Can you go to community college then transfer to Harvard?

I’ve heard of people starting at community college and making it to Ivy Leagues. Specifically, is it really possible to transfer from a community college to a place like Harvard? Would love to know if anyone's done this!

Absolutely, it's possible to transfer from a community college to Harvard. However, it's important to note that Harvard's transfer acceptance rate is highly competitive, even compared to its already competitive freshman acceptance rate. Similar to applying directly, your academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal context will all play into your chances.

Your performance at your community college will arguably be the most crucial aspect of your application. That means stellar grades and, perhaps, involvement in academically rigorous initiatives like honors programs. It's also beneficial to have a rigorous course load that aligns with the academic area you intend to pursue at Harvard.

Extracurricular involvement can demonstrate your commitment and leadership, so participating actively in clubs, doing community service, conducting research, or working a part-time job can help your application as well.

Additionally, your personal statement and letters of recommendation should work together to paint a picture of who you are, your goals, and how you've developed during your time at community college. These bits of your application can provide context about your journey and your reasons for transferring, which can help the admissions committee understand you better.

Lastly, Harvard takes a holistic approach to their admissions process, meaning they consider all aspects of an application and not just grades or exam scores. This is where your essays and maybe even an interview come into play.

While it is extremely difficult to transfer into Harvard, it is definitely possible, and there have been successful community college to Harvard transfer stories. It requires diligent work, strategic planning, and a dedication to your goals. Best of luck in your journey!