Applying to Harvard University for its undergraduate programs seems daunting, but it is actually not as hard as it seems. Harvard University uses the Common Application for the submission of the requirements. Common App is basically what it sounds like, an application that is used by many American universities. Once you fill that out, you can use that to send your application to several universities.
We’ve simplified the undergraduate application steps for your perusal. We will be discussing each step for you to better understand the things you need to do or obtain.
Application Process for Undergraduate Program
Step 1. Decide Which Program to Apply for and Check the Application Deadline
One of the first things you need to do is to list all the programs you are interested in. If you already know what major you want to apply, the better. If not, check each study program to get a glimpse of its curriculum. Once you trimmed down your list, go for the one you are most interested in and choose the one that aligns with your educational goals.
After you have decided, you need to check the application timeline. Our advice is to apply as early as possible so that you will have enough time to complete the requirements.
Step 2. Create an Account at Common App or Coalition Application
Havard requires first-time degree-seeking students to apply via Common App or Coalition Application by Scoir. You need to register to either one of the platforms. Using these apps will require you to answer several sets of questions, activities list, write essays, and upload supplemental documents (such as SAT or ACT).
Step 3. Upload all Documents Required
As you complete your Common App or Coalition Application, you will need to attach the necessary documents. Before uploading each document, double-check its content, there might be inconsistencies with your other documents. So better review them and have them corrected as soon as possible.
Step 4. Submit Early and Pay for the Application Fee
As soon as you have reviewed all the requirements and have answered all the questions, the next step is to pay the application fee, which is $85. This is non-refundable but you can request to waive the application cost. Settling the fee and submitting the documents means you have completed the application.
Check the application timeline to know which month the decisions/results will be announced. You can anticipate the results in the month indicated on the timeline.
Application Requirements for Undergraduate Program
Here’s a list of the necessary documents you need to submit:
- Essays (Common App or Coalition App questions) with a total word count of 200 for each question
- SAT or ACT scores (if none, you can submit one of the following documents: AP exam, IB scores, GCSE/A-Level, or National Leaving Exams scores
- Secondary Transcript of records
- Recommendation Letters
- $85 fee (or request a fee waiver)
- Midyear School Report
- English Proficiency Exam
Harvard is an extremely selective university even when applying for an undergraduate program, This simplified guide may be short, but the time you need to prepare will take several months to complete. To all students planning to study at Harvard, our advice would be to start as early as possible. Your student portfolio should stand out among the thousands of applications received every term.
We hope that this article on how to apply for Harvard University as an undergraduate student was helpful. If you are interested in studying abroad, check out our Guide to Studying in the USA and Available Programs for International Students sections!
