Curious about Harvard's Admission Requirements

Hey everyone, I'm thinking about applying to Harvard next year and I was wondering if anyone could let me in on what their admission requirements are like? I'm mainly interested in their GPA standards, essay requirements, and how much emphasis they put on extracurriculars, if possible.

Sure, happy to provide that information!

For academic prowess, Harvard doesn't make public an official GPA cutoff, but the school is immensely competitive. You should aim to have a remarkably high GPA, around 4.18 on a weighted scale. This high GPA can set you apart, but it is essential to ensure it is accompanied by a rigorous schedule of AP or IB courses, which can show that you're ambitious and dedicated to managing and excelling in challenging situations.

In the case of essays, Harvard requires the Common Application essay along with their own supplement. Their supplement includes an optional essay and brief explanations for your extracurricular activities and academic experiences. My advice is to work hard on your essay, ensuring it is personal and reflective. Your college essay is a chance for admissions officers to truly get to know you beyond your resume. Avoid cliche topics and aim to share unique aspects of your life or perspective.

Extracurriculars at Harvard are crucial, as they seek students who excel not only academically but also pursue their interests outside of class. Harvard tends to seek students with a highly-developed specialty, often referred to as a "spike," rather than well-rounded students. They tend to place a higher value on activities in which you've shown significant leadership or received local, regional, or national recognition (Tier 1 and 2 extracurriculars). Remember, quality is generally more valuable than quantity here.

Bear in mind that many factors will contribute to the admissions decision. This includes your SAT/ACT scores (unless you're applying testing-optional) and your letters of recommendation. Hopefully, this information serves to provide a clearer picture of what Harvard looks for. Good luck!