14. July 2025
Admin
How to Get Admitted into Harvard from a Nigerian School – Step-by-Step Guide
Harvard University is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. While it’s highly competitive, many Nigerian students have successfully gained admission. This guide outlines the steps, documents, and tips needed to increase your chances of admission into Harvard from Nigeria.
Quick Insight: Harvard admits exceptional students from across the world, including Nigeria, with full scholarships available based on financial need.
1. Start Early with Academic Excellence
Harvard looks for students with an outstanding academic record. You should:
- Be among the top 5% of your class (SS1–SS3)
- Excel in challenging subjects (math, science, humanities)
- Build consistent academic performance from JSS to SSCE or A-Levels
2. Choose and Prepare for the Right Exams
You will typically need:
- SAT or ACT (optional but recommended for competitiveness)
- TOEFL or IELTS (may be waived for Nigerian students)
- WAEC or Cambridge A-Levels (WAEC is accepted; A-Levels strengthen your profile)
Tip: Aim for SAT scores above 1450 out of 1600 to stand out.
3. Build a Strong Extracurricular Profile
Harvard looks beyond academics. Participate in:
- Clubs (debate, music, coding, etc.)
- Leadership roles in school or community
- Volunteering and personal projects
- Competitions (e.g., Olympiads, Cowbellpedia, essay contests)
4. Secure Strong Recommendations
You need two teacher recommendations and a school report. Choose teachers who:
- Know you personally and academically
- Can write compelling and well-written letters
- Can highlight your strengths and growth
5. Write an Outstanding Personal Essay
Your essay should:
- Tell your unique story or background
- Show passion, resilience, and curiosity
- Be honest, authentic, and well-edited
Optional Harvard supplement questions must be answered thoughtfully and creatively.
6. Apply via the Common Application
- Visit: www.commonapp.org
- Add Harvard to your list of schools
- Complete all sections: personal info, education, activities, essays
- Upload documents (transcripts, WAEC, recommendations)
- Pay the application fee or request a fee waiver
7. Apply for Financial Aid (If Needed)
Harvard is need-blind and provides 100% financial aid for international students.
- Submit the CSS Profile via College Board
- Complete the ISFAA or Harvard's Financial Aid Form
- Include proof of family income (bank statements, payslips, etc.)
Note: Students from low-income families often attend Harvard tuition-free.
8. Prepare for Interview (If Offered)
You may be invited for an alumni interview:
- Be confident and conversational
- Know your application and goals
- Discuss your achievements and future plans clearly
9. Know the Application Deadlines
- Early Action: November 1
- Regular Decision: January 1
- Financial Aid Documents: Usually due in February
Final Thoughts
Admission to Harvard is tough but achievable for determined and outstanding Nigerian students. Be academically excellent, take initiative, and stay authentic. Even if you don’t get in, the same process can help you gain admission (and scholarships) at other Ivy League and top global universities.
Success Story: In 2023, a Nigerian student from Lagos with a 1520 SAT, A1s in WAEC, and a girls-in-STEM initiative got into Harvard with full financial aid. With the right strategy, you can too.
