Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university founded in 1636 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is the oldest university in the United States. It is ranked #5 in QS World University Rankings 2026, #3 among US national universities by US News, and #4 by Collegedunia Study Abroad Rankings 2026. Harvard offers programmes across 12 degree-granting schools, including Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
Harvard University fees for Indian students start at USD 59,320 (~₹55.77 lakh) per year for undergraduate programmes. Total cost of attendance, including housing and meals, is USD 86,926 (~₹81.77 lakh) for 2025-26. Graduate tuition ranges from USD 57,328 to USD 84,760 per year (~₹53.94L to ₹79.74L) depending on the school. Starting 2025-26, Harvard is completely free for students from families earning under $100,000/year and tuition-free for families earning under $200,000/year, including international students from India.
Currency conversion: 1 USD = ₹94.08 | April 23, 2026
Harvard's acceptance rate for Fall 2026 intake (Class of 2030) is estimated at ~3.2 to 3.7%. Harvard withheld official statistics for the second consecutive year. For the Class of 2029, the last officially confirmed rate was 4.18% (2,003 admitted from 47,893 applicants). In Fall 2025, 545 Indian students were enrolled across Harvard's schools. Harvard's international student body represents 147 countries and makes up 27.2% of total enrollment.
The most popular Harvard programmes among Indian students are the MBA ($78,700/year, ~₹74.04L), MS in Data Science ($65,536/year, ~₹61.67L), LLM at Harvard Law School ($80,760/year, ~₹75.99L), and MS in Computational Science and Engineering ($65,536/year, ~₹61.67L). For the Fall 2027 intake, most graduate programme deadlines fall in December 2026, with MBA Round 1 expected in September 2026.
Current Admission Scenario: Fall 2026 (Class of 2030) admissions are closed. Indian students targeting Harvard should now prepare for the Fall 2027 intake. Graduate programme deadlines are expected in December 2026. UG Early Action deadline: November 1, 2026. F-1 visa processing for admitted students is active under the court injunction. See visa status below.
Explore Harvard University student reviews, placements, and campus life
Harvard University - International Student Visa Status (April 2026)
The Trump administration revoked Harvard's SEVP certification in May 2025. A federal preliminary injunction was granted on June 23, 2025, halting enforcement. The US State Department resumed processing Harvard F-1 and J-1 visas at all consulates worldwide. Harvard filed its Response Brief on January 12, 2026. The case remains in active litigation as of April 2026.
Current status: Visa processing is active. Harvard's international enrollment hit a record 6,749 students (27.2% of student body) in Fall 2025. Indian student enrollment was 545 in Fall 2025, down 31% from 788 the previous year.
Read More: Harvard University and the Trump Administration - Full Timeline and Current Status
- Harvard University Courses and Fees 2026
- Harvard University Admission Requirements
- Harvard University MBA
- Harvard University Deadlines for International Students
- Harvard University Cost of Living in Cambridge 2026
- Harvard University Acceptance Rate 2026
- Harvard University Visa Documents Required
- Harvard University Scholarships and Financial Aid 2026
- Harvard University Rankings 2026
- Harvard University Comparisons
- Harvard University Job Outcomes
- Harvard University FAQs
Harvard University Courses and Fees 2026 for Indian Students
Harvard University fees for Indian students depend on the school and programme level.
- Undergraduate tuition is USD 59,320 (~₹55.77L) per year for 2025-26, with a total cost of attendance of USD 86,926 (~₹81.77L).
- For 2026-27, total UG cost of attendance rises to USD 91,634 (~₹86.22L), a 5.4% increase.
- Graduate tuition ranges from USD 57,328 to USD 84,760 per year (~₹53.94L to ₹79.74L).
- The MBA at Harvard Business School costs USD 78,700/year (~₹74.04L).
- UG tuition has risen 21.7% over five years (2022 to 2027), averaging 3.8% annually. MBA tuition has increased 7.1% over four years, an average of 1.8% annually.
