How to get into Harvard: GPA requirements, ACT/SAT scores and more

Key takeaways:

• Harvard University’s admissions officers review applicants’ GPA, academic rigor, ACT/SAT test scores, recommendations, and application essays.
• They also look at non-academic factors, such as extracurriculars, character, volunteer work, and more.
• Accepted students in 2024-2025 had a 4.21 GPA on average and most had above a 30 on the ACT or 1500 on the SAT.

Source: Flickr user 127687091@N07.

To say that it’s hard to get into Harvard University is an understatement. One of the most selective colleges, this Ivy League received 54,008 applications in 2025 and accepted only 1,970 students, putting their acceptance rate at just 3.7%. Applicants need to have standout applications – the average ACT score for Harvard-accepted students was 34 – 36 (1510 – 1590 SAT) with a mean GPA of 4.21.

If you’re thinking about applying to Harvard University as an undergraduate, we’ve put together a guide of what this Ivy League is looking for in their students, from extracurriculars to standardized test scores.

How to get into Harvard

To increase your chances of getting accepted to Harvard University, you should aim for a 4.21 GPA, be involved in your community, participate in extracurriculars, take rigorous academic courses, and earn above a 30 on the ACT or above a 1500 on the SAT.

What are the standard admission requirements for Harvard?

A high-grade point average (GPA) is only part of the puzzle when trying for an acceptance letter from Harvard. According to the school’s 2024 – 2025 Common Data Set, admission officers look at these factors:

Academic factors:

• Rigor of secondary school record
• GPA
• Recommendations
• Standardized test scores
• Application essay

Nonacademic factors:

• Interview
• Extracurriculars
• Talent/ability
• Charter/personal qualities
• First generation
• Alumni relation
• Geographical residence
• Volunteer work
• Work experience

While the nonacademic factors tend to be rated more subjectively (although no less stringently), we can put some numbers behind a few of the academic factors.

Minimum GPA for Harvard

Harvard receives more than 54,000 applications every year. The admissions committee reads and considers all completed applications but an impressive GPA can increase your chances of an acceptance letter. It also acts as an indicator of your preparedness to thrive in this highly competitive atmosphere.

So, what GPA is “required” for you to get in?

• The average weighted GPA for students accepted into Harvard was 4.21.
• Of enrolled students, 72.41% had an unweighted GPA of 4.0.
• Of enrolled students, 94.61% had an unweighted GPA of 3.75 or higher.
• Academic rigor is important. A student with a 4.0 GPA with challenging classes (such as AP, dual enrollment, or IB courses) will be considered over a student that carries a 4.0 GPA with a standard or easier workload.

So, while a lower GPA doesn’t automatically disqualify you from Harvard acceptance, you’ll want to set your sights on a competitive 4.0.

Average ACT and SAT scores for Harvard University

Harvard states that it doesn’t have a minimum required score on the SAT or ACT. However, your standardized test results can absolutely impact your admission chances.

In fact, the average ACT score for accepted students at Harvard University is higher than that of any other Ivy League – between 34 and 36, well above the national average scores of 17 – 18. Harvard doesn’t require the now-optional science section and doesn’t superscore results. According to its Common Data Set, 98% of applicants had above a 30.

Here’s a quick look at the average accepted ACT ranges from 2024-2025:

On the SAT, students who score between a 1510 and 1590 are more likely to receive an acceptance letter. The Common Data Set shows that 95% of applicants had a 700 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) section and 98% had a 700 or higher on the Math portion.

This table breaks down the average accepted ranges on the SAT:

How to boost your chances of getting accepted to Harvard

Students who wish to study at Harvard should start working towards their dream early.

• Aim for a high weighted GPA. The higher your GPA the better, but academic rigor will increase your weighted GPA. Take challenging classes in high school, including AP and/or dual enrollment courses, and practice good study habits.
• Participate in extracurriculars. Join meaningful extracurriculars and clubs and get involved in your community through volunteer and/or paid work. You don’t need a laundry list of activities – focus on quality over quantity.
• Prepare for the SAT or ACT. Take practice tests, assess your results to identify strengths and weaknesses, and set goals. Sit for the tests several times to keep improving your scores.
• Carefully choose who you ask for recommendation letters. Ask for recommendation letters from the people who know your abilities and character best! Request them early so they have plenty of time.
• Start on that college application essay as soon as possible. Brainstorm ideas, have others review your writing, and always proofread and edit your work before you hit submit.

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