The History of Harvard University

Harvard has the status of the oldest university in the United States. It was founded in 1636. The educational institution was named after the pastor and philanthropist John Harvard, who bequeathed his library and part of the property to the university. Interestingly, back in 1643, a fund was created at Harvard to support research and development — one of the first in the world. Whereas in the 17th century theological sciences were mainly taught here, but by the middle of the 18th century the teaching vector shifted towards secular sciences.
In the 19th century, the school adapted its signature crimson color, when Harvard representatives put on dark red shawls on the regatta so that they could be better seen. Since then, the crimson color has been a symbol of Harvard. At the beginning of the XX century, the college changed its status to university.

Harvard University is one of the oldest and most famous universities in the United States, whose graduates become the political and scientific elite of the world. The university is located in a science camp called Cambridge, which is located in Massachusetts. Harvard is part of the association of 8 private universities in the United States called "Ivy League", which is famous for its elitism and high standards of education.

Location
Cambridge, United States
Establishment year
1636
Students
41,987
International students
10,077
Female students
50%
Acceptance rate
5%

Place in ratings

Rating QS
2024#4
Rating in the USA
2021#1
Rating THE
2024#4
By subject
SubjectPlace in QS 2023
Arts & Humanities1
Life Sciences & Medicine1
Natural Sciences1
Social Sciences & Management1
Accounting & Finance1
Engineering & Technology8
Advantages of Harvard University

  • Student Campus. The main campus of Harvard University occupies 85 hectares of land. There are educational buildings, libraries, sports facilities, as well as hostels for the freshman. The rest of the student residences are nearby, on the picturesque coast of the Charles River. The Harvard Business School and the Harvard Stadium are located in the Boston Allston area occupying 145 hectares.
  • High funding. Harvard has the largest endowment (non-profit organization target capital) in the world. Its size in 2019 was 40.9 billion USD[1]. In addition, compared to other prestigious universities, it is Harvard graduates who often become billionaires.
  • Museums’ treasures. Harvard University has several of its own museums with valuable collections. The Museum of Art includes the Fogg Museum, the Bush Reisinger Museum, the Sackler Museum with collections of works by the Impressionists, Pre-Raphaelites, Expressionists, as well as collections of Oriental art. The Harvard Museum of Natural History includes the Mineralogical Museum, the Museum of Comparative Zoology, and the Botanical Museum. The Center of Fine Arts, designed by architect Le Corbusier, the Museum of Archeology and Ethnology, the Museum of Semitic Culture, also works here.
  • Unique study paths. Students at Harvard College have the opportunity not only to choose the typical for American universities major and minor specializations, but also to create their own curriculum in order to study any interdisciplinary field. Together with a strong general educational base, this allows Harvard graduates to simultaneously be specialists of a wide and narrow profile.
  • Financial assistance. Harvard University, contrary to many stereotypes, is even more affordable financially than many lesser-known American and European universities. Admission here is carried out according to two principles: need-blind admissions (the financial position of the applicant does not affect the selection process in any way) and 100% need-based aid (material support is provided to absolutely everyone in need). If the annual family income is less than 65,000 USD, then the student is given a scholarship that covers tuition, accommodation and other expenses.
Disadvantages of Harvard University

  • High competition. As with any Ivy League university, Harvard is highly selective. Annually, the selection committee receives over 40 thousand applications. Roughly 4% reach the stage of enrollment. In the selection process, the admission committee takes into account everything: the average score of the applicant, the results of standardized tests, letters of recommendation and especially a statement of purpose.
  • Difficulty of enrolling in a medical school. For most master's and doctoral programs, the basic requirement is a bachelor's degree in the relevant field. In case of the medical school, the undergraduate degree should be in the natural sciences (biological and physical sciences), and also include a large set of compulsory courses[2]. Moreover, foreign applicants must have at least a year of study at an accredited university in Canada or the United States.

Tuition at Harvard University

Type of studiesAgeDurationAverage cost/year
Bachelor’s17+4 years49,653 USD
Master’s20+1-2 years

47,600 USD

Doctoral21+3-year44,420 USD

Studying at Harvard bachelor’s programs has a fixed cost of 49,653 USD per year. As for graduate schools, the amount can be from 29728 to 73,440 USD per year, while some schools set a lower cost starting from 2nd-3rd year of study.