Harvard University Top UG Programmes 2026
The table below covers the most-viewed undergraduate programmes among Indian students on Collegedunia. All UG programmes at Harvard College carry the same tuition regardless of major. Fees shown are 2026-27 rates.
| Programme | Annual Fees (USD) | Annual Fees (INR) | Duration | Key Entry Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA Computer Science | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5, SAT 1460+ |
| BS Physics | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | GPA 2.5, TOEFL 100, IELTS 7.5 |
| BS Psychology | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | GPA 2.0, TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5 |
| BS Mechanical Engineering | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5 |
| BS Electrical Engineering | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5 |
| BA Applied Mathematics | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5 |
| BS Bioengineering | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 80 |
| BA Economics | $62,226 | ~₹58.57L | 4 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5 |
Note: The $62,226 figure reflects 2026-27 tuition. For 2025-26, UG tuition was $59,320 (~₹55.77L). Application fee: $85 (~₹7,997).
Harvard University Top PG Programmes 2026
The programmes below are the most searched by Indian students on Collegedunia. Fees shown are for the 2025-26 academic year. Fall 2026 graduate deadlines have passed. Fall 2027 deadlines are expected in December 2026 for most programmes.
| Programme | Annual Fees (USD) | Annual Fees (INR) | Duration | Key Entry Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA | $78,700 | ~₹74.04L | 2 years | GPA 3.73, GMAT 740, TOEFL 109, IELTS 7.5 |
| MS Data Science | $65,536 | ~₹61.67L | 2 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5 |
| LLM | $80,760 | ~₹75.99L | 1 year | GPA 3.73, TOEFL 100, IELTS 6.5 |
| MS Computational Science and Engineering | $65,536 | ~₹61.67L | 1 year | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5 |
| MPP - Master of Public Policy | $64,340 | ~₹60.54L | 2 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 100, IELTS 7.0 |
| MPA - Master of Public Administration | $64,340 | ~₹60.54L | 2 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 100, IELTS 7.0 |
| MD - Doctor of Medicine | $76,828 | ~₹72.30L | 4 years | GPA 3.9, TOEFL 100, IELTS 7.0 |
| MPH - Environmental Health | $74,340 | ~₹69.96L | 2 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 100, IELTS 7.5 |
| MArch - Architecture | $61,510 | ~₹57.89L | 3 years | GPA 3.4, TOEFL 92, IELTS 7.5 |
| MS Biostatistics | $56,016 | ~₹52.72L | 2 years | GPA 3.0, TOEFL 104, IELTS 7.5 |
Note: Graduate tuition at Harvard GSAS is $57,328 for Years 1 and 2, dropping to $14,904 for Years 3 and 4. PhD programmes are fully funded. 100% of admitted PhD students receive tuition coverage plus a living stipend of $35,000 to $45,000/year (~₹32.94L to ₹42.34L).
*To know more about other popular courses at Harvard, click here.
Harvard University Admission Requirements and Eligibility 2026
Applying to Harvard from India is highly competitive. A strong academic profile, standardised test scores, and a well-rounded application are essential. Below is a complete breakdown of eligibility, documents, and test requirements for Indian undergraduate and graduate applicants.
