Getting invited to a Harvard interview is an exciting milestone. With an acceptance rate in the low single digits, Harvard uses interviews to learn more about applicants as individuals. The conversation gives you a chance to show how you think, what matters to you personally, and how you see yourself thriving at Harvard.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what the Harvard alumni interview looks like, how to prepare, and how you can show your best self while staying relaxed. Later in this post, you’ll also find a full list of sample questions and advice on how to answer them.
Understanding the Harvard Interview
Harvard interviews are conducted by alumni volunteers who serve on local Schools & Scholarships Committees. These interviewers come from a wide range of backgrounds and graduating classes. Their goal is to get a clearer sense of how you think, communicate, and approach the world around you.
Most interviews are conversational and last around 45–60 minutes. Because interviewers have so much flexibility in how they guide the conversation, no two Harvard interviews look exactly the same. Some might dive into the academic topics you’re interested in, while others may focus more on your personal growth or experiences that shaped your worldview.
One thing that’s consistent: interviewers want to understand you as a whole person. They’re looking for depth and authenticity—not rehearsed lines or “perfect” answers.
Does Harvard Interview All Applicants?
Harvard aims to interview as many applicants as possible, but the availability of interviewers where you live is a big factor
Some regions have dozens of alumni volunteers, and others have only a few. If you don’t get an interview, it does not hurt your chances. Harvard makes it clear that your application will be reviewed fairly whether or not an interview is available.
What Harvard Interviewers Are Looking For
Harvard interviewers pay attention to qualities that are sometimes difficult to capture in an application. These include:
Intellectual Curiosity
Harvard students tend to be self-driven learners. Interviewers might notice how you talk about ideas, questions, or subjects that fascinate you. They’re not evaluating the topic you love—they’re paying attention to the way you think about it.
Independent Thinking
You don’t need to have unconventional opinions, but you should be able to think for yourself. Interviewers may ask follow-up questions to see how you form conclusions or evaluate information.
Self-Reflection
Harvard values emotional maturity and the ability to learn from experiences. Interviewers often look for students who can reflect honestly on challenges, growth, or moments that shaped who they are.
Authentic Engagement
Rather than trying to impress interviewers with achievements, students stand out when they speak naturally about what’s meaningful to them, whether it’s academic, personal, or extracurricular.
How to Prepare for the Harvard Interview
Here’s how to set yourself up for success without over-preparing:
1. Reflect on key moments in your life
Think about experiences that helped you grow: books, life experiences, family members, academic challenges, or ideas that changed your perspective. Harvard interviewers often ask follow-up questions that dig deeper, so choose things that truly matter to you.
2. Review your activities
Don’t memorize your application, but think about why your activities matter to you and what you’ve learned from them. Interviewers may ask about how your interests developed over time.
3. Explore Harvard’s academics and community
Familiarize yourself with opportunities that align with your interests:
- The first-year seminar program
- Harvard’s House system and residential communities
- The liberal arts structure and how it encourages exploration
- Student organizations and traditions that
Showing understanding of Harvard’s distinct campus culture will help you sell why the school is a strong fit.
4. Prepare thoughtful questions
You’ll likely have a chance to ask your own questions, some come prepared with some. Choose questions that help you understand Harvard from a personal perspective. See below for some ideas.
6. Practice staying natural
The more comfortable and genuine you are, the better the conversation flows. And remember, it’s a conversation. Practice speaking about your interests out loud without memorizing lines. And consider setting up a mock interview with a counselor or friend.
Harvard Interview Questions + Guidance
Below is a list of questions you might face in your Harvard Interview:
Why Harvard University?
This is your chance to be specific and authentic. Reference Harvard’s commitment to intellectual exploration, its residential House system, and the blend of tradition and innovation in Cambridge. Mention opportunities such as cross-registration with MIT, research centers, and the liberal arts foundation. Explain how Harvard’s energy and mission of service align with your personal and academic goals.
How has studying or working in Cambridge influenced your education and perspective?
Asking this reveals that you have thought about Harvard’s location as part of its identity. Cambridge offers intellectual, cultural, and entrepreneurial energy that shapes the student experience. Harvard values students who appreciate context and who seek to learn from the world beyond the classroom.
Can you describe a time when you or your classmates worked on a project that connected multiple disciplines?
This question shows that you understand and value Harvard’s interdisciplinary approach. It suggests that you think about collaboration beyond boundaries. Harvard interviewers appreciate students who are open to connecting science, humanities, and social impact through teamwork and broad-minded curiosity.
In your own words, what is Harvard’s culture?
Describe Harvard as a community that blends academic rigor, community, and global perspective. You could talk about its Houses, traditions, and strong focus on public service. Connect this culture to your own personality and values, showing how you would thrive in an environment that encourages both independence and collective growth.
Tell me about your research.
