Starting an Application

For all first-year and transfer applicants, your first step will be to fill out and submit an application. You can do so through the Common Application or the Coalition Application - Powered by Scoir. For first-year applicants, the Common Application opens on August 1 and the Coalition Application opens on August 15. For transfer applicants, both applications open on September 1. 

We have no preference and each application is treated equally by the Admissions Committee. 

Application Requirements

All applicants—both international and U.S. candidates, first-year and transfer—must complete the following application components:

  • Common Application or apply Coalition, Powered by Scoir
  • Harvard College Questions for the Common Application, or Coalition Application Harvard supplement
  • $85 fee (or request a fee waiver)
  • SAT or ACT (with or without writing) - optional for 2022-2026 application cycles
  • Optional: AP or other examination results
  • For first-year:
    • School Report (which includes a counselor letter) and high school transcript
    • Teacher Report (2)
    • Midyear School Report (after your first semester grades)
    • Final School Report (for admitted students only)
  • For transfer:
    • College/Dean’s/Registrar’s report
    • Official College Transcript
    • College Instructor Recommendations (2)
    • Official High School Transcript

Click below to learn more about each component. 

No student with a bachelor's degree or other first university degree from any other university, whether American or foreign, is eligible for admission to Harvard College. Students interested in continuing their studies beyond the bachelor's degree might wish to consider one of the 12 Harvard University graduate schools

Timeline

Admissions Deadlines

November 1

Restrictive Early Action application deadline - learn more about Restrictive Early Action.

January 1

Regular Decision application deadline

March 1

Transfer application deadline

Application Tips

Get step-by-step tips on filling out your college application. From the application fee waiver to the writing supplement, we've gathered some tips to help you complete your application.

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U.S. Military Veterans

Individuals who have served in the U.S. military bring valuable perspectives to our community and we welcome applications from veterans for both first-year and transfer admission. If you are a veteran, please review the information on our U.S. Military Veterans page. There, you'll find details on whether to apply as a first-year or transfer student, financial aid, and making the transition to college life. 

International Applicants

We welcome applications from all over the world. Our admissions and financial aid processes are the same for all applicants - regardless of nationality or citizenship.

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