How to qualify for Harvard Business School scholarships as an Indian student?

Question

Nitin Chauhan · Accepted Answer

To qualify for scholarships at Harvard Business School as an Indian student, it's important to focus on academic excellence, strong GMAT scores, and compelling leadership experiences. Here's how you can strengthen your application:
1. Academic Record: Maintain a high GPA. Harvard looks for students who have excelled in their undergraduate courses, especially in rigorous subjects.
2. GMAT Scores: Aim for a GMAT score above the 700 mark. High scores significantly boost your scholarship prospects as they reflect your quantitative and verbal skills.
3. Professional Experience: Demonstrate impactful leadership and management experiences. Real-world application of business acumen, especially in significant projects or roles, can set your application apart.
4. Essays and Recommendations: Your essays should narratively convey your personal and professional achievements, your leadership qualities, and how a Harvard MBA fits into your career goals. Recommendations should corroborate your potential as a future business leader.
5. Interview: Prepare thoroughly for the interview, showcasing your clear vision for your future and how Harvard can facilitate your aspirations.
Harvard also considers diverse perspectives that enhance the learning environment, so highlight any unique experiences or viewpoints you bring to the table.

Preeti Singh · Answer

To secure a scholarship at Harvard Business School, you must showcase your strong academic credentials, professional achievements, and personal qualities. Consider these strategies:
- Ensure your academic records are outstanding, with a high GPA and robust quantitative skills evidenced by your GMAT or GRE scores.
- Harvard values leadership that makes a significant impact. Document any leadership roles, either in your professional setting or through volunteer work, that demonstrate your ability to lead and influence effectively.
- Write compelling essays that reflect your career aspirations, personal growth, and how a Harvard MBA will help you achieve your goals. Be authentic and clear in articulating your vision.
- Choose recommenders who can provide detailed insights into your professional and personal strengths. Their testimonials should support your candidacy as a scholarship-worthy student.
- Excel in your admissions interview by clearly articulating your career vision and how it aligns with what Harvard offers, emphasizing your readiness and enthusiasm for the MBA program.
In your application, try to convey not just your achievements but also your potential to contribute to and benefit from the Harvard community.

B.K Sharma · Answer

Getting a scholarship at Harvard Business School (HBS) is mostly about financial need, but the strength of your overall application can make a big difference too. As an Indian student, you&rsquo;ll need to provide proof of your financial situation&mdash;things like tax returns and bank statements. HBS doesn&rsquo;t really do merit-based scholarships; they&rsquo;re more focused on helping students who truly need financial assistance.
That said, they&rsquo;re still looking for well-rounded candidates. If you&rsquo;ve got a strong academic background, solid work experience, and leadership qualities, you&rsquo;re already off to a great start. HBS loves applicants who have made a real impact in their careers or communities, so be sure to highlight that in your application.
If you&rsquo;ve got an entrepreneurial background or have worked in a less traditional field, that could really help too. Harvard values diversity, so any unique experiences you&rsquo;ve had can work in your favor. When you write your essays, make them personal&mdash;talk about your journey, what you&rsquo;ve overcome, and why an MBA at HBS is important for your future.
And remember, applying early can help. Since scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, submitting your application in Round 1 or 2 might improve your chances of getting financial support.