Harvard University

Quick Facts about Harvard University

• Founded: 1636
• Type: Private
• Students: 21,189
• International: 27%
• Campus: Urban
• Tuition: $56,500 – $59,900/year
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
• Intakes: January, September

About Harvard University

Academics

Harvard offers a wide array of academic programs across its ten faculties, including the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, which is the largest. The university provides over 50 undergraduate majors, 134 graduate degrees, and 32 professional degrees, with popular undergraduate concentrations including Economics, Government, Computer Science, and Psychology. Harvard is particularly recognized for its programs in Law, Business (MBA), and Medicine, and emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests. The teaching approach often includes advanced coursework and senior theses for honors degrees, and while some introductory courses are large, the median class size is 12 students.

International Students

Harvard is a highly popular destination for international students, with approximately 22.9% of its student body coming from abroad, representing over 140 countries. The Harvard International Office (HIO) serves as a central resource, offering support and guidance on visas, work permits, travel, and cultural adjustment, and hosts events to foster interaction among international students. Financial aid policies are need-based and are the same for all applicants, regardless of nationality. International students also have access to various pre-orientation and orientation programs, academic advising, and numerous student-run cultural and affinity groups that provide a supportive community.

Campus & Location

Harvard's main campus, centered on the historic Harvard Yard, spans 209 acres in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just west-northwest of downtown Boston. The university also has significant campuses in the Allston neighborhood of Boston, home to Harvard Business School and many athletic facilities, and a medical campus in Boston's Longwood Medical Area. Cambridge itself is a multicultural city with museums and historic buildings, and is easily accessible via the MBTA subway system's Red Line, with a stop directly across from Harvard Yard. The campus features numerous libraries, museums, and community gardens, offering a rich environment for both study and recreation.

Career Outcomes

A significant majority of Harvard graduates, 58%, immediately enter the workforce, with a large proportion securing positions in finance, technology, and consulting. Approximately 40% of graduates entering the workforce earn over $110,000 annually, with many in tech, finance, and consulting earning even higher salaries. The Office of Career Services (OCS) provides personalized advising, workshops, and job listings, including resources tailored for international students regarding visa requirements. Harvard also fosters a strong startup culture, supported by initiatives like the Harvard Innovation Labs (i-lab), which provide incubation space, maker spaces, and resources for student ventures, and has seen 289 new startup companies emerge from its research innovations, raising over $15.6 billion in financing.

Information for International Students at Harvard University

Harvard University in Cambridge, United States welcomes international students, with 27% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 27% of students are international
• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Harvard University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Harvard University:

• IELTS minimum: 7
• TOEFL minimum: 100
• Duolingo minimum: 120
• GPA minimum: 4
• GRE required
• Application fee: $90
• Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
• Application deadline: January 1

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Programs at Harvard University (47 programs)

Harvard University offers 47 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (14)

• Computer Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  This program provides a foundational understanding of computing, algorithms, programming, and software development, preparing students for careers in technology and research.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, UX Designer
• Economics (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  Students analyze economic systems, policies, and behaviors, developing analytical skills to understand markets, public policy, and global economic issues.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Consultant, Economist, Policy Advisor
• Applied Mathematics (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  Students learn to apply mathematical principles and computational tools to solve complex problems in science, engineering, and other quantitative fields.
  Field: Mathematics
  Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Financial Analyst, Engineer, Researcher
• Neuroscience (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  Students explore the structure and function of the nervous system, from molecular mechanisms to complex behaviors, integrating biology, psychology, and computation.
  Field: Neuroscience
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Medical Professional, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals
• African and African American Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program explores the history, culture, and social experiences of people of African descent, examining their contributions and challenges across various global contexts.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Academia, Non-profit, Government, Journalism
• History (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program delves into past events, societies, and cultures, fostering critical thinking and research skills to interpret historical narratives and their impact on the present.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Archivist, Historian, Journalist, Educator
• Social Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  An interdisciplinary program that examines social, political, and economic phenomena, drawing on insights from history, political science, sociology, and philosophy.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Public Policy, Law, Journalism, Non-profit Management
• Computer Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  This program provides a foundational understanding of computing, algorithms, programming, and software development, preparing students for careers in technology and research.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, UX Designer
• Economics (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  Students analyze economic systems, policies, and behaviors, developing analytical skills to understand markets, public policy, and global economic issues.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Consultant, Economist, Policy Advisor
• Applied Mathematics (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  Students learn to apply mathematical principles and computational tools to solve complex problems in science, engineering, and other quantitative fields.
  Field: Mathematics
  Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Financial Analyst, Engineer, Researcher
• Neuroscience (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  Students explore the structure and function of the nervous system, from molecular mechanisms to complex behaviors, integrating biology, psychology, and computation.
  Field: Neuroscience
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Medical Professional, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals
• African and African American Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program explores the history, culture, and social experiences of people of African descent, examining their contributions and challenges across various global contexts.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Academia, Non-profit, Government, Journalism
• History (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program delves into past events, societies, and cultures, fostering critical thinking and research skills to interpret historical narratives and their impact on the present.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Archivist, Historian, Journalist, Educator
• Social Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $57,261/yr
  An interdisciplinary program that examines social, political, and economic phenomena, drawing on insights from history, political science, sociology, and philosophy.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Public Policy, Law, Journalism, Non-profit Management

