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Harvard University

Cambridge, Massachusetts · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #3 US News

FindU Grade

A+Value
N/ACampus
A+Academics
A+Admissions
AStudent Life
A+Overall

About

Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 7,755 students.

harvard.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$59,076
Out-of-state tuition$59,076
Room & board$20,374
Avg aid package$68,700
Students receiving aid16%
Pell grant recipients16%

Harvard's financial aid program is designed to make education accessible, with a commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need. While tuition is significant, the university offers various scholarships and grants to help offset costs. The return on investment is high, given Harvard's reputation and the career opportunities available to graduates.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1500–1580
4001600
ACT · middle 50%34–36
136

Application info

Acceptance rate3%
Average GPA3.95
Student–faculty ratio7:1
Test optionalNo
Common AppYes
Application fee$85

Harvard's admissions process is highly selective, with a holistic review that considers academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. The university seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a difference in the world. Strong essays and recommendations are crucial components of the application.

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Academics

Graduation rate98%
Retention rate99%
Student–faculty ratio7:1
Full-time faculty87%

Harvard's academic culture is rigorous and intellectually stimulating, with a focus on interdisciplinary learning and research. Students have access to world-renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. The university fosters a collaborative environment where students are encouraged to explore new frontiers of knowledge.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$101,817
Avg starting salary$184,500
Job placement rate84%
Earn more than HS grad89%
Loan default (3 yr)1%
Loan repayment (3 yr)71%

Harvard alumni are leaders in various fields, including business, politics, and academia. The university boasts an extensive alumni network and career services to support graduates in their job search. Many alumni go on to hold prominent positions in top companies and organizations worldwide.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
7,755Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 53%Male 47%
33% WhiteRacial diversity
White 33%Asian 22%Hispanic 12%Black 9%Other 24%
Campus housingYes

Campus life

Harvard in 2024 🎥 #Harvard #HarvardUniversity #Boston #Cambridge #College #University #Student #StudentLife #Snapshot

@harvard

@Harvard Chan School is home to a wide variety of research initiatives, with faculty, researchers, and students all work

@harvard

Professor Gary Ruvkun reflects on his journey to winning the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. #Harvard #HarvardUn

@harvard

+7 moreWatch every campus video. FreeShow me all

Harvard offers a vibrant campus life with over 500 student organizations catering to diverse interests. The residential house system creates close-knit communities, and students participate in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service. The social scene is diverse, with opportunities for both formal and informal gatherings.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

It was way too easy. i felt that it couldve have been easier and harder. some classes i felt were so freaking challenging and others were so easy.

Student

Standards of late seemed lowered. Back in the day we did not have remedial math at Harvard. Between Larry Summers and LaWhor e Vagistan you do need to wonder what the administration is aiming for regarding a higher education and the professors hired to fulfill this goal. The merit of a Harvard diploma is diluted by current admissions policies.

Campus and vibes

Current Student

Meal plan is unlimited, and dining halls double as social spaces. The freshman dining hall is cool and historical, as well as conveniently located, the food isn't as good there as the Houses, but it's not bad. The food gets better the less central the dhall. HUDS is really responsive to feedback and the workers are usually really friendly and helpful. The food, in comparison to other colleges, is mostly average (with both really good and bad days), but there is always something to eat �¢���� if not in the main options at least at the grill.

Student

Most students complain loudly about the quality of food here, but they have obviously never been to public school. It's really fine, some days better than others, but it keeps you alive.

Student

Tons of Mexican food around as well as little sandwich shops. There are plenty of great places to go out for coffee and there is a wonderful mix of chain and personal owned restaurants. Basically, whatever the budget, there is a place for you.

Student

As an athlete, I eat LOTS of dining hall food, and am usually fully satisfied. Freshmen all eat in the same Gothic style hall, which can be very fun if you can find your friends, and rather overwhelming if you have to search the rows and rows of tables for a while to find a place to sit. The dining hall can feel a bit crowded at peak meal times, but it is generally easy to find a little corner. Upperclassmen dining halls serve the same food, but it is made in smaller portions, and therefore tastes infinitely better. The rooms are also much smaller and cozier. They strive for a family style set up.

Student

I have seen so much good and want to go>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Student

Terrible...just terrible. I should've gone to Princeton. These Hara=vard rats have NOTHING on MY academic, athletic, and EMOTIONAL prowess! I cannot belive the state of it here! I could have gotten more bang for my buck at Evergreen Colle=ege in zolympia. PHew-wee!

About Harvard University

Harvard prioritizes campus safety and security, with 24-hour security patrols, emergency phones, and escort services. The Harvard University Police Department maintains a visible presence on campus. Students can also sign up for mobile campus emergency alerts to stay informed about potential safety concerns.

Harvard offers various honors programs and research opportunities for undergraduates, including the Harvard College Research Program (HCRP) and the Summer Honors Undergraduate Research Program (SHURP). These programs provide students with funding and mentorship to pursue independent research projects. The Radcliffe Institute also offers fellowships and research partnerships.

Harvard welcomes international students from over 150 countries, fostering a diverse and global community. The university provides resources and support for international students, including visa assistance and cultural organizations. International students contribute significantly to the academic and social fabric of the university.

Endowment$50,748,594,000
Avg faculty salary$285,396

Harvard University FAQ

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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