Harvard University campus in Cambridge

Photo: chensiyuan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Harvard University logo

Harvard University

Harvard University is a private university in Cambridge, United States, founded in 1636, with about 23,000 students. Tuition is around USD 57,261 a year (2025-26).

Type
Private university
Location
Cambridge, United States
Founded
1636
Students
23,000
International students
15%
Tuition
USD 57,261 / year (2025-26)
Acceptance rate
3.6%
Teaching language
English
Academic calendar
Semester
Ranking
QS World: #5

Data from the official website and Wikidata · last checked 18 Oct 2026 · How we collect data · Report an error · Is this your university? Claim it to update

Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States.

Harvard comprises Harvard College for undergraduates and graduate and professional schools including Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, the Kennedy School of Government and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Its library system is the largest academic library in the world, and its alumni include numerous US presidents and Nobel laureates.

Undergraduate admission is highly selective. Harvard offers need-based financial aid that meets full demonstrated need, and first-year students live in Harvard Yard before moving to one of twelve residential Houses.

Admissions, rankings and scholarships

Rankings

  • #5QS World
  • #3THE World

Requirements and dates change every year. Confirm them on Harvard University's official website before applying.

Thinking of applying? Send your question straight to Harvard University.

Ask the University

Key Information

Programs
Harvard College Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Law School Medical School Business School School of Public Health Divinity School Kennedy School
Harvard College
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Law School
Medical School
Business School
School of Public Health
Divinity School
Kennedy School
Language English
Accommodation Freshman Housing (Harvard Yard), 12 Residential Houses, Graduate Housing, Faculty Housing
Academic Calendar Semester
Established 1636
University Type private
Degree Levels Bachelor, Master, PhD
Acceptance Rate 3.60%
Graduation Rate 98.00%
International Students 15.00%
Research Output Very High
Campus Size 5076 acres
Notable Rankings QS World #5, THE #3
Scholarships Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Full-tuition scholarships for families earning up to $200,000 annually.

Frequently asked questions

How much is tuition at Harvard University?

Tuition at Harvard University is around USD 57,261 a year for 2025-26. Fees vary by program and can differ for international students, so check the university's official fees page before applying.

What is the acceptance rate at Harvard University?

Harvard University has an acceptance rate of about 3.6%.

What language are courses taught in at Harvard University?

Courses at Harvard University are taught in English.

When is the application deadline for Harvard University?

Early Action: Nov 1, Regular Decision: Jan 1

Does Harvard University offer scholarships?

Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Full-tuition scholarships for families earning up to $200,000 annually.

Does Harvard University have student accommodation?

Accommodation options include: Freshman Housing (Harvard Yard), 12 Residential Houses, Graduate Housing, Faculty Housing.

How many international students are at Harvard University?

About 15% of students at Harvard University are international.

When was Harvard University founded?

Harvard University was founded in 1636.

How is Harvard University ranked?

Harvard University is ranked QS World: #5; THE World: #3.

Request information

Ask Harvard University about admissions, fees, scholarships or courses. You'll get a reply by email.

0 / 5,000 characters
Request info