What Qualifications Does Harvard Typically Look For?

I'm starting to prepare my application for Harvard, and I want to make sure I'm aligning my profile with what they're looking for in a candidate. Beyond just stellar academics, what kind of extracurricular activities or personal qualities have you found that Harvard highly values? Are there any less obvious things they look for that might not be listed outright on their website? Hearing about any unique approaches or success stories would be helpful as I work on showcasing my strengths in my application!

Harvard is typically interested in students who have shown a remarkable level of dedication and success in one or two areas that are important to them – something often referred to as a "spike." It could be athletics, music, community service, research, or almost anything. This is a way for the university to build a diverse student body, where each student brings a special, unique strength to the community.

In terms of extracurricular activities, successful applicants tend to have a good mix of Tier 1 and Tier 2 activities on their application. For example, they might be student body president (Tier 2) and have also won a national award in a math competition (Tier 1). However, do keep in mind that Harvard looks at activities in context and understands that opportunities can vary greatly depending on a student’s high school and personal circumstances. Achievements that demonstrate leadership, dedication, well-rounded thinking, and maturity in harder-to-quantify activities can be equally impressive.

Moreover, Harvard places importance on personal qualities such as intellectual curiosity, maturity, social consciousness, and resilience. You can demonstrate these qualities through your essays and letters of recommendation. Strive to tell a coherent story about who you are, what you care about, and what you hope to achieve.

As per unique approaches, one thing that you might not find outright on their website is the concept of "demonstrated interest." Although this factor is considered by some institutions in their admissions process, Harvard, like most Ivy Leagues, doesn't usually consider this factor. So, while visiting the campus, attending events, or connecting with the admissions office can provide more information and help you write a well-researched "Why Harvard" essay, it may not necessarily increase your odds of admission.

Lastly, something less obvious could be looking beyond GPA or standardized test scores. While Harvard does have high standards, admission is not solely about numbers. They use something called the Academic Index, which covers a blend of GPA, test scores, and class rank (if available). Meeting the AI cutoff is key for having your application read.

This information can help guide you toward success in your application process. Let me know if you need more advice or guidance on any other aspects. Good luck!