If you’ve conducted research in high school, summarize your research question, your approach, and what you discovered. Focus on what you learned through the process and how it developed your curiosity and critical thinking. Harvard values independent thinkers who can take initiative, analyze information deeply, and find joy in solving complex or open-ended problems.
What do you think sets Harvard students apart from those at other universities?
This question reflects deep interest in campus culture and academic distinction. It allows you to understand Harvard’s ethos directly from someone who lived it. Harvard interviewers respect students who recognize that success involves community spirit, humility, and a desire to use education for good.
What is our motto, and how does that resonate with you?
Harvard’s motto, “Veritas,” means “Truth.” Explain how this concept guides your learning and your relationships. You might talk about seeking truth through evidence, dialogue, or ethical decision-making. Harvard values students who demonstrate integrity, curiosity, and the courage to pursue truth even when it is challenging or uncomfortable.
What kind of student do you think thrives most at Harvard, and what qualities helped you succeed there?
Ask this to learn what personality traits and habits lead to success at Harvard. The question reflects your self-awareness and interest in growth. Harvard interviewers admire students who approach college as a personal challenge that blends intellectual curiosity with resilience and collaboration.
Do you have any work experience?
Discuss a job, internship, or volunteer role that taught you responsibility and professionalism. Highlight specific lessons such as communication, leadership, or time management. Harvard appreciates students who apply learning in real-world settings and who show initiative in seeking experiences that expand their independence and self-discipline.
Do you have any community service experience?
Describe the ways you have given back to your community. Explain what you learned about empathy, social awareness, and the importance of civic engagement. Harvard values service oriented students who recognize their ability to make meaningful contributions and who see service as an integral part of leadership and citizenship.
Do you participate in any arts?
Discuss any form of art you enjoy, whether music, dance, or visual expression. Explain how it helps you think creatively and connect emotionally with others. Harvard values artistic involvement as a way of expanding imagination, building community, and fostering well rounded perspectives across disciplines.
Tell me about a time you solved a difficult problem.
Choose an example that shows persistence and creativity. Describe the challenge, your approach, and what you learned from the outcome. Harvard looks for students who enjoy problem-solving, adapt under pressure, and learn from both success and failure with resilience and thoughtful reflection.
If you had unlimited resources, what would you do?
Describe a project, initiative, or research idea you would pursue if resources were not a limitation. Explain the reasoning, goals, and potential social benefit. Harvard values vision combined with integrity and seeks students who think boldly about how knowledge can be applied for meaningful progress.
If you suddenly received a ten million dollar grant, how would you use it?
Think strategically and ethically. Choose a cause that reflects your passions, such as global health, education, or sustainability. Describe how you would allocate the funds responsibly and measure impact. Harvard seeks thoughtful students who balance imagination with practicality and view resources as tools to improve human welfare.
If you were at Harvard, how would you handle being in a more competitive environment than high school?
Show maturity and humility by explaining that you would focus on collaboration, learning from others, and maintaining perspective. Mention your strategies for balance and motivation. Harvard looks for students who handle challenge with grace, value teamwork, and thrive in rigorous yet supportive academic communities.
If you could change one policy, law, or rule in the world, what would it be and why?
Select a policy or rule that you feel passionate about changing and explain your reasoning thoughtfully. Consider both moral and practical consequences. Harvard values critical thinkers who approach global and local issues with empathy, fairness, and a focus on ethical problem solving.
If you could change one thing about your high school experience, what would it be and why?
Reflect on an experience you wish had been different and what you learned from it. Focus on how it helped you mature or understand your priorities better. Harvard interviewers respect introspection and honesty and appreciate applicants who turn reflection into a plan for future growth and balance.
What is something your classmates would be surprised to learn about you?
Choose something interesting, unexpected, or reflective about your personality. Explain why it matters to you and how it shapes who you are. Harvard interviewers like hearing stories that reveal dimension, humility, or humor and that provide a glimpse into your authentic self beyond academics.
What activities would you participate in at Harvard?
Identify specific clubs, centers, or organizations that genuinely interest you, such as the Phillips Brooks House, Harvard College Consulting Group, or the Harvard Crimson. Explain why they appeal to you and how you would contribute. Harvard seeks students who already imagine themselves fully engaged in campus life and service.
What initially sparked your interest in Harvard?
Explain what first drew you to Harvard, perhaps a course, a professor, or a unique tradition like freshman convocation. Discuss how your interest deepened as you learned more about the university. Harvard interviewers appreciate sincerity and want to see how your connection to the school developed over time.
What will four years at Harvard lead you to?
Describe how a Harvard education will shape your future as a thinker and leader. Focus on intellectual and personal transformation rather than only career outcomes. Harvard wants to hear how its community and resources will help you live a life of purpose, discovery, and impact.
What is a weakness you plan to work on?
Select a real area for growth and describe how you are addressing it. Be honest but emphasize progress and self-awareness. Harvard values students who take initiative to improve themselves, learn from mistakes, and use feedback as a tool for personal and academic development.
