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Harvard University

86 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 2138, USA

Harvard University award
Harvard University award
US ranking
position: 8
Tuition & fees per year: $64,796
Acceptance rate: 3.00%
Median alumni salary: $92,518
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1530 SAT, 35 ACT
Entrance difficulty: N/A

What does Harvard University offer in terms of athletics?

Harvard University provides a comprehensive athletics program that caters to a wide array of interests and skill levels. The university fields varsity teams in numerous sports, including football, basketball, rowing, and track and field, among others. These teams compete in the Ivy League, reflecting a commitment to both athletic excellence and academic rigor.

Beyond varsity sports, Harvard supports club and intramural athletics, allowing students to participate in organized competition or casual play, depending on their preferences. Facilities for training and events are extensive, featuring dedicated fields, gyms, and fitness centers that accommodate different athletic pursuits.

The university emphasizes balancing competitive sports with academic responsibilities and personal development. It promotes a culture that values teamwork, leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Student-athletes receive support services such as coaching, medical care, and academic advising to enhance their collegiate experience.

Prospective students interested in participating in athletics at Harvard can expect opportunities for high-level competition as well as recreational involvement, all within an environment that encourages growth both on and off the field.

What student groups and Associations are available at Harvard University?

Harvard University offers a variety of student organizations catering to diverse interests and cultural backgrounds. Among these are the Phillips Brooks House Association, which focuses on community service and social engagement, and the Asian-American Association, a group dedicated to celebrating and promoting Asian-American culture and issues. Students interested in global affairs can participate in the International Relations Council, which provides opportunities to explore international topics and networking.

For those drawn to campus media, the Harvard Crimson newspaper represents a longstanding platform for student journalism. Additionally, students with a passion for music may join the Harvard/Radcliffe Chorus, which brings together voices from across the university for choral performances.

These organizations reflect the dynamic extracurricular landscape at Harvard University, supporting a well-rounded student experience.

Who studies at Harvard University?

Harvard University hosts a diverse student population spanning various demographics and academic levels. The university's undergraduate body includes a range of ages, with the majority concentrated between 18 and 24 years old, but it also accommodates students well into their middle age and beyond. Graduate students often fall into the 25 to 49 age bracket, reflecting the advanced career stages typical of many graduate programs.

The total student enrollment hovers around 1,658 new students annually, with the freshman class size rated as average in comparison to other institutions. The number of transfer students remains relatively low, indicating a predominantly first-time college attendee profile for most undergraduates.

When it comes to residency status, Harvard stands out for enrolling very few in-state students, placing it in the bottom 5% for local enrollment nationally. Conversely, it attracts a particularly high proportion of out-of-state students, ranking in the top 5%, as well as a substantial number of foreign students from around 16 different countries, similarly placing it among the most internationally diverse institutions.

Domestic students typically make up about 85% of the student body, a mid-range figure that suggests a balanced blend of U. S. citizens and international attendees. The university's student ethnic diversity also reveals notable presence across several groups. Asian students represent a significantly high share of enrollment, positioning Harvard in the top quartile for this demographic. Students identifying with two or more races also appear at elevated levels, ranked prominently compared to other colleges.

Other ethnic groups, including Hispanic, African, White, Native American, Pacific Islander, and those of unknown ethnicity, tend to fall near average levels relative to similar schools. African American students comprise a moderate proportion and are slightly above the midpoint nationally, while Hispanic and White student numbers are average but rank in the lower half of the national spectrum. Participation from Native American and Pacific Islander students is relatively modest but typical for the broader higher education landscape.

How does student life look like at Harvard University?

Harvard University offers a vibrant student life supported by a wide array of extracurricular activities. The campus, spanning 209 acres, hosts various student-run organizations and media outlets, including a campus newspaper, radio station, and TV channel. Students interested in the arts can participate in campus drama productions, a band, and a chorus, fostering a creative community beyond academics.

In athletics, Harvard University is a member of the NCAA, allowing students to engage competitively in collegiate sports. The university maintains a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 7: 1, which is among the lowest nationally, enabling more personalized academic attention and interaction.

The diverse community at Harvard is reflected in its enrollment from 120 countries, highlighting a global campus environment. The staff size is notably large, with over 2,200 full-time employees, ensuring robust support services and faculty availability.

What libraries are available to students at Harvard University?

Harvard University offers access to the Widener Library as its primary library resource. While the institution maintains only this single main library, it provides physical facilities and digital access to support student research and study needs. The library staff are trained to assist users, and established hours ensure reliable access. Additionally, students benefit from access to shared collections, further enhancing the range of available materials despite the limited number of libraries on campus.

Harvard University Student Life for 2026

Total enrollment

21189

Full Time Degree Seeking Freshmen

1641

Member of Athletic Associations

Data not available

Total staff

1846 full time, 316 part time

Veterans affair office

No

Harvard University Library Services and Resources

Main library name

Widener Library

Number of libraries on campus

1

Reservable study rooms in library

No

24h access

No

Physical facilities

Yes

Access to digital/electronic resources

Yes

Staff trained to provide and interpret library materials

Yes

Established library hours

Yes

Access to library collections that are shared with other institutions

Yes

Harvard University Computer Labs Access

  • 24h access
  • Help desk

Harvard University Student Life Enrollment Statistics

Freshly enrolled students' state of residence

US
International

Freshmen vs. transfer students

Freshman
Transfer

Freshly enrolled students' age

Under 25 years
Over 25 years

Harvard University Location & Map