Despite the extremely high prices, it should be noted that Harvard offers a large number of scholarships and grants, and 70% of students receive financial assistance. The reason for this is the policy of the university, which does everything in its power to give talented students the opportunity to get the desired education.

Study programs

Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Liberal Arts
Study form
Part-time
Duration
60 months
Exams
GPA, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Arts & Humanities
Liberal Arts
Study degree
BA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Humanities
Computer Science & IT
Arts & Humanities
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Music
Study form
Full-time
Duration
60 months
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Music (New England Conservatory)
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Humanities
Liberal Arts
Study degree
BA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Humanities
Computer Science & IT
Arts & Humanities
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Computer Science & IT
Liberal Arts
Study degree
BA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Humanities
Computer Science & IT
Arts & Humanities
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Social Sciences & Management
Liberal Arts
Study degree
BA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Humanities
Computer Science & IT
Arts & Humanities
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Liberal Arts
Study form
Part-time
Duration
60 months
Exams
GPA, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Other
Bachelor of Liberal Arts Degree Program
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Part-time
Exams
GPA, IELTS, TOEFL
Scholarships
Yes
Other programs
Applied Sciences & Professions
Museum Studies
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Applied Sciences & Professions
History, Philosophy & Theology
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Real Estate
Study form
Full-time
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Applied Sciences & Professions
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Real Estate Investment
Study degree
Postgraduate Certificate
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
18 months
Exams
IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Applied Sciences & Professions
Economics & Business Management
Accounting & Finance
Exam scores
IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences
Global Development Practice
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences
Physical Sciences
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Sustainability
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
24 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences
Physical Sciences
Law
Law and Business
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Law
Economics & Business Management
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 109
Law and Public Health
Study degree
MPH
Study form
Full-time
Duration
36 months
Study field
Medicine
Law
Public Administration
Study form
Full-time
Duration
24 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Law
Social Sciences & Management
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 101
Public Administration (Mid-Career)
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Law
Social Sciences & Management
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 101
Education & Training
Education Leadership, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship
Study degree
MEd
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Education & Training
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Education Policy and Analysis
Study degree
MEd
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Education & Training
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Human Development and Education
Study degree
MEd
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Education & Training
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Mathematics for Teaching
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Education & Training
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Medical Education
Study degree
MD
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Study field
Education & Training
Medicine
Show all
Accounting & Finance
Finance
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Accounting & Finance
Physical Sciences
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Principles of Finance
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
18 months
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Accounting & Finance
Real Estate Investment
Study degree
Postgraduate Certificate
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
18 months
Exams
IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Applied Sciences & Professions
Economics & Business Management
Accounting & Finance
Exam scores
IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Physical Sciences
Data Science
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Computer Science & IT
Physical Sciences
Finance
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Accounting & Finance
Physical Sciences
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Global Development Practice
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences
Physical Sciences
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Mathematics for Teaching
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Education & Training
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Sustainability
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Physical Sciences
Show all
History, Philosophy & Theology
Dramatic Arts
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
History, Philosophy & Theology
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
History
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Humanities
History, Philosophy & Theology
Museum Studies
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Applied Sciences & Professions
History, Philosophy & Theology
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Philosophy and Ethics
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
18 months
Study field
Humanities
History, Philosophy & Theology
Religion
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Humanities
History, Philosophy & Theology
Show all
Humanities
Creative Writing and Literature
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Arts & Humanities
Languages, Literature & Linguistics
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Cybersecurity
Study degree
MLA
Study form
Full-time, part-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Computer Science & IT
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
English
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Languages, Literature & Linguistics
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
History
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Humanities
History, Philosophy & Theology
Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies (History)
Study degree
MLA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Part-time
Exams
GPA, IELTS, TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Scholarships
Yes
Show all
Languages, Literature & Linguistics
Creative Writing and Literature
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Arts & Humanities
Languages, Literature & Linguistics
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
English
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Languages, Literature & Linguistics
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Computer Science & IT
Biomedical Informatics
Study form
Full-time
Duration
18 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Medicine
Computer Science & IT
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 103
Cybersecurity
Study degree
MLA
Study form
Full-time, part-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Computer Science & IT
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Data Science
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Computer Science & IT
Physical Sciences
Information Management Systems
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Computer Science & IT
Economics & Business Management
Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies (Biotechnology)
Study degree
MLA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Part-time
Exams
GPA, IELTS, TOEFL
Study field
Computer Science & IT
Scholarships
Yes
Show all
Economics & Business Management
Biotechnology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Medicine
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Finance
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Accounting & Finance
Physical Sciences
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Information Management Systems
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Computer Science & IT
Economics & Business Management
Law and Business
Study form
Full-time
Duration
48 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Law
Economics & Business Management
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 109
Management
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Show all
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Bioethics
Study form
Full-time, part-time
Duration
12 months (full-time), 24 months (part-time)
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Medicine
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 100
Biology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Medicine
Biomedical Informatics
Study form
Full-time
Duration
18 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Medicine
Computer Science & IT
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 103
Biotechnology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Medicine
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Data Science
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Computer Science & IT
Physical Sciences
Show all
Medicine
Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Medicine
Bioethics
Study form
Full-time, part-time
Duration
12 months (full-time), 24 months (part-time)
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Medicine
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 100
Biology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Medicine
Biomedical Informatics
Study form
Full-time
Duration
18 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Medicine
Computer Science & IT
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 103
Biotechnology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Economics & Business Management
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Medicine
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Show all
Engineering & Technology
Architecture II
Study degree
MArch
Study form
Full-time
Duration
24 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Engineering & Technology
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Medicine
Biology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Medicine
Design Engineering
Study form
Full-time
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Engineering & Technology
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Software Engineering
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Engineering & Technology
Computer Science & IT
Show all
Arts & Humanities
Architecture II
Study degree
MArch
Study form
Full-time
Duration
24 months
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Engineering & Technology
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Creative Writing and Literature
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Humanities
Arts & Humanities
Languages, Literature & Linguistics
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Design Engineering
Study form
Full-time
Exams
TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Engineering & Technology
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Digital Media Design
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Dramatic Arts
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Arts & Humanities
History, Philosophy & Theology
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Show all
Social Sciences & Management
Anthropology and Archaeology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Government
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
International Relations
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Journalism
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Exams
GPA, IELTS, PTE, TOEFL
Study field
Social Sciences & Management
Exam scores
GPA — 3.0, IELTS — 7.0, PTE — 70, TOEFL iBT — 100
Study start date
23.01.2024
Show all
Other
Health Care Management
Study form
Part-time
Duration
24 months
Exams
TOEFL
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 100
Landscape Architecture I AP
Study degree
MLA
Study form
Full-time
Duration
24 months
Exams
TOEFL
Exam scores
TOEFL iBT — 104
Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies (Bioengineering & Nanotechnology)
Study degree
MLA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Part-time
Exams
GPA, IELTS, TOEFL
Scholarships
Yes
Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies (Biology)
Study degree
MLA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Part-time
Exams
GPA, IELTS, TOEFL
Scholarships
Yes
Master of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies (Data Science)
Study degree
MLA
Study mode
Blended
Study form
Part-time
Exams
GPA, IELTS, TOEFL
Scholarships
Yes
Show all
Other programs
Doctoral programs

