University of Harvard Acceptance Rate: Analyzing Trends and Insights for the Class of 2028

As elite universities tighten their grips on admissions, the Harvard University acceptance rate stands as both a beacon and a barrier for aspiring students. In a competitive landscape where peer institutions like Yale and Columbia set historic lows—3.7% and 3.85%, respectively—Harvard’s own rate becomes a pivotal topic of discussion. Understanding this phenomenon goes beyond mere numbers; it reflects a shift in academic standards and global aspirations, reshaping the future of higher education. With applicants facing escalating hurdles, the implications are profound, urging families to reconsider the longstanding belief that a prestigious title guarantees opportunity. As we delve into the intricacies of admissions trends and student demographics, we’ll uncover how between the lines lies not just hope, but a roadmap for navigating the elite college labyrinth.

Trends in University Acceptance Rates for Class of 2028

• Yale University’s acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 is 3.7%, its lowest ever.
• Columbia University accepted 3.85% of applicants, narrowing slightly from last year’s acceptance rate of 3.9%.
• Dartmouth drew a record-high number of applicants and accepted a record-low 5.3% of those applicants.
• The University of Pennsylvania received the largest applicant pool in its history but did not immediately share its acceptance rate.
• Cornell did not immediately share details on its acceptance rate.
• The average acceptance rate among all ranked colleges that report their admissions information to U.S. News & World Report in 2022 was 71.4% and 37 schools said they accepted all applicants.
• Applications declined 5.1% overall, including a notable 17% drop in early applications.
• 81.7% accepted their offers, marking the second-highest matriculation rate in five decades.
• UPenn received over 59,000 applications, making it one of the most competitive Ivy Leagues.
• Princeton’s Early Decision (ED) acceptance rate is around 13.7%, with a total of 5,310 applicants.
• Cornell University had an ED acceptance rate of approximately 23.2%, receiving 6,615 applications.
• Dartmouth College received 24,493 applications and has an overall acceptance rate of about 7.9%.
• A mere 722 students were successfully admitted through the early action process, indicating a highly competitive selection criteria.
• Cornell University received 49,118 student applications, a figure down 2,210 from last year.
• Dartmouth College set an all-time record for total applicants with 23,650 students applying to the Class of 2023.
• The overall admit rate for Dartmouth’s Class of 2023 stood at 7.9%, down from 8.7% for the Class of 2022.
• Among Cornell’s overall pool of admitted students, 54.9% are female, while 45.1% are male — so the gender disparity held for the full application cycle.
• Dartmouth College received a total of 2,474 students applied Early Decision to the College on the Hill this year.
• Of these applicants, 574 earned admission, marking an Early Decision admit rate of about 23.2%.
• 25 of these 574 applicants were matched via QuestBridge between Early Decision and Regular Decision.
• The university’s Computer Science program has an acceptance rate of around 20%, while the Education program has a rate of about 5%.

Our Interpretation

The trend in university acceptance rates for the Class of 2028 reveals a concerning narrative of increasing competitiveness, with many institutions experiencing record-low acceptance rates. This phenomenon is particularly evident among the Ivy League universities, where Yale’s 3.7% acceptance rate and Columbia’s 3.85% rate are notable examples. The University of Pennsylvania’s record-breaking applicant pool, though not accompanied by an immediate release of its acceptance rate, underscores the intense competition for spots at these elite institutions. Furthermore, the overall decline in applications, including a significant drop in early applications, suggests that students and families may be reassessing their college options or facing greater financial constraints. The high matriculation rate among accepted students (81.7%) indicates that those who do gain admission are highly committed to attending these universities. This trend has implications for the broader higher education landscape, potentially leading to increased pressure on institutions to become more selective and competitive in their admissions processes.

