What's the usual GPA requirement for Harvard?

Hi all, I hope you're doing well. I'm starting to worry about college apps and have always been inspired by Harvard. Does anyone have a handle on what their average GPA requirement is? I just want to set some realistic goals. Thanks in advance!

Hi there!

Harvard University doesn't explicitly state a GPA requirement. However, when you look at data from past admission cycles, it’s evident they prefer very strong academic records. The average unweighted high school GPA of admitted students is typically around a 3.9 out of a 4.0 scale.

Don't be completely discouraged if your GPA is lower, though. Remember that Harvard has a holistic admissions process. They'll look at many aspects of your application, such as your course rigor (i.e. the number of AP or other advanced classes you've taken), extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendation, and personal essays.

So while maintaining a high GPA is important, it's equally important to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, commitment, and leadership in other areas. Those can sometimes compensate for less-than-stellar grades. For instance, Tier 1 or Tier 2 extracurricular activities, which show exceptional leadership or achievement at the national or international level, might help set your application apart.

Don't forget - even if a college like Harvard has extremely high academic standards, there's always a degree of unpredictability in college admissions, especially at the most selective schools. It's always smart to apply to a range of colleges, including match and safety schools, not just reach schools. Best of luck with your applications!