Admissions

The Future is Calling

Harness your curiosity and learn about the world—and yourself. Through our liberal arts and sciences curriculum, you'll discover how to use your passions to build a bright future.

We are committed to making the application process accessible for all students. If the admissions application fee presents a hardship for you or your family and you plan on applying for financial aid, the fee will be waived. Please follow the steps below to request a fee waiver:

Common Application
1. Select “Yes” when asked “Do you feel that your financial circumstances might qualify you for an application fee waiver?” Confirm that you meet at least one of the indicators of economic need.
2. If you do not meet one of the indicators of economic need, select “You can provide a supporting statement from a school official, college access counselor, financial aid officer, or community leader.” Harvard will not ask you to provide a supporting statement and your application will not be penalized if you select this option.
Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir
1. Confirm that you meet at least one of the indicators of economic need listed in the Fee Waiver section of your Profile.
2. If you do not meet one of the indicators of economic need, you may enter the Harvard-specific fee waiver code on the payment page: JH3S5Q2LX9
Transfer Applicants
1. Please see the Transfer Application Requirements for information about requesting a transfer application fee waiver.
There is no formula for gaining admission to Harvard. Academic accomplishment in high school is important, but the Admissions Committee also considers many other criteria, such as community involvement, leadership and distinction in extracurricular activities, and personal qualities and character. We rely on teachers, counselors, and alumni to share information with us about an applicant's strength of character, his or her ability to overcome adversity, and other personal qualities.
For prospective students, given the tremendous volume of material sent to our office , we are unable to confirm receipt. Rest assured that if we discover we are missing necessary financial aid application materials or have any questions we will be in contact with you (by email or phone) after the student is admitted. Current and admitted students can always check the status of their application on my.harvard.

Why Harvard

Discover what makes Harvard the standard for liberal arts and sciences education. From our unparalleled academics to our revolutionary financial aid, we strive to offer the best resources to the next generation of leaders.

Visit & Connect

From your own home, or while walking around Cambridge, there are lots of ways to explore our campus. Click any of the links below to learn more about everyday life at Harvard.

Take a Virtual Tour

How to Apply

We’ll guide you through the Common Application or Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir, and answer any questions you have along the way.

Admissions Deadlines

November 1 - Restrictive Early Action

Restrictive Early Action applicants are notified by mid-December.

January 1 - Regular Decision

Regular Decision applicants will be notified by the end of March.

Learn About Applying Restrictive Early Action

Afford Harvard

Harvard is affordable for all admitted students. Financial aid covers all demonstrated need for all students, regardless of citizenship or citizenship status. Families making under $75,000 a year pay nothing for their student's education, and families making between $75,000-$150,000 pay 0-10% of their incomes.

Learn more about financial aid