Harvard University FAQs: Answers to Common Student Questions

Harvard University is one of the most prestigious and sought-after institutions in the world, attracting students from all backgrounds who aspire to academic excellence. However, many students have questions about Harvard’s admissions process, tuition costs, scholarships, campus life, and academic programs. What does it take to get accepted? How competitive is financial aid? What’s life like as a Harvard student?

In this guide, we answer the most frequently asked questions about Harvard University, providing clear and insightful information to help students, parents, and aspiring applicants better understand what it takes to be part of this Ivy League institution. Whether you’re exploring your college options or actively preparing to apply, this article will give you the essential details about Harvard.

What Are the Majors at Harvard University?

Harvard University offers a diverse range of academic programs through its Faculty of Arts and Sciences, providing students with the flexibility to explore their interests across multiple disciplines. At Harvard College, students pursue a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) or Bachelor of Science (S.B.) degree in one of the many concentration areas (Harvard’s term for majors).

Harvard’s Major Fields of Study

Harvard College offers more than 50 concentrations across various academic divisions, including:

Arts & Humanities
- English
- History
- Philosophy
- Music
- Visual and Environmental Studies
Social Sciences
- Economics
- Government (Political Science)
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Anthropology
Sciences & Engineering
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Mathematics & Applied Sciences
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Data Science
- Environmental Science and Public Policy

Secondary Fields (Minors) at Harvard

Harvard also allows students to declare a secondary field (minor) in addition to their concentration. Secondary fields typically require fewer courses than a full concentration and allow students to explore additional areas of interest.

Special Concentrations and Dual Degrees

For students with unique academic interests, Harvard offers a Special Concentration option, allowing them to design their own major with faculty approval. Additionally, students can pursue joint degrees, such as the Harvard-Engineering Dual Degree Program or the Harvard-Berkeley Architecture Program.

What Is the Acceptance Rate at Harvard?

Harvard University is one of the most selective institutions in the world, with an acceptance rate of around 3-4% in recent years. This means that out of tens of thousands of applicants, only a small percentage are admitted. The admissions process is highly competitive, considering factors such as academic excellence, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, leadership, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. While a high GPA and strong SAT/ACT scores are important, Harvard looks for students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, resilience, and a unique impact on their community. Due to the rigorous selection process, applicants should focus on presenting a well-rounded and compelling application that highlights both academic and personal achievements.

How Many Students Are Accepted Into Harvard Law?

Harvard Law School (HLS) is one of the most prestigious and selective law schools in the world, admitting only a small percentage of applicants each year. With an acceptance rate of around 10-12%, HLS receives approximately 7,000 to 8,000 applications annually and admits about 800 to 1,000 students to form an incoming class of roughly 560–570 students. The admissions process is highly competitive, with successful applicants typically having strong undergraduate GPAs (often 3.8 or higher), high LSAT scores (usually above 170), and impressive personal statements and letters of recommendation. While academic excellence is a key factor, Harvard Law also values leadership, professional experience, public service, and unique personal backgrounds, making the admissions process holistic.

What GPA Is Required at Harvard?

Harvard University does not have a strict minimum GPA requirement, but successful applicants typically have a high GPA, often around 4.0 or higher on a weighted scale. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class, demonstrating strong academic performance in rigorous courses such as AP, IB, or honors classes. While a high GPA is important, Harvard takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering factors like standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal essays. A slightly lower GPA may be offset by exceptional achievements, unique experiences, or strong letters of recommendation. Ultimately, students should strive for academic excellence while also showcasing their personal strengths and impact beyond the classroom.

How Many Students Are at Harvard University?

Harvard University has a total student population of approximately 25,000 across its various schools and programs. This includes around 7,000 undergraduate students enrolled at Harvard College and about 18,000 graduate and professional students across Harvard’s 12 graduate schools, such as Harvard Law School, Harvard Business School, Harvard Medical School, and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. The university’s diverse student body represents all 50 U.S. states and over 150 countries, fostering a global academic community. Harvard’s relatively small undergraduate population, combined with its vast resources, allows for small class sizes, close faculty interaction, and extensive research opportunities.

How Far Is Harvard From Boston?

Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just about 3–5 miles from downtown Boston. The campus is easily accessible from the city, with a commute time of 15 to 20 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Public transportation is also a convenient option, as the Harvard Square Station on the MBTA Red Line provides a direct connection to Boston’s downtown and other surrounding areas. Many Harvard students frequently visit Boston for internships, cultural events, and entertainment, making it a convenient and vibrant extension of campus life. The close proximity allows students to enjoy the resources of both a prestigious university and a major metropolitan city.

