Requirements for getting into Harvard?

Hi folks, I'm a junior and Harvard is my dream college (always shoot for the stars right?). What kind of admissions requirements does Harvard usually have? I know about the GPA and test scores, but what are the other factors they really consider?

The admissions process at Harvard is quite rigorous and multifaceted. They look at various factors outside GPA and test scores to determine your fit for the university.

1. Extracurricular Activities: Harvard takes extracurriculars seriously and values the depth of involvement over the quantity. They like to see that you have committed and contributed significantly to a few activities. These contributions should be high enough to fall under the top 2 Tiers of the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars scale. To learn more about extracurricular tiers, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/breaking-down-the-4-tiers-of-extracurricular-activities

2. Academic Rigor: Beyond just raw grades, Harvard wants to see that you've pursued the most rigorous course load available to you and handled it well. Your transcript should include Honors, AP, or IB courses if your school offers them.

3. Letters of Recommendation: Harvard requires two recommendation letters from teachers in different subjects and one from your guidance counselor. These letters should speak to your character, intellectual curiosity, and maturity, and provide context for your achievements showcased elsewhere in your application.

4. Personal Essays: Aside from grades and test scores, Harvard really emphasizes the importance of your personal essays. They want to see not just your accomplishments, but your personal experiences and vision. This is your opportunity to show what makes you unique and why you would be a good fit at Harvard. CollegeVine's blog contains guidance on how to tackle both the personal statement and Harvard's school-specific supplemental essays:

- Personal statement: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-common-application-essays/

- Supplements: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-harvard-university-essays/

5. Interviews: Although not required, if a Harvard alum in your area is available, you may be offered an interview. This is another opportunity to demonstrate your passion and interest in the university. Don't worry if you don't get an interview, but if you are offered one, you should definitely accept. CollegeVine's blog also has tips for how to tackle common interview questions, including sample strong responses: https://blog.collegevine.com/15-major-college-interview-questions-to-prepare-for

Last but not least, you might consider applying under Harvard's Restrictive Early Action plan. While Harvard is highly selective no matter when you apply, the Early acceptance rate is known to be higher. Just make sure you plan ahead to ensure your application is as strong as possible when the early deadline arrives, usually on November 1.

Good luck with your application process!