What are the average Harvard scores for admitted students?

Hey everyone, I'm thinking about applying to Harvard and I'm wondering what the average test scores are for students who get accepted. I'm talking about the SAT or ACT scores that most admitted students have. Thanks in advance!

Hello! When considering applying to Harvard, knowing the average test scores for admitted students can help you gauge where you stand in terms of competitiveness, especially since for the 2024-2025 application cycle, Harvard is no longer test-optional and requires applicants to submit either SAT or ACT scores.

For the SAT, the middle 50% range of admitted students is typically between 1490 and 1580. This statistic means that 25% of admitted students score below 1490, 25% score above 1580, and 50% fall within this range. Generally, a score of 1500 or higher is considered competitive.

For the ACT, the middle 50% range for admitted students is usually between 34 and 36. A score of 34 or above would be considered competitive.

Keep in mind that while test scores are an important component of your application, Harvard uses a holistic admissions process, which means they evaluate your application as a whole, by considering factors such as GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, leadership, essays, and more.

At such a selective school, a strong score does not guarantee admission, and similarly, a slightly lower score does not automatically disqualify you. It's essential to focus on presenting a well-rounded and compelling application in addition to achieving competitive test scores.

For tips on how to strengthen your overall application to Harvard, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-harvard-university-essays/. After all, most applicants to Harvard have excellent academic credentials, so admissions officers often rely on more intangible qualities, like those showcased in the essays, when making their final decisions.

Best of luck in your application process!