Overview

The B.A. in South Asian Studies at Harvard University provides a comprehensive academic framework for understanding the complex cultural, linguistic, and historical landscapes of South Asia. This programme allows students to explore a region that is home to over a billion people and serves as a significant global economic and political power. By engaging with the traditions of countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, students develop a sophisticated perspective on one of the world's most influential civilisations.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, catering to those interested in both the humanities and the social sciences.

Why South Asian Studies at Harvard University?

Studying at this institution offers access to world-class resources, including the dedicated Sanskrit Library and the historic Harvard Oriental Series. The department provides specialised concentration options that allow for deep immersion in South Asian languages, literatures, and cultures. Furthermore, the university supports joint concentrations, enabling students to combine their interest in South Asia with other academic departments for a tailored educational experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 59320 per year
National fee: USD 59320 per year
Local fee: USD 59320 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

South Asian Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
Hindi-Urdu
Sanskrit
Tamil
Tibetan
History of Art
Philosophy
Religion
South Asian Studies

Careers with South Asian Studies

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of professional paths due to their deep regional expertise and analytical training. The department maintains a record of career placement history, with alumni moving into roles across various sectors. Common career destinations include international relations, government service, public health, and urban planning. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those pursuing advanced academic research or legal careers focused on South Asian affairs.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Humanities (including creative writing, English, philosophy, religion, visual arts)

Science (including biology, computer science, environmental studies, mathematics)

Social sciences (including anthropology, business administration, economics, government, history, international relations, psychology).

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies Asian studies View 800 other Bachelors in Area & Cultural Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

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Other requirements

General requirements

Be an admitted degree candidate to the Bachelor of Liberal Arts program

Earned 96 credits toward the Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree with a 3.5 or higher GPA

If you already possess a bachelor’s degree, you are ineligible for the joint program.

Joint Program application form

Current résumé

Essay outlining your reasons for wanting to pursue the Master of Liberal Arts degree, specifically stating how your professional experience or goals aligns with your graduate field interest.

GPA 3.0

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

59320 USD / year

≈ 59320 USD / year
Out-of-State

59320 USD / year

≈ 59320 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

59320 USD / year

≈ 59320 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for South Asian Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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