What does it take to get into Harvard?

In this week’s newsletter, we’ll discuss what it takes to get into Harvard. We’ll also learn more about what you’re interested in, share some helpful resources for grad students (and prospective grad students), and give a few updates we spotted at The Harvard Crimson.

This Week’s Resources

Interested in recent admissions, rejections, and waitlists from Harvard? Here are the most recent Grad School Admission Results at The Grad Cafe.

Still waiting to hear back from your preferred program? Take this Intro to Artificial Intelligence course (with Python) course. It’s taught by Harvard’s David J. Malan and Brian Yu.

Prepping for the GMAT? Check out Magoosh. They guarantee a score-improvement guarantee of up to 70 points. Read more about it here.

How is Harvard’s Application Process Different?

Our recent article on Harvard’s GPA requirements mentioned the school’s official application, supplemental questions, a mid-year school report (with a GPA), two teacher evaluations, and any other supplemental materials you want to submit.

But Harvard doesn’t require standardized test results. Their admission page says it won’t hurt your application if you don't submit them.

In reality, you’ll need to impress a committee of 40 people. 

Each has one vote. 

And they consider far more than academic performance.

In addition to extracurricular activities and athletics, Harvard also considers life experiences and leadership. 

Check out our full guide on how to get into Harvard.

What about Harvard Medical School?

It’s not easy to gain entry into a medical school with this sort of prestige. Students work incredibly hard to make their applications stand out.

And, as with the undergraduate program, Harvard Medical School doesn’t set a minimum undergrad grade point average (GPA) for admissions officers to look at.

But as a point of reference, the average GPA for the most recent class was 3.9.

Around 74% of accepted students were science majors.

In terms of the required prerequisites, applicants must have taken at least one year of biology (with lab experience), two years of chemistry or biochemistry, one year of physics, and one year of writing.

You cannot use AP credits to meet these requirements, and math and behavioral science classes are encouraged for some pathways.

Read our full guide on getting into Harvard Medical School.

Keep the Conversation Going

Wherever you are in the process, you can talk to other grad students (and prospective grad students) from around the world at The Grad Cafe’s forums. 

What’s Happening at Harvard?

We’ve talked a lot about Harvard. So we wanted to share a little more about what’s happening today. Here’s a news roundup with coverage from The Harvard Crimson.

Harvard announced its Spring 2024 Cohort of Executive Fellows. There’s also a new interim provost. A final club moved to a residential neighborhood, and a senior fellow faces ethics complaints.

Thanks for reading!