| Admission Parameter | Undergraduate (UG) | Graduate (PG) |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | Completion of Class 12 (CBSE/ICSE/State Board) with strong academic record; rigorous coursework preferred | Four-year bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognised university in a relevant field |
| GPA Requirement | No fixed minimum, but typically 3.7+ (on 4.0 scale) or equivalent | No official minimum; competitive applicants usually have 3.5+ GPA or first-class equivalent |
| Standardised Tests | SAT (recommended 1500+) or ACT (33+) | Varies by programme: GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT as applicable |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL iBT (100+), IELTS (7.5+), or Duolingo (130+) | TOEFL iBT (100+), IELTS (7.5+), or Duolingo (130+); required if prior education not in English |
| Application Platform | Common Application or Coalition Application + Harvard supplements | Programme-specific portals (e.g., apply.hbs.edu for MBA) |
| Application Deadlines (Fall 2027) | Early Action: Nov 1, 2026; Regular Decision: Jan 1, 2027 | Most PG programmes: Dec 1, 2026; MBA Round 1: Sep 2026; Round 2: Jan 2027 |
| Required Documents | Transcripts (Class 9 to 12), recommendations (2 teachers + 1 counsellor), personal essays, extracurricular details | Degree certificates, transcripts, SOP, recommendation letters, resume (MBA) |
| Interview | Optional, alumni-conducted if available | Usually required (especially MBA, PhD) |
| Application Fees | $85 (~₹7,997) | MBA: $250 (~₹23,520); others: $105 (~₹9,879) |
| Financial Aid | Need-blind admission; CSS Profile + HFAA deadline: Feb 14 | Need-based aid available; deadlines vary by programme |
| Visa and I-20 | I-20 Form issued after admission and course registration | Same as UG |
An English proficiency waiver is possible only if the applicant's prior education was entirely in the English medium.
Harvard University MBA 2026
The Harvard MBA at Harvard Business School is a 2-year full-time programme. Annual tuition is USD 78,700 (~₹74.04L). The total 2-year cost for a single student is USD 253,072 (~₹2.38Cr), including housing, food, and course materials.
| Cost Component | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $78,700 | ~₹74.04L |
| Course Materials | $2,800 | ~₹2.63L |
| Health Services + Insurance | $6,108 | ~₹5.75L |
| Housing (9 months) | $18,900 | ~₹17.78L |
| Food (9 months) | $9,100 | ~₹8.56L |
| Transportation + Other | $10,928 | ~₹10.28L |
| Total Annual Cost | $126,536 | ~₹119.07L |
| 2-Year Total | $253,072 | ~₹2.38Cr |
- Average GMAT: 740 | Average GRE: 326
- Work experience required: 2+ years (average class has 5 years)
- Application fee: $250 (~₹23,520)
- Fall 2027 deadlines: Round 1 - September 2026 | Round 2 - January 2027
- Need-based aid: Average scholarship covers ~45% of cost of attendance
- Median base salary (Class of 2025): $184,500 (~₹1.74Cr)
Check full details on fees, placements, and curriculum here: Harvard MBA Page
Harvard University Application Deadlines for International Students
Indian students planning to study at Harvard should keep a close eye on key application deadlines to ensure timely submission, ample time for visa processing, and smooth travel arrangements. Applying at least six months before the intake is highly recommended.
| Admission Type | Application Deadline (Fall 2027) | Notification Date |
|---|---|---|
| Restrictive Early Action | November 1, 2026 | Mid-December 2026 |
| Regular Decision | January 1, 2027 | End of March 2027 |
| Transfer Application | March 1, 2027 | Varies (typically by May 2027) |
| MBA Round 1 | September 2026 | December 2026 |
| MBA Round 2 | January 2027 | March 2027 |
| Most PG Programmes | December 1, 2026 | February to March 2027 |
Important Tips for Indian Applicants
- Begin your application process at least 6 to 8 months before the deadlines.
- Ensure all official transcripts, test scores, and English proficiency results are ready before applying.
- After admission, start your F-1 student visa application immediately to avoid delays.
- Harvard updates deadlines periodically. Check the official Harvard admissions site or this page for the latest dates.
Harvard University Cost of Living in Cambridge 2026
Cambridge, Massachusetts is one of the most expensive cities in the US, 70% above the national average for cost of living. Indian students at Harvard should budget $2,500 to $3,200/month (~₹2.35L to ₹3.01L) beyond tuition. On-campus housing includes meals. The food (self-cook) row below applies to off-campus students only.
