Thinking of Getting into Harvard Business School? Tips You Need to Follow in 2024
Tips to enter Harvard Business School are helpful in qualifying for various selection rounds. Explore expert recommended tips to enter Harvard Business School.
Shivani Kumari26 Apr, 2024
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Tips to Enter Harvard Business School: Harvard Business School is renowned as the world's most esteemed institute for pursuing an MBA degree. Its alumni comprise influential figures in the corporate sector, demonstrating the invaluable resources, extensive network, and esteemed reputation associated with the HBS. Numerous MBA aspirants across the world aim to enroll in the Harvard Business School as it significantly boosts their prospects of achieving career aspirations.
If you are thinking of joining HBS, it is crucial to follow the recommended tips to enter Harvard Business School. This article explains various deciding factors for HBS admission.HBS Class of 2023 Statistics
The table below presents details of the previous year's HBS MBA class:| HBS Class of 2023 Statistics | |
| Class Size | 1,010 |
| US Minorities | 47% |
| Women | 46% |
| International Candidates | 37% |
| Average Work Experience | 5 years |
| Average Undergraduate GPA | 3.69 |
| Total GMAT Range | 590−790 |
| Median GMAT | 730 |
| Median Quantitative GRE | 164 |
| Median Verbal GRE | 163 |
Harvard Business School Acceptance Rate
Knowing the acceptance rate is the most crucial aspect candidates should consider when applying for admission to Harvard Business School. Similar to other leading business schools, Harvard Business School maintains a highly competitive admission rate of 12.5%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only 12.5 students receive an admission offer. In 2021, the school received 9,773 applications. However, only 1,222 candidates succeeded in receiving a call letter for admission. Out of these successful candidates, 1,010 chose to enroll in the MBA program.
Conduct Thorough Research
Candidates aiming to enter HBS should conduct thorough research to get familiar with the admission process. Additionally, candidates should gain a clear understanding of the expectations of the admissions committee and the factors considered by HBS in shortlisting a diverse group of students. For the research process, candidates should explore the HBS website to learn details about the class profile, clubs, and committees. Additionally, they should familiarize themselves with the class profile of the latest MBA batch. Candidates should also consider reaching out to several HBS alumni via LinkedIn to gain insights about their admission journey. To build a good connection, candidates should initiate conversations at least six months prior to the application deadline.Achieve a Strong Academic Record
Harvard Business School seeks applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, so it is advisable to strive for a high GPA, ideally from a reputable institution. For the class of 2024, the average GPA at HBS was 3.7. Besides GPA, HBS admission officers also look for the course rigour and difficulty level while shortlisting candidates. However, candidates with low GPA are also provided the opportunity to explain their situation for having a low overall score. If the explanation satisfies the admission officers, such as inaccessibility to study resources due to financial constraints, any major health issue during the UG program, etc., and if they succeed in providing necessary proof, admission may be granted to them.
Attain a Strong GMAT or GRE Score
Securing a high score on the GMAT or GRE holds significant importance for gaining admission to Harvard Business School for several reasons. These include the following:- HBS is renowned for its competitive environment and rigorous academic curriculum
- The admissions committee seeks evidence of candidates' intellectual ability to excel within this setting.
- The GMAT or GRE serves as a standardized measure of this aptitude. Additionally, they serve as one of the most crucial criteria for evaluating applicants.
- A strong GMAT or GRE score serves as a clear indicator of an applicant's academic potential and can distinguish them from their competitors.
- A high GMAT or GRE score is often a prerequisite for admission to elite MBA programs like HBS. For the class of 2024, the median GMAT score at HBS is 730.
Write a Compelling HBS Essay
The HBS essay holds significant weightage in the MBA application process. This provides candidates with the opportunity to showcase their profile and convey what sets them apart. It's a chance to captivate the admissions committee with compelling narratives that illustrate how candidates can prove to be the most valuable resource to the HBS MBA community.Crafting Outstanding Application
Harvard offers an online application platform where candidates are required to upload their resumes, include references, and submit their essays. Although completing the application may seem simple, it is highly time consuming. Additionally, candidates must carefully upload all components on their application to make it outstanding. Therefore, it's recommended to start creating the application with sufficient time in hand and avoid waiting till the last date.Letters of Recommendation
Candidates need a minimum of two recommendation letters for HBS application. To make a lasting impression and convince the admissions committee, it's advisable to notify the recommenders early so they get ample time to craft strong recommendations. Initiating this process sooner rather than later provides candidates with more time to nurture their connection with potential references.Engage in Extracurricular Activities
Harvard Business School values candidates who have a history of contributing to their communities and making positive change. Therefore, before starting the application process, candidates must actively participate in extracurricular activities and community service. This involvement may include volunteering for local charitable organizations, engaging in sports teams or clubs, and serving on non-profit organizations. While selecting any activity, candidates must pay attention to their interests/values and make decisions accordingly.Prepare for the Interview
Following the submission of the application, candidates may receive an invitation to interview with a member of the HBS admissions committee. The interview is highly crucial in the admissions process as it provides the committee with an opportunity to gain deeper insight into a candidate's personality, values, and career aspirations. Therefore, candidates should adequately prepare for the interview. PW GMAT Online Coaching provides thorough preparation from expert faculties. Additionally, students joining PW GMAT coaching get the opportunity to attend seminars, webinars, and exclusive talk sessions with the toppers, which offer detailed insights to prepare for the entrance exam and interview rounds. Join now to enhance your chances of securing a seat in institutes like HBS and other esteemed B-schools. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpcXZFj_PzsTips to Enter Harvard Business School FAQs
What do I need to do to get into Harvard Business School?
To enter Harvard Business School, candidates need a strong GAP, 5 years of professional work experience, outstanding GRE or GMAT scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. Candidates having proof of extracurricular participation get priority during the selection process.
How do you increase your chances of getting into Harvard?
To increase the chances of selection into HBS, candidates must achieve outstanding scores in their UG program and GMAT/GRE exams. Additionally, they should create a compelling essay, get strong LOR and take initiative in community activities.
Can Indians apply for Harvard?
Yes, Indian candidates are eligible to apply for HBS. The institute does not follow any reservation policy for admitting international candidates. Therefore, no restriction is applied to applicants from any nation.
What is the average GMAT score for entering Harvard Business School?
The average GMAT score for admission to Harvard Business School is 730. Candidates must aim to achieve a high GMAt score for selection to the HBS MBA program.
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