ProgramSchoolDegreeDurationCost/year
Business Economics, Business Administration, Health Policy Management, Organizational BehaviorGraduate School of Arts and SciencesPhD5 years43,000 USD
Doctor of Judicial SciencesLaw SchoolSJD4 years65,875 USD
MedicineMedical SchoolMD5 years64,984 USD
Dental MedicineSchool of Dental MedicineDMD4 years64,984 USD
DesignGraduate School of DesignDDes3 years51,620 USD
Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Architectural TechnologyGraduate School of DesignPhD2+ years51,620 USD
Physics, Mathematics, Psychology, Political Science, Statistics, Economics, Education, English, History, MusicGraduate School Arts and SciencesPhD4-6 years48,008 USD (1-2 years), 12,484 USD (3+ year)
Education LeadershipHigher School of EducationEdLD3 years51,904 USD
EducationHigher School teacher ble SciencesPhD5 years51,904 USD
Political Economy and Government, Public PolicyKennedy SchoolPhD5 years48,008 USD (1-2 year), 12,484 USD (3+ year)
Public HealthSchool of Public HealthDrPH3-4 year49,020 USD (1-2 year), 24,520 USD (3 year), 6,132 USD (4+ year)
Biological Sciences in Public Health, Biostatistics, Health Policy, Population Health SciencesSchool of Public HealthPhD5 years49,020 USD (1-2 years), 24,520 USD (3 years), 6,132 USD (4+ year)

