09 Oct
Harvard University has long been recognized as a beacon of academic excellence and a preferred destination for students worldwide, particularly for those aspiring to build a successful future. Renowned for its rigorous educational standards and exceptional faculty, Harvard empowers students to shape their careers and realize their dreams. For many Indian students, attending Harvard is more than just an academic achievement; it’s a gateway to achieving the American dream. With a diverse range of programs and unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth, Harvard University stands out as an institution that transforms aspirations into reality, making it an ideal choice for those looking to excel in their chosen fields.
Why Study at Harvard University?
Harvard University, established in 1636, is the oldest higher education institution in the United States and one of the most prestigious in the world. It’s part of the Ivy League, recognized globally for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and a vast network of accomplished alumni. Students from around the world aspire to join Harvard due to its outstanding faculty, state-of-the-art resources, and unmatched opportunities in various fields of study. Whether it’s for its historic reputation, world-class research facilities, or its impact on global education, studying at Harvard is a dream for many.
Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. Nelson Mandela
Location
Harvard is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston, one of the most dynamic educational and cultural hubs in the U.S. Its close proximity to Boston allows students to benefit from a rich array of resources, networking opportunities, internships, and extracurricular activities. Cambridge itself offers a vibrant, diverse community where students can thrive academically and socially.
Campus Size and Student Population
Harvard’s campus covers more than 5,000 acres, including the main campus in Cambridge and the surrounding academic, residential, and athletic facilities. Harvard houses over 23,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools, with a thriving community of international students. Approximately 25% of the student body are international students, representing more than 150 countries.
Courses Available at Harvard University
Harvard University is renowned for its diverse and expansive academic offerings at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. With over 3,700 courses available, students have the flexibility to explore various fields and disciplines, fostering a well-rounded academic experience. The university’s curriculum spans a wide array of subjects, including the humanities, sciences, arts, social sciences, business, law, and medicine, allowing students to dive deep into their chosen area of study or venture into interdisciplinary learning.
Some of the most prestigious and sought-after programs at Harvard include
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE): A multidisciplinary approach that examines the intersections of philosophical reasoning, political analysis, and economic principles.
Law: Harvard Law School is globally recognized as one of the top law schools, shaping future leaders in legal studies and practice.
Medicine: Harvard Medical School consistently ranks among the top institutions for medical education, research, and clinical training.
Engineering: The Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers cutting-edge research and training in areas like bioengineering, computer science, and materials science.
Business (MBA): Harvard Business School is world-famous for its MBA program, equipping students with leadership skills and global business insights.
Computer Science: With a strong focus on innovation and research, Harvard’s computer science program is a leading choice for students interested in technology, AI, and data science.
Public Health: The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health focuses on improving global health through research, education, and policy.
Political Science and International Relations: The Kennedy School of Government offers programs that prepare students for leadership in public service and international diplomacy.
This diverse academic portfolio allows students to customize their educational journey based on their unique career aspirations and intellectual interests. Harvard’s emphasis on interdisciplinary study enables students to combine different fields and explore new ideas, setting them on a path to becoming leaders and innovators in their chosen professions.
Admission Intakes and Requirements at Harvard
The University of Oxford operates on a well-structured and specific admissions timeline. For most undergraduate courses, the academic year typically begins in October, and students are expected to apply nearly a year in advance. The deadline for undergraduate applications is usually in mid-October of the previous year through the UCAS system. It’s important for students to be well-prepared and meet this early deadline to ensure their applications are considered.
For postgraduate programs, Oxford offers a bit more flexibility in terms of start dates, though many courses also commence in October. Depending on the program, some may have different intake periods, such as January or April. However, prospective postgraduate students should still apply well in advance as deadlines for specific programs can vary, and many courses have limited places. In addition, applying early also increases the chances of securing scholarships or financial aid.
Since the admissions process is highly competitive, students are encouraged to start preparing their applications months ahead, including gathering reference letters, crafting a strong personal statement, and, where applicable, preparing for any required entrance exams.
| Program Type | Entry Requirement | Required Exams | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | General Requirements | SAT or ACT | Scores must be submitted by the application deadline. |
| Postgraduate | General Requirements | GRE | Typically required; verify with individual departments. |
| Postgraduate | MBA Program | GMAT or GRE | Preferred exam scores; check specific program requirements. |
| Postgraduate | Law Program | LSAT | Required for JD program applicants. |
| Postgraduate | Medicine Program | MCAT | Required for MD program applicants. |
| Postgraduate | Public Health Program | GRE (optional) | Check program-specific requirements. |
| Postgraduate | Engineering Program | GRE | Typically required; verify with individual departments. |
| International Students | General Requirements | TOEFL or IELTS | Required for non-native English speakers. |
University of Oxford Admission Intakes
| Program Type | Admission Cycle | Application Deadline | Notification Date | Response Deadline / Program Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Early Action | November 1 | Mid-December | May 1 |
| Undergraduate | Regular Decision | January 1 | End of March | May 1 |
| Postgraduate (MBA) | Round 1 | September | December | September |
| Postgraduate (MBA) | Round 2 | January | March | September |
| Postgraduate (Law) | JD | February 1 | April | September |
| Postgraduate (Medicine) | MD | October 15 | March | August |
Advanced Exams for Harvard Courses
| Course | Required Entrance Exam |
|---|---|
| Philosophy, Politics & Economics (PPE) | TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment) |
| Medicine | BMAT (Biomedical Admissions Test) |
| Mathematics | MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test) |
| Law | LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) |
| Postgraduate (Some Programs) | GRE or GMAT (varies by program) |
Scholarships for Indian and International Students at Harvard
Harvard is committed to making education accessible to students from all financial backgrounds. The university offers need-blind admissions for undergraduate students, meaning that your financial situation does not affect your admission chances.
Harvard encourages students to explore a variety of funding opportunities. Keep in mind that deadlines for scholarship applications are often earlier than admission deadlines.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Official Website |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard University Scholarships | Based on financial need; for both domestic and international students | Visit |
| Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships | Indian students pursuing master’s programs | Visit |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Indian students applying to top international institutions | Visit |
| Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program | For students from developing countries, including India | Visit |
Best Time to Start Harvard University Applications
The best time to start your Harvard application is at least 12-18 months before your intended enrollment date. Early preparation allows you to craft a compelling application, gather recommendation letters, and ace the required entrance exams. If you’re aiming for financial aid or scholarships, you should start even earlier to ensure you meet all deadlines.
For undergraduate programs, early action applications are due by November 1, while regular decision deadlines are typically on January 1. Postgraduate programs have variable deadlines, so it’s important to check your specific program well in advance.
So, Whats Next?
Applying to Harvard is a journey that demands dedication, but with the right guidance, it’s entirely achievable. We are here to help with everything from application strategies to interview preparation and even scholarship assistance. Let us make your dream of studying at Harvard University a reality! Whether you’re applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs, our experts are ready to assist you every step of the way.
Reach out today and start your path toward one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
