Harvard Business School Cover Letter Examples That Get Accepted

When applying to Harvard Business School, a well-crafted cover letter can make all the difference in standing out from the competition. In this article, we’ll provide you with Harvard cover letter examples for business school admissions, along with tips and guidelines to help you increase your chances of getting accepted.

Understanding the Importance of a Cover Letter

A cover letter is an essential component of your Harvard Business School application, serving as an introduction to your background, interests, and career goals. It’s an opportunity to showcase your personality, achievements, and motivation for pursuing an MBA at Harvard. A strong cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your fit with the school’s culture and values.

Key Elements of a Harvard Cover Letter

To write a compelling cover letter, you should include the following key elements:

Introduction: A brief introduction that highlights your interest in Harvard Business School and the MBA program.
Background: A concise overview of your educational and professional background.
Career Goals: A clear statement of your short-term and long-term career goals.
Why Harvard: An explanation of why you’re interested in attending Harvard Business School.
Conclusion: A summary of your main points and a expression of enthusiasm for the program.

Harvard Cover Letter Examples for Business School Admissions

Here are five examples of Harvard Business School cover letters that got accepted:

Example	Industry	Background	Career Goals
Example 1	Finance	5 years of experience in investment banking	Consulting and entrepreneurship
Example 2	Technology	3 years of experience in software development	Product management and leadership
Example 3	Healthcare	7 years of experience in hospital administration	Healthcare consulting and policy-making
Example 4	Non-Profit	4 years of experience in program management	Social entrepreneurship and leadership
Example 5	Marketing	6 years of experience in brand management	Marketing leadership and innovation

Harvard Cover Letter Example 1: Finance

Here’s an example of a Harvard cover letter for a finance professional:

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am excited to apply to Harvard Business School's MBA program, and I am confident that my experience in investment banking and my passion for entrepreneurship make me a strong fit for your esteemed institution.

With 5 years of experience in investment banking, I have developed a deep understanding of financial markets and instruments. My achievements in this field have been recognized through various awards and promotions.

My short-term goal is to transition into consulting, where I can leverage my analytical skills to drive business growth. In the long term, I aim to become an entrepreneur, creating innovative financial products and services.

I am drawn to Harvard Business School's rigorous academic program, world-class faculty, and extensive network. I am impressed by the school's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and learn from the Harvard Business School community.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Harvard Cover Letter

Here are some tips to help you write a compelling Harvard cover letter:

Show, don’t tell: Rather than simply stating your achievements, use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.
Be concise: Keep your cover letter to one page, and focus on the most important information.
Use active language: Use active voice and dynamic language to convey your enthusiasm and passion.
Proofread: Carefully proofread your cover letter to ensure that it is error-free and polished.

Harvard Cover Letter Examples for Business School Admissions: Dos and Don’ts

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when writing your Harvard cover letter:

DO:

Address the admissions committee by name.
Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Show enthusiasm and passion for the program.

Don’t:

Use jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar to non-experts.
Reiterate your resume or other application materials.
Apologize for lack of experience or achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal length of a Harvard cover letter?

The ideal length of a Harvard cover letter is one page. It should be concise and to the point, highlighting your most important achievements and experiences.

Should I use a formal or conversational tone in my Harvard cover letter?

A formal tone is recommended for your Harvard cover letter. You should use professional language and avoid jargon or overly technical terms.

Can I use examples from my personal life in my Harvard cover letter?

Yes, you can use examples from your personal life in your Harvard cover letter. However, make sure they are relevant to your application and demonstrate your skills and achievements.

How can I make my Harvard cover letter stand out from the competition?

To make your Harvard cover letter stand out, use specific examples and anecdotes to demonstrate your skills and achievements. Also, show enthusiasm and passion for the program, and highlight your unique strengths and experiences.

Can I get feedback on my Harvard cover letter?

Yes, you can get feedback on your Harvard cover letter. Ask a mentor, career counselor, or other trusted advisor to review your letter and provide feedback.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a well-crafted Harvard cover letter can make a significant difference in your application to Harvard Business School.

By using the Harvard cover letter examples for business school admissions provided in this article, and following the tips and guidelines outlined, you can increase your chances of getting accepted into the program.

Remember to show enthusiasm and passion for the program, and highlight your unique strengths and experiences.