Nearly 35,000 students have applied for admission to Harvard College’s Class of 2015 for entry in August, marking a significant increase of about 15% from last year’s record 30,489 applications and a 50% rise from the 22,955 applications received four years prior. This substantial growth reflects a period of enhanced need-based financial aid programs aimed at ensuring that talented students from low- and middle-income backgrounds can afford and access Harvard.

Harvard’s financial aid package does not require any contribution from families earning less than $60,000 annually, and it asks for no more than 10% of income from families with typical assets who earn up to $180,000. Currently, 70% of students receive some form of financial assistance through this program.

The recent worldwide economic downturn over the past three years appears to have been a significant driver behind these increases in applications, as students and their families sought the best and most affordable educational options. “As we’ve seen during previous economic uncertainties, students and their families are especially eager to secure the best and most affordable path for higher education,” remarked William R. Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid. “President Drew Faust, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Michael Smith, and Dean of Harvard College Evelynn Hammonds have demonstrated unwavering commitment to keeping Harvard accessible to all, regardless of financial need.”

Other contributing factors include the growing interest in the new School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, led by Dean Cherry Murray, which attracts many aspiring students in engineering, computer science, and related fields. Additionally, nearly 99% of applicants are now using online application services, making the process easier for students, particularly those with limited counseling or economic resources.

Applications were received from all regions, with notable increases coming from the South, Midwest, Mountain states, Pacific region, and international students. The gender breakdown is nearly balanced, mirroring last year’s 50/50 ratio, and minority student numbers continue to rise.

The admissions committee began reviewing applications on January 25. The process involves a detailed, individualized review where applications are discussed and compared by members of the Admissions Committee throughout the meetings. Notification letters will be mailed to all applicants on March 30, with email notifications sent to those who requested electronic communication later that day.

Accepted students will have the opportunity to visit Harvard from April 16 to 18 for a comprehensive introduction to campus life. They must make their final college decisions by May 1.

A special tribute to the late John E. Malmstad was read at a meeting of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences on October 6, 2026, highlighting his contributions.

For more details on this announcement, please check the official portal directly.

News is prepared from public university announcements for general guidance. Policies change frequently; confirm current details with each university admissions office.