked US universities. Its campus is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Harvard’s alumni are renowned worldwide. U.S. presidents, founders of major companies and corporations, Nobel laureates, leaders of international organizations, and Supreme Court justices have studied here.

Here are a few more reasons why a Harvard degree is considered the benchmark:

  • Academic strength. Programs are constantly updated, and students work with the latest and most current research.
  • Research facilities. Laboratories, public policy centers, and business incubators set trends in science, economics, and education.
  • Global alumni network. Harvard University alumni create a powerful community around the world, providing valuable contacts, internships, and career opportunities.

Attending Harvard University means gaining access to the best resources and radically changing the trajectory of your life.



Degree of studyBachelor's, Master's, Doctoral studies
Percentage of accepted students3-4%
Probability of employment after trainingApproximately 90–95% of graduates find employment or continue their education within 6 months
ScholarshipsOne of the most generous financial aid systems in the world, including full coverage for low-income students
DirectionsA multidisciplinary university with strong programs in law, business, medicine, engineering, social sciences and humanities
TypePrivate research university
Student body sizeMore than 25,000 students
% of international students25%
Campus A large campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Boston with libraries, laboratories, museums, and residence halls

Available programs

Bachelor's degreeMaster's degreeDoctoral studies

Специальности

How to Apply to Harvard University

The question “How to get into Harvard” seems overwhelming until you break it down. The step-by-step admissions process looks like this:

Level selection Плюсик

First, you need to decide on your level of study:

  • Harvard College or undergraduate.
  • Master’s degree (individual schools such as Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, Harvard Kennedy School, Graduate School of Education, and others).
  • PhD programs.
Applicant profile Плюсик

Admission to Harvard requires a high GPA, placements in academic competitions and Olympiads, participation in, and possibly the creation of research projects. Let’s be honest—A’s alone aren’t enough; it’s important to demonstrate who you are, your goals, and your plans for studying at your chosen university.

Standardized tests Плюсик

Undergraduate programs typically require the SAT/ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS. Graduate programs typically require the GMAT, GRE, LSAT, and other tests, depending on the program.

Essays and personal branding Плюсик

The admissions committee needs to understand who you are as a person: what you believe in, what problems you want to solve, and what you’re already doing to achieve them. A motivational essay is a story about you. The answer to the question “How to get into Harvard University” depends 50% on how you tell your story.

Package of documents Плюсик

In addition to the essay, you will need a resume, a portfolio (not for all programs), and letters of recommendation from people who actually know you: teachers, academic supervisors, and employers.

Submitting an application Плюсик

Applications must be submitted through the Harvard Admissions Portal. Some stages involve an interview with an alumnus or university representative, where the applicant’s motivation, maturity, and potential are assessed.

Harvard Admissions Tests and Requirements

Academic requirementsFor undergraduate studies at Harvard College, the following are traditionally considered: GPA (grade point average) from your high school diploma or transcript; SAT or ACT (general academic test). For graduate and professional schools: GRE (for master's and PhD programs); GMAT (for some Harvard Business School programs); LSAT (for Harvard Law School).
Language testsTOEFL/IELTS for international students.
RecommendationsLetters of recommendation that highlight your success, dedication, and leadership qualities.
Motivational essayThe main document that reveals your personal history, demonstrates your goals and ambitions.
Portfolio (for creative and engineering majors)Demonstrates your real achievements, experience and developments.

It’s impossible to say for sure whether Harvard has a passing score, as there’s no universal “minimum.” However, the average scores of admitted students are usually in the top 5-10% of all applicants. This means you should aim for very high scores.

How to get into Harvard on a budget or with a scholarship

The logical next question is: “Can I get into Harvard on a budget?” There’s no traditional “budget” system, like in some countries. However, there is a need-based financial aid system, through which the university can cover up to 100% of tuition and living expenses.

 

Important! Aid is calculated individually, taking into account family income, number of children, country of residence, and other factors.

 

This means that a student with a strong academic profile and a strong application can enroll at Harvard and pay significantly less tuition or even study for free.

 

We help our students:

 

  • Complete the financial sections of the application;
  • Collect documents confirming family income;
  • Correctly formulate your expectations in your motivation letter.

 

There are cases where students from families with typical incomes received 80% to 100% of their funding at Harvard.

Possible additional costs:accommodation, textbooks, insurance, transportation
Financing options:scholarships, grants, loans, on-campus work, and teaching assistantships

Tuition at Harvard

How much does it cost to study at Harvard? Officially, the annual undergraduate tuition at Harvard ranges from $55,000 to $65,000. Additional expenses include:

 

  • Room and board ($18,000 to $20,000 per year);
  • Health insurance, textbooks, and personal expenses (several thousand more).

 

In total, the cost of studying at Harvard without financial aid can reach $75,000 to $80,000 per year. This is a significant sum, and for this reason, we often receive inquiries about admission to Harvard on a scholarship or, as we’ve already discussed, on a scholarship.

