October 18, 2024

Ascot Can Get your Child into Harvard

Don’t let Harvard be just a dream university, make it a reality. Think about it: would it be best to help your child get into their dream university by grounding them with a strong educational foundation? In today’s competitive academic world, getting into prestigious universities like Harvard is no small feat. It takes more than just outstanding grades; a well-rounded profile is essential. That’s where Ascot International School comes in. As one of the best international schools in Bangkok, we’re known for our dedication to academic excellence, Ascot offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.

This program is designed to give students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in higher education, especially at elite institutions like Harvard. It’s all about preparing students to meet challenges and thrive in them. We prepare students for success in the IB program and achieving a high IB score to significantly enhance their chances of admission to Harvard.

The IB Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a thorough and challenging two-year curriculum for students aged 16 to 19. This program leads to a qualification that is recognised by universities worldwide, including prestigious ones like Harvard. At Ascot International School, students dive into this exciting program, which includes six subject groups along with core components designed to nurture critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility. It’s more than just academics; it’s about preparing students for the future and encouraging them to make a positive impact in the world.

Core Components of the IB Programme

1. Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) Subjects: Students are required to choose three subjects at Higher Level, which involves more in-depth study and typically four hours of lessons per week. The remaining three subjects are taken at the standard level.
2. Extended Essay: This independent research project allows students to explore a topic of their choice, honing their research skills and critical thinking abilities.
3. Theory of Knowledge (TOK): TOK encourages students to reflect on the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know. This component fosters analytical thinking and inquiry.
4. Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS): CAS requires students to engage in various extracurricular activities that promote personal growth and social responsibility.

These components not only prepare students academically but also cultivate essential life skills such as time management, self-discipline, and global awareness.

The Importance of IB scores for Harvard admissions

Harvard University doesn’t publish specific cut-off scores for IB applicants, but it’s widely understood that a minimum score of around 40 points is what competitive candidates should aim for. To strengthen their applications, students should strive for higher scores—ideally 42 points or more is advised—especially in their Higher Level (HL) subjects. This goal not only showcases their academic abilities but also reflects their commitment to excellence.

Why High IB Scores Matter

1. Academic Rigour: A high IB score shows that a student can tackle challenging coursework with confidence. Harvard looks for candidates who not only excel academically but also thrive in rigorous subjects. This ability to navigate tough material speaks volumes about their dedication and readiness for the demands of college life.
2. Holistic Admissions Process: While IB scores are important, Harvard takes a holistic approach to admissions, looking at a wide range of factors beyond just academics. They consider leadership qualities, involvement in extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. This comprehensive evaluation helps them get a fuller picture of each applicant, understanding not just their academic achievements but also their character and potential contributions to the university community.
3. Competitive Edge: Data shows that IB diploma holders have a higher acceptance rate at Harvard—around 12.2% compared to just 5.1% for non-IB applicants. This statistic underscores the benefits of pursuing an IB education at schools like Ascot, giving students a valuable edge in the competitive admissions process that is on par or better than the best international schools in Bangkok. It’s a testament to how well the IB program prepares students for success at top universities.

The Role of Personal Qualities in Admissions

While academic performance is crucial, personal qualities also play a significant role in the admissions process at Harvard.

- Leadership Skills: Showing leadership through school projects or community initiatives can make an applicant stand out. It indicates their ability to take charge, collaborate with others, and make a positive impact.
- Commitment to Excellence: A consistent track record of dedication in both academics and extracurricular activities showcases a student’s commitment to personal growth.
- Unique Experiences: Each student’s background contributes uniquely to the diversity of the university community; therefore, sharing personal stories in essays can resonate with admissions officers.

Harvard Valued Extracurricular Activities for IB Students

1. Leadership Roles: Harvard looks for students who have stepped up into leadership roles, whether in school clubs, sports teams, or community organisations.
2. Community Service: Involvement in volunteer work is highly regarded. Activities could include volunteering at local shelters, participating in environmental clean-up projects, or working with non-profit organisations.
3. Athletics: Having a strong athletic culture is also what Harvard looks for, so being involved in competitive sports can be beneficial.
4. Academic Competitions: Engaging in competitions such as Science Olympiads or debate clubs can highlight a student’s intellectual curiosity and passion for learning.
5. Arts and Cultural Activities: Harvard appreciates students who can contribute to the cultural fabric of the campus.
6. Research Projects: Involvement in research—whether through school programs or independent projects.
7. Internships and Work Experience: Practical experience through internships or part-time jobs shows student’s responsibility and initiative.
8. Clubs and Societies: Active participation in school clubs (e.g., student government, environmental clubs) can demonstrate a student’s engagement with their school community and their ability to work collaboratively with peers.

The admissions committee is much more interested in the quality of a student’s activities than the quantity. What matters is the positive impact they’ve made in their schools, communities, and families.

Students should share how much time they spend on extracurricular activities, community service, work experiences, and helping their families. It’s not about having exotic activities; what counts is showing a commitment to excellence in whatever they do, as this reflects their character and personal qualities.

For example, a student might gain valuable experience by babysitting for their family, handling household responsibilities, or working in a restaurant to help with expenses. These kinds of experiences are meaningful and can be highlighted in the extracurricular section and discussed in their essays.

Some students might feel pressured to only list activities they think will impress the admissions committee, while others may try to include everything they’ve ever done. Neither approach works for everyone. Instead, they should focus on the activities they care about most and spend the most time on.

How Ascot Prepares Students for Success

We focus on providing an education that prepares students academically while also helping them grow as individuals. Our approach nurtures the personal qualities needed to succeed at top universities like Harvard.

Comprehensive Academic Support

- Rigorous Curriculum: The curriculum at Ascot is designed to challenge students while providing them with the support they need to excel in their studies.
- Experienced Faculty: Ascot boasts a team of dedicated educators who guide students through their academic journeys, offering mentorship and encouragement.
- Resources and Facilities: We provide access to modern facilities and resources that enhance learning experiences, including libraries stocked with research materials and technology labs equipped with the latest tools.

Emphasis on Extracurricular Activities

Harvard looks for well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to their communities. At Ascot, students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities that align with their interests and passions:

- Clubs and Societies: Students can join various clubs that cater to different interests—from debate teams to art clubs—allowing them to develop skills outside the classroom.
- Sports Participation: Ascot has some of the best sports programmes for international schools in Bangkok such as Ascot Sports Academy and AFA Ascot Football Academy teach teamwork, discipline, and resilience—qualities that are highly regarded by university admissions committees.
- Community Service: We encourage our students to engage in community service projects to foster a sense of social responsibility and leadership.

At Ascot, we equip our students with the tools they need for success in higher education through a comprehensive IB Diploma Program. As one of the best international schools in Bangkok, we foster academic excellence alongside personal development, we prepare our graduates not just for admission into prestigious universities like Harvard but also for success beyond academia.

While achieving a high IB score is important, it’s just as crucial for students to develop leadership skills, engage meaningfully with their communities, and present themselves as well-rounded individuals during the admissions process. With the right preparation and support from both educators and parents, students from Ascot can confidently chase their dreams of studying at Harvard or any other top-tier institution around the globe.

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An IB World School, accredited by CIS.