| Expense | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| On-campus housing + meals | $2,220 | ~₹2.09L | $26,640 | ~₹25.07L |
| Off-campus shared apartment (rent only) | $1,500 to $1,800 | ~₹1.41L to ₹1.69L | $18,000 to $21,600 | ~₹16.94L to ₹20.33L |
| Food (self-cook, off-campus only) | $560 | ~₹52,685 | $6,720 | ~₹6.32L |
| Books and supplies | $105 | ~₹9,878 | $1,260 | ~₹1.19L |
| Transport (MBTA pass) | $90 | ~₹8,467 | $1,080 | ~₹1.02L |
| Health insurance | $359 | ~₹33,775 | $4,308 | ~₹4.05L |
| Personal/misc | $560 | ~₹52,685 | $6,720 | ~₹6.32L |
| Total (on-campus) | ~$3,334 | ~₹3.14L | ~$40,008 | ~₹37.64L |
| Total (off-campus) | ~$3,174 to $3,474 | ~₹2.99L to ₹3.27L | ~$38,088 to $41,688 | ~₹35.84L to ₹39.23L |
Indian student tip: Finding accommodation in Cambridge is competitive. Students recommend booking on-campus housing for Year 1 and exploring off-campus options from Year 2. Harvard provides free MBTA transit passes to enrolled students, saving ~$1,080/year. On-campus housing is guaranteed for first-year graduate students.
Total Annual Budget for Indian Students (2025-26):
| Programme | Tuition | Living Costs | Total Annual Cost (USD) | Total Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UG 2025-26 (on-campus) | $59,320 | $27,606 | $86,926 | ~₹81.77L |
| UG 2026-27 (on-campus) | $62,226 | $29,408 | $91,634 | ~₹86.22L |
| Masters/GSAS | $57,328 | $35,150 to $36,750 | ~$92,478 to $94,078 | ~₹87.03L to ₹88.54L |
| MBA (single student) | $78,700 | $47,836 | $126,536 | ~₹119.07L |
| PhD | Fully funded | $35,000 to $45,000 stipend | Net cost: $0 | Net cost: ₹0 |
Also Check: Harvard University Fees 2026 - Full Breakdown
Harvard University Acceptance Rate 2026
Harvard's acceptance rate for Fall 2026 intake (Class of 2030) is estimated at ~3.2 to 3.7%. Harvard withheld official admissions statistics for the second consecutive year. The last officially confirmed data is for the Class of 2029: 47,893 applicants, 2,003 admitted, acceptance rate 4.18%. Fewer than 4 in every 100 applicants receive an offer of admission.
International students make up 27.2% of Harvard's student body, representing 147 countries. Indian students are consistently among the top contributors to Harvard's international student population, particularly in graduate programmes such as MBA, Computer Science, Data Science, Law, and Public Policy. In Fall 2025, 545 Indian students were enrolled across Harvard's schools, down 31% from 788 the previous year.
Acceptance Rate Trend (2024 to 2026):
| Intake Year | Class | Applicants | Admitted | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2024 | Class of 2028 | 54,008 | 1,970 | 3.65% |
| Fall 2025 | Class of 2029 | 47,893 | 2,003 | 4.18% |
| Fall 2026 | Class of 2030 | Not disclosed | Not disclosed | ~3.2 to 3.7% (estimated) |
Harvard has withheld official admissions statistics for the Class of 2030 for the second consecutive year. The estimated rate is based on multiple admissions tracking sources. Indian applicants should treat Harvard as a reach school and apply with a strong backup list.
Popular Fields of Study among newly admitted students:
- 37% chose Social Sciences
- 26% opted for Natural Sciences
- 23% enrolled in Engineering
- 12% pursued Humanities
These fields align closely with the interests of Indian applicants, particularly in STEM and business programmes.
Also Check: Harvard University Admission 2026
Harvard University Visa Documents Required
Students who wish to study at Harvard University must submit the mandatory documents listed below for a US Student Visa. Ensure all documents are ready well before the visa appointment date.