Faculties and specialties

Harvard is a network of faculties and schools. The university offers over 140 programs of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs.

 

Popular Harvard University faculties:

Harvard College (undergraduate) Плюсик

Economics, biology, computer science, history, psychology, international relations and others.

Graduate School of Education Плюсик

Prepares researchers and managers in the field of education.

Harvard Business School (HBS) Плюсик

One of the most prestigious business schools in the world, it trains future entrepreneurs and leaders of major corporations.

Harvard Law School (HLS) Плюсик

Graduates serve as U.S. Supreme Court justices and attorney generals around the world.

Harvard Medical School (HMS) Плюсик

A flagship in medical research, biotechnology and public health.

Kennedy School of Government Плюсик

Future ministers, diplomats and UN experts are trained here.

Master's degree at Harvard University

Studying at Harvard for a master’s degree is a dream for many. Programs are designed for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and want to advance in academia, business, science, or public administration.

 

Harvard Master’s Program Features:

 

  • Study lasts from 1 to 2 years.
  • Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, transcript, essay, letters of recommendation, and TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, and GMAT test scores.
  • Demonstrated research potential (through projects, publications, and startups) is mandatory.
  • Competition is extremely high, but admission to Harvard is achievable: the key is to demonstrate how you can enrich the academic community.

 

Popular master’s programs:

 

  • Master in Public Policy (Harvard Kennedy School) — governance and international relations;
  • Master of Laws (LL.M.) — jurisprudence and international law;
  • MBA (Harvard Business School) — leadership, economics, innovation;
  • Master in Education — pedagogy and educational project management;
  • Master in Data Science — technology, analysis, and machine learning.

 

Harvard’s master’s degree is valued not only for its high-quality education but also for its social mobility. Graduates gain access to a global alumni network and career opportunities at world-class corporations such as Google, Goldman Sachs, and the UN.

 

Distance learning at Harvard

You can study at Harvard without leaving your home country. Harvard Extension School, an official division of the university, offers distance learning.

 

Harvard Extension School programs include:

 

  • courses in the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences;
  • professional certificates (e.g., Data Analytics, Business Strategy, Digital Media);
  • the opportunity to advance to a Master’s degree after successfully completing several courses.

 

This opportunity is suitable for students who want to experience a Harvard education in practice, improve their English, and strengthen their portfolio for application to the main program.

 

Student life at Harvard and Cambridge (USA)

Cambridge is a small town with a lot of energy. The spirit of scholarship is literally in the air: on Harvard’s campus, you’ll find students from all over the world, and MIT is just down the street.

 

What makes student life unique here:

 

  • A vibrant campus. 12 dorms, sports clubs, theaters, concerts, and debates.
  • Research and internships. Students participate in research and complete internships in the United States and other countries.
  • International community. The university welcomes students from all over the world. Individuality and multiculturalism are valued here.
  • Career opportunities. From their second year, students have access to internships at major corporations such as Google, Morgan Stanley, The New York Times, and UNICEF.

 

Studying at Harvard University is a place where students learn to think big and have the opportunity to choose their future.

 

How we help you get into Harvard

The path to Harvard University requires strategy, self-confidence, and expert guidance. We’ll help you navigate this path without making mistakes:

Analysis of chances and selection of a program

We analyze the academic profile, select the optimal program, and help identify target faculties and scholarships.

Preparing for exams

We provide consultations on exams (SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT) and create an individual preparation schedule.

Preparation of documents

We will put together a complete application package, including essay writing and editing, preparation of letters of recommendation, resume writing, and portfolio packaging.

Creating a personal brand

We’ll create a strong personal brand to make your application stand out from the crowd.

Submitting an application

We’ll help you apply for Harvard Financial Aid and assemble your visa application.

Our services

MentoringA personal mentor at every stage of preparation. A clear plan, oversight of every step, and predictable results.
Full supportA turnkey international application process: a customized strategy, document preparation, and visa support—all in one service, guaranteeing you admission to a university abroad.
Personal brand in a yearIn 12 months, we'll build your strong personal brand for international study: we'll formulate a strategy, select activities, and identify achievements that will increase your chances of admission and scholarship awards.
Selection of activities for Personal brandA personal brand is the foundation for applying for a scholarship. Get a list of activities that will enhance your profile and distinguish you from other applicants.
Universal supportAccelerated preparation for admission: save money and time without compromising results.
Consultation with an expertAn in-depth 60-minute consultation: we'll discuss your admissions chances, financing options, develop a personalized strategy, and answer all your questions.
Consultation with a career guidance specialistWe'll help you identify your strengths and inclinations, choose the right field of study, and build a successful career.
Getting a student visa from the USAWe'll help you obtain a student visa without stress or errors, and we'll also assist you if your application is rejected.
Selection of universities and scholarshipsWe'll create a list of universities and programs that are right for you—with a realistic chance of admission and scholarships.
Admission to Foundation Programme AbroadWe'll help you enroll in the Foundation Program, a program that allows you to transfer to a bachelor's degree abroad without losing a year. We'll select suitable options, prepare your documents, and develop a strategy.
Preparation of documentationStrong documents make a strong candidate. We'll help you prepare your application package based on both formal and informal university requirements.

