How can I improve my chances of being accepted into Harvard University?

Question

I'm an international student, I want to apply into the school of design. I will be sitting our final exam in June 2010. I know its ages away but I want to give myself the best possible chance of getting into Harvard. I heard some people say to do volunteer work, I already done a little for an intercultural festival, What else should I do?

I will have to sit an SAT I test and three SAT III tests, Should I start practicing for it now? Are you able to get past exams to help study? and what score should I be aiming for?

And please give some other info or tips, how else can I improve my chances?

Answer 1

I've only known one person to get into Harvard, and she was above and beyond everyone else. Saying that you have to do "volunteer work" is an understatement--you have to do extensive volunteer work, and they like it if you've started your own volunteer organization. You have to be incredibly involved in activities outside school, while maintaining pretty much perfect grades. It doesn't have to be volunteer work, though. The girl I knew played in the city symphony. Continue your volunteer and extracurriculars--they're probably the most important, but keep your grades up, and don't forget to get to know your teachers, so that they can write you recommendations. And start thinking about the brilliant admissions essay you're going to write.

As far as the tests go, you'll want to start studying now, definitely. American students take the SAT I multiple times, at least 2-3. I would probably take your first round of them in spring 2009, and once or twice in fall 2009. Aim for a perfect 2400, but you'll need at least a 2100 to get into Harvard. You'll probably only take the SAT II tests once. You may want to take the ACT as well. Some find it easier, and it's interchangeable with the SAT. (Also, as an international student, you'll probably need to take the TOEFL exam. http://www.ets.org/)

Answer 2

Yes, you should start preparing for SAT I and SAT II tests as you are a junior now. From what I have heard, there really is no SAT I score that will guarantee you admissions to Harvard, but I suggest going for at least 2100 or 2200 (including Writing). If English is not your first language and you are afraid that you will do poorly on Reading and Writing section, take the TOEFL test and many colleges will waiver the fact that you have a low reading score compared to your math. SAT Prep books are sold by many companies, such as princetonreview etc.

Because you are a junior now, you should be now taking a challenging schedule for your next two years. Taking the IB diploma, the APs or other challenging curriculum is expected if your school offers them.

Perhaps the most important thing of all, is that you want to stand out in front of Admissions. Center a few of your activities and your college application, on what will make you unique in Harvard. To just volunteer is one thing, but to volunteer in something unique will boost your chances.

I never actually applied to Harvard, so my information may not be the best that could be offered, but this is what I could get out from my college application process. I also was an international student when I applied for university.