- A valid passport with a validity date of at least six months beyond your period of stay
- A printed copy of DS-160, the online application form
- SEVIS Fee Receipt
- Interview appointment letter (original and copy)
- Form I-20 issued by Harvard after admission and course registration
- Visa fee payment confirmation receipt
- Bank statement for at least three years showing sufficient assets to cover the first year of study (can be of parent or guardian)
- Pay/salary slips of sponsor
- Original mark sheets and provisional certificates
- Score sheets of TOEFL or IELTS as English proficiency proof, along with SAT or ACT for UG admissions or GMAT or GRE for PG admissions
- Financial documents to demonstrate ability to support education costs in the USA
Also Check: US Student Visa Requirements
Harvard University Scholarships and Financial Aid 2026
Harvard University offers need-based financial aid to all admitted students, including Indian nationals. Starting 2025-26, Harvard is completely free for students from families earning under $100,000/year, covering tuition, housing, healthcare, and essentials. For families earning between $100,000 and $200,000, Harvard offers free tuition plus additional aid. This applies to international students including those from India.
Harvard also provides a net price calculator to estimate the financial aid package you may receive. Click here to access it.
| Scholarship / Financial Aid | Eligibility | Coverage | Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard College Need-Based Financial Aid | All undergraduate international students, including Indian students | Covers up to 100% of tuition and fees based on demonstrated need. Free for families earning under $100,000/year | Apply with the CSS Profile and Harvard Financial Aid Application (HFAA) alongside the admissions application. Deadline: February 14 |
| Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Scholarships | Graduate students pursuing public policy, administration, or related fields | Merit-based or need-based scholarships covering tuition or partial expenses | Apply directly via HKS Financial Aid Portal with supporting documents |
| Harvard Medical School (HMS) Need-Based Aid | Medical students demonstrating financial need | Covers tuition, fees, and potentially living expenses | Submit the Institutional Application for Financial Aid alongside admission documents |
| Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD) Scholarships | Graduate students in design programmes | Merit and need-based funding; external scholarships also recommended | Apply through the GSD Financial Aid Portal |
| Harvard SEAS PhD Funding | All admitted PhD students | Covers tuition, fees, and provides a cost-of-living stipend of $35,000 to $45,000/year | No separate application required; funding is automatic upon admission |
| Inlaks Foundation Scholarships | Indian citizens under 30 years pursuing Master's, M.Phil., or PhD at top US universities | Full or partial funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel | Apply directly through the Inlaks Foundation website |
| Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme | Indian students from developing countries with no other financial support | Covers tuition fees and living expenses (partial grants with loans) | Apply via the Aga Khan Foundation website; applications open in January |
| Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program | Indian students pursuing graduate studies in development-related fields | Full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs | Apply through the World Bank Scholarship Portal |
Key Notes for Indian Students
- Harvard follows a need-blind admission policy, meaning financial need does not impact admission decisions.
- 55% of Harvard students receive need-based scholarship aid. 25% of students pay nothing at all.
- Average financial aid package: $55,000 to $65,000 per year (~₹51.74L to ₹61.15L).
- Harvard encourages students to apply for external scholarships to supplement institutional aid.
Also Check: Popular Scholarships to Study in USA for Indian Students
Harvard University Rankings 2026
Harvard University ranks among the top institutions worldwide across all major ranking bodies. The table below shows a 3-year trend across QS, Times Higher Education, US News, and Collegedunia Study Abroad Rankings.
| Ranking Body | 2026 | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | #5 | #4 | #5 |
| Times Higher Education World Rankings | #5 | #3 | #4 |
| US News National Universities | #3 | #3 | #1 |
| US News Best Global Universities | #1 | #1 | #1 |
| Collegedunia Study Abroad Rankings | #4 | - | - |
Harvard holds the #1 position in US News Best Global Universities for three consecutive years. Subject-specific rankings place Harvard at #1 globally in Law, Medicine, and Social Sciences (QS 2026). The slight drop in QS World Rankings from #4 to #5 reflects increased competition from MIT and Imperial College London, not a decline in Harvard's academic output.
Also Check: Harvard University Rankings - Full Details
Harvard University vs Similar Universities: Which is Better?
