Skip to content

International Students

Study in the United States this summer at Harvard University. We invite you to live and learn on the Harvard campus, and explore historic Boston June through August.

1. Choose your study path

English language programs

Learn English for success in academics, your career, and all aspects of your life. We offer:

Read more about the Institute for English Language Programs.

General courses in 60 subjects

For students proficient in English, nearly 300 courses in a variety of subjects are available.

High school programs

High school students who will graduate in 2010, 2011, or 2012 may apply to the Secondary School Program.

2. Prove English proficiency

English proficiency is required to take Summer School classes. You meet this requirement by earning a designated minimum score on the TOEFL or IELTS. CAE, CPE, and institutional TOEFL scores will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Sign up for one of these tests now to ensure the Summer School receives your scores by the I-20 request (see below) or registration deadline (whichever applies to you).

For test information and deadlines, see how to meet the English proficiency requirement.

3. Obtain an I-20 for the F-1 visa if studying full time

The F-1 student visa is the appropriate visa if:

  1. Your primary reason for coming to the United States is to study and
  2. You will be enrolled full time at the Summer School

Full-time study is equal to 8 undergraduate or graduate credits or an Institute for English Language intensive program.

I-20 requirements

When registration opens February 22, you may request an I-20 and work to meet the following requirements by the April 30 deadline:

  1. Submit all required forms (available in mid-January)
  2. Be admitted to any Summer School selective admissions program to which you apply.
  3. Register for a full-time program of study.
  4. Meet the English proficiency requirement if you are registering for general program courses and English is not your primary language.
  5. Pay the $1,000 I-20 or housing deposit and the $50 registration fee.

Visas and part-time study

B-2 visas are for people whose main reason for visiting the United States is tourism. If students intend to pursue full-time study, the B-2 and the B-1 business visa are not appropriate. The rules regarding study are the same for the visa-waiver program as for the B-2 tourist visa; full-time study is not appropriate. Consult the US embassy or consulate in your country to see which visa is appropriate or required for part-time study.

Immunizations for students on visas

To attend the Summer School while on any type of visa, you must provide proof of immunization. An immunization form must be completed and signed by your health-care provider, and submitted by May 17.