Harvard University
Cambridge, United States • Founded 1636 • World Rank #1
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Established in 1636, the Harvard University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Cambridge (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Massachusetts.
Officially accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Harvard University (HU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Harvard University (HU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 388-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 0-9% making this US higher education organization an extremely selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
HU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Mailing address, phone, email, and social channels for Harvard University are gathered below for quick reference. Most enquiries route through the admissions team unless noted otherwise.
Academic Details
Harvard University's academic structure, enrolment numbers, and accreditation context are gathered below. Together they describe how the institution operates beyond the surface-level overview.
Academic Structures
Harvard University's internal academic organisation — faculties, schools, and constituent units — is broken down below. Each unit handles a specific subject cluster and houses its own programmes and faculty.
Unit 10 items
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences
- Faculty of Medicine
- Graduate School of Design
- Harvard Business School
- Harvard Divinity School
- Harvard Graduate School of Education
- Harvard Law School
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
- John F. Kennedy School of Government
- Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study
Programs Offered
Every programme Harvard University currently runs, grouped by degree level and searchable. Status and intake details vary by programme — verify with the institution before committing to applications.
654 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 122 programmes
Showing 10 of 122.
Master's Degree 231 programmes
Showing 10 of 231.
Doctorate 178 programmes
Showing 10 of 178.
Professional Doctorate 9 programmes
Associate's Degree 1 programme
Certificate 66 programmes
Showing 10 of 66.
Postgraduate Certificate 47 programmes
Showing 10 of 47.
How to apply to Harvard University
How to apply to Harvard University — a five-step structure with notes on documents, channels, and timing for each phase.
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1
Identify the right programme
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Harvard University runs 654 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
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2
Check entry requirements
Before applying to Harvard University, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Harvard University's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
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4
Submit via the institution
Lodge your application through the official website (www.harvard.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (617) 495 1000. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Harvard University
A short Q&A covering Harvard University's essentials — founding, location, scale, ranking, and academic structure.
When did Harvard University open?
Harvard University traces its founding to 1636 (approximately 390 years ago).
Where is Harvard University located?
Harvard University is located in Cambridge, United States.
Is Harvard University a public or private institution?
Harvard University is a private institution.
What is the student enrolment at Harvard University?
Student enrolment at Harvard University is around 20,000-24,999.
How is Harvard University ranked?
Harvard University is ranked #1 globally and #1 in United States.
What is Harvard University's academic structure?
Harvard University is organised into 10 academic units across its disciplines.
Who recognises Harvard University?
Harvard University is accredited by New England Commission of Higher Education.
Where can I learn more about Harvard University?
You can find Harvard University online at www.harvard.edu.
Members of Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)
Network reputation can differ from individual institutional reputation. Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) membership may enhance or moderate the perceived standing of Harvard University depending on how the network is regarded.
Faculties at nearby universities
Regional admissions cycle quirks (early-deadline schemes, regional aid programmes) apply consistently across the universities near Harvard University. Worth knowing during shortlisting.
Where Else to Study Linguistics & Language Studies
Programme delivery mode varies across the Linguistics & Language Studies programmes listed — online, hybrid, and in-person formats differ in tuition, schedule flexibility, and credential recognition across borders.
Universities Compared with Harvard University
Yield rates (proportion of admitted students who enroll) cluster among peer institutions. High-yield universities signal strong applicant preference compared to peers at the same selectivity level.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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