Harvard University welcomes students from all over the world. The process for applying and getting financial aid is the same for everyone. Knowing English well is key for studying at Harvard, but you don’t need to take an English test to apply.
Applicants can choose to send in English test scores if they want. This is optional.
The Duolingo English Test is not accepted by Harvard for admission. Instead, they need either the SAT or ACT scores. In rare cases, they might look at other exams like AP, IB, or GCSE. But, Duolingo, TOEFL, and IELTS can’t replace the required tests.
Harvard’s Standardized Testing Policy
Gaining admission to a prestigious university like Harvard can be challenging. The school’s testing policy is key in this process. Harvard usually asks for the SAT or ACT scores. But, they also have other tests for special cases.
Required Tests for Admission
Harvard needs either the SAT or ACT from applicants. These tests check how well students do in school. They are big parts of getting into college.
Alternative Testing Options
- AP exam results
- IB Actual or Predicted Scores
- GCSE/A-Level Actual or Predicted Results
- National Leaving Exams Results (externally assessed) or Predictions
If the SAT or ACT are not possible, Harvard might look at other tests. This is for students who really can’t take the usual tests.
Test Score Submission Guidelines
Students can report their test scores themselves. But, remember, tests like TOEFL and IELTS are for English skills. They don’t count for the main test requirement.
| Test | Minimum Score Requirement |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1460-1580 |
| ACT | 33-36 |
| AP | Multiple scores of 4s and 5s |
| IB | Total score of 40+ points, with 6s or 7s in Higher Level (HL) subjects |
Does Harvard Accept Duolingo
Harvard University doesn’t use the Duolingo English Test (DET) as a replacement for the SAT or ACT. But, they do consider it as part of your application. This is true for students applying to the Harvard Extension School. There, a score of 125 or higher on the DET shows you’re proficient in English.
The DET is looked at alongside TOEFL and IELTS when checking your English skills for Harvard. A score of 125 or more on the DET means you’re likely good enough for the Harvard Extension School.
- The Duolingo English Test costs $65 and provides results within 2 days.
- Over 1,500 institutions, including Harvard’s Extension School, accept the DET as an alternative to traditional English proficiency tests.
- A score of 125 or higher on the DET is required to demonstrate English proficiency for the Harvard Extension School.
DET isn’t a direct substitute for the SAT or ACT for Harvard’s main admissions. But, it’s a good, affordable choice for English language needs at the Harvard Extension School or similar programs.
English Language Requirements at Harvard
Knowing English well is key to getting into Harvard University. The school has clear rules for international students to show they can speak English. This makes sure they can do well in their studies.
Minimum Score Requirements
Harvard accepts a few English tests. These include the TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test. Here are the minimum scores needed:
- TOEFL iBT: 100
- IELTS Academic: 7.0
- PTE Academic: 70
- Duolingo English Test: 125
Testing Timeline and Validity
Test scores must be recent and checked by the testing agency. Students need to send their scores on time. Deadlines vary based on the test and whether they’re taking the CRWS or classes.
Documentation Process
Showing you can speak English at Harvard is easy. You must ask the testing agency to send your scores to Harvard. If you studied in a language other than English, you might need to send translated transcripts too.
Following these English language rules helps international students get into Harvard. It also sets them up for success in their studies.
TOEFL and IELTS at Harvard
Harvard University is known for its top-notch education, attracting students from all over. It accepts both TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic tests to prove English skills. For TOEFL iBT, you need a score of 100. For IELTS Academic, the minimum score is 7.0.
Harvard doesn’t accept certain tests like Institutional TOEFL (TOEFL ITP) or IELTS General Training scores. You must send the right test scores from the testing organizations to the university.
| Test | Minimum Score Requirement |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 100 |
| IELTS Academic | 7.0 |
The Harvard Business School (HBS) MBA Admissions Board stresses the need for strong English skills. This is because the program includes active class participation, public speaking, and group discussions. While there’s no minimum score, aiming for TOEFL scores over 109 or IELTS scores over 7.5 is encouraged.
“The Ivy League schools received more than 300,000 applicants for the Class of 2020 with an average acceptance rate of 7%.”
Different Ivy League schools have different TOEFL and IELTS score requirements. For example, scores range from 600 for TOEFL to 8 for IELTS Academic. Oxford and Cambridge also accept various English tests, with minimum scores from 7.0 to 7.5 for IELTS Academic.
Duolingo Test Score Requirements for Harvard Extension School
The Harvard Extension School, a part of Harvard University, now accepts the Duolingo English Test (DET). This is in addition to the TOEFL and IELTS exams. To meet the English language requirement, applicants must score at least 125 on the DET.
Score Validity Period
DET scores are good for two years from the test date. This gives applicants more time to submit their scores. It’s more flexible than other English tests.
Application Process with DET Scores
- Applicants can upload a PDF copy of their DET score report through the MyDCE portal using the “Document Uploader” icon.
- The cost of the Duolingo English Test is $65 USD, and results are typically available within 2 days of taking the exam.