Brown University Admissions Insights

• Brown University reported an acceptance rate of 5.2% for the Class of 2028, its third-lowest acceptance rate.
• Brown University reported a 5% decline in applicants for the Class of 2028 compared to last year.
• Brown University’s overall acceptance rate is around 8.3%, with a total of 44,487 applicants.
• Brown University’s overall acceptance rate for the Class of 2023 was approximately 6.60%
• The Regular Decision acceptance rate for Brown University’s Class of 2023 was a shade over 5.20%
• 4,230 students applied under Brown’s binding Early policy for the Class of 2023
• 769 students earned admission through Brown’s Early Decision policy for the Class of 2023
• The Early Decision admit rate for Brown University’s Class of 2023 was a shade over 18%
• 12% of admits will be the first in their families to attend college through Brown University’s Early Decision policy
• 44% are students of color — African American, Latinx, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, Native American, or Asian American — among Brown University’s ED admits for the Class of 2023
• Brown University’s ED admits hail from 46 states in our union and from 37 nations around the globe

Our Interpretation

The recent admissions data from Brown University reveals a nuanced landscape, with a third consecutive year of extremely low acceptance rates. The 5.2% overall acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 underscores the university’s commitment to academic rigor and selectivity, while also highlighting the intense competition among applicants. This trend is further exacerbated by a 5% decline in applicants compared to last year, suggesting that prospective students are becoming increasingly discerning about their college choices. The Early Decision policy, which saw a 18% admit rate for the Class of 2023, has become an attractive option for many high-achieving students, with a notable proportion of ED admits being students of color and first-generation college-goers.

Harvard Admissions Insights: Global Appeal and Competitive Standards

• International students make up 16.7% of the admitted class, highlighting Harvard’s global appeal
• Harvard’s acceptance rate is extremely competitive, with an average GPA requirement that really matters being above the school’s average GPA.
• Harvard has a hidden SAT score cutoff based on the school’s average score composite at 1520 on the 1600 SAT scale, making it extremely competitive for SAT test scores.
• A 1460 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1580 will move you up to above average, with those who live near Harvard may want to look into tutors in Acton and elsewhere in the Boston area to strengthen their test performance.
• Harvard has the Score Choice policy of ‘Highest Section,’ also known as superscoring, which means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school, with your application readers considering your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit.
• Harvard University has an extremely competitive ACT score requirement with a median score of 34.
• The average ACT score at Harvard is 34, making it challenging to get accepted with a lower score.
• Harvard likely does not have a minimum ACT requirement, but scores below 34 will be considered academically weak.
• Harvard does not superscore the ACT, so students should focus on achieving a high single-score to send in their application.
• The recommended target ACT score for Harvard is 36, which requires thorough preparation and practice.
• Students can improve their ACT score by following strategies outlined in guides written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers.
• Harvard University’s acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 is 3.59%, its highest in four years.
• Harvard has retained its test-optional policies through to the admitted Class of 2030.
• Harvard University admission statistics show a slight easing of competition for high school students in the future.
• Harvard’s overall acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 is 3.6%, with 1,937 students accepted.
• Harvard withholds racial and ethnic demographic data for the admitted Class until after decisions are finalized.
• The Regular Decision process for Harvard’s incoming classes remains incredibly competitive, with a 2.7% acceptance rate.
• Students accepted through the Regular Decision round consistently demonstrate academic excellence and potential contributions to the Harvard community.
• Harvard’s sustained test-optional policy and emphasis on a holistic review process contributed to the Class of 2028 admissions cycle.
• Harvard’s Early Action acceptance rate has varied significantly over the past five years.
• Harvard’s application pool grew by 45% from the Class of 2019 to the Class of 2028.
• The recent Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action adds complexity to Harvard’s admissions landscape.
• Harvard’s student body is under close scrutiny due to a three-week trial challenging its admissions process.
• Harvard College has a total cost of attendance of $69,607 for the current academic year.
• Admission to Harvard College was once again the most competitive it’s been in the University’s history; only 4.5% of 43,330 applicants secured spots in the Class of 2023.
• Harvard received a record-breaking 56,937 applications for the current academic year.
• The overall acceptance rate at Harvard is as low as 3.4% this year.
• The undergraduate population at Harvard is approximately 6,700 students per class.
• Harvard University’s early action acceptance rate is significantly lower compared to regular decision.
• The average GPA of accepted students at Harvard University in 2023 was 7.24
• The average SAT score for accepted students at Harvard University in 2023 was 1,962 out of 2,400
• The mean SAT score of admitted ED students is 1485.
• Harvard University has a 4% overall graduate school acceptance rate, making it one of the most competitive universities in the world.
• Having a strong academic record is crucial to increase chances of getting into Harvard, with a GPA typically achieved by Harvard students being 4.18.
• GMAT or GRE scores are critical components of the Harvard Graduate School application process, with an average GMAT score for admitted students over the past few years being 728 and an average GRE score being 162.
• Harvard’s admissions team looks at more than just grades and test scores, wanting to see a well-rounded individual who can bring unique perspectives and experiences to their community.
• Harvard University’s acceptance rate is low due to stiff competition from applicants worldwide.
• Letters of recommendation are crucial in supporting an applicant’s potential to thrive at Harvard University.