Choosing the right university depends on factors like acceptance rate, fees, rankings, and career outcomes. The table below gives a data-backed comparison of Harvard with its closest peer institutions to help Indian students make an informed decision.
| Metric | Harvard | MIT | Stanford | Yale | UPenn |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QS Rank 2026 | #5 | #1 | #3 | #18 | #12 |
| US News National 2026 | #3 | #2 | #3 | #8 | #12 |
| UG Tuition 2025-26 | $59,320 | $60,552 | $60,795 | $62,250 | $63,452 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~3.2 to 3.7% | ~4.5% | ~3.9% | ~3.7% | ~6.5% |
| MBA Median Salary | $184,500 | N/A | $175,000 | N/A | $175,000 (Wharton) |
| Strength for Indian Students | Business, Law, Medicine, Public Policy | Engineering, CS, Data Science | Tech, Entrepreneurship, Engineering | Law, Arts, Humanities | Finance, Business (Wharton) |
| Comparison | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| Harvard University vs Yale University |
|
| Harvard University vs Stanford University |
|
| Harvard University vs MIT |
|
| Harvard University vs University of Pennsylvania |
|
Harvard stands out for its global brand recognition, need-blind financial aid for all international students, and the breadth of its 12 schools. For Indian students targeting business, law, medicine, or public policy, Harvard remains the strongest option among Ivy League peers.
Also Check: Harvard vs MIT vs Stanford - Which University Should Indian Students Choose?
Harvard University Placements and Career Outcomes 2026
Harvard MBA graduates from the Class of 2025 report a median base salary of $184,500 (~₹1.74 Cr), up from $175,000 the previous year. Median signing bonus stands at $30,000 (~₹28.22L), received by 58% of the class. Median variable bonus is $46,125 (~₹43.40L), received by 67% of the class. Total median compensation in the first year exceeds $232,800 (~₹2.19 Cr).
Across all programmes, Harvard alumni report average earnings of $136,700 (~₹1.29 Cr) after 10 years, among the highest of any university globally. Three years after graduation, Harvard MBA alumni report median salaries of approximately $260,000 (~₹2.45 Cr).
Industry Distribution (HBS Class of 2025)
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Functional Roles (HBS Class of 2025)
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Harvard University Alumni Network and Top Recruiters
Harvard University has a network of over 575,306 alumni worldwide. 42% live in the United States and 7.5% are based in Greater Boston. Top employers of Harvard alumni include Google (2%), Microsoft (1.5%), and McKinsey and Company (1%). Among alumni, 15% work in business development, 7% in education, 6% in research, 5% in healthcare services, and 4% in entrepreneurship. 3% of alumni reside in India, making Harvard a strong network base for Indian professionals returning home.
Also Check: Harvard University Placements - Full Data
Where is Harvard University?
Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, just across the Charles River from Boston. The main campus sits in Harvard Square, a student hub with libraries, cafes, bookstores, and cultural spaces. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is only 15 to 20 minutes away by car or public transport.
- Harvard University Address: Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- GPS Coordinates: 42.3770 N, 71.1167 W
- Nearby City: Boston, Massachusetts (approx. 5 km away)
- Nearest Airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - 15 to 20 minutes by car or subway
The campus spans multiple schools including Harvard College, Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, and Harvard Medical School, spread across Cambridge and nearby Boston. Students benefit from close ties to Boston's tech, finance, and healthcare industries. Boston is consistently ranked among the best student cities in the world.
Harvard University FAQs
Ques. Is Harvard University free for Indian students?
Ans. Starting 2025-26, Harvard is completely free for students from families earning under $100,000/year. This covers tuition, housing, healthcare, and essentials. For families earning between $100,000 and $200,000, Harvard offers free tuition plus additional aid. This applies to all admitted students including those from India. Financial need does not affect admission decisions at Harvard.
Ques. What SAT score does Harvard need from Indian students?
Ans. Harvard does not publish a minimum SAT score requirement. Competitive applicants typically score between 1500 and 1580 out of 1600. Harvard is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not mandatory. However, submitting a strong score strengthens the application. Indian students should also focus on Class 12 grades, extracurriculars, and essays alongside test preparation.
