A well-crafted cover letter is crucial when applying to Harvard University, regardless of the program. It provides an opportunity to showcase your personality, highlight your qualifications, and articulate your passion for your chosen field in a way that transcripts and test scores simply cannot. It’s your chance to tell your story and demonstrate why Harvard is the *perfect* place for you to thrive.
Harvard seeks individuals who are not only academically gifted but also possess qualities like leadership, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference. Your cover letter should weave together your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal experiences to paint a comprehensive picture of who you are as an applicant. Tailor each letter to the specific program and department, demonstrating a deep understanding of their values and research focus. Remember to research the faculty and highlight any alignment with their work.
Don’t underestimate the power of strong storytelling. While it’s important to quantify your accomplishments (e.g., “Increased sales by 15%”), it’s even more impactful to connect those accomplishments to a broader narrative. How did your experiences shape your intellectual curiosity? What challenges did you overcome, and what did you learn from them? Answer these questions thoughtfully and authentically. Proofread meticulously! Even a small error can detract from your application.
Below are several sample cover letters, tailored to various Harvard programs and applicant backgrounds. Use these as inspiration, but remember to adapt them to your own unique experiences and qualifications. Pay close attention to the tone, structure, and key selling points in each example. Good luck with your application!
Harvard Cover Letter Samples
Sample 1: PhD in Computer Science
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard University Department of Computer Science
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my keen interest in the PhD program in Computer Science at Harvard University. My research in [Specific Area of CS] aligns strongly with the work of Professor [Professor’s Name], and I am eager to contribute to your department’s innovative research environment.
[Continue with a compelling narrative about your research experience and career goals.]
Sample 2: Master in Public Policy (MPP)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Kennedy School
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
Having worked in [Specific Policy Area] for [Number] years, I am drawn to the Master in Public Policy program at the Harvard Kennedy School to deepen my understanding of policy development and implementation. My experience in [Specific Example] has ignited a passion for [Specific Policy Goal].
[Continue with a compelling narrative about your experience and how MPP will help you achieve your goals.]
Sample 3: MBA at Harvard Business School
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Business School
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
As a [Your Title] at [Your Company], I have consistently sought opportunities to drive innovation and growth. The MBA program at Harvard Business School represents the ideal platform to refine my leadership skills and broaden my perspective on global business challenges. My experience in [Specific Business Challenge] and [Specific Business Achievement] makes me an ideal candidate.
[Continue with a compelling narrative about your career aspirations and how the MBA will help you achieve them.]
Sample 4: Law School – JD Program
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
My undergraduate studies in [Your Major] and my involvement in [Extracurricular Activity related to law] have solidified my commitment to pursuing a legal career. I believe the rigorous academic environment and esteemed faculty at Harvard Law School will provide me with the necessary foundation to become a successful and impactful lawyer. My passion for [Specific Legal Area] makes me an ideal candidate.
[Continue with a compelling narrative about your motivation and preparation for law school.]
Sample 5: Medical School – MD Program
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Medical School
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
Inspired by my experiences volunteering at [Hospital/Clinic] and my research in [Medical Research Area], I am eager to pursue an MD at Harvard Medical School. I am driven to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and provide compassionate care to patients. My clinical experiences and research work make me a **strong** candidate.
[Continue with a compelling narrative about your commitment to medicine and your skills.]
Sample 6: PhD in Economics
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard University Department of Economics
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the PhD program in Economics. My undergraduate studies in [Your Field] and my research experience at [Institution Name] have fostered a strong foundation for advanced study in economics. I am particularly interested in [Specific area of Economics] and the work of Professor [Professor’s Name].
Sample 7: Master’s in Education
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Graduate School of Education
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
As an educator with [Number] years of experience, I am deeply passionate about improving educational outcomes for all students. The Master’s in Education program at Harvard will provide me with the advanced knowledge and skills I need to become a more effective leader and advocate in the field.
Sample 8: Master of Architecture
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Graduate School of Design
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
With a background in [Your Field] and a strong portfolio showcasing my design skills, I am eager to pursue a Master of Architecture at Harvard. I am particularly drawn to the program’s focus on sustainable design and its commitment to addressing global challenges through architecture.
Sample 9: Master of Science in Data Science
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
Driven by a passion for data-driven problem-solving, I am applying for the Master of Science in Data Science program at Harvard. My experience in [Relevant Experience] has equipped me with the technical skills and analytical mindset needed to excel in this rapidly evolving field.
Sample 10: Master of Divinity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Divinity School
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
My commitment to [Specific Religious/Spiritual Tradition] and my desire to serve others have led me to apply for the Master of Divinity program at Harvard. I am eager to engage in rigorous theological study and develop the skills necessary to become an effective religious leader.
Sample 11: PhD in History
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard University Department of History
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the PhD program in History at Harvard University. My undergraduate thesis on [Your Thesis Topic] demonstrated my research skills and my commitment to historical scholarship. I am particularly interested in [Specific Historical Period/Area].
Sample 12: Master of Public Health (MPH)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
Motivated by my experiences in [Specific Public Health Area], I am seeking admission to the Master of Public Health program at Harvard. I am eager to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to address critical public health challenges and improve the health and well-being of communities worldwide.
Sample 13: PhD in Psychology
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard University Department of Psychology
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
My undergraduate research in [Specific Area of Psychology] and my strong interest in [Specific Psychological Issue] have led me to apply for the PhD program in Psychology at Harvard. I believe that the program will provide a unique environment for my development.
Sample 14: Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
As an emerging artist with a strong body of work in [Your Art Form], I am eager to develop my skills and explore new creative avenues through the Master of Fine Arts program at Harvard. My artistic vision and strong motivation makes me an excellent candidate.
Sample 15: Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone]
[Your Email]
[Date]
Admissions Committee
Harvard Graduate School of Design
[Address]
Dear Admissions Committee,
With a background in [Your Background Field] and passion for design, I am applying to the Master of Landscape Architecture program at Harvard. My experiences in [Projects and experiences] make me a strong addition to the MLA Program.
In conclusion, your Harvard cover letter should be a compelling and personalized narrative that showcases your qualifications, passion, and potential. Use the sample letters as inspiration but remember to tailor your letter to your own unique experiences and the specific program you are applying to. **Always proofread carefully before submitting!** Good luck!