Our Interpretation

The findings highlight Harvard University’s stringent admission standards, with an extremely competitive acceptance rate of 3.59% for the Class of 2028. The university’s global appeal is underscored by the presence of international students making up 16.7% of the admitted class. A hidden SAT score cutoff and a median ACT score requirement of 34 further emphasize the institution’s selectivity. While there may be a slight easing of competition in future years, Harvard’s Regular Decision process remains incredibly competitive, with a 2.7% acceptance rate. The university’s sustained test-optional policy and emphasis on a holistic review process contribute to its reputation for academic excellence.

Student Demographics and Academic Interests

• Students from New England make up 16.9% of the admitted class, followed by Middle Atlantic at 20.0%
• The majority of students, 34.8%, intend to study in the Social Sciences division/field of study
• Engineering is also a popular field of study among admitted students, making up 24.4% of the class
• International students make up nearly 17% of early admits, a significant increase from recent years.
• At least 10% of the Class of 2019 was on the ‘Dean’s Interest List’.
• Roughly 55% of freshmen responded to The Crimson’s email questionnaire about their backgrounds and lifestyles.
• 52% of surveyed students identified as female, while 48% identified as male, and 0.2% as non-binary.
• 47.2% of surveyed freshmen identified as white, followed by Asian (22.6%), Hispanic/Latinx (11.1%), and Black/African American (10.1%).
• 76.2% of surveyed freshmen were 18 years old on the first day of classes last week.
• 79.4% of students who responded to a question about sexual orientation identified as straight, while 7.2% identified as bisexual.
• 40.3% of surveyed freshmen hailed from the Northeast, followed by the West (14.8%), Midwest (13.2%), and Southeast (10.5%).
• 58.9% of surveyed freshmen came from suburban communities, while 30% came from urban areas, and 10.1% from rural communities.
• 14.5% of respondents said they come from another country, marking an increase over the roughly 12% who reported international residency last year.
• 61.1% of surveyed students reported receiving financial assistance from Harvard’s need-blind aid program.
• 14.6% of Class of 2023 respondents said they are legacy students, defined as having one or more parents who attended Harvard College as undergraduates.
• 24.6% of white freshmen reported being legacy students.
• 11.6% of Hispanic and Latinx respondents indicated the same.
• 9.8% of Black and African American respondents did so.
• 15.1% of Asian respondents reported being legacy students.
• The percentage of survey participants who described themselves as first-generation college students rose again this year, increasing from 17% to 18.2%.
• 37.5% of Hispanic or Latinx respondents indicated they were the first in their families to go to college.
• 21.6% of Black and African American students did so.
• 15.9% of Asian students reported being first-generation college students.
• 12.2% of white students reported being first-generation college students.
• Nearly all first-generation students surveyed — 97.4% — said they receive some form of financial aid from Harvard.
• Harvard was the top-choice school for a substantial majority — 72.5% — of surveyed freshmen.
• 36.3% of respondents applied to Yale as well.
• Among these students, 44.8% were also accepted at Harvard’s New Haven rival.
• Just under 19% of respondents reported receiving help preparing college applications from a privately hired counselor.
• A majority of survey participants — 60.9% — said they attended a non-charter public high school.
• 34 percent indicated they went to a parochial or non-religious private school, and 0.5% reported being homeschooled.
• Students who reported legacy status were much more likely to attend a private high school than students who do not have a parent who attended the College.
• 68.5% of respondents reported attending secondary schools that reported class rank.
• Among these students, 75.7% said they graduated among the top 2 percent of students in their graduating classes.
• 60.6% of self-reported legacy students at such schools said they were in this top cohort of academic achievers, while 48.9% of recruited athletes indicated the same.