Why Is Harvard So Famous?

Harvard University is one of the most prestigious and well-known institutions in the world, with a reputation built on centuries of academic excellence, influential alumni, and groundbreaking research. From its historic founding to its global impact, Harvard’s name is synonymous with elite education, leadership, and innovation. Here’s why Harvard is so famous:

Oldest University in the United States

Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest institution of higher learning in the U.S., giving it a deep historical significance. Its long-standing traditions and contributions to academia have shaped the American education system and influenced universities worldwide.

World-Class Education and Faculty

Harvard consistently ranks among the top universities globally, offering rigorous academic programs and access to renowned professors, including Nobel Prize winners, Pulitzer Prize recipients, and industry leaders. The university’s emphasis on critical thinking, research, and intellectual exploration makes it a hub for innovation and discovery.

Elite and Influential Alumni Network

Harvard has produced eight U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy, Barack Obama, and Franklin D. Roosevelt, along with countless world leaders, Supreme Court justices, Fortune 500 CEOs, and notable scholars. Its powerful alumni network extends across industries such as politics, business, law, medicine, and entertainment.

Groundbreaking Research and Innovation

Harvard is home to cutting-edge research in medicine, science, technology, law, and social sciences. Institutions like Harvard Medical School, Harvard Law School, and the Harvard Business School set global standards in their respective fields. The university has contributed to major medical advancements, legal theories, economic models, and technological breakthroughs.

The Harvard Library and Campus Resources

With over 20 million books, the Harvard Library is the largest academic library system in the world. Additionally, Harvard boasts extensive resources, including state-of-the-art research labs, museums, and cultural institutions that support groundbreaking discoveries and academic growth.

Ivy League Prestige and Global Recognition

As a member of the Ivy League, Harvard is often seen as a symbol of academic and social prestige. It is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide and attracts students from across the globe who aspire to be part of its distinguished legacy.

What Is the Mascot of Harvard University?

Harvard University’s official mascot is John Harvard, the Pilgrim, a representation of the university’s namesake and one of its earliest benefactors. While Harvard does not have a traditional animal mascot like many other universities, John Harvard is often depicted in historical Pilgrim attire and serves as a symbol of the school’s rich history. Additionally, Harvard’s athletic teams are known as the Harvard Crimson, reflecting the university’s signature color. The “Crimson” nickname is widely used in Harvard’s sports culture, and the John Harvard Statue, located in Harvard Yard, is one of the most famous landmarks associated with the university.

Who Are Harvard University’s Notable Alumni?

Harvard University has one of the most distinguished alumni networks in the world, with graduates who have shaped politics, business, law, entertainment, and science. From U.S. presidents to tech innovators and Hollywood stars, Harvard alumni have made a lasting impact across various fields. Here are some of the most notable figures who have walked the halls of Harvard:

U.S. Presidents and Political Leaders

Harvard has produced eight U.S. presidents, including:

John F. Kennedy (35th U.S. President) – Known for his leadership during the Cold War and the establishment of NASA’s space program.
Franklin D. Roosevelt (32nd U.S. President) – Led the U.S. through the Great Depression and World War II.
Barack Obama (44th U.S. President) – First African American president of the U.S., known for the Affordable Care Act.
George W. Bush (43rd U.S. President) – Served two terms and led the country during the 9/11 attacks.

Additionally, Harvard has educated numerous world leaders, diplomats, and Supreme Court justices, including Ruth Bader Ginsburg, John Roberts, and Ted Cruz.

Business and Technology Innovators

Harvard alumni have founded some of the most successful global companies:

Bill Gates (Microsoft Co-Founder) – Attended Harvard before leaving to start Microsoft, revolutionizing personal computing.
Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook/Meta Co-Founder) – Created Facebook while at Harvard, transforming social media.
Sheryl Sandberg (Former COO of Meta) – One of the most influential women in technology and business.
Michael Bloomberg (Founder of Bloomberg LP) – Billionaire businessman, former mayor of New York City, and philanthropist.

Influential Figures in Law and Public Service

Harvard Law School has produced many legal scholars, judges, and policymakers, including:

Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice) – Champion of gender equality and civil rights.
Elena Kagan (U.S. Supreme Court Justice) – Known for her influential legal opinions.
Mitt Romney (U.S. Senator and Former Governor of Massachusetts) – A key figure in American politics.