* A full list of programs and current prices are listed on the official websites

Additional costs

ItemHarvard College[3]Law School[4]Medical School[5]Business school[6]
Tuition49,653 USD68,150 USD64,984 USD73,440 USD
Dormitory / Meals + personal expenses11,364 USD / 7,025 USD + 2,500 USD26,438 USD11,065 USD / 5,280 USD + 4,675 USD14,130 USD / 15,820 USD
Study materials1,000 USD1,400 USD2,915 USD2,550 USD
University fees4,349 USD2,890 USD2,039 USD1,240 USD
Medical insurance3,922 USD3,922 USD3,922 USD3,922 USD
Transport costs1,500 USD1,650 USD2,200 USD-
Total per year81,813 USD102,800 USD97,080 USD111,102 USD

Faculties of Harvard University

Harvard University is the strongest educational and research center, which has equally excelled in teaching the humanities, natural and technical sciences.

In total, there are 11 academic departments at Harvard — 10 faculties and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study.

The largest division is Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS). This is the only faculty that offers training at two levels of training — undergraduate and graduate. Within the framework of the FAS, the following departments are present:

  • Harvard College for Bachelor’s;
  • Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) for master’s and doctoral students;
  • School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (awarding degrees on behalf of the college and GSAS);
  • Continuing Education Department (includes Harvard Summer School and Continuing Education School).

The remaining faculties and the corresponding schools that teach design, education, medicine, dentistry, theology, law have only master's and doctoral programs. Harvard Business School, in which students can earn an MBA or a Ph.D. in business, is also highly renowned. A place of honor is occupied by the School of Management named after John F. Kennedy and Harvard School of Public Health of T. H. Chan.

The most popular areas of Harvard University include medicine, economics, business, law and political science.

Harvard Schools and Colleges by the year of foundation
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The infrastructure of Harvard University

The main campus of Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at Harvard Yard. There are administrative offices, some libraries and academic buildings and the majority of freshman dormitories. Students of the second and subsequent years of study live in the residential houses nearby, each of which represents more than a place of residence. Separate master classes and seminars, various cultural and recreational events are held there, students have the opportunity to communicate with teachers in an informal setting, for example, at lunch in the common dining room[7].

You can find unique educational resources at Harvard. The Harvard Library, the largest academic library in the world, has over 20 million volumes, 180,000 periodicals, 400 million manuscripts, 10 million photographs, and more than 5 terabytes of digital archives. All this is within the framework of almost 80 library branches, which are available to every university student.

Harvard University has also opened many world-famous museums, covering more than 28 million works of art, artifacts, unique samples and materials. Here are the Peabody Museum of Archeology and Ethnology, Harvard Museum of Natural History, Harvard Museum of Art. Many collections are of key importance in the research activities of the university.

In 2008, Harvard also launched the Common Spaces Program, which aims to strengthen the academic community. As part of this initiative, new spaces are being created and existing spaces for the interaction of students and teachers are being improved.

Campus Type
Urban
Library
Yes
Harvard University
Harvard University
Cost and living conditions for students at Harvard University

The Harvard accommodation system was created with the aim of creating the most comfortable conditions for interaction and socialization throughout all four years of undergraduate studies. Freshmen settle in one of four dormitories called Yards and dine in the historic dining room of Annenberg Hall. As a rule, students live in suites, each of which consists of 2-4 rooms, a recreation area and one or more bathrooms, for a total of 3-6 people. There are few single rooms available. Interestingly, within each dormitory, students unite into entryways of 20-40 people, depending on the floor or section of residence. Each such group has its own mentor (first-year proctor), which provides all the necessary support to newly arrived students.
At the end of the first year freshmen independently form small groups, which are then distributed in 12 Houses, that host about 350-500 students each. Houses have a unique atmosphere and infrastructure, including libraries, studios, creative spaces, bars and much more. Starting from the 2nd year, students have the right to move to their own or rented house, but more than 97% prefer to stay on campus for the duration of their undergraduate studies.
For graduate and doctoral students Residence Halls are provided, which are separate for each school. If necessary, students can take advantage of off-campus housing services from university-owned real estate. To do this, contact the special department — Harvard University Housing.
The cost of living for undergraduate students is approximately 11,000 USD/year, for graduate and post-graduate students, the amount largely depends on the chosen accommodation type and can vary from 7,000 USD to 20,000 USD per year (9 months of study). More information regarding the accommodation costs can be found on the official pages of the individual schools.