Our Interpretation

The demographics of the admitted class reveal a diverse and dynamic student body. The significant presence of students from New England (16.9%) and Middle Atlantic regions (20.0%), alongside a substantial increase in international students (17%), underscores the university’s commitment to fostering a global community. Furthermore, the popularity of Social Sciences (34.8%) and Engineering (24.4%) fields of study highlights the students’ interests in understanding human behavior and developing innovative solutions. The growing percentage of first-generation college students (18.2%) also suggests an increasing emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity. Overall, these findings suggest a student body that is not only academically accomplished but also diverse, global-minded, and eager to make a meaningful impact.

Admissions Insights: Class of 2023 and 2024 Trends

• The Class of 2024 saw the highest EA acceptance rate at 13.9%.
• The Class of 2023 has a higher percentage of Asian American freshmen than any previous class.
• The Fall 2023 early action admissions cycle saw a total of 9,553 student applications received by Harvard.
• Harvard University acceptance rate for the class of 2023 was 4.50%
• Columbia University received 2,722 applications for the class of 2023
• The total number of Ivy League acceptances for the class of 2023 was 21,856
• The acceptance rate for Cornell University for the class of 2023 was 10.30%
• Princeton University had an acceptance rate of 5.49% for the class of 2023
• Yale University received 2,229 applications for the class of 2023 with an acceptance rate of 6.31%
• Dartmouth College had an acceptance rate of 8.74% for the class of 2023
• Pennsylvania University received 3,731 applications for the class of 2023 with an acceptance rate of 8.39%
• Cornell University had a total enrollment of 5,889 students in 2023
• Princeton University had a total enrollment of 1,890 students in 2023
• Yale University had a total enrollment of 2,272 students in 2023
• Dartmouth College had a total enrollment of 2,092 students in 2023
• Columbia University received 4,461 binding Early Decision applications to its Class of 2023: an all-time record
• These students applied to either Columbia College or the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science for the Class of 2023
• 42,569 students applied for admission to Columbia’s Class of 2023.
• The overall acceptance rate for Columbia’s Class of 2023 was approximately 5.1%.
• Among Cornell’s Early Decision admits to its Class of 2023, 39.8% are students of color.
• Admits to Cornell’s Class of 2023 hail from all 50 states in our union and from 95 countries around the globe.
• 32% identify as underrepresented minorities, while 54.9% are students of color in Cornell’s Class of 2023.

Our Interpretation

The admissions landscape for the Class of 2024 and 2023 is marked by a significant increase in student applications, with Harvard receiving a record 9,553 early action submissions. Notably, the Class of 2024 boasts the highest Early Action acceptance rate at 13.9%, while the Class of 2023 sees a higher percentage of Asian American freshmen than any previous class. The Ivy League institutions also report impressive statistics: Columbia’s binding Early Decision applications reach an all-time high of 4,461, and Cornell’s Early Decision admits feature a notable 39.8% student body of color. Overall, these trends suggest a growing diversity and competitiveness in college admissions, with students applying to top-tier universities in increasing numbers.

