How Much GRE Score Is Needed For Admission To Harvard University

Did you know that a GRE score of 330 or above is often seen among successful Harvard applicants? For many aspiring students, getting into Harvard University is a dream, but understanding the GRE score requirements can be hard. You might find yourself asking, “What is considered a good GRE score for Harvard?” or “How can I improve my chances of admission to this prestigious graduate school?”

The reality is, the competition is fierce, and achieving a high GRE score is just one part of the admissions puzzle. With so much on the line, it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly for the GRE General Test, focusing on both the verbal score and the quantitative sections. We’ll break down the key strategies to help you improve your GRE score and enhance your Harvard application. From selecting the right test date to understanding what constitutes a good GRE score, we’ll guide you through each step of the process.

Why Take the GRE For Harvard University?

For anyone aiming to join Harvard University, taking the GRE is a critical step in the application process. Various programs, such as the Harvard Graduate School of Arts, Harvard Graduate School of Design, and Harvard Kennedy School, use GRE scores as a key component of their admissions criteria.

The GRE provides a standardized measure to compare applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, ensuring all candidates meet a certain threshold of academic readiness. This is particularly important for schools like the Paulson School of Engineering, the Chan School of Public Health, and the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

Here are some reasons to take the GRE for Harvard University:

• High GRE scores can significantly enhance your application, making you a more competitive candidate.
• Programs like the Harvard Business School and the Harvard Graduate School of Education place a strong emphasis on excellent GRE scores.
• Focus on both the verbal and quantitative sections of the GRE to meet the academic readiness threshold.
• Submit your GRE General Test results through the official score report from the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
• A high GRE score can set you apart from other applicants, especially in highly competitive programs.

What Is The Good GRE Score For Admission To Harvard University?

Securing admission to Harvard University requires an impressive GRE score, but the exact target can vary depending on the specific program or school. Here are some detailed benchmarks to help guide your preparation:

Overall GRE Scores

To be competitive, aim for a GRE score above 320. Successful Harvard applicants often score in the 330+ range, showcasing their strong academic abilities and readiness for the rigorous coursework at Harvard.

Verbal and Quantitative Sections

For the verbal and quantitative sections, a score of 160+ in each is generally considered strong. These scores reflect your proficiency in critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, which are essential for success in Harvard’s demanding academic environment.

Analytical Writing

The analytical writing section is crucial, with average scores for admitted students typically falling between 4.5 and 5.0. This score demonstrates your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively, a skill highly valued by Harvard’s admissions committee.

Program-Specific Requirements

Different Harvard programs have varied expectations. For instance, Harvard Business School, Harvard Kennedy School, and the Harvard Graduate School of Education may have higher GRE score requirements compared to other programs. Researching the specific expectations of your desired program is essential.

Percentile Rankings

Striving for percentile rankings above the 90th percentile is advisable. High percentile rankings indicate that you have outperformed the majority of test-takers, enhancing your appeal to the admissions committee and setting you apart from other applicants.

What Is The Acceptance Rate In Harvard University?

The acceptance rate at Harvard University is extremely competitive, typically around 5%. Programs like the Harvard Graduate School of Arts, Harvard Graduate School of Design, and Harvard Kennedy School require strong applications. High GRE and GMAT scores are crucial, especially for the Harvard Business School and the Paulson School of Engineering. 

Submitting GRE General Test results with scores above average can significantly enhance your chances. For schools like the Chan School of Public Health and the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, meeting the specific GRE score requirements is essential. High scores in all sections of the GRE are critical for a successful application.

10 Top US Universities With Low GRE Score Requirements

When it comes to pursuing graduate studies in the United States, the GRE can often be a significant hurdle for many applicants. However, not all top-tier universities in USA have sky-high GRE score requirements. In fact, several prestigious institutions understand that a GRE score is just one aspect of a candidate’s potential.

Here’s a list of 10 top US universities known for their relatively low GRE score requirements:

University	Average GRE Verbal Score	Average GRE Quantitative Score	Notable Graduate Programs
University of California, Berkeley	153	157	School of Education, School of Public Health
New York University (NYU)	154	156	Tisch School of the Arts, Steinhardt School
University of Southern California (USC)	151	155	Annenberg School for Communication, Viterbi School
University of Texas at Austin	152	156	School of Architecture, LBJ School of Public Affairs
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign	150	154	College of Education, School of Social Work
Boston University	153	155	School of Public Health, College of Communication
University of Florida	151	154	College of Education, Warrington College of Business
Northeastern University	152	153	College of Computer and Information Science
George Washington University	151	152	School of Business, Elliott School of International Affairs
University of Arizona	150	153	College of Medicine, College of Science

Conclusion

At last, aiming for scores in the 330+ range, particularly with strong verbal and quantitative sections, can enhance your chances. While each program, from the Harvard Graduate School of Arts to the Paulson School of Engineering, has specific expectations, excelling in the GRE is a common thread for successful applicants.

Interestingly, if you’re concerned about meeting these high standards, there are several top-tier U.S. universities with more accessible GRE score requirements. Schools like the University of Southern California and Boston University recognize that a candidate’s potential goes beyond just test scores.

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