The Most Common 16 Personality Type at Harvard
Have you ever wondered about the personality distribution at one of the world’s most prestigious universities? Harvard University is often stereotyped as a place full of highly intelligent, competitive, and goal-driven students—an assumption that seems to come with the territory of such a rigorous admissions process. But how accurate is this stereotype?
In 2022, the Harvard Open Data Project (HODP) published an article revealing the personality types of Harvard undergraduates, based on the 16 Personality Types test. The study surveyed 222 students using the 16Personalities test, gathering information about their personality types, as well as basic demographics like gender and class year.
"The Most Common Personality Type at Harvard: INFJ"
The survey found that the most common personality type among Harvard students was INFJ, known as "The Advocate." This type is characterized by introversion, intuition, feeling, and judging. INFJs are often driven by a desire to stand out and make a difference. For these empathetic individuals, success is measured not by wealth or status, but by personal fulfillment, helping others, and being a force for good in the world.
16 Personality Types Distribution at Harvard University
| Personality Type | Description | Percentage of Harvard Students |
|---|---|---|
| INFJ (The Advocate) | Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging | 22% |
| ENTJ (The Commander) | Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging | 18% |
| INTJ (The Architect) | Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging | 17% |
| ENFP (The Campaigner) | Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving | 15% |
| ISTJ (The Logistician) | Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging | 10% |
| ISFJ (The Defender) | Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging | 8% |
| ESTJ (The Executive) | Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging | 7% |
| ESFJ (The Consul) | Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging | 5% |
Comparison with General Population
| Personality Type | Percentage in General Population |
|---|---|
| INFJ | 1-2% |
| ENTJ | 2-5% |
| INTJ | 2-4% |
| ENFP | 6-8% |
| ISTJ | 10-12% |
| ISFJ | 9-14% |
| ESTJ | 8-12% |
| ESFJ | 9-13% |
One commentator on the study noted, “That sounds just like a Harvard student! INFJ is the rarest personality type in the world, which might explain why so many of these students ended up at one of the most selective schools in the U.S.”
According to the INFJ Strengths and Talents report, INFJs are particularly suited for academic life. They thrive on activities like reading, writing, and imagining complex theories. As one of the highest-ranking types in terms of GPA, INFJs excel in high school and maintain top scores throughout their college years, often leading to exceptional performance in prestigious academic environments like Harvard.
Following INFJ, the second through fourth most common personality types at Harvard are ENTJ (The Commander), INTJ (The Architect), and ENFP (The Campaigner).
Judging Types Dominate at Harvard
Harvard students also show a preference for being "J types"—those who value structure, organization, and order over spontaneity and flexibility. This inclination is seen in the way they manage their studies and personal lives, leaning toward a more planned and decisive approach.
Intuitive vs. Sensing: Are N Types Smarter Than S Types?
One of the most striking differences between Harvard students and the general population is the higher percentage of "N types" (Intuitive) compared to "S types" (Sensing). Intuitive individuals tend to favor abstract thinking and are open to considering future possibilities, while Sensing individuals focus more on facts and the present moment.
16 Personality Types Types Distribution
16 Personality Types Distribution in General Population
| Type | Description | Approximate Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| ISTJ | Logistician - Practical, fact-minded individuals | 11-14% |
| ISFJ | Defender - Warm, dedicated, and loyal | 9-14% |
| INFJ | Advocate - Insightful, principled, and altruistic | 1-3% |
| INTJ | Architect - Innovative, strategic, and determined | 2-4% |
| ISTP | Virtuoso - Bold, practical, and spontaneous | 5-7% |
| ISFP | Adventurer - Flexible, charming, and sensitive | 7-9% |
| INFP | Mediator - Idealistic, empathetic, and reserved | 4-5% |
| INTP | Logician - Analytical, abstract thinkers | 3-5% |
| ESTP | Entrepreneur - Energetic, perceptive, and action-oriented | 4-6% |
| ESFP | Entertainer - Sociable, spontaneous, and enthusiastic | 9-12% |
| ENFP | Campaigner - Creative, sociable, and optimistic | 7-8% |
| ENTP | Debater - Inventive, curious, and energetic | 3-5% |
| ESTJ | Executive - Organized, assertive, and practical | 8-9% |
The 16Personalities Cognitive Strengths Report suggests that higher education often benefits those who use the Intuitive function (N). Many teachers share this preference, and the open, exploratory nature of academic environments encourages this way of thinking. In fact, 91% of N types report enjoying discussions about future theories and possibilities, compared to just 55% of S types.
However, it’s essential to remember that intelligence cannot be measured by a single dimension, like the N-S preference. S types are often the steady force that gets things done in a practical and efficient manner. While they may not spend as much time pondering future possibilities, their focus on concrete tasks and real-world actions is a different but equally valuable form of intelligence.
Whether you're an N or an S, Harvard’s diverse personality distribution shows that there’s no one way to succeed at a top-tier university. Every type brings something unique to the table, contributing to the rich tapestry of perspectives that make institutions like Harvard what they are today.
Conclusion: The Power of Diversity
Harvard’s 16 Personality Types results remind us that there’s no single blueprint for success. Whether you’re an INFJ striving to make the world a better place, an ENTJ leading with boldness, or an S type keeping everything grounded and practical, each personality has something to offer. Success comes in many forms, and understanding your own unique strengths is the key to unlocking your full potential.