Hollywood, Media, and the Arts

Many Harvard alumni have gone on to have successful careers in entertainment, journalism, and the arts:

Natalie Portman (Academy Award-winning actress) – Known for her roles in Black Swan and Star Wars.
Matt Damon (Actor and Screenwriter) – Co-wrote and starred in Good Will Hunting.
Conan O’Brien (TV Host and Comedian) – Former host of The Tonight Show and Conan.
Yo-Yo Ma (World-Renowned Cellist) – One of the most celebrated classical musicians.

Nobel Prize Winners and Scientists

Harvard has produced many Nobel laureates and groundbreaking scientists, including:

Henry Kissinger (Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Former U.S. Secretary of State)
Al Gore (Former U.S. Vice President, Nobel Peace Prize Winner for Climate Change Advocacy)
Jennifer Doudna (CRISPR Gene Editing Scientist, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry)

When Did Ketanji Brown Jackson Graduate from Harvard University?

Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, graduated from Harvard University in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) degree in Government. She then continued her education at Harvard Law School, where she earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) in 1996. During her time at Harvard, Jackson was actively involved in student organizations and served as an editor for the Harvard Law Review. Her academic excellence and leadership at Harvard helped pave the way for her distinguished legal career, ultimately leading to her historic appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022.

What Bollywood Movie Was Filmed at Harvard University?

The Bollywood movie “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna” (2006) was partially filmed at Harvard University. Directed by Karan Johar, the film starred major Bollywood actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta, Abhishek Bachchan, and Amitabh Bachchan. Some scenes, particularly those featuring Rani Mukerji’s character, who plays a teacher, were shot on Harvard’s campus, capturing its iconic architecture and academic setting. While Harvard has been featured in various Hollywood films, “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna” remains one of the most well-known Bollywood movies to have filmed there, adding to its global cinematic appeal.

What Is the Z-List at Harvard University?

The Z-List is a special deferred admission program at Harvard University, designed for a small group of applicants who are offered admission for the following academic year instead of the current one. Students placed on the Z-List typically take a gap year before enrolling at Harvard. The university does not publicly disclose selection criteria, but the Z-List is often associated with legacy applicants or students with strong personal connections to Harvard who may not have met the traditional admission standards but are still considered highly qualified. While the exact number varies, only about 50–100 students are admitted through the Z-List each year. Those who accept the offer automatically gain admission after their gap year, giving them additional time to prepare for college.

What Are the Sororities and Fraternities at Harvard?

Harvard University has a unique and evolving relationship with Greek life and other social organizations. While traditional fraternities and sororities are not officially recognized by the university, some off-campus, independent Greek organizations still exist. Additionally, Harvard has final clubs, female social clubs, and co-ed organizations that serve as alternatives to traditional fraternities and sororities.

Greek Life at Harvard

Harvard does not formally recognize fraternities and sororities, and in 2016, the university introduced policies discouraging students from joining single-gender social organizations. Despite this, some off-campus fraternities and sororities continue to operate independently, including:

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) – A national fraternity with an off-campus chapter near Harvard.
Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi) – A Jewish fraternity with Harvard-affiliated members.
Kappa Alpha Theta (Theta) – A historically recognized sorority with Harvard ties.
Delta Gamma (DG) – A sorority that operated for years before shifting to a gender-inclusive social club.

Harvard’s Final Clubs

Instead of traditional Greek life, Harvard has final clubs, which are private, selective, and historic social clubs with deep-rooted traditions. Some of the most well-known final clubs include:

The Porcellian Club (Founded in 1791)
The Fly Club
The Delphic Club
The Phoenix-S.K. Club

With Harvard discouraging gender-exclusive organizations, many former sororities and final clubs have transitioned into co-ed social clubs, such as:

The Seneca – A female-focused social organization supporting women’s leadership.
The Oak Club – A gender-inclusive social group.
The Fleur-de-Lis – A group formerly associated with Delta Gamma.

Does Harvard Have a Women’s Basketball Team?

Yes, Harvard University has a women’s basketball team, known as the Harvard Crimson Women’s Basketball Team. The team competes in NCAA Division I as part of the Ivy League Conference and plays its home games at Lavietes Pavilion, one of the oldest basketball arenas in the country. Harvard’s women’s basketball team has a strong history of success, including multiple Ivy League championships and appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The team is known for its competitive spirit, academic excellence, and strong leadership under experienced coaching staff. Harvard student-athletes balance rigorous academics with high-level athletics, making the women’s basketball team an integral part of the university’s sports culture.

Harvard University is known for its academic excellence, prestigious reputation, and influential alumni—but what do you think about it? Are you considering applying to Harvard, or do you have any questions about admissions, student life, or academic programs? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your questions or opinions in the comments below, and let’s discuss Harvard’s impact, opportunities, and challenges.