Room and board
on campus18,389USD/year
Other expenses
on campus2,600USD/year

The process of admission to Harvard University

Harvard University only accepts applicants that are 17 years or older. The admission committee puts extra attention on the average mark of the graduate (as a matter of fact, the minimum requirement has not been established, but most applicants have a GPA of more than 3.8/4.0). Additional advantages can be leadership qualities, social activity and participation in volunteer projects.

Stages of admission to Harvard — Bachelor’s

At the bachelor’s level, Harvard University organizes a single admission to Harvard College, without distinguishing between academic programs and setting quotas for certain academic areas. The choice of a specialty takes place later during the studies at the university.

The admission process includes the following steps:

  1. Passing the SAT/ACT exams (required) and TOEFL (optional);
  2. Preparation of documents, including a letter of motivation;
  3. Payment of a registration fee (75 USD) or a fee waiver request;
  4. Submission of Common Application, Coalition Application or Universal College Application;
  5. Tracking the application and uploading the missing documents on the Applicant Portal before one of the two deadlines (Early Action, or Regular Decision);
  6. Passing an interview (the presence of this stage depends on the location of the candidate: often a representative of Harvard may not be in the country/region, but this should not affect the final decision[8]);
  7. Obtaining an admissions decision along with information on financial assistance;
  8. Confirmation of intention to study at Harvard;
  9. Sending a final report with a transcript of ratings;
  10. Applying for student visa.

Harvard undergraduate admission calendar

Applications are submitted in 2 calls, but only once a year. Deadlines do not change over time.

StageEarly ActionRegular Decision
Examinations (one year before the studies start)March — SeptemberMarch — November
DeadlineNovember 1January 1
Admissions decisionmid-DecemberEnd of March
Student’s decisionuntil May 1until May 1
Final report from schooluntil July 1until July 1
The start of the programSeptemberSeptember

* Current dates must be checked on the university website

Documents for admission to Harvard University — Bachelor’s

  • Application (Common Application, Coalition Application or Universal College Application);
  • Additions to the application (Harvard Questions or Harvard supplement);
  • Results of SAT or ACT;
  • The results of two SAT Subject Tests (recommended, except the cases in which passing exams proves to be financially difficult);
  • Intermediate report from school with a transcript of grades after the first half of the year (only for Regular Decision);
  • The final report from the school with a transcript of grades (for those who have already graduated from school at the time of submission of documents — until November 1/January 1; for all those accepted at Harvard — until July 1);
  • Two recommendations from school teachers (teacher reports);
  • The results of other exams — AP, IB, etc. (optional);
  • TOEFL language certificate (optional);
  • Additional materials and achievements (optional).

All documents must be translated into English. However, you do not need to contact a professional translator. It is perfectly acceptable to provide translations made by an English teacher. Translations have to contain the name of the translator and his relationship with the student. Additional copies of the originals are provided.

Harvard College admission statistics

Total number of applicants43330
Admitted (received an invitation)2009 (4.6%)
Enrolled (accepted the invitation)1650 (3.8%)
Foreigners13%
Accepted from the waiting list65
Receive financial assistance55%
Approximate area of ​​specializationProportion of enrolled students
Social Sciences24.5%
Biological Sciences18.4%
Humanities15.7%
Engineering12.3%
Computer Science8.3%
Physical Sciences7.4%
Mathematics7.1%
Undecided5.4%
SAT / ACT statistics for Harvard students

Part of the SAT examAverage score (25% -75%)
Evidence based Reading and Writing (ERW)[720, 780]
Mathematics[740, 780]

Part of the ACT examAverage score (25% -75%)
English[34, 36]
Mathematics[31, 35]
Overall score[33, 35]

Graduate programs

Unlike bachelor’s studies, the process of entering Harvard master’s and doctoral programs is quite fragmented. The key steps include:

  1. Choose the right program on the university website;
  2. Pass standardized tests and a language exam;
  3. Prepare documents: collect letters of recommendation, write a statement of purpose, etc.;
  4. Submit an online application (the form is individual for each school and posted on the corresponding website);
  5. Pay a registration fee (80-105 USD depending on the school);
  6. Pass an interview, sometimes it is required to send a written reflection report on its results within the 24 hours;
  7. Obtain an admissions decision along with information on financial assistance;
  8. Confirm your intention to study at Harvard;
  9. Apply for a student visa.