Example 1: Taking on too many commitments
I have a tendency to take on too many responsibilities because I want to help with everything. I am learning to prioritize and focus on fewer activities where I can make a deeper impact. Setting boundaries and using time-management tools has helped me become more balanced and effective as a leader.
Example 2: Hesitating to ask for help
I used to struggle with asking for help because I wanted to figure everything out on my own. Over time, I realized that collaboration leads to stronger results and better understanding. I now make a point to reach out to teachers and peers when I need support and appreciate learning from others.
Example 3: Public speaking anxiety
I used to get nervous speaking in front of groups, even when I knew my material well. To improve, I joined debate and started volunteering to lead class presentations. Over time, I have become more confident and comfortable sharing my ideas clearly in front of an audience.
Example 4: Being overly self-critical
I sometimes focus too much on small mistakes and overlook my progress. I have been working on celebrating growth instead of perfection. Journaling my successes and reflecting on what went well has helped me maintain perspective and use feedback constructively without discouraging myself.
What is one part of campus that you are most excited about?
Choose a specific aspect of Harvard that excites you, such as the Harvard Art Museums, the John F. Kennedy School of Government, the Innovation Labs, or Widener Library. Explain what draws you to it and how it connects to your interests. Show that you have explored Harvard beyond its reputation.
Is there anything you would like me to tell the admissions office about you that they do not know yet?
Use this question as your closing statement to summarize your strengths, character, and fit for Harvard. Reaffirm your intellectual curiosity, integrity, and enthusiasm for contributing to the community. Leave the interviewer with a clear sense of your passion, potential, and readiness to make a difference at Harvard.
Questions to Prepare for Your Harvard Interview
Prepare a few questions about the interviewer’s experiences or insights about Harvard’s culture. This is your chance to demonstrate interest and show curiosity about what it means to live and learn at Harvard.
What is one tradition, event, or moment at Harvard that every student should experience?
Ask this to learn more about Harvard’s traditions and sense of belonging. It shows that you value campus culture and shared experience. Harvard interviewers appreciate applicants who are curious about community spirit, whether that means attending the Harvard-Yale Game, participating in Housing Day, or embracing academic and social milestones.
Why do you think Harvard’s approach to education is distinctive?
Ask this to understand Harvard’s teaching philosophy, such as the focus on critical thinking, discussion-based learning, and research opportunities across disciplines. It shows that you have reflected on how Harvard’s model fits your goals and that you value a broad, integrated education rooted in curiosity and exploration.
How has Harvard’s commitment to diversity and inclusion shaped your experience or the student body?
This question conveys that you care about belonging and understanding people with different backgrounds. It allows you to see how Harvard promotes open dialogue and global citizenship. Harvard values students who want to participate in an inclusive environment and who learn from diversity both intellectually and personally.
What has been the most unexpected part of Harvard life for you or your peers?
This question shows that you are genuinely curious about the student experience beyond academics. It also allows you to learn about Harvard’s culture, challenges, and rewards. Harvard interviewers appreciate applicants who seek honest perspectives and who want to understand the depth of the community they hope to join.
How has the residential House system influenced your Harvard experience?
Ask this to understand how Harvard’s Houses foster mentorship, belonging, and community. It shows that you appreciate the value of connection and shared tradition. Harvard values applicants who are interested in both academic and social integration and who see college as a place for personal and communal growth.
How do students balance Harvard’s academic expectations with creativity and self expression?
This question demonstrates your awareness that balance matters as much as achievement. It also shows curiosity about Harvard’s culture of innovation through arts, writing, and entrepreneurship. Harvard values students who see creativity as part of scholarship and who seek to maintain curiosity and joy in a demanding environment.
What qualities or habits do Harvard graduates tend to share?
This question helps you understand what defines Harvard’s culture in the long term. It shows that you are thinking about the type of person you hope to become. Harvard values students who focus on growth, resilience, and lifelong learning rather than prestige or competition.
Harvard Interview FAQs
Is getting a Harvard interview a good sign?
It’s a positive step but not an indicator of admissions chances. Many applicants are offered interviews based simply on alumni availability.
Can you get into Harvard without an interview?
Yes. Plenty of admitted students never receive an interview. Not having an interview does not hurt your application.
Does Harvard require interviews?
No. Interviews are recommended when available, but they are not required. That said, if you’re offered an interview, you should make every effort to accept!
When do Harvard interviews happen?
Interviews typically happen between October and February, depending on when you apply.
Conclusion
The Harvard interview is conversation designed to help the admissions team understand the person behind the application. If you approach your meeting with honesty, curiosity, and a willingness to reflect, you’ll make a strong impression no matter what questions you’re asked. Preparation matters, but authenticity matters more.
If you want personalized practice, expert feedback, or help developing strong answers, our team of expert counselors at HelloCollege is here to support you. Schedule a one-on-one interview coaching session with us today and walk into your Harvard interview with clarity and confidence.
