In College Raptor’s 2024 list of the 50 Best Colleges in America, Harvard University sits at the top! Regularly ranked among the best schools in the country, College Raptor’s rankings consider several factors when choosing the best colleges and universities. These factors include diversity, endowment, graduation rates, student-to-faculty ratios, first-year retention rates, and more.
A Brief History of Harvard
A private Ivy League research university, Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally founded as Harvard College (named for its benefactor, John Harvard) in 1636, by the 1800s, the school was already one of the most prestigious among Boston’s elite. Women were admitted in the late 19th century, and the school experienced rapid growth throughout the 20th century.
Why is Harvard a Top-Rated School? Harvard students and faculty are world-renowned for their outstanding academic achievements. Home to state-of-the-art facilities and libraries, the university provides numerous research opportunities and conducts groundbreaking research in a number of fields. Harvard also has a strong sense of tradition, a large alumni network, a low student-to-faculty ratio, and a robust financial aid program.
Harvard University has produced Presidents of the United States, living billionaires, Olympians (who have won 110 medals), Fulbright Scholars, Rhode Scholars, and others who have excelled in their fields. Students and faculty are committed to research, innovation, public service, and learning as a whole. The university is also known for its outstanding traditions and outstanding athletic programs.
Also Read: Here’s How Stanford University Has Helped Develop Silicon Valley
Here’s How to Give Yourself a Chance at Getting into Harvard?
Approximately 61,000 students applied to Harvard University in 2022 – and only 3% were accepted. To say Harvard is highly selective is an understatement! It’s incredibly difficult to get into the school, so planning is a must.
Here are some tips to increase your chances of getting that coveted Harvard University acceptance letter:
1. Excel on the SAT/ACT
Harvard University doesn’t technically require these tests, but they strongly recommend that students submit their SAT or ACT scores because they prefer to do so. On average, Harvard students who are accepted have an ACT Composite score between 34-35 or between 1,500-1,550 on the SAT. Taking practice tests, working on your weaknesses, and partnering with a tutor can help improve your score on these exams.
2. Get High Grades, Have a Full Schedule, and Be Enthusiastic About Learning
A 4.0 isn’t enough to improve your chances of getting into Harvard. Students need to earn high grades on a tight schedule. This means taking tough classes like Advanced Placement (AP) and doing well. Students should also take steps to learn outside of the classroom through extracurricular activities, internships, and other opportunities.
3. Make Your Application as Strong as Possible
To stand out, your application needs to show why you would be an outstanding addition to Harvard. Not only should you list all of your accomplishments and activities, but you’ll also need a stellar essay and stellar letters of recommendation.
4. Highlight Community Involvement
Harvard also values students who are involved outside of the classroom, who demonstrate leadership, and who are committed to improving the world around them. Athletics, student clubs, and volunteer work will all help your application tremendously!
5. Get in Early
Did you know that applying through Early Action can actually increase your chances of getting in? Applications are non-binding, so you can also apply to other schools through Early Action. However, it’s important to note that more students are applying early these days, so competition will remain fierce.
Harvard University has a history of nearly 400 years, is globally renowned for its academic programs and research, and produces students who continue to achieve amazing things. It’s clear from the statistics why Harvard is a top-ranked school for 2024! Learn more about Harvard University, its admissions opportunities, costs, and more here.