CAMPUS · CAMBRIDGE, MA · PRIVATE

Harvard University

3.5%

01Acceptance 02Tuition 03Transfer 04ROI 05AP Credit 06Majors 07Housing 08International

International Students at Harvard University: By the Numbers

18.3%

International Undergrads

2,290

International Undergrad Count

7,458

International Graduate Students

25.9%

International (All Students)

Cost of Attending Harvard University as an International Student

International students typically pay out-of-state tuition rates. Here's the full cost picture.

Room & Board	$20,374/yr
Estimated 4-Year Total	$81,496

Good news for international applicants: Harvard University is a private university — there's no in-state vs out-of-state tuition difference.

How to Apply to Harvard University as an International Student

Meet English Proficiency Requirements

Most schools require TOEFL (typically 100+ iBT) or IELTS (7.0+). Some accept Duolingo English Test.

Submit Standardized Tests

SAT: 1540+, ACT: 35+

Prepare Financial Documentation

You'll need proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Apply for F-1 Student Visa

After admission, Harvard University will issue a Form I-20. Use this to apply for an F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy. Start the process 3-4 months before your program begins.

Harvard University Student Body Diversity

Diversity breakdown of Harvard University's undergraduate student body.

White

28.6%

Black/African American

7.3%

Hispanic/Latino

10.6%

Asian

16.8%

International

18.3%

Career Outcomes for Harvard University International Graduates

International students at Harvard University can work in the U.S. after graduation through OPT (Optional Practical Training). STEM majors qualify for a 3-year OPT extension.

$101,817

Median Earnings (10yr)

$99,572

Median Salary (6yr)

$14,000

Median Debt

OPT & H-1B Path: After graduating from Harvard University, international students get 12 months of OPT work authorization (36 months for STEM fields). Many use this time to secure H-1B visa sponsorship from employers.

Student Demographics

White

28.6%

Black/African American

7.3%

Hispanic/Latino

10.6%

Asian

16.8%

International

18.3%

Harvard University International Student FAQs

How many international students attend Harvard University?

18.3% of Harvard University undergraduates are international students. That's about 2,290 international undergrads. Schools with higher international shares typically have stronger ESL support, international student offices, and on-campus resources for non-US applicants.

How much is international tuition at Harvard University?

International students at Harvard University typically pay the full out-of-state sticker price of about $85,540/yr (tuition + room and board + fees). Financial aid for international students is more limited than for US citizens, though some schools offer merit scholarships.

Is the Harvard University acceptance rate harder for international students?

Harvard University's overall acceptance rate is 3.5%. International applicants typically face even more competitive admission odds because of limited international quotas. Strong test scores (TOEFL 100+/IELTS 7.0+) and clear English proficiency help.

What English test does Harvard University require for international applicants?

Most US colleges including Harvard University accept TOEFL iBT (typical minimum 80-100), IELTS (6.5-7.0), and Duolingo English Test (115-130). Highly selective schools require scores at the upper end of those ranges. Some schools waive the test if you've studied 3+ years in English.

Does Harvard University sponsor F-1 visas for international students?

Yes — Harvard University is SEVP-certified and issues I-20 forms to admitted international students. Once you're admitted and pay your enrollment deposit, Harvard University's international student office issues your I-20, which you use to apply for an F-1 student visa at the US embassy in your home country.