Table of Contents
- Harvard: The Quick Facts
- History and Founding
- Location
- Academics
- Campus and Facilities
- Campus Life
- Housing
- Notable Alumni
- Admissions
- Acceptance Rates
- Who Gets Into Harvard, Anyway?
- Instructions on How to Apply
- How much does it cost to apply?
- Conclusion
Harvard: The Quick Facts
Type: Private University
Location: Cambridge, MA
Founded: 1636
Undergraduate and graduate students: 25,266
Faculty and staff: 19,639 faculty and staff
Alumni worldwide: 400k+
History and Founding
The Great and General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony decided to establish Harvard as “New College” in 1636, which is when Harvard’s history began. It was later renamed Harvard College in honor of John Harvard, a clergyman, and the institution’s first benefactor. The university’s founding principles emphasized the pursuit of knowledge, a commitment to truth, and the development of well-rounded individuals.
Location
Located directly over the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a compact city that has easy access to the city’s public transportation and many other conveniences. Harvard plans to build new campuses in Cambridge and Boston within the next few years, but for the time being, most undergraduate life can be found around the Harvard Square area of Cambridge.
Boston and Cambridge are two of the most historically significant cities in the United States. The region has established a long-lasting legacy of intellectual achievement with many prestigious educational institutions in its vicinity, including Harvard. You’ll discover a solid loyalty to the Red Sox, eccentric local traditions, and easy access to the rest of the East Coast, among other things.
Academics
Harvard is renowned for its academic excellence and offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across multiple disciplines. The university is organized into Harvard College for undergraduate education and numerous graduate and professional schools, including Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and many more. Harvard’s faculty includes some of the world’s leading scholars and researchers, making it a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation.
Popular majors at Harvard include those in the natural and social sciences and history, mathematics, and computer science. Even if you don’t get to take classes with a famous professor, you can still benefit from their work because Harvard is home to many brilliant minds in several fields.
Campus and Facilities
Harvard’s campus blends historical and modern architecture, featuring iconic landmarks such as Harvard Yard, Widener Library, and the Memorial Church. The campus spans over 5,000 acres and is home to state-of-the-art facilities, research centers, libraries, and museums. Harvard’s libraries, including the Harvard Library, are some of the largest and most comprehensive in the world, housing millions of books, manuscripts, and digital resources.
Campus Life
Harvard offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities catering to various interests. Whether you’re passionate about student government, the arts, sports, or community service, you’ll find opportunities to get involved. The university is also known for its residential House system, which fosters close-knit communities and provides a supportive environment for students.
Housing
Nearly all students at Harvard live on or near the university’s main campus. In the heart of campus, on the world-famous Harvard Yard, you’ll find the first-year residence halls and dining hall, which are reminiscent of Hogwarts to many visitors.
After the first year, students are assigned to one of Harvard’s twelve “residential colleges,” smaller communities that share housing, dining, and other campus amenities. College-specific RAs and staff organize everything from study breaks to social events.
Notable Alumni
Harvard boasts an impressive roster of alums who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some of the most notable Harvard alums include former U.S. Presidents like John F. Kennedy and Barack Obama, renowned figures in the arts like Natalie Portman and Matt Damon, and business magnates such as Mark Zuckerberg. The university’s alum network spans the globe and continues to influence the world in diverse ways.
Admissions
Harvard’s admissions process is highly competitive, with a low acceptance rate. Prospective students are evaluated based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. However, the university is committed to providing financial aid to eligible students to make Harvard accessible to a diverse range of individuals.
Acceptance Rates
Nearly forty thousand undergraduates apply to Harvard each year. In 2017, only 5.2% of applicants were admitted, continuing a downward trend seen at Harvard and many other elite universities. The yield at Harvard is usually high because so many students who are offered admission to the institution choose to enroll there.
Who Gets Into Harvard, Anyway?
Although Harvard does not specify a minimum grade point average or range of standardized test scores for admission, those who are accepted often have excellent academic records. The average combined SAT score for the class of 2020 was 2235 (on the previous edition of the test), which is nearly equivalent to a score of 1530 on the current SAT. Applicants are expected to have taken challenging courses and participated actively in extracurricular activities.
However, more than good grades are needed to guarantee acceptance. Students who are truly extraordinary and have tremendous potential are the focus of Harvard’s comprehensive examination process. You’ll need to demonstrate qualities like originality, perseverance, and curiosity to get noticed among the many other highly qualified candidates. Remember to highlight your strengths and what you can bring to this vibrant school community.