Ques. How can a student from India get into Harvard after Class 12?
Ans. Indian students apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application with Harvard supplements. The Early Action deadline is November 1 and Regular Decision is January 1 each year. A strong Class 12 academic record, SAT or ACT scores, two teacher recommendations, one counsellor recommendation, and compelling personal essays are required. Harvard looks for leadership, impact, and intellectual curiosity beyond grades alone.
Ques. How can a financially poor Indian student attend Harvard University?
Ans. Harvard offers need-based financial aid to all admitted students including international applicants. Students from families earning under $100,000/year attend for free. Those from families earning up to $200,000/year receive free tuition. Aid is awarded based on demonstrated financial need and covers tuition, housing, and living costs. Students must submit the CSS Profile and Harvard Financial Aid Application (HFAA) by February 14 alongside their admissions application.
Ques. What is Harvard University's MBA acceptance rate for Indian students?
Ans. Harvard Business School does not publish country-specific acceptance rates. The overall HBS MBA acceptance rate is approximately 12 to 15%. Indian applicants form one of the largest international groups at HBS. A competitive Indian applicant typically has 3 to 7 years of work experience, a GMAT score of 700 or above, strong undergraduate grades, and demonstrated leadership in their career. The average GMAT for the HBS class is 740.
Harvard University Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MBA 2 years | USD 78,700 /Yr | 250 | GPA: 3.73, TOEFL: 109, IELTS:7.5, GMAT: 740, Duolingo-145 | ||
BS Physics 4 years | USD 62,226 /Yr | 85 | GPA-2.5, IELTS-7.5 or Toefl 100, Duolingo-115 | ||
MBA Finance 2 years | USD 78,700 /Yr | 250 | GPA: 3.73, TOEFL: 109, IELTS:7.5, GMAT: 740, Duolingo-145 | ||
BS Psychology 4 years | USD 62,226 /Yr | 85 | GPA: 2.0, Toefl: 90, Ielts:6.5, Duolingo-115 | ||
MArch 3 years | USD 61,510 /Yr | 90 | GPA: 3.4, TOEFL: 92, IELTS:7.5 | - | |
BA Computer Science 4 years | USD 62,226 /Yr | 90 | GPA: 3.0, TOEFL: 80, IELTS: 6.5, Duolingo: 115 | ||
MPP 2 years | USD 64,340 /Yr | 100 | GPA: 3.0, TOEFL: 100, IELTS: 7.0 | - | |
MPA 2 years | USD 64,340 /Yr | 100 | GPA: 3.0, TOEFL: 100, IELTS: 7.0 | ||
BS Mechanical Engineering 4 years | USD 62,226 /Yr | 90 | GPA: 3.0, TOEFL: 80, IELTS: 6.5, Duolingo: 115 | ||
M.Sc. Bioethics 2 years | Application deadline for 2026 Intake (3rd Jun 2026) | USD 59,048 /Yr | - | GPA: 3.0, Duolingo:130 | - |
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Harvard University comparison
| University Name | Harvard University | University of California | London Business School | Babson College | HEC Paris | Sciences Po | University of Melbourne | London School of Economics and Political Science | New York University | Carnegie Mellon University | Johns Hopkins University | Northwestern University | Tufts University | Rice University | California Institute of Technology | Vanderbilt University | INSEAD Business School | Stanford University | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Yale University | University of Cambridge | Howard University | Princeton University | University of Oxford | Boston University | Brown University | Columbia University | Cornell University | Duke University | McGill University | Minerva University | Georgetown University | University of Chicago | University of Toronto | University of Pennsylvania |
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| Collegedunia Score | 10 Out of 10 | 8.4 Out of 10 | 4.2 Out of 10 | - Out of 10 | - Out of 10 | - Out of 10 | 6.7 Out of 10 | 6.5 Out of 10 | 6.9 Out of 10 | 6.4 Out of 10 | 7.8 Out of 10 | 7.3 Out of 10 | 5.6 Out of 10 | 5.7 Out of 10 | 8.3 Out of 10 | 5.7 Out of 10 | - Out of 10 | 9.3 Out of 10 | 9 Out of 10 | 8.1 Out of 10 | 9 Out of 10 | 4.1 Out of 10 | 8.3 Out of 10 | 8.9 Out of 10 | 6.1 Out of 10 | 6.7 Out of 10 | 8.4 Out of 10 | 7.9 Out of 10 | 6.9 Out of 10 | 6.6 Out of 10 | - Out of 10 | 5.5 Out of 10 | 8.4 Out of 10 | 7.4 Out of 10 | 7.9 Out of 10 |