Harvard Master’s/Doctoral calendar

Each school independently determines application deadlines for its programs. As a rule, applications are accepted from September to December. Most deadlines are in early December — mid-January. However, some schools additionally set earlier or later deadlines. For example, Harvard Business School also accepts applications until September (one year before the start of training) and until April (several months before the start of training)[9]. Exact dates can be found on school websites.

Application documents for Master’s/Doctoral study programs

The list of documents may vary from school to school, but in most cases it includes:

Additionally, the school may also require:

  • The answer to the question in the form of an essay;
  • Sample of a written essay;
  • Proof of work experience/license;
  • Portfolio and other documents upon request.

Unlike bachelor’s, documents that are not in English should mainly be submitted together with a notarized translation. The full list of documents and requirements for them must be clarified on the websites of individual schools.

Minimum English proficiency for admission to Harvard graduate programs

School at Harvard UniversityTOEFL iBTIELTSOthers
The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences806.5-
Harvard Business School1097.5PTE 75
School of Dental Medicine95--
Graduate School of Design92--
John Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences806.5-
School of Divinity100-1057.5-8-
Graduate School of Education1047.5TWE 5.0, TOEFL PBT 613
Law School100--
Radcliffe Institute of Advanced Study1007.0PTEA 70
Kennedy School100-1037.0TOEFL PBT 600
T.H. Chan School of Public Health1007.0TOEFL PBT 600

Specifics of admission to Harvard Medical School

Harvard Medical School (HMS) has a number of admission requirements that leave little chance for foreign applicants. First of all, it is necessary to master a number of compulsory prerequisite courses and already have a bachelor's degree in science, as well as spend a minimum a year studying in English in Canada or the USA. Then a prerequisite is passing the international medical exam — MCAT. However, even this does not guarantee a successful admission, since Harvard does not recognize all foreign qualifications. Students with a degree in accredited higher education institutions of the USA and Canada have the priority right to enrollment, because high-quality medical education is impossible without a high level of English proficiency.

The study process at Harvard

Harvard university academic calendar

PeriodStartEnd
Autumn semesterSeptember 1-3December 17-20
BreakDecember 18-21January 21-26
Spring semesterJanuary 22-27May 11-17
CommencementMay 23-27May 23-27

Undergraduate studies: types and structure of courses, and exams

The main feature of Harvard bachelor’s studies is that students choose their future specialization only in the second year of study. For the first two and a half semesters, the college gives young people the opportunity to adapt to the new environment by attending any of the 3,700 possible courses. Then students are invited to choose one of 50 concentrations or to build their own unique special concentration[10].

Within the specialization, Harvard students also define a learning path: non-honors or honours. The latter involves taking more courses and compulsory writing of the thesis to obtain a degree (AB — Bachelor of Arts or SB — Bachelor of Science).

Thus, in addition to specialized disciplines, the Harvard training program includes several general compulsory elements known as Harvard College requirements:

  • General Education (one course from four subject groups: Aesthetics & Culture; Ethics & Civics; Histories, Societies, Individuals and Science & Technology in Society);
  • Distribution (one course for each of the three areas of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS): Arts and Humanities; Social Sciences and Engineering, and Applied Sciences);
  • Quantitative Reasoning and Data (familiarization course with mathematical, statistical and computer methods of data processing);
  • Expository Writing (semester course in academic writing in the first year of study);
  • Language (one year foreign language course).

In addition, students can choose electives as a part of their secondary field (in American Universities more commonly known as minor), study additional foreign languages, conduct research or projects on their own, and take courses at Harvard schools and other Boston universities.

During the academic year, students traditionally attend lectures, seminars and workshops, undergo Hour and Midterm Examinations and have a Final Examination Period at the end of each semester.

