So, you’ve been deferred from Harvard. We’re sorry you’re dealing with this right now -- and definitely take some time to process. But if you’re here, you’re probably a person of action, and you want to know what you should do next. Don’t worry, we have some action items that can help you give yourself a fighting chance to get in, and some strategies for applying to other schools too.
According to reporting from The Crimson, Harvard’s early admissions candidates have around a 13% acceptance rate, and about 80% of early action applications are deferred. Harvard does not publish the number of students who’ve been deferred that eventually get accepted, and they play coy on the stats.
Before you get too down on yourself, let’s develop a strategy. Because no matter what, you’re going to go to a great school.
Schools
If you put all your eggs in the Harvard basket, now is the time to diversify. You need to apply to at least 10 other schools. You need to develop a college list that is balanced and realistic. Think three reaches, four targets, and three safeties. We have a guide on how to determine what would make different schools reaches/targets/safeties here.
Think about what drew you to Harvard in the first place. If culture is important to you, think of schools like (xyz). If Boston was a huge draw for you, then you’re in luck! You can look at schools like Tufts, Northeastern, Emerson, MIT, Boston College, and Boston University. If certain academic programs are what piqued your interest, start researching other colleges with similar offerings.
Supplements
Once you’ve compiled your list, you’ll want to start looking at all the supplements for each school. Some of these will be repetitive -- a lot of colleges re-use themes in their essays, like community or “Why THIS college” type essays. This will allow you to work smarter, not harder while tackling these supplements. If you’re stuck with brainstorming, check here. We think it’s best to just jump in and get your ideas on paper, then you can start whittling it down to the perfect essay. We recommend leaning on friends and family and teachers to help you edit these essays -- fresh eyes can help you spot things you’ve missed. Once you’ve edited all your supplements for both clarity and correctness, you’re ready to submit.
It’s important to note here that you also need to request additional recommendation letters from your teachers, coaches, and guidance counselor. Make sure they’re okay with supplying these, and discuss your next steps with your counselor’s office. With recommendation letters, sent test scores, and edited supplements, it’s time to submit your additional applications.
Deferral Letter
Ok let’s be real, this is the section you’re here for. You want to draft a letter to Harvard that updates them on your wonderful achievements and makes it clear that you want to attend their school no matter what. Top universities care a lot about their yield rate, so you want to express your loyalty to their school. Start by updating them on what you’ve been working on since applying to their school. You don’t want the tone to be braggy, but don’t play it overly humble either. If you made captain of a team, or finished a big research project, or helped organize an event at school, these are all things you could mention. Don’t do a huge list of your accomplishments, but pick about two things that are the most interesting.
You’ll finish the letter by making it clear that you will attend Harvard if you get in. Have friends, family, or a guidance counselor (or all three) look over your letter for grammar and clarity. Now, send it off to the Harvard Admissions office.
Now, the worst part. The waiting. But feel confident that you’ve done your best.
If you’re struggling with rounding out your college list, or need help with your essays, reach out to us here.