Admission Stories

She enrolled in Fashion PR programs at five US universities
Anastasia

She enrolled in Fashion PR programs at five US universities

Admitted to three US universities with a $45,000 scholarship
Diera

She was admitted to three American universities at once: Augustana College, Widener University, and the University of South Dakota. She chose Augustana College, where she received a scholarship of $45,000 per year.

He was accepted to NYU Abu Dhabi with a $217,000 scholarship
Ruslan

Got accepted to NYU Abu Dhabi on the first try (acceptance rate 4%) with a scholarship of $217,000. Also received offers from Lynn and Drexel University.

Admitted to a master's program in the USA with an $80,000 scholarship
Egor

He entered a master’s program in the USA at two universities at once – Brandeis University and Washington University in St. Louis, receiving scholarships totaling $80,000. He chose Brandeis University and went to study on the first try.

Received a PhD from Columbia University with full funding
Zhanna

I was accepted to the PhD program at Columbia University on my first try, having strengthened my profile and compiled my achievements into a strong application.

Поступила на graphic design во Францию, Италию и Венгрию, в одном из вузов получила 100% финансирование.
Camilla

She enrolled in graphic design at universities in France, Italy and Hungary. She received scholarships at all of them and chose the university with the maximum funding — $135,000 for the entire period of study.

Admitted to Siena Heights University with a 100% scholarship
Leila

She entered graduate school at Kent State University and Ohio University. At Ohio University, she won a Graduate Teaching Assistantship with full funding of $37,774, covering tuition, insurance, and living expenses.

He attended Siena Heights University with a $170,000 scholarship
Leonid

He entered Siena Heights University (USA) for the Theater and Music program with a full scholarship of $170,000. Preparation took less than a year.

Student Reviews

DiоraСША

«I didn’t know what I wanted to study for, and I was given an appointment with a career guidance counselor. We chose medicine, which I am very happy about»

Video review of Diora
AnastasiaUSA

«If you are in doubt about where to go, worried that it won’t work out, then what are you waiting for? Come for a consultation with an expert»

Video review by Anastasia
АнастасияUSA

«Try, work and trust! Don’t be afraid to trust, I trusted the SelfStartGlobal team and haven’t regretted it for a minute»

Video review by Anastasia
EgorUSA

«There are many companies on the market that help with studying abroad, but no one does it as comprehensively as SelfStart»

Review by Egor
ЛеонидUSA

«I was looking for information on how to apply to a university and came across many webinars. One of them was hosted by Radmila»

Video review by Leonid
LeilaUSA

«The main thing is the match with the university. I didn’t look at rankings, but at how well the university fit my profile and goals»

Review by Leila
KseniaGermany

«Now a new best life is beginning, full of victories and adventures. This is absolute happiness, and I wish it to everyone»

Video review from Ksenia
KseniaUSA

«I am currently in 11th grade at a school in Kyiv, but I have already been admitted to a U.S. bachelor’s program and received a 100% scholarship»

Feedback from Ksenia
ElinaUSA

«I liked that the company focuses on developing a personal brand, as this is important for admission to the USA»

Elina's video review
ИгорьEurope

«With SelfStartGlobal support, you will always know: what to do, why to do it and when to do it. This saves a lot of time»

Video review by Igor
Сабрина Германия

«We started preparing a year in advance, and this was not enough. To have a good profile, you need to spend several years being active»

Sabrina's video review
СофьяСША

«I liked that we had constant contact with Ksenia (curator). I needed clear deadlines - I myself would start to grab onto everything at once»

Video review from Sofia
Алина США

«It took me a while to realize I'd been accepted. It was an unforgettable experience, one I wish everyone who dreams of studying abroad could experience»

Alina's video review
ЛазизбекСША

«Don't waste your time choosing an admissions company; I've done it for you. Just contact SelfStartGlobal – they'll help you»

Video review by Lazizbek
НатальяСША

«At first, the university refused me a scholarship, but my supervisor helped me write a letter, after which I received a 100% scholarship»

Video review by Natalia
ЛилияИталия

«Among all the companies in the admissions market, SelfStartGlobal places an emphasis on distinguishing students from other candidates»

Video review by Lilia
РусланОАЭ

«When I started, I knew absolutely nothing about applying abroad: no deadlines, no documents, nothing!»

Video review by Ruslan
Камола США

«There were many questions during the process, but they helped me in everything, supported me and convinced me that I was on the right path. I think this is the most important thing»

Video review from Kamola

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