Master Programs (14)

• Master of Education (Ed.M.) (Ed.M.) — 12 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program prepares educators and leaders to address critical challenges in education through advanced coursework, research, and practical experience in diverse settings.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Policy Analyst, Educational Consultant
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $74,910/yr
  The MBA program develops leaders with a global perspective, equipping them with strategic thinking, management skills, and a deep understanding of business principles.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Consultant, Investment Banker, Product Manager, Entrepreneur
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) (MPP) — 24 months · English · $57,200/yr
  This program trains students to analyze, design, and implement effective public policies, addressing complex societal challenges through rigorous analytical and leadership skills.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Official, Non-profit Leader, Consultant
• Master of Science in Engineering Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study in various engineering disciplines, focusing on research, innovation, and the application of scientific principles to solve complex problems.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Engineer, Product Developer, Consultant, Academia
• Juris Doctor (JD) (JD) — 36 months · English · $73,600/yr
  This professional degree program provides comprehensive legal education, preparing students for careers in law, public service, and various other fields requiring legal expertise.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Public Defender, Corporate Counsel
• Master of Education (Ed.M.) (Ed.M.) — 12 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program prepares educators and leaders to address critical challenges in education through advanced coursework, research, and practical experience in diverse settings.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Policy Analyst, Educational Consultant
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $74,910/yr
  The MBA program develops leaders with a global perspective, equipping them with strategic thinking, management skills, and a deep understanding of business principles.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Consultant, Investment Banker, Product Manager, Entrepreneur
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) (MPP) — 24 months · English · $57,200/yr
  This program trains students to analyze, design, and implement effective public policies, addressing complex societal challenges through rigorous analytical and leadership skills.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Official, Non-profit Leader, Consultant
• Master of Science in Engineering Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study in various engineering disciplines, focusing on research, innovation, and the application of scientific principles to solve complex problems.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Engineer, Product Developer, Consultant, Academia
• Juris Doctor (JD) (JD) — 36 months · English · $73,600/yr
  This professional degree program provides comprehensive legal education, preparing students for careers in law, public service, and various other fields requiring legal expertise.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Public Defender, Corporate Counsel
• Master of Science in Engineering Sciences (SM) (MSc) — 24 months · English · $54,768/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in various engineering disciplines, focusing on innovative solutions to complex technical problems.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Engineer, Product Developer, Consulting Engineer, Academia
• Medicine (Doctor of Medicine) (MD) — 48 months · English · $72,000/yr · STEM
  The Doctor of Medicine program provides comprehensive medical education, clinical training, and research opportunities to prepare future physicians and medical leaders.
  Field: Medicine
  Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher, Public Health Doctor
• Law (Juris Doctor) (JD) — 36 months · English · $73,600/yr
  The Juris Doctor program provides rigorous legal education, covering foundational legal principles, critical analysis, and practical skills necessary for a career in law.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Counsel, Policy Advisor
• Architecture (MArch) — 36 months · English · $57,200/yr
  The Master of Architecture program provides comprehensive training in architectural design, theory, history, and technology, preparing students for professional practice.
  Field: Architecture
  Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Project Manager, Architectural Researcher

PhD Programs (19)

• PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr · STEM
  This program prepares students for leading research and academic positions in computer science, focusing on advanced topics and original contributions to the field.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Professor, Software Architect, Data Scientist
• PhD in Political Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $57,261/yr
  Students engage in advanced study and original research in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and American politics.
  Field: Political Science
  Career outcomes: Academia, Policy Analyst, Government Official, Think Tank Researcher
• PhD in Biological Sciences in Public Health (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on cutting-edge research in biological sciences relevant to public health, preparing students to address global health challenges through scientific inquiry.
  Field: Public Health
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Public Health Official, Academia, Biotechnology
• PhD in History (PhD) — 72 months · English · $54,768/yr
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various historical fields, culminating in original scholarship and preparing students for academic and research careers.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Professor, Archivist, Curator, Research Fellow
• PhD in Business Administration (PhD) — 60 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program trains scholars to conduct original research in various business disciplines, contributing to theoretical knowledge and practical applications in management.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Academia, Research Scientist, Consultant
• PhD in Neuroscience (PhD) — 60 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program provides comprehensive training in neuroscience research, covering molecular, cellular, systems, and cognitive aspects of the nervous system.
  Field: Neuroscience
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Academia, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals
• PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr
  The PhD in Economics provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for careers in research, academia, and policy analysis.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Professor, Economist (Government/International Organizations), Research Scientist, Consultant
• PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr · STEM
  This program prepares students for leading research and academic positions in computer science, focusing on advanced topics and original contributions to the field.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Professor, Software Architect, Data Scientist
• PhD in Political Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $57,261/yr
  Students engage in advanced study and original research in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and American politics.
  Field: Political Science
  Career outcomes: Academia, Policy Analyst, Government Official, Think Tank Researcher
• PhD in Biological Sciences in Public Health (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on cutting-edge research in biological sciences relevant to public health, preparing students to address global health challenges through scientific inquiry.
  Field: Public Health
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Public Health Official, Academia, Biotechnology
• PhD in History (PhD) — 72 months · English · $54,768/yr
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various historical fields, culminating in original scholarship and preparing students for academic and research careers.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Professor, Archivist, Curator, Research Fellow
• PhD in Business Administration (PhD) — 60 months · English · $57,261/yr
  This program trains scholars to conduct original research in various business disciplines, contributing to theoretical knowledge and practical applications in management.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Academia, Research Scientist, Consultant
• PhD in Neuroscience (PhD) — 60 months · English · $57,261/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program provides comprehensive training in neuroscience research, covering molecular, cellular, systems, and cognitive aspects of the nervous system.
  Field: Neuroscience
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Academia, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals
• PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr
  The PhD in Economics provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for careers in research, academia, and policy analysis.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Professor, Economist (Government/International Organizations), Research Scientist, Consultant
• PhD in English (PhD) — 72 months · English · $54,768/yr
  This doctoral program focuses on advanced literary scholarship, critical theory, and textual analysis, preparing students for careers in academia and research.
  Field: English Literature
  Career outcomes: Professor, Literary Critic, Editor, Writer
• PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr · STEM
  The PhD in Chemistry provides rigorous training in chemical research, enabling students to make original contributions to various sub-disciplines of chemistry.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist, Materials Scientist
• PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr
  This doctoral program provides comprehensive training in psychological research and theory, preparing students for careers in academia, research, and clinical practice.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Professor, Research Psychologist, Clinical Psychologist, Consultant
• PhD in Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study and research in theoretical and experimental physics, pushing the boundaries of scientific understanding and discovery.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Professor, Engineer, Data Scientist
• PhD in Government (PhD) — 60 months · English · $54,768/yr
  The PhD in Government offers advanced study in political science, focusing on political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and American politics.
  Field: Political Science
  Career outcomes: Professor, Policy Analyst, Government Official, Political Consultant

Scholarships & Tuition at Harvard University

Annual tuition for international students: $56,500 – $59,900/year

✅ Harvard University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Harvard University

• National Ranking: #1 in United States
• QS World University Ranking: #5
• Times Higher Education (THE): #5
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #1
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at Harvard University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Urban
• Average class size: 12

Key Highlights

• Oldest US higher education institution
• Globally influential research university
• Diverse academic programs offered
• High international student population
• Historic Cambridge, MA campus

Accreditation

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

Notable Alumni

• Barack Obama
• John F. Kennedy
• Natalie Portman
• Bill Gates
• Ratan Tata

Frequently Asked Questions about Harvard University

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