Due to its meager acceptance rate, Harvard is a distant goal for most students who apply; even the most qualified students often need help to gain admission. Many students, however, weigh the benefits against the time and effort involved and the possibility of rejection and conclude that the benefits are worth it.
Instructions on How to Apply
The Common Application, the Coalition Application, and the Universal Application are all valid options for applying to Harvard. Since none of these options is preferred, you are free to select the most convenient option. No matter what application form you choose to use, you will be expected to answer all of the extra questions that Harvard requests. The Harvard supplement has a question for an essay you are not required to respond to; nonetheless, we strongly recommend that you respond to this optional essay question.
In addition to the undergraduate application form, you will be required to:
- Submit SAT or ACT scores (with or without writing) – test-optional for 2022-2026 application cycles
- Transcripts
- School Report from your guidance counselor
- 2 reference letters (referred to as Teacher Reports)
P.S. An interview with a Harvard alumnus or alumna in your area is optional. It may only occasionally be available, but we strongly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity if it presents itself.
To apply for a graduate program, you’ll need to gather:
- Transcripts
- GMAT/GRE scores
- English Language Test (only if you’re a non-native English speaker)
- Essay
- Recommendations
- Resume
- Acceptance of Policies
How much does it cost to apply?
To apply, it costs $85. You can apply for a fee waiver here if you face economic hardship.
Conclusion
Harvard University is a symbol of academic excellence and a testament to the pursuit of knowledge. Its history, educational programs, campus life, and influential alums make it an institution that continues to shape the world. Naturally, applying to a place like Harvard can be intimidating. Still, the more you know, the better you can decide whether to take a chance on Harvard—and the better you’ll be able to prepare for the demands of the application process.
If you’re considering applying to Harvard University, consider enlisting the expertise of 700+Club Admissions Consulting. Our seasoned consultants are here to guide you through every step of the journey to your dream school. Whether you aspire to study at Harvard or appreciate its impact, understanding everything there is to know about this venerable institution is a rewarding journey into higher education and achievement.
Holistic Learning Experience
Bocconi goes beyond traditional classroom education, offering students a holistic learning experience. Guest lectures by industry experts, seminars, workshops, and internships equip students with practical skills and insights to excel in their chosen fields.
Emphasis on Entrepreneurship
The university nurtures an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. Through initiatives like Bocconi Start-Up Day and the Bocconi for Innovation project, students have the resources and mentorship needed to bring their innovative ideas to life.
Distinguished Alumni
Bocconi University takes pride in its accomplished alums who have succeeded globally in various sectors. From business leaders to policymakers, Bocconi graduates have significantly impacted their respective fields.
Fun Fact: Italian businesswoman, fashion designer, and model Chiara Ferragni studied law there but did not complete her degree.
Welcoming International Community
Bocconi’s diverse student body represents over 100 nationalities, creating a multicultural environment that fosters global perspectives and cross-cultural interactions. This enriching atmosphere prepares students to thrive in an interconnected world.
Strict Admissions Process
The university’s reputation for a low admittance rate of 38% precedes it. It’s not surprising, though, because the university’s Master of Science in Management program is ranked ninth globally, while its Master of Science in Finance program is ranked tenth.
The Bottom Line
Choosing an institution for higher education is a decision of paramount importance. Bocconi University’s legacy of excellence, international recognition, diverse academic programs, and commitment to shaping future leaders make it a compelling choice for aspiring scholars. The university’s location in Milan, its emphasis on entrepreneurship, and its rich history further contribute to its allure.
If you’re aiming to secure a spot at Bocconi, the 700+Club admissions consulting services can prove invaluable. Navigating the admissions process of a top-tier university requires careful planning, strategic positioning, and a deep understanding of the institution’s expectations.
700+Club’s expertise in this area can provide personalized guidance, helping you present your best self on your application. Furthermore, preparing for tests like the SAT and GMAT is often crucial to the application process. These tests assess critical skills and knowledge necessary for success at the university level. 700+Club’s test prep services can aid you in achieving a high score, enhancing your chances of admission to Bocconi University.
In conclusion, Bocconi University’s exceptional reputation, academic prowess, and dedication to shaping global leaders make it a standout choice for those seeking an extraordinary education. With the support of services like 700+Club admissions consulting and test prep, you can embark on a journey towards a transformative educational experience at Bocconi University.
