Harvard University looks for "well-rouonded" applicants.
The first university in the United States, Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is renowned for its prestigious professors and rigorous academics. When applying as a freshman for the selective Harvard College--the university's undergraduate component--there are no minimum requirements or a formula for being accepted. Rather, Harvard considers several application components before offering admission to a "well-rounded" applicant. Just over 7% of the applicants for the class of 2013 were accepted. In general, all materials should be submitted by December 1 when the admissions committee begins reviewing; however, the final postmark deadline for all materials (except for standardized test scores) is January 1.
Completed Application
Students who apply for Harvard College must first fill out an application. Harvard College accepts either the Common Application or Universal College Application. These applications collect such information as demographics, academics, honors, and extracurricular activities. It also includes a personal essay. The cost of submitting the application to Harvard is $75, , as of May 2010, but that can be waived if you meet certain financial requirements.
Harvard Supplement
Harvard requires a supplement to the application that is unique to the institution. The supplement collects information about academic goals and interests, class rank, and other details pertinent to your admission. It also provides the opportunity for you to submit additional materials and/or essays that will help paint a more holistic picture of you to the admissions committee.
SAT or ACT Scores
You must submit official scores for the general SAT or the ACT with the writing component. Furthermore, applicants must submit scores for at least two different SAT Subject Tests. These scores may be from tests taken as late as January of your senior year. The last date for an SAT to be taken is January 26, and for an ACT, February 6. However, Harvard recommends taking these tests earlier to provide adequate time for reporting, as well as any necessary retakes, and to allow the admissions committee to review completed applications earlier. According to Harvard's website, "the 25th to 75th percentile of recently admitted classes range from 700 to 790 on the SAT critical reading section and 690 to 790 on the SAT math section." Harvard has also stated that it considers each applicant individually and holistically, not placing undue weight on standardized test scores due to the varying factors that may influence a student's performance on such tests.
Academic Reports
Part of Harvard's supplement is a request for Secondary School Reports and Mid-Year Reports. Your guidance counselor fills out these forms, which report your high school classes taken and academic performance in those classes. Be aware that students accepted into Harvard College generally rank in the top 10 to 15 percent of their class. Harvard College also looks for students who have pursued a rigorous academic career, including Honors and Advanced Placement courses. Additionally, you may submit scores from any Advanced Placement courses in order to supplement your academic information.
Teacher Evaluations
Harvard requires two teacher evaluations. The forms for these evaluations may be found on the general applications. You should choose two teachers who know you well and can attest to the quality of your academic assignments, your participation in class, and your character. Be sure to give your teachers plenty of notice to submit these forms on time.
Tags: Harvard College, admissions committee, Advanced Placement, Advanced Placement courses, application Harvard