Key Admissions Insights for the Class of 2028

• The admitted class of 2028 has a diverse geographical breakdown from across the US and internationally.
• The GPA you need for a real chance of getting in is higher than the minimum GPA requirement specified by many schools.
• You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 by submitting only the tests that give you the highest Superscore, making it important for your testing strategy to consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1580.
• Applicants scoring 34 or below may face difficulties getting in unless they have other impressive application materials.
• The 25th percentile ACT score is 34 and the 75th percentile ACT score is 36, indicating a narrow range of competitive scores.
• Applicants can take advantage of the flexible ACT scoring policy by sending only their highest test scores to colleges.
• Experts note that some Ivy League admission rates are wider than they’ve been in recent years, possibly due to factors like the end of affirmative action and an expected ‘enrollment cliff’ in 2025.
• The number of high school graduates is expected to decline starting from 2025, leading to a potential increase in admission rates slightly.
• Some schools have reinstated SAT/ACT submission requirements, including Dartmouth College and Brown University.
• Yale University has a new flexible testing policy that requires students to submit scores with their applications.
• Demographics indicate a potential decrease in record-low acceptance rates at top universities like Yale and Harvard.
• According to Lakhani Coaching, the current peak in low acceptance rates may be reached, making it slightly easier to get into highly-ranked universities.
• The Early Action acceptance rate rose significantly to 8.7% for the Class of 2028.
• Regular Decision applications saw a slight dip, potentially influenced by the Supreme Court’s affirmative action ruling.
• The regular decision acceptance rate saw only a slight improvement at 2.7% for the Class of 2028.
• Applying early may offer a 2-3x advantage in admission compared to regular decision.
• The COVID-19 pandemic and test-optional policy contributed to a surge in Early Action applications.
• The acceptance rate has declined despite the increase in applications, indicating escalating competition.
• Donor affiliation and being on the ‘Dean’s Interest List’ can boost admissions prospects by over 40%.
• This was the fifth consecutive year that the admission rate has dropped from the cycle before.
• The overall admit rate has dropped precipitously over the last few years: from 9.0% for the Class of 2020 to 8.3% for the Class of 2021 to 7.2% for the Class of 2022 to this year’s 6.6% figure
• To increase chances of admission, applicants must showcase their leadership abilities through extracurricular activities and roles outside the classroom.
• Personal statements should demonstrate academic prowess, research interests, and future career goals, as well as highlight weaknesses or setbacks overcome.
• Applicants should not put all their eggs in one basket and consider applying to other programs as well for a better fit or full scholarship.
• Success is not defined by the name on the degree, but by the knowledge and experience gained along the way.

Our Interpretation

The admitted class of 2028 presents a complex landscape, marked by escalating competition and nuanced factors influencing admission rates. On one hand, the increase in Early Action applications and the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on test-optional policies have contributed to a surge in applicants. However, this has not translated into an overall rise in acceptance rates, with many top universities experiencing declining rates despite growing numbers of applicants.

The reinstatement of SAT/ACT submission requirements at some schools, such as Dartmouth College and Brown University, further underscores the importance of standardized test scores in the admission process. Meanwhile, Yale University’s new flexible testing policy may offer a glimmer of hope for students who have been impacted by the pandemic or other factors affecting their ability to take these exams.

Demographically, there are indications that record-low acceptance rates at top universities like Yale and Harvard may be peaking, making it slightly easier to get into highly-ranked institutions. However, this trend is tempered by the fact that applying early still offers a significant advantage in admission, with a 2-3x boost compared to regular decision applicants.

Ultimately, the class of 2028’s admissions landscape is characterized by complexity and nuance, with multiple factors influencing an applicant’s chances of getting accepted.

Financial Aid and Family Income Insights

• The typical financial aid package for scholarship holders in 2022-2023 totals $80,600, with scholarships covering $64,500
• This year’s Harvard freshmen are an exceedingly well-off group, with 27% from families making $250,000+ per year.
• More than 95% of American households earn less than $250,000 per year.
• More than two-thirds of self-reported legacy students’ parents make at least a combined $250,000 per year.
• 40% of these legacy respondents report a combined parental income of $500,000 or more.
• Less than 12% of legacy respondents report a combined parental income of $124,999 or less.
• First-generation freshmen reported much lower family incomes than non-first-generation matriculants in this year’s survey.
• About 6.7% of first-generation students said their parents make a combined $125,000 or more each year.
• Just over half reported an annual family income of less than $40,000.
• Of these students, 53.4% of those who disclosed their parents’ financial status reported a combined family income of $250,000 or more; 4.9% reported a parental income of less than $40,000.

Our Interpretation

The stark contrast between the financial realities of Harvard’s scholarship holders and first-generation freshmen is a telling indicator of the widening wealth gap in America. With a typical financial aid package totaling $80,600, it’s clear that many students from lower-income backgrounds are relying heavily on these packages to cover their expenses. Meanwhile, the prevalence of high-income families among legacy students – with over 40% reporting a combined parental income of $500,000 or more – raises questions about access and privilege in the college admissions process. The fact that first-generation freshmen reported much lower family incomes, with many struggling to make ends meet, underscores the need for targeted support and resources to help these students succeed.

References

• harvard.edu
• thecrimson.com
• toptieradmissions.com