Harvard University: Supplemental Essays 2025-26

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is the oldest Ivy League school, founded in 1636. Known worldwide for its mission of excellence in teaching, learning, and research, Harvard is home to 24,519 undergraduate and graduate students. It boasts the largest academic library in the world and counts eight U.S. presidents among its alumni. Renowned for its selectivity, the acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 was just 3.65%. As part of its rigorous admissions process, Harvard requires all undergraduate applicants to answer five supplemental essay questions, each demanding concise and thoughtful responses.

“If you’re seeking a space away from the hustle and bustle of Harvard Yard, head where the insiders go on campus, the serene sunken garden in Radcliffe Yard. Steps away from Harvard Yard is a garden with benches, stone walls, bright flowers that bloom in spring, summer and fall as though on a timer, and a grassy open space to sprawl out. It’s not easy to find unless you’re hunting for it, but worth the search. I spent almost every lunch break there over four years in Harvard Admissions.”

Dr. Kristen Willmott, former Harvard University Admissions & Financial Aid Officer and TTA Senior Private Counselor & Graduate School Admissions Director

HARVARD UNIVERSITY: SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAY PROMPTS

General Questions (Required)

Please answer in 150 words or fewer:

1. Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?

2. Describe a time when you strongly disagreed with someone about an idea or issue. How did you communicate or engage with this person? What did you learn from this experience?

3. Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are.

4. How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future?

5. Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you.

WANT TO READ MORE?

Are you thinking about applying to Harvard? Confused on how to start writing these essays? Contact us to discuss our Essay Guidance Program or Personal Application Boot Camp® and improve your odds of admission with expert guidance.

Top Tier Admissions is tracking the 2025-2026 supplemental essay prompts for all top schools here — we look forward to supporting you!

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