Admissions Overview
The admission process at Harvard University has a 3% acceptance rate. The cost to apply is $85. Harvard University has test optional requirements that focus on each student's unique potential.
Selectivity
3%
Extremely Selective
Application Volume
61,221
Total Applicants
Enrollment Yield
83%
Students who enroll
Admission Requirements
The admission process at Harvard University has a 3% acceptance rate. The cost to apply is $85. Standardized test score requirements may vary. The admissions team at Harvard University evaluates each application holistically to assess student potential.
Testing Policy
Test Optional
Students may apply without submitting standardized test scores
Application Cost
$85
Non-refundable application fee
Complete Application Requirements
Required for Admission
High School Transcript
RequiredPersonal Statement/Essay
RequiredLetters of Recommendation
RequiredOptional (Considered if Submitted)
High School GPA
OptionalStandardized Test Scores
OptionalEnglish Proficiency Test
OptionalHigh School Class Rank
OptionalWork Experience
OptionalLegacy Status
OptionalOther Tests (Wonderlic/WISC)
OptionalNote: Requirements may vary by program or student type. International students may have additional requirements. Contact the admissions office for specific questions about your application.
Test Scores
Test score ranges represent the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students at Harvard University. About 55% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, with total scores typically ranging from 1,490 to 1,580. Additionally, about 28% of admitted students submitted ACT scores, with composite scores typically ranging from 34 to 36.
SAT Scores
55% of students submitted400
1600
1490 – 1580
200
800
730 – 780
200
800
760 – 800
ACT Scores
28% of students submitted1
36
34 – 36
1
36
35 – 36
1
36
32 – 35
Admission Statistics
61,221 students applied to Harvard. Of those, 3% were accepted (1,984 students). Of these 1,984 accepted students, 1,646 chose to enroll.
61,221
Total Applicants
1,984
Students Admitted
1,646
Students Enrolled
3%
Acceptance Rate