Letters of Recommendation for Harvard Undergrad Admission

Hi there! I'm a high school junior with plans to apply to Harvard. I'm super stressed about letters of recommendation. What are their guidelines and who do they prefer the letters to be from?

Harvard University, like many selective schools, has specific preferences for letters of recommendation.

First, they require two letters from teachers of different academic subjects. These should ideally be teachers who have taught you in your junior or senior year of high school and who know you well. They should be able to provide insights into your academic capabilities, work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and potential for growth.

On top of these, Harvard also requires a letter from your school counselor. This letter should cover your overall standing in the school, your involvement in extracurricular activities, and any additional context about your background or personal situation, if relevant.

Keep in mind that these letters should provide a comprehensive view of who you are as an individual beyond just your academic performance. This might include your resilience, leadership skills, creativity, or other qualities that could contribute to the Harvard community.

Start these conversations with your teachers and counselors early, preferably at the end of your junior year or the beginning of your senior year, to give them ample time to put effort into these letters. Provide them with a "brag sheet" or detailed resume, so they have a lot of material to work with and can highlight your specific accomplishments and qualities.

Remember that the most important thing is that the letters are from individuals who know you well and can speak to your abilities and characteristics. Whether they're from a teacher, coach, or counselor, the goal is to have letters that paint a clear picture of you as a student and person, highlighting why you'd be a good fit for Harvard.