Nearly 35,000 students applied to Harvard College for the Class of 2015, marking a record high. Letters of admission were sent to 2,158 students, representing just 6.2% of the total applicant pool. Over 60% of these admitted students will receive need-based scholarships averaging more than $40,000, thanks to a record $160 million in financial aid. Families contributing to these scholarships typically pay an average of $11,500 annually towards the cost of a Harvard education.

The admissions process saw significant improvements in financial aid and outreach. William R. Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid, highlighted the importance of enabling students from diverse backgrounds to access higher education. He stated, “Our colleges and universities are reaching out more than ever before for students with remarkable personal qualities and character who can play leadership roles in addressing the many urgent challenges facing us.” This year, Harvard made substantial changes to support students post-enrollment and enhance their college experiences, including a new program in General Education, a fourfold increase in small freshman seminars, and a new Arts Initiative.

Harvard has also seen enhancements like the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, an augmented advising system, and expanded opportunities for research and study abroad. These changes aim to provide every student with the necessary support and tools to succeed at Harvard.

The academic strength and diversity of the applicant pool also saw an unprecedented level of excellence. Over 14,000 students scored 700 or above on the SAT critical reading test, 17,000 on the math test, and 15,000 on the writing test. Additionally, 3,800 students were ranked first in their high school classes. Minority representation remained strong, with the admitted class comprising 17.8% Asian-American, 11.8% African-American, 12.1% Latino, 1.9% Native American, and 0.2% Native Hawaiian. Geographic representation was similar to the previous year, with over 22% from the mid-Atlantic states, 21% from the Western and Mountain states, 19% from the South, 16% from New England, 10% from the Midwest, and 12% from U.S. territories and abroad.

Foreign citizens made up 10% of the admitted students, while a significant number brought an international perspective, including 141 U.S. dual citizens, 70 U.S. permanent residents, and many Americans who had lived abroad. Together, these students represented nearly 20% of the class, with 85 different countries being represented.

Major concentrations among the admitted students included social sciences (24.9%), biological sciences (23.3%), humanities (19%), engineering (12.6%), physical sciences (9.5%), mathematics (7.7%), and computer science (1.9%). Additionally, nearly a quarter (24.9%) of the admitted students intended to concentrate in the social sciences, while the biological sciences attracted 23.3%. Students expressed interests in debate and political activities (35%), social service (21%), and writing and journalism (19%). Also, 56% of the class expected to participate in recreational, intramural, or intercollegiate athletics.

Alumni interviews played a crucial role in the admissions process. Marlyn E. McGrath, director of admissions, noted, “Faced with 35,000 applicants, our alumni interviewers contributed more than ever before. Personal qualities and character remain central to each and every admissions decision.” Recruitment efforts saw nearly 70% of admitted students and 87% of minority students appearing on the original College Board Search List. Staff members visited 60 cities in the spring, targeting high school juniors who may join the Class of 2016. Joint travel trips were conducted with Duke University, Georgetown University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Stanford University.

Recruitment has a long and distinguished history at Harvard. The Undergraduate Minority Recruitment Program (UMRP) and the Harvard Financial Aid Initiative (HFAI) played vital roles in attracting this year’s record pool of students. Monica Del Toro-Brown, co-director of HFAI, stated, “Our students worked closely with staff and alumni, forming a partnership that enabled us to reach out to talented students from modest economic backgrounds who never dreamed Harvard was possible.” She added, “We are particularly pleased to see a larger number of students admitted from families with incomes under $60,000.”

Efforts to enhance undergraduate recruitment include the Undergraduate Admissions Council (UAC), undergraduate tour guides, and greeters. David L. Evans, co-director of the UAC, said, “Prospective students need to learn firsthand about the Harvard experience from current undergraduates.” Elise Eggart, UAC co-director, added, “UAC members extend a warm welcome to students interested in Harvard. The UAC provides a human face to the Harvard community, and we hear often from students and families that UAC members made the difference in students’ decision to consider Harvard among their college choices.”

Teaching faculty also played an essential role in the admissions process. Faculty members spoke with many prospective students, answered their letters and emails, and evaluated academic research and portfolios across various disciplines. Faculty accessibility is a clear demonstration of Harvard’s commitment to undergraduate education.

The admissions office reached out to recruit students worldwide through message boards and undergraduate student blogs. Danielle Early, director of Internet communications, said, “The boards and blogs provide yet another way for students to connect with Harvard undergraduates and each other.”

With these efforts, Harvard continues to attract a diverse and academically talented student body, ensuring that every admitted student receives the support and tools needed to thrive at the institution.

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