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| Acceptance Rate | 3.0 % | 11.7 % | 25.0 % | 22.0 % | 8.0 % | 10.0 % | 70.0 % | 9.0 % | 9.0 % | 12.0 % | 6.0 % | 0.0 % | 9.7 % | 7.9 % | 3.0 % | 6.3 % | 32.0 % | 4.0 % | 4.5 % | 4.6 % | 21.0 % | 0.0 % | 5.0 % | 0.0 % | 11.0 % | 5.0 % | 4.0 % | 8.0 % | 0.0 % | 46.0 % | 1.0 % | 0.0 % | 0.0 % | 43.0 % | 5.0 % |
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Overall 2 out of 824 in Global Ranking

Overall 5 out of 1401 in Global Ranking
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Harvard University Reviews
6 Reviews Found
Likes
- I loved the open ended nature to study whatever I wished to study.
- I loved the faculty. They were very nice and warm .
Dislikes
- I would have appreciated a rigorous classroom environment.
Likes
- The people are what make it. The university inherently attracts the smartest people in the world and this is what makes your experience. I personally have a great number of smart and kind friends which have made my experience.
Dislikes
- The requirements of the university can be stringent and inflexible at times, but the aim is to become a better researcher. However, it’s an all encompassing requirement and I think each person should choose individually how they wish to spend their time.
Overview
The experience so far has been great. Being surrounded by such excellent people is really where the benefit comes from. This enables one to fuel their research in a collaborative environment getting ideas from many people and making progress all the time.
Campus Life
The facilities are pretty good, but one can tell that they are aging and need replacement.
Overview
Getting into Harvard is somewhat difficult because of its low admission rate of 3.44%. You need to have a GPA of above 4.22 and a TOEFL score of above 90 to have a fair chance of admission. You should get an SAT score of above 1500 to enhance your chances of admission.
Campus Life
Being at Harvard university was like an addiction. Numerous events and clubs are arranged all over the year by different departments of the university which are themselves a source of learning different things. We also get to meet different personalities having great contributions in their respective fields which itself is a source of motivation.
Overview
It's the best like no other University as good as Harvard in the world rankings. The computer was chosen by me because I found its content interesting.
Overview
Brand name, Course structure, Location, Academic excellence, Entrepreneurial opportunities, Cross registration opportunities, Faculty, Career opportunities
Overview
I decided to attend Harvard because I saw it as an opportunity for a new experience. I wanted to go abroad, and I wanted to attend a university with some renown and where I was sure I would be supported. Harvard does not require that you apply to a specific major: they let you in based on potential and then you choose what you want to do in your second year, and that appealed to me.
Fees
Roughly 52,000 USD.
Harvard University Scholarships
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Scholarship per student$100,000 | Level Of StudyDoctorate | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship | Scholarship per student$10,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | Scholarship per student$20,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based |
View All 23 Scholarships
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FAQs
Ques. Is IIT, Kharagpur the same as MIT or Harvard?
Ques. How is JNU in comparison to Harvard?
Ques. How to get scholarships on havard university?
Ques. Is IISc better than Harvard?
Harvard University Admissions
Attendance Cost
The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees
Harvard University Campuses, Schools & Faculties
Harvard University Accreditations
Faculty
| Total Faculty | Full Time | Part Time | Graduate Assistants |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2455 | 2120 | 335 | - |





















Comments
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