Undergraduate applications to Harvard University for the class of 2028 dropped this year by 5%, reaching a total of 54,008 applicants, marking the fewest applications since 2020. This decline comes after a chaotic period for Harvard that included a tarnishing of its reputation due to antisemitism and plagiarism scandals. Despite this decrease in applications, Harvard highlighted the fact that this is the fourth consecutive year that they have received over 50,000 applications, showing consistent strong interest in the university from students around the world.
William R. Fitzsimmons, the dean of admissions and financial aid at Harvard, tried to put a positive spin on the data by emphasizing the talents and experiences that the class of 2028 will bring with them. Harvard has accepted 1,937 students to the class of 2028, resulting in an admission rate of 3.58%, which is slightly higher than the previous year’s rate of 3.41%. The increase in the admission rate may be a reflection of the challenges that Harvard faced during the fall months, starting with a letter signed by 30 student groups that made controversial claims about Israel’s involvement in triggering a war in the Middle East.
Harvard faced further trouble when Harvard President Claudine Gay gave a disastrous congressional testimony about campus antisemitism and was later forced to apologize for not condemning antisemitism strongly enough. Gay ultimately resigned in January following multiple plagiarism claims. The events surrounding Gay’s tenure likely contributed to the decrease in undergraduate applications for the class of 2028. Additionally, this admissions cycle is significant as it is the first one since the US Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action in higher education, deeming it unconstitutional for colleges to provide preferential treatment based solely on race.
Despite the challenges and scandals that Harvard faced in the lead-up to the application period for the class of 2028, the university remains optimistic about the incoming class and the diverse talents and experiences they will bring. The consistent high number of applications over the past four years demonstrates continued interest in Harvard from students worldwide. The university’s acceptance rate for the class of 2028 is slightly higher than the previous year, marking a shift in the admissions process. As Harvard adapts to changes in higher education policies and faces internal issues, it remains a prestigious institution with a history of excellence and a commitment to diversity and inclusivity among its student body.
While the decrease in undergraduate applications to Harvard University for the class of 2028 may be attributed to various factors, including the scandals and controversies that plagued the institution in recent months, the university continues to attract top-tier students from across the globe. Harvard’s efforts to address and move past the challenges it faced, such as addressing antisemitism and plagiarism claims, demonstrate its dedication to maintaining its reputation as a leading academic institution. As the university prepares to welcome the class of 2028, it remains focused on fostering a diverse and talented student body that will contribute to Harvard’s legacy of excellence in education and research.