Accepting the Duolingo English Test, the Harvard Extension School makes it easier for international students to show their English skills. This move helps the university’s goal of making education more accessible.
International Student Application Process
Applying to Harvard University as an international student is the same as for U.S. students. There are no limits based on where you’re from or your citizenship. Harvard decides on admissions without looking at financial aid status, even for international students.
International students should get involved in activities outside of class. This could be volunteering, playing sports, or participating in debates. Showing a strong interest in something can really help your application.
Harvard has two application deadlines: November 1st for Restrictive Early Action (REA) and January 1st for Regular Decision (RD). REA decisions come out in mid-December, and RD decisions in late March. You’ll also need to send in English test scores like TOEFL or IELTS to show you can speak English well.
| Application Deadline | Decision Release |
|---|---|
| Restrictive Early Action (REA): November 1st | Mid-December |
| Regular Decision (RD): January 1st | Late March |
International students applying to Harvard need to fill out an application form. They also have to send in SAT or ACT scores and two letters of recommendation. A supplemental essay is also required as part of the application.
Harvard’s English Proficiency Documentation
At Harvard, international students must show they can speak English well. They do this with official school records or test scores. Harvard checks these english language certification documents carefully.
Transcript Submission Guidelines
Students can send in official school records. These records should show they’ve finished high school, college, or a graduate program. The school must teach in English, and the student must have studied there for at least a year.
Test Score Verification Process
For tests like the TOEFL or IELTS, students can upload their scores online. Harvard checks these documentation process scores with the testing agencies. This makes sure they’re real and correct.
| Test | Minimum Score Requirement |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 100 |
| IELTS Academic | 7.5 |
| Duolingo English Test | 140 |
Harvard follows strict english language certification and documentation process rules. This makes sure international students can do well in their studies.
Alternative Ways to Prove English Proficiency
At Harvard, students who speak English as their first language don’t need to show English skills. This includes those at Harvard College, Harvard Extension School, and graduate schools. Also, those who passed the Harvard Summer School Pre-College or Secondary School Program are exempt. They just need to email the right office to let them know.
The Duolingo English Test is now accepted by Harvard Extension School instead of TOEFL and IELTS. This online test is easy to take and available worldwide. It lets students show their English skills from home, making the application easier.
| Test | Minimum Score Requirement | Validity Period |
|---|---|---|
| Duolingo English Test | 125 | 2 years |
| TOEFL iBT | 100 | 2 years |
| IELTS | 7.0 | 2 years |
Harvard also accepts other ways to prove English skills. For example, completing at least two years of study at a school where English is the main language. This option helps students who can’t take the usual tests.
Harvard wants to make it easier for international students to apply. By accepting different ways to show English skills, they aim to be more welcoming. This way, language shouldn’t stop students from reaching their goals.
Deadlines for English Proficiency Tests
Applying to Harvard University means meeting certain deadlines for English tests. These dates change based on the term and program you’re applying for.
Regular Decision Deadlines
For Fall term applications, English test scores are due by August 8th for CRWS. Scores for class registration are due by August 22nd. For January, the CRWS deadline is November 26th, and class registration is December 12th. Spring term deadlines are January 2nd and January 16th.
Early Action Considerations
International students need to apply for an I-20 visa early. They must submit their English test scores before the regular deadlines. This allows time for all necessary documents and reviews.
It’s important to know the latest Harvard university admissions rules and competitive college admissions process timelines. Meeting these deadlines shows you’re serious and detail-oriented. This can help your chances of getting into Harvard.
Cost Comparison of English Proficiency Tests
Students and applicants have many options to show their English skills. These include the TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, and Duolingo English Test. Each test has its own price, so it’s important to know what you’ll pay.
The TOEFL iBT costs between $157 and $360 USD, based on where you take it. The IELTS Academic test is priced from $180 to $250 USD. But, the Duolingo English Test is the cheapest, at just $65 USD.
| Test | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | $157 to $360 USD |
| IELTS Academic | $180 to $250 USD |
| Duolingo English Test | $65 USD |
The Duolingo English Test is very affordable, priced at $65 USD. It’s also accepted by top universities like Harvard. Its online format and quick results make it a great choice for many.
“The Duolingo English Test is generally the most affordable option, costing only $65 USD, in contrast to the TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic, which can range from $157 to $360 and $180 to $250, respectively.”
Common Mistakes in Language Test Submissions
When applying to Harvard, it’s important to avoid common mistakes. One big error is submitting test scores that are too old. These scores must be valid for at least two years.
Another mistake is using the wrong test versions. For example, the TOEFL ITP or IELTS General Training are not accepted by Harvard. These tests are not recognized by the university.
Students also need to meet the minimum score requirements for their program. Not submitting the required documentation on time can harm your application. It’s key to follow Harvard’s detailed guidelines for each language test and submission process.
Being careful and following Harvard’s rules, applicants can make their language test submission successful. This increases their chances of getting into Harvard.
