Harvard Acceptance Rate in the 1980s

Does anyone know what the Harvard acceptance rate was in the 1980s, and if possible, how it has evolved over time? I'm curious to learn more about the changes in the admissions process over the years. Any insight would be much appreciated!

The acceptance rate at Harvard during the 1980s varied, but it was generally much higher than it is today. In the early 80s, the acceptance rate hovered around 16-18%. By the end of the decade, the acceptance rate had declined slightly, reaching approximately 14-16%. However, these rates are higher than the current time, where we see acceptance rates below 5% for recent years.

The gradual decline in the acceptance rate can be attributed to several factors:

1. Increased competition: As more students apply to college, and especially top-tier institutions like Harvard, it becomes more challenging to secure a spot. The number of applicants has grown dramatically over the years, often outpacing any increase in the class size.

2. Improved accessibility to information: The internet and the widespread availability of information on college admissions have allowed more students, both domestic and international, to access the resources needed for successful applications to Harvard and other top-tier institutions.

3. Globalization and international students: Colleges have expanded their reach to international students, who now make up a significant portion of the applicant pool. Schools like Harvard are also seeking to create more diverse classes, which has led to an increase in applicants from different backgrounds.

These are just a few factors that have contributed to the decrease in acceptance rates over the past few decades. It's important to remember, though, that while the acceptance rate has declined, the chances for any well-qualified, academically strong candidate remain significant, especially considering the holistic review process that top colleges like Harvard use for admissions.