Starting from the 1st year and throughout the entire period of study, students are accompanied by mentors and advisors that can be teachers, doctoral students, senior students and activists who can help with the choice of specialization, curriculum adjustment and immersion in the social life of the university[11].

In some areas, students have the opportunity to get a master's degree already in the fourth year of bachelor’s studies. The program is implemented as part of the Higher School of Arts and Sciences and is called the Fourth Year Master's Degree.

Graduate schools: features and structure of courses, and exams

Graduate programs at Harvard have a different structure, depending on the school and the specialization of training. The master's programs last 1-2 (less often 3) years and involve the acquisition of theoretical and practical knowledge in a particular profession. Doctoral studies are mainly based on research (5-6 years), but there are also practice-oriented doctoral programs (3-4 years), including internships in partner organizations (for example, EdLD). Before entering, students can familiarize themselves with the curricula of all programs that are publicly available on the school websites — sections Academics, Program Overview, Curriculum.

MBA programs at Harvard

Harvard Business School is consistently ranked among the top 10 best business schools in the world. A distinctive feature of the institution is the orientation towards practice and interaction between students. Enrolling at Harvard Business School is not easy, as excellent grades are not critical to enrollment. The admission committee draws extra attention to the achievements of the applicant, experience in the business sector, participation in charity events and other activities.

Harvard Business School offers a two-year MBA program (50% of students receive financial assistance[12]), several doctoral programs (100% funding over 5 years[13]), and also provides the opportunity to receive two degrees at the same time as a part of cooperation with other schools (Joint Degree Programs), for example, an MBA and Master of Public Policy (MPP) from the Harvard Kennedy School. Joint programs are also being implemented with law, medical and dental schools.

Harvard Business School also conducts courses in marketing, leadership, finance and entrepreneurship.

International exchange programs at Harvard University

Harvard University has close international connections with prestigious educational institutions around the world. Exchange and internship programs work with leading European universities, including Cambridge and Oxford Universities. In total, 200+ programs in more than 50 countries of the world are available to Harvard students. More information on semester and one-year exchange programs can be found on the Harvard Office of International Education website. Read more about summer programs on Harvard Summer School website.

Harvard University's Summer School also organizes over 300 courses and internships for international students each year. People who come here are:

  • High school students. Two programs are conducted for them: Secondary School Program (seven weeks with credits) or Pre-College Program (two weeks without credits);
  • Exchange students. In order to obtain credits as part of your program or preparation for admission to graduate school;
  • Graduates and professionals. To take advanced training courses.
Double degree programs at Harvard University

Harvard University offers its students double-degree programs that allow you to get two specialties both at Harvard and at partner universities with which Harvard has signed agreements. One such institution is the Berklee College of Music. At the end of the five-year program, graduates are awarded a bachelor of arts degree from Harvard University and a master's degree from Berklee[14]. The list of partners of Harvard University also includes The University of Cambridge. A joint law program allows you to earn a JD degree at Harvard and an LLM degree at Cambridge in just 3.5 years[15].

Online courses at Harvard University

Harvard University has an extensive database of online courses (400+) in 11 subject areas which last from 2 to 17 weeks. Many are provided free of charge. At the same time, the cost of paid courses varies from 30 USD to 6,680 USD.

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Scholarships and grants at Harvard University

It is believed that only a select few can afford studying at Harvard University, but this is not entirely true: 20% of families pay absolutely nothing, and 55% of students receive material support[16]. The university takes into account the financial capabilities of each student, regardless of citizenship, and, if necessary, is ready to partially or fully cover the costs of studying and living. The scheme is simple: if a student successfully passed the competition for admission, but cannot afford to cover all the costs of studying, then the university gives a 100% guarantee of material assistance.

The amount of assistance at the bachelor’s level is determined as follows: the student’s parents (or himself) must contribute a certain amount of tuition (depending on the total income of the family), the student’s personal investments (for example, from part-time work), as well as help from third-party funds (if any). After calculating the total amount, the university decides on the appointment of financial assistance to the student. To receive full funding, it is enough to provide documents confirming that the annual income of parents is less than 65,000 USD per year.

