Practical Expectations and Expert Tips
For many students, admission to Harvard is an exciting possibility, but it’s no secret that competition is fierce. Your SAT score is one of the major parts of your application. So, what is the SAT score you will need to even be considered by Harvard?
What Does It Take to Get Into Harvard?
Harvard University, in Cambridge, MA, is one of the most prestigious schools in the world and is also known as Harvard College, which has one of the most selective admissions processes. If you are considering applying to Harvard, it is important to have a good understanding of a few key matters:
- What are the GPA expectations
- What are the standardised exam requirements (SAT, ACT)
- What the application requires
This guide will take you through everything you need to create a competitive application to Harvard University. A good and first step in the process is understanding the acceptance rate and what that means in terms of competitiveness for admission, and also, what it means in terms of all the factors that Harvard is typically looking at for admission.
The school has an acceptance rate of only 3.5%, which strictly translates to less than 4 out of every 100 applicants being accepted, making it one of the most selective schools in the world.
Getting through just the first stage of the review process requires you to have a GPA/SAT/ACT that meets or exceeds Harvard’s standards, since, as an applicant, you must demonstrate the ability to succeed academically in school (especially as your GPA is a significant aspect of your academics). If you do not clear or meet any of those marks, it seriously reduces your chances of acceptance.
If you did clear the applicant review stage as an average applicant, now your goal is to clearly impress Harvard in all remaining non-academic aspects of the school application, which consists of extracurricular/volunteer positions, personal essays, and recommendation letters, all of which are discussed further below.
Harvard GPA Requirements
The average GPA at Harvard is 4.2, which is to say, you need to be at the top of your class to be a competitive applicant. Most of the admitted students have essentially all A’s, including taking as many “hard” classes as are being considered in the college-level space via AP or IB.
While many schools have minimum GPAs or courses listed, the real barometer is actually quite a bit higher than that. If you’re a junior or senior, and your GPA is below the average, it may be difficult for you to “raise” it enough to be competitive unless you are taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes as well.
If this is the case, a good SAT or ACT score can hopefully offset your lower GPA and provide a way to stay competitive in your application process.
Harvard Testing Policy
The role of standardized testing at Harvard is different from what it is at other colleges. While some colleges require SAT or ACT scores, many colleges make them optional, but still consider them if they are submitted. To apply to Harvard, you will have to take the SAT or ACT. But you need to not just take the test; you need to receive a high enough score to improve your chances and be competitive.
Harvard SAT Requirements
Many colleges say they do not have an official SAT cutoff, but they have an unofficial cutoff that is based on average scores.
If we look at Harvard’s average SAT composite score is 1550 (out of 1600), it means that to be competitive on tests, the student must be highly competent on tests.
There is a difference between scoring 1500 (approx. 25th percentile in Harvard) and scoring 1580 (approx 75th percentile in Harvard), which gives you a lot more tickets in this lottery. You may want to consider tutoring in your area if you are looking to attend Harvard and live in a place such as Acton or Boston.
Here’s the breakdown of SAT scores for Harvard Admitted Students by section:
SAT Score Choice Policy
The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.
SAT Score Choice, known as the “Highest Section” policy at Harvard (which they will refer to as superscoring), allows you to choose the SAT test dates you would like to send, and Harvard will use your best individual sections from those dates. This technique helps highlight your strongest performance in each section and will help your application.
So, if your SAT superscore is below 1580, we recommend academic prep for the SAT and retaking the test. You will likely increase your score, which will greatly improve your odds of admission.
Even more, with the Superscore, you can devote everything to one section at a time. If your Reading score is the lowest of your important sections, make a preparation strategy for just the Reading section, and go take the SAT. The next time you take the SAT, devise a strategy for just the Math section, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.
Establishing Reasonable Expectations
Although a strong SAT score is useful to your application, keep in mind that Harvard engages in holistic admissions. This means that:
- A 1600 SAT score will NOT guarantee admission.
- You might be able to overcome a slightly lower score if you have:
- Exceptional extracurriculars
- Excellent essays to share your ideas in writing
- Leadership experience
- Unique personal background
- Exceptional class rank and GPA
So, rather than perfection, aim for balance and excellence throughout your application.
Professional Guidance to Improve Your Application
Work Ahead of Time: Prepare for the SAT no less than 6-8 months before the test- you have to be prepared.
Target Weaknesses: Use your practice tests to fill in your gaps in knowledge.
Update on test-optional: By 2025, a number of schools will be reassessing test-optional candidates. Double-check the most current information.
Work with a professional: If you need to or you want to use a prep course or tutor ( an experienced and trusted one!)
Professionalize Your Profile: Spend just as much time on your essays, recommendations, and extra-curriculars- they’re equally important.
Conclusion
Aiming for a 1550+ SAT score is a wise aspiration if you apply to Harvard, but keep in mind that your story, potential, and impact are also important. Excellence can come in many forms, and Harvard seeks students who will make an impact in the future, not just excel at a standardized test.
How The Princeton Review Singapore Can Help You Get Into Harvard
Achieving a score above 1550 on the SAT is an ambitious yet reasonable goal, and The Princeton Review Singapore will be able to help you reach that goal. Here’s how:
1. Expert SAT Prep Programs
- Personalized Study Plans based on your starting score and target goals.
- Top-notch Instructors who have extensive SAT strategy experience.
- Realistic Practice Test that creates an authentically Digital SAT experience.
- Access to proven strategies for test-taking that will boost both your speed and accuracy.
2. Score Improvement Assurance
The Princeton Review provides an assurance on score improvements – if you don’t see an improvement, you may be eligible to repeat your classes at no extra charge.
3. Small Group or 1:1 Tutoring
Get 1:1 attention to focus on weak areas such as Math or Reading.
Flexible years that work with your school and extracurricular activities.
4. College Admissions Counseling
- Helpful advice on how to develop a competitive profile beyond SAT scores.
- Assistance with essays and interviews, as well as application strategy.
- An understanding of what actual admissions offices are looking for at schools like Harvard and top colleges.
5. Holistic Support
- Workshops on time management, goal setting and mindset development, and personal transformation.
- The possibility of getting international college counseling support while in Singapore.
Final Thought
Harvard admissions are not solely determined by test scores; they demand a compelling, complete application. The Princeton Review Singapore provides a full range of tools, approaches, and expert support you need to transform your academic potential into Ivy League success.