Annual family incomeThe amount paid by parentsPart-time workScholarship
<65,000 USDUSD3,500 USD73,891 USD
150,000 USD15,000 USD3,500 USD58,891 USD
200,000 USD38,000 USD3,500 USD35,891 USD

Calculator

Scholarship size for master's and doctoral programs, in turn, is also calculated based on student income over the past three years. An additional factor is the school itself and the sources of its financing. The proposed scholarship does not always fully cover all expenses. Details should be specified on the websites of schools in the section Financial Aid.

Prospects after graduating from Harvard University

Like any other top university, Harvard University helps its students in finding suitable employment. On the campus of the university, there is the Office of Career Services, which organizes various events for students and announces them on its website. University employees are engaged in the selection of paid internships, the search for interesting vacancies, the organization of courses and workshops, as well as events where students from the first year can get acquainted with potential employers[17]. As a rule, Harvard graduates do not have problems finding a job. According to statistics, more than 60% of students find work during the training period (mainly on internships). In the international QS 2020 ranking, Harvard takes 5th place, while having 100% reputation indicators among employers and graduate performance[18].

Scientific achievements of Harvard University

Today Harvard University is one of the most elite and renowned universities in the world. The university is famous for its business school and developments in various fields of science, most of which are funded by the government.

  • In 2017, a group of Harvard scientists was able to turn hydrogen into metal for the first time in history — its use in rocket science will open new frontiers in space exploration.
  • In 2017, Harvard bioengineers invented a plastic robot that can prevent heart attacks and automatically support heart function.
  • In 2014, Harvard researchers found confirmation of the cosmic inflation theory that describes the Big Bang.
  • The university is working on the creation of the "elixir of youth", the first test results were successful.
  • In 2014, Harvard scientists created an inexpensive detector for monitoring diabetes and other diseases. The detector costs about 25 USD and weighs 2oz, it will be used in the poorest regions of the planet.
  • Harvard scientists, in collaboration with researchers of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, invented a method for storing solar energy in molecules, which would later allow the use of clean energy for domestic purposes (cooking, heating water, heating private houses and apartments).
  • A team of researchers from Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is working together to reprogram the cells of living organisms to create effective cell therapy that will allow tissues to regenerate faster after serious damage, which could be the solution to the problem of thyroid disease or diabetes.
Famous graduates of Harvard University

  • 8 US presidents graduated from Harvard University, including Barack Obama, John F. Kennedy and Franklin Roosevelt.
  • Among graduates, teachers and employees of Harvard University, there are 150 Nobel laureates.
  • Bill Gates is an American businessman, philanthropist and public figure, one of the founders of Microsoft, the founder and chairman of the Bill and Miranda Gates charity.
  • David Rockefeller is American statesman, entrepreneur, banker, the grandson of the first dollar billionaire John Rockefeller.
  • Darren Aranofsky is a well-known director in Hollywood, the creator of such films as Requiem for a Dream and Black Swan.
  • Matt Damon — a famous American actor, producer and screenwriter, was born and raised in Cambridge. In 1998, he became a laureate of two prestigious awards at once — the Oscars and Golden Globes for the script for the film Good Will Hunting.
  • Natalie Portman is an American film and theatre actress, producer, screenwriter and film director. In 2011, she won a number of prestigious film awards: BAFTA, Oscar and Golden Globe for her main role in the movie Black Swan.
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Interesting facts about Harvard University

  • Annually, a prize is awarded at Harvard University for the most dubious or witty scientific achievements of the last year — Ig Nobel Prize. The word “dubious” refers to studies such as “why do drunkards consider themselves attractive” or “how mice with a heart transplant listen to opera”, etc.
  • The territory of Harvard University was a set for films and TV shows dozens of times. The movies like The Social Network, Spartan, Angels & Demons, Good Will Hunting were shot here.
  • The university is also the main scene of many literary works. For example it is described in William Faulkner’s novel, The Sound and the Fury.
  • At the entrance to Harvard Yard, there is a monument that reads “John Harvard. Founder. 1638." Students call it a “statue of three deceptions.” John Harvard was a philanthropist and the sponsor of the university, but not its founder. It is generally accepted that the history of an educational institution dates back to 1636, and not 1638. In addition, the statue does not depict John Harvard, but an ordinary student. History has not preserved portraits or references of how